thy will and guide my feete in thy waies that I fall not by the deceiueablenesse of sinne and so become a slander to thy Gospell Little is the good that is in me O Lord and that not of my selfe it is thy gift yet grant that it may be sound and sincere not as the morning dew that wasteth at the first heate buâ— as the morning light that shineth more and more vnto the perfect day Let mee measure my selfe not by that others iudge mee or I feele my selfe to bee but by that I desire and labour to be that I may neither iustifie my selfe louing sinne though I commit it not nor condemne my selfe longing after grace though I cannot finde that I haue attained to it Let my reioicing be not that I haue deluded the world with a fained shew of holinesse and integritie but that in simplicitie and godly purenesse I haue had my conuersation among men as in thy sight Renew my youth O LORD as the Eagle not to the seruice of sinne but of thy name Let it bee my meate and drinke to doe thy will and let my hunger after it bee so great that it may breake through all the stone walles of impediments and discouragements thereto Yea the more I am discouraged and withdrawne from dutie by the practises of Satan and the weakenesse of my flesh the more let mee striue thereto and abound therein that Satan finding himselfe a looser may bee forced to giue ouer his assaults Let mee bee so farre from wearinesse in thy seruice in the time of prosperitie as I would thou shouldest bee from neglecting mee in the houre of necessitie Let thy loue toward mee O Father winne mee to the loue of thee and let my loue to thee constraine mee euen with deniall of my selfe to serue thee Teach mee to looke for all good things from thee by the meanes of IESVS CHRIST and in him to offer vp my daily sacrifices vnto thee Disperse in mee the clouds of sinne that my heart as in a cleare day may alwaies behold thee Let all worldly ioyes bee swallowed vp in mee with the ioy of thy holy Spirit and before all peace let mee preferre the peace of a good conscience Let mee reioyce in thee without lightnesse and mourne for mine owne and others sinnes without discouragement Powre vppon mee thy Spirit of grace and supplication that I may call vpon thee with sighes that cannot bee expressed that cannot bee denied that with this key I may open the treasurie of thy goodnesse and enrich my selfe Make mee a meete guest to sit downe at the marriage feast of the Lambe and graunt that I may bee carefull not to bee found without the wedding garment of faith working by loue Let mee keepe a diligent account of what I receiue from thee and remembring that there shall bee a day of reckoning graunt mee so to gouerne my selfe in the employing of thy talents that both thou maist receiue of me thine owne with aduantage and I beeing found faithfull in little may bee made ruler ouer much Let mee account this terme of life a seede time and let mee not doubt to cast my bread vpon the waters seeing at the end of dayes I shall finde it againe Let me not esteeme my selfe the poorer for bestowing vpon thy needie seruants but let mee thinke that as the corne which is sowen remaineth not in the ground but returneth with encrease to the sower so what I giue in thy name shall not remaine with the receiuer but returne vnto mee with aduantage Make mee willing to bestow and to bee bestowed for the good of thy Saints and withall humble to ascribe both the gift and the willingnesse to giue to thy grace onely Graunt good Lord that beeing a pilgrim vpon earth I may haue my conuersation in heauen and professing my selfe to bee a citizen of that Ierusalem which is from aboue I may desire not onely to enioy the priuiledges but also to speake the language and to bee gouerned by the lawes of that Citie Make mee wise O Lord to vnderstand and consider my latter end Let my whole life bee a preparation to death and the meditation of death the rule of my life O Lord guide my heart to the loue of thy Maiestie and the waiting for of thy Sonne Vnto mine old age and gray head O God forsake mee mee not and let thy feare keepe mee from forsaking thee Let mee bee among those that are planted in thine house and flourish in thy Courts Let mee bring forth more fruit in mine age Let my later dayes bee my best daies and my workes more at the last then at the first Finally enable mee in this pilgrimage of my life so to walke from strength to strength that at the length I may appeare before thee with the Congregation of the first borne in that kingdome of glorie which thou hast prepared for all that loue the appearance of thy Sonne our Lord Iesus Christ To whom with thee O Father and thy Spirit bee all honour and obedience in the Church hence forth and for euer Amen FINIS A BRIEFE DIRECTION TO TRVE HAPPINESSE ABRIDGED OVT OF the larger Treatise for the more conuenient vse of priuate Families and instruction of the yonger sort By SAM CROOKE PROV 22.6 Traine vp or Catechise a Child in the way he should goe and when he is old he will not depart from it LONDON Printed by John Pindley for Nathaniel Butler and are to be sold at his shop neere S. Austins gate at the signe of the Pyed Bull. 1613. A BRIEFE DIRECTION TO TRVE HAPPINESSE SECT I. Of the Scripture Question HOw may a man attaine true blessednesse Ans Onely by a Job 22.21 22. acquaintance and fellowship with God as hee offereth himselfe to bee knâ—wne of vs in his b Joh. 6.68 word Q. What meane you by the word of God A. The holy c 2. Tim. 3.25 16. Scriptures of the old and new Testament giuen by inspiration of God SECT II. Of God Q. HOw doe the Scriptures propound God to be knowne of vs A. Partly in himselfe partly in his workes Q. What doe the Scriptures teach vs touching God himselfe A. Foure things and first that a Heb. 11. â— there is a God Q. What is the second thing A. That God is a b Ioh. 4.24 spirit most simple eternall infinite constant and absolute Q. What is the third thing A. That there is onely c 1. Cor. 8.6 me God and no more Q. What is the fourth thing A. That in this one Godhead are d Mat. 28.19 1. Joh. 5.7 three distinct persons the Father the Sonne and the Holy Ghost SECT III. Of Gods decree Q. VVHat are the workes of God A. They are a Ephes 1.11 1. His decree and 2. The execution thereof Q. How may wee take a view of these workes of God A. Generally in all creatures specially in Angels and men Q. What did God decree concerning all creatures A.
appointed food let it teach vs resolutely to shake of all impediments carefullie to redeeme all occasions and gladlie to embrace all opportunities of doing good Finally vnto all these good purposes worke in vs by thy holie word spirit a dailie encrease of liuing and sauing faith O Lord it is thine onely vnspeakeable gift without whom it is no more possible to beleeue that which thou promisest then to performe whatsoeuer thy law requireth Thou therefore O Father for Christ Iesus sake by the powerfull operation of thy Spirit worke and encrease in vs this mother grace Teach vs so to lay hold on Christ and lodge him in our hearts that we may not onely applie and assure vnto our selues all the promises of life and mercie but also cleanse our selues from all filthinesse of the flesh and spirit and grow vp vnto full holinesse in the feare of thy Maiestie And now Lord for outward things wee submit our selues to thy wise and fatherlie prouidence onely beseeching thee to giue vs this day what thou knowest needefull and behoofefull vnto vs for the day Lord feede vs with food conuenient for vs giue vs such a portion of health maintenance credit and all outward comforts as may make vs thankefull and seruiceable vnto thee And aboue all giue vs grace to employ and improue all thy blessings as thy talents to the furtherance of the worke thou hast giuen vs to doe Lord giue vs euerie day but especially on thy Sabbath dayes more then a naturall and common vse of thy good creatures Let vs in all things tast and see how sweet and gracious a God thou art Let thy good blessings be not as a wall to stop our sight that we may not looke beyond them but as a glasse through which wee may the better discerne thy loue and faithfulnesse towards vs concerning heauenly things Let vs serue thee with an vpright heart in the duties and businesses of this day bringing the generall profession of religion into particular practise according to our seuerall callings Lord let vs neuer bee a burden vnto humane societie nor a blemish vnto the profession of Christianitie by idlenesse or inordinate liuing Make our labours and endeauours fruitfull and beneficiall not onely vnto our selues that wee may eat thereof and reioice before thee but also vnto all others whom they concerne that they may praise thee with vs and for vs. Blesse thy whole Church O Lord and build it vp more and more in perfect beautie Take pittie on those thine elect that walke yet in darkenesse and cause the light of thy Gospell of grace to shine vnto them Confirme thy gracious worke in those who haue receiued the first fruits of thy spirit Comfort such as mourne for sinne Fulfill the desires of all that trulie long and sigh after thee Support and cure the infirmities of all that are humbled vnder thine hand and that haue seene affliction in the rod of thy visitation Preserue the good land wherein woe liue make vs more thankefull for all thy rich blessings and our manifold mightie deliuerances Saue thine Annointed seruant our Soueraigne Lord King Iames with our gracious Queene Anne and the Royall progenie Assist with thy spirit and grace all that are in authoritie sanctifie all those whom thou emploiest in the worke of the ministerie Remember in speciall mercie those whom thou hast knit vnto vs in the bands of consanguinitie affinitie neighbourhood or Christian amitie Finallie vnto all thine and ours vouchsafe Peace and mercy through Iesus Christ thy deere Sonne our alone Redeemer and Sauiour To whom with thee O Father and thy holie Spirit one God and King euerlasting be rendred all honor seruice and thankesgiuing for euermore Amen A short Prayer for the Euening O Almightie God King of Glory Father of Eternitie who dwelling on high abasest thy selfe to behold things in heauen in earth being the first the last giuest beginning ending to all times affaires wherein thy creatures are employed we acknowledg with humble thaÌ„kfull hearts the riches of thy bountie afforded vs thine vnworthie seruants as well this day now past as in the whole course of our liues Thou O Lord hast made vs and that fearfully and wonderfully thou hast been our hope from our mothers brests Thou hast lengthened the daies of our life vnto this houre therein hast shewed vs many mercies Thou hast freed our bodies from diseases dangers our names from reproch our substance from spoile our liberty from violent and vniust restraint Thou hast strengthened vs vnto labour satisfied vs with thy good creatures cheared our hearts with the fellowship and loue of thy people our fellow seruants and blessed our endeauors with successe through thy good prouidence Thou hast heard our prayers accomplished our desires turned away our feares mitigated our troubles and put an end from time to time to all our afflictions Thus hast thou shewed thy selfe to be the God that delightest in the prosperitie of thy seruants But O Lord how can we worthilie magnifie thy mercy towards vs in Iesus Christ In whom thou hast from all eternitie appointed an heauenly Kingdome vnto vs By whose word thou hast called vs by whose blood thou hast redeemed vs by whose Spirit thou hast sanctified and sealed vs vnto the day of redemption In whom we haue this liberty to call thee Abba Father In whom and with whom all earthly blessings are giuen vnto vs not onely for our bodily comfort but also as pledges of our heauenly inheritance Oh how deare therefore are thy thoughts of mercie vnto vs O Lord how great is the summe of them Blessed Father enlarge our hearts to comprehend thy loue and encline them to loue thee who hast so loued vs. But let vs mourne and be ashamed that wee haue returned nothing vnto thy maiestie but hatred for thy good will Let it strike our hearts that wee haue abused thy bodily blessings vnto couetousnesse or intemperance thy patience vnto presumption the grace of thy Gospell vnto licenciousnesse in sinning Let vs abhorre our selues that wee haue prophaned thy sabbaths despised thy word quenched thy spirit vnhallowed thy name many waies defiled the holy profession we haue taken vpon vs. Let vs repent in dust and ashes for our wilfull blindnesse of minde hardnesse of heart remorselessenesse of conscience whereby wee haue resisted the worke of thy grace in vs. Thou O Lord wouldest haue purged vs and we would not be purged thou wouldest haue cured vs but wee would not be cured Thâ—se and all other our sinnes O Lord let vs recount before thee with true sorrow and astonishment of heart But doe not thou O Father straightly marke iniquities nor deale with vs as we haue deserued Truth Lord vnto vs belongeth nothing but confusion and condemnation but vnto thee compassioâ— and forgiuenesse though wee haue grieuously rebelled against thee Thou hast in thy word proclaimed thy selfe vnto vs to be The Lord mercifull gracious slow to anger
Cor. 3.9 these of the new Testament haue great preeminence SECT XV. Of Baptisme Q. VVHat is Baptisme A. The former Sacrament of the new Testament by the a Eph 5.26 washing of water representing the powerfull b 1 Cor 6.11 Heb. 10.22 washing of the bloud and spirit of Christ and so sealing our a John 3.5 Tit. 3.5 new birth and entrance into the Couenant of grace Q. How was this Sacrament ordained and brought into the Church in the place of Circumcision A. At the b Iohn 1.33 commandement of God by the ministery first of c Matth. 3.1 Iohn therefore called the Baptist after sanctified and confirmed by our Sauiour Christ himselfe being d Matt. 3.13 baptized by Iohn and giuing e Mat. 28.18 commission to his Apostles and Ministers to continue the same in his Church vnto the end Q. What are the necessary and essentiall parts of this Sacrament A. Two viz. 1. The outward element of f Iohn 1.31 water together with the actioÌ„ of g Eph. 5.26 Act. 8.36 c. 2.41 washing that is dipping or sprinkling the party baptized h Mat. 28.19 In the name of the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost 2. The spiritual thing signified viz. the i Heb. â— 14 bloud k 1. Cor 6.11 spirit of Christ washing away both the l Act. 2.38 guilt and m Eze. 36.25 filthinesse of sinne Q. Doth this spiritual washing alwaies accompany the outward action A. No for howsoeuer God for his part doe euer a Ezek. 24.13 offer it at the present vnto all yet doe the b 1. Pet. 1.2 Elect onely effectually partake the spirituall benefit and that c Gal. 3.27 then first when by the spirit and faith they are vnited vnto Christ from which time baptisme once receiued remaineth a d Zech. 13.1 fountain alwaies open for sinne and for vncleannesse Q. How farre forth doth Baptisme cleanse the elect from sinne A. From e 1. Cor. 6.9.10 11. 1. John 1.7 Psal 51 7. all sins as well actuall as originall as wel committed after Baptisme as before and that f Esay 1.18 perfectly in respect of the guilt although g Ioh. 13.10 Psal 51.2 imperfectly by degrees in respect of the pollution and power of sinne Q. Who are to be admitted to this Sacrament A. Whosoeuer are outwardly comprehended in the Couenant whether th y be 1. of riper yeares h Acts 8.37 coÌ„uerted to the profession of the faith or 2. i 1 Cor. 7.14 children borne of Christian parents SECT XVI Of the Lords Supper Q. VVHat is the Lords Supper A It is the other Sacrament of the new Testament wherein God by the signes of bread and wine signifieth sealeth and exhibiteth to euery faithfull receiuer the body and bloud of Christ for his spirituall nourishment and growth in Christ so confirmeth him in the Couenant of Grace Q. How was this Sacrament instituted in stead of the Passeouer A. Our Lord Iesus Christ a 1. Cor. 11.23 in the night that he was betraied b Matth. 26.26 c. immediatly after hee had eaten the Passeouer with his Disciples did both himselfe with them celebrate this holy Sacrament and withall c 1. Cor. 11.24 25 26. giue charge for continuance of the same in the Church vntill his second comming in which regard it is called the d 1. Cor. 11.20 Lords Supper Q. What are the essentiall parts of this Sacrament A. As of all other Sacraments two to wit 1. The outward signes viz. the a Mat. 26.26 27. elemeÌ„ts of bread wine together with the actions of blessing distributing taking communicating according to our Sauiours first institution 2. The spiritual b Ibid. things signified viz. the body bloud of Christ sanctified and c Ioh. 6.50 51 giuen vs by God and by faith receiued of vs for the nourishing and preseruing of our soules and bodies vnto eternall life Q. Is Christs body and bloud together with the outward elements receiued of all Communicants A. No for howsoeuer they be d Mat. 26.26 offred by God to all yet are they receiued by such alone as haue the hand of faith to lay hold on Christ As for those that come without faith they receiue e 1. Cor. 11.27 onely the outward elements and that vnto f Vers 29. condemnation Q. Who are to be partakers of this Sacrament A. All baptized who are of yeeres sound iudgement to discerne the Lords body ought to repaire to this Sacrament but those onely come worthily who professing the true faith haue duly a 1. Cor. 11.28 examined prepared theÌ„selues Q. How ought euery Christian comming to this SacrameÌ„t to examin prepare himselfe that he may come worthily A. By due search triall of himself whether he haue in him the conditions by God required in worthy Communicants viz. b 2. Cor. 13.5 1. Tim. 1.15 Faith grouÌ„ded vpoÌ„ knowledge both of Gods will in generall this holy Sacrament in particular c Heb. 10.22 Iames 48. RepentaÌ„ce of sins past atteÌ„ded with true d Zech. 12.10 lâ—ue of God of his e 1. Cor. 16.14 brethren Q. How ought euery Christian thus prepared to demeane himselfe in receiuing and after A. 1. In the present actioÌ„ with reuereÌ„ce intention thanksgiuing f 1. Cor. 11.26 coÌ„memorating the Lords death for the coÌ„fort refreshing of his soul g Rom. 12.1 ofring vp himselfe soule body as a sacrifice of thanks in which regard it is called the Eucharist 2. Afterward coÌ„tinually indeuoring to finde an h Col. 2.6 7. increase of his faith in Christ loue to God all his saints power to subdue sinne and practise obedience with all other * 2. Pet. 3.18 sauing and sanctifying graces SECT XVII Of the inward meanes of reuealing the Couenant of Grace viz. the Spirit and Faith Q. VVHat are the inward meanes whereby God reuealeth his Couenant of Grace A. They are 2. Viz. 1. The Spirit 2. Faith Q. What is here meant by the Spirit A. A speciall effect of the Spirit of Christ before-mentioned dwelling in our hearts testifying on Gods part his free loue and gracious purpose touching our saluation in a Psal 35.3 particular bearing b Rom. 8.16 witnesse with our spirits that we are in Christ his Children and hee our Father withall guiding vs to the c Psal 16.7 Ioh. 14.26 knowledge of the whole will of God reuealed in his word called therefore the d Ephes 1.17 spirit of wisedome or Reuelation Q. Doth the Spirit alwaies witnesse the loue of God vnto vs A. The witnesse of the spirit is a Rom. 5.5 Ephes 2.13.14 continuall yet it is b Psal 51.10 ver 7.8 not alwaies with like feeling and comfort apprehended because neither are our hearts alwaies alike purged humbled and enlarged to receiue it nor the
What is faith A. The first effect of the spirit of Christ d Eph. â— 16 17. disposing vs to cleaue to him and the instrument whereby all graces are begun and increased in vs. SECT XIII Of the Gospell Q. VVHat is our communion with Christ A. The participation of the benefits flowing from his seueral offices Q. What benefite receiue wee from the Propheticall office of Christ A. The a Math. 11.27 reuelation of the Couenant of grace whereby we are made b 2. Tim. 3.15 wise vnto saluation Q. What meanes doth God vse for the reuealing of this couenant A. The meanes are of two sorts Viz. outward and inward Q. What are the outward meanes A. The word and the Sacraments Q. What meane you by the word A. The c Eph. 1.13 Gospell preached which â—ontaineth and publisheth the promises of saluation by Christ SECT XIIII Of Sacraments Q. VVHat are Sacraments A. a Rom. 4.11 Seales annexed by God to the word of his Grace b Gal. 3.27 assuring our part in Christ and c Rom. 6.4 binding vs vnto him in obedience Q. What Sacraments are there of the Couenant of Grace A. They be of two sorts Viz some of the old Testament before Christ others of the new vnder Christ Q. What were those Sacraments of the old Testament A. Two Viz d Gen. 17.10 Circumcision for entrance into the Couenant and the e Exod. 22.3 c. Passeouer for continuance and confirmation therein Q. How many Sacraments are there of the new Testament A. Two likewise Viz Baptisme for entrance and the Lords Supper foâ— confirmation in the same Couenant SECT XV. Of Baptisme Q. VVHat is Baptisme A. The seale of our a Tit. 3.5 new birth and entrance into the Couenant of Grace Q. What are the parts of this Sacrament A. They are two namely first the b Eph 5. â—6 element of water with the action of dipping or sprinkling the partie baptised c Math. 28.19 In the Name of the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost Q. What is the other part A. The d Heb. 9.14 blood and e 1. Cor. 6 2â— Spirit of Christ washing away both the f Act. 2.38 guilt and g Ezek. 36.25 Rom. â— 2.3 c. filthinesse of our sinnes Q. Who are to be baptised A. Whosoeuer belong to the Couenant whether h Act. 8.37 of riper yeares conâ—erted to the faith or i 1. Cor. 7.14 children of Christian parents SECT XVI Of the Lords Supper Q. VVHat is the Lords supper A. The seale of our a Eph. 4.26 spirituall nourishment and grouth in the bodie of Christ Q. What are the parts of this Sacrament A. Two Viz First the b Mat. 26.26 27. elements of bread and wine distributed and receiued according to Christs institution Q. What is the other part A. The * Mat. 26.26 27 28. bodie and blood of Christ giuen by God and receiued of vs by faith for the d Joh. 6.54 nourishing of our soules in spirituall life Q. Who are to receiue this Sacrament A. Such as professing the true faith of Christ haue duely e 1. Cor. 1.28 prepared themselues Q. How ought wee to prepare oâ—â— selues A. By examining and stirring vp in our selues three notable graces Q. What is the first A. Knowledge of the will of God especially touching the matter of the Sacrament a 1. Cor. 11.29 that wee be able to discerne the Lords body Q. Which is these second A. b 2. Cor. 13.5 1. Tim. 1.15 Faith to apply the promises of saluation vnto our selues in particular Q. Which is the third A. c Zech. 12.10 Jam. 4. â— Repentance of our sinnes past with true d 1. Cor. 16.14 loue of God and of our Brethren Q. How ought wee to receiue this Sacrament A. In a reuerent and thankefull e 1. Cor. 11.24 25 26. remembrance of the loue of Christ who gaue himselfe for vs with desire to f 2. Pet. 3.18 grow in faith and all holy graces SECT XVII Of the spirit and faith Q. WHat are the inward means whereby God reuealeth his Couenant of Grace A. They are 2. Viz the spirit faith Q. What is here meant by the spirit A. A speciall effect of the Spirit of Christ a Rom. 8.16 bearing witnes with our spirits that we are in Christ the children of God Q. What is here meant by faith A. That speciall act of faith whereby wee b 1. Joh. 5.10 Joh. 3.33 giue credit vnto the report of the word and spirit of Christ touching our saluation in particular SECT XVIII Of Vocation Q. VVHat is the maÌ„ner of reuealing the CouenaÌ„t of Grace A. It is our c Rom. 8.30 Vocation and Callingâ— when God by the meanes aforesaid inuiteth men to come vnto him in Christ for saluation Q. Are there not different kinds of Calling A. Yes for a Math. 22.14 many are called outwardly who are not chosen but the Elect are b Psal 65.4 effectually perswaded to â—leaâ—e vnto Christ SECT XIX Of the Church Q. To whom doth God reueale his Couenant of Grace A. c Joh. 14.22 Not to the world but to his Church called out of the world Q. What meane you by the Church A. The d Eph. 5.32 1. Cor. 1.9 whole number of Gods Elect effectually called into fellowship with Christ Q. Where is this Church of God A. Part already e Reuel 7.14 c. triumphant in heauen part as yet f Reuel 12.11 militant on earth in the seruice and warfare of the Lord Iesus Q. Who are meÌ„bers of the Church militaÌ„t A. As many as are liuing g Eph. 1.22 23. members of the mysticall bodie of Christ Q. How may we know them A. Not by the inward graces a 2. Tim. 2.19 onely knowne to God whereby they are inuisible to vs but by the markes of visible profession Q. What are the true markes of visible profession A. The outward meanes appointed by God for the calling and gathering of his Saints viz. b Mat. 28.19 20. the word preached and Sacraments duely administred Q. Are we to ioyne with all Churches that haue these markes A. c Phil. 1.18 Cant. 1.5 Yea neither must wee separate from any farther then they separate from Christ Q. What distinction is there of the particular members of a Church A. Though all be the sheepe and familie of Christ yet d 1 Cor. 12 2â— Luk. 12.42 some are set-ouer the rest to feede them with the foode of life as the Ministers and e Ps 78.71 72 others to rule and order them outwardly as the Magistrates SECT XX. Of Iustification Q. VVHat benefite receiue we from the Priestly office of Christ A. Our a Rom. 8.30 Iustification before God through his b Phil. 3.9 righteousnes imputed vnto vs and apprehended by vs. Q. What righteousnesse of Christ is imputed to vs A. c
forgiuing iniquitie transgression and sinne Thou hast made many faithfull promises that thou wilt bee found of them that seeke and sue for mercie vnto thee Thou hast satisfied thy Iustice in the accursed death of thy Sonne our surety and Sauiour Iesus Christ for the sinnes of the whole word of thine elect Thou hast giuen vs of thy Spirit wherby euen we sinfull wretches are taught and enclined to forgiue for thy sake such as haue offended vs how much more wilt thou shew thy selfe a faithfull and mercifull God to pardon all our sinnes and to clense vs from all vnrighteousnesse Wherefore O Lord heare O Lord forgiue O Lord consider nâ— giue a gracious answere vnto our supplication for the Lords sake Yea Lord teach vs to rise vp with thy Maiestie against our sins that our warre with them may assure vs that we haue peace with thee Let vs not be such traitors to thy Maiestie as to harbour thine enemies Breake of in â—uerie one of vs the wicked customes of sinning abolish the power and dominion thereof crucifie the loue and affection thereto Let vs in the bloudy passion of our deare Sauiour see the ougly face heare the dreadfull cry and feele the intolerable burden of our transgressions And let vs not as if the loade were yet too light let vs not blessed God adde more vnto the waight and measure of our sinnes but rather let vs in our proportion beare part in the sufferings of our Sauiour ceasing from sinne for his sake who for our sakes refused not to offer vp his innocent soule a sacrifice for sinne Lord teach vs to doe thy will Knit our hearts vnto thee that wee may feare thy name Let thy good Spirit leade vs in all the pathes of righteousnesse and make our barren nature fruitfull in good workes Quicken vs O Lord for thy names sake with the life of grace and stablish our hearts with thy free Spirit Teach vs freely to submit our selues to the easie yoake and light burden of our Lord Iesus Christ Let thy grace so frame vs vnto heartie obedience that thy commandement may not be grieuous vnto vs. Let thy loue in Christ Iesus be so shed abroad in our hearts by the holy Ghost that no difficulties may discourage vs in the way of well doing Let the meditation of the glorious kingdome prepared for vs so possesse and affect vs that the loue of this present world may seeme base and vnworthy of vs. Let the expectation of the suddaine comming of our Lord Iesus Christ so awaken vs that the momentanie pleasures of sinne or cares of this life may not lull vs a sleepe and ensnare vs. Watch ouer vs this night by thy gracious prouidence preserue vs from the dangers of the darknesse refresh vs with the moderate vse of thine ordinance of rest and sleepe raise vs vp with health of bodie and cheare of heart to the duties of the next day Let thy kindnesse and mercie follow vs all the dayes of our life Bring vs in peace with good report especially with a good conscience vnto the bed of the graue that after the sleepe of death wee may awake vnto blessed immortalitie Preserue thy whole Church and adde thereto from day to day such as shall be saued Be mercifull to this Land forgiue the common and crying sinnes of profanenesse worldlinesse crueltie and abuse of thy long patience and liberall blessings especially of thy Gospell Giue grace vnto all estates truely to returne vnto thee and to seek thy face and fauour Especially poure downe a liberall shower of all bodily and spirituall blessings on the Kings Maiestie with the Queene and Royall family sanctifie and assist the Magistrates and Ministers Continue these blessings of peace and of thy Gospell vnto the posteritie after vs. Blesse all that loue vs and are by any band linked or allied vnto vs. Yea take pittie of those that causelessely hate vs. Shew vs all O Lord thy mercie in this life and in the life to come grant vs thy saluation through Iesus Christ thine onely Sonne and our alone Sauiour To whom with thee O Father and thy blessed Spirit be all praise power dominion and obedience henceforth and for euer Amen FINIS
sweet promises of the Gospell c Esay 59.21 whereon the spirit groundeth this testimonie with like care attended on and meditated Q. How may wee discerne betweene the perswasion of Gods Spirit and the presumption of our owne hearts A. Among other by these three differences Viz. that 1. Presumption giueth d Deu. 29.19 libertie to continue in sinne but Gods spirit e Ioh. 16.8 rebuketh vs for euery sinne 2. Presumption f Jer 3.4 5 relyeth on Gods loue not louing him but Gods spirit maketh vs g Cant. 8.6 1. Ioh. 4.19 loue him because hee hath loued vs first 3. Prosumptiō is ioined with self-loue but Gods spirit reuealing his mercy to vs maketh vs h Iob 42.5 6. Ezek. 16.63 36.31 abhor our selues Q. What meane you here by Faith A. That speciall act of faith whereby we a 1. Ioh. 5.10 giue credit to the report of the word and spirit of Christ touching our saluation in particular and so b Ioh. 3.33 set to our seale that God is true Q. How are we brought to giue credit to the word and spirit A. By the c Rom. 10.17 ministerie of the same word with the Sacraments annexed and the power of the same spirit by which onely meanes God worketh and setteth on worke this grace of faith in the hearts of his Children from the generall promises of the Gospell d 1. Tim. 1.15 Ioh. 20.28 particularly and e Iob 19.25 1. Pet. 1.13 vndoubtedly to conclude their owne saluation Q. Can all that haue faith particularly and vndoubtedly resolue of their saluation A. 1. Many for a time rest secure in a flirting perswasion which may appeare not to be true faith in that it f Act. 15.9 purgeth not the heart 2. The Elect hauing true faith g Luk. 22.32 Rom. 11.29 neuer failing and working in them sound assurance must yet ordinarily h Mar 9.24 Luc. 17.5 striue against doubting and may i Psal 51.12 31 22. 42.5 at times falling into sin or some spirituall affliction loose for a season the ioy and feeling of this assurance SECT XVIII Of the manner of reuealing the Couenant of Grace viz. Vocation Q. THus much of the meanes now what is the manner of reuealing the Couenant of Grace A. It is a Rom. 8.30 Heb. 3.1 Vocation or Calling when God by the meanes aforesaid acquainting men with his gracious purpose of saluation by Christ b Hos 2.14 inuiteth them to come vnto him Q. Are there not different kindes of Calling A. Yes there is two fold calling 1. Effectuall peculiar to those few that are Elect whereby God become in Christ their Father doth not onely outwardly by his word inuite but e Gen. 9.27 Psal 65.4 25.14 Ioel. 2.32 Acts 2.39 inwardly also powerfully by his spirit allure and winne their hearts to cleaue to him inseparably vnto saluation 2. a Esay 48.12 Outward onely and ineffectuall whereby b Mat. 22.14 many are called who are not chosen as hath been shewed Q. How doth this latter differ from the former calling A. Howsoeuer wee are to c 1. Cor. 1.2 iudge charitably of all outwardly called because who among them are also inwardly called is onely d 2. Tim. 2.19 knowne to God yet doth this outward calling differ from the former 1. In that it is wrought onely by e Heb. 4.2 outward meanes and common illumination without the f Iud. v. 19. spirit of regeneration or any portion of g Luk. 8.13 sauing faith 2. In that they are admitted onely to an outward and h Act. 8.13 Rom. 9.4.5 temporarie league of formall profession i 1. Ioh. 2.19 1. Cor. 1.8.9 not to that entire fellowship with Christ required vnto saluation SECT XIX Of the Subiects to whom the Couenant of Grace is reuealed viz. the Church Q. TO come to the third thing propounded touching this Reuelation to whom doth God reueale his Couenant of Grace A. a Ioh 14.22 17.9 Mat. 11.25 1. Cor. 2 8 c. Not to the world but to his Church called out of the world Q. What meane you by the Church A. The whole number of Gods Elect effectually called into b Ephe. 5.32 fellowship with Christ by the meanes and in the manner formerly mentioned which wee professe to beleeue vnder the title of the holy Catholike Church Q. Where is this holy Catholike Church A. Part already in heauen c Heb. 12.13 Reu. 7.14 c. triumphant in their Masters ioy d Reu. 6.7 waiting for the fulfilling of the number of their fellow members and their owne consummation in perfect blisse Part as yet a Reu. 1.9 12.11 militant on earth in the seruice warrefare of their Lord expecting in due time to be also b 2. Tim. 4.7 8 crowned with victory and triumph in glory Q. Who are true members of the Church militant on earth A. Those alone who as c Ephe. 1.22 23. Col. 1.18 liuing members of the mysticall bodie are by the spirit and faith d Col 3.3 Psal 83.3 sccretly and inseparably conioined vnto Christ their head in which respect the true militant Church is both inuisible and e Mat. 16.18 inuincible Q. But are none to be accounted members of this Church but such as are so inseparably vnited vnto Christ A. Truely and properly f 1. Joh. 2 19 none other howbeit because God vseth outward meanes with the inward for the gathering of his Saints and calleth them as well to g Act. 2 42. Cant. 1.7 outward profession among themselues as to inward fellowship with his Sonne whereby the Church becommeth visible hence it commeth that so many as h Act. 8.13 partaking the outward meanes doe ioyne with these in league of visible profession are therefore in humane iudgement accounted members of the true church and a 1. Cor. 1.2 Saints by calling vntill the Lord who onely knoweth who are his doe make knowne the contrarie As wee are taught in the b Mat. 13 24.47 c. parables of the tares the drawnet c. Q. Hath Christ then his Church visible vpon earth A. Yea throughout the world in the particular c Rom. 3.3 congregations of Christians called to the profession of the true faith obedience of the Gospel In which d Rom. 11.5 visible assemblies and not else-where the true members of the Church inuisible on earth are to bee found and vnto which therefore all that seeke saluation must gladly e Esay 60.4 ioyne themselues Q. Are we to acknowledge one visible Church or many A. f Ephe. 4.4 c. Cant. 6.8 Gal. 3.28 One alone as there is but one Lord one Spirit one Faith and one Baptisme notwithstanding the parts of this one Church may bee distinguished in respect 1. Of time as the Churches a Heb. 13.8 before Christ and since Primitiue and present reformed c. 2. Of
Tim. 2.1 all men euen our f Math. 5.44 enemies because of the common g Iam. 3.9 image of God and h Act. 17.26 blood of mankinde whereof we are all made vnlesse it be apparent that i 1. Ioh. 5.16 any one hath committed the vnpardonable sin but k Gal. 6.10 Eph. 6.18 principally for those of the houshold of faith 2. For all l 1. Tim. 2.2 sorts and degrees of men especially publique persons as rulers and such as are in authority m Eph 6.19 Col 4.3 ministers that watch ouer our soules c. Q. What assurance haue we that wee shall be heard in what we pray for A. Because we pray to that God that a Psal 65.2 heareth the Prayer and is the b Heb. 11.6 rewarder of all that come vnto him and in c Ioh. 11.42 his name to whom God denyeth nothing and therefore howsoeuer wee are not alwaies answered at the d Psal 77.3 present or in the e 2. Cor 12.9 same kinde that wee desire yet sooner or later we are sure to receiue euen aboue that wee are able to aske or thinke if wee continue f Luc 11.5 c. 18.1 with constancie patience and importunitie to sue vnto him according to his will SECT XXXIX Of the Lords Prayer the perfect forme and plat-forme of Prayer and of the preface thereof Q. VVHere is that will of God reuealed according wherto we must direct our Prayers A. Throughout the whole booke of the Scriptures of God which enforme vs as concerning other duties so especially concerning this of prayer recording also for this purpose many excellent prayers as of Moses Dauid Nehemiah Paul c. but most absolutely in that passage or portion deliuered by our Sauiour himselfe and propounded by his holy Euangelists Mathew and Luke by the a Math. 6.9 one as the most perfect platforme to be imitated by the b Luk. 11.2 other as the most excellent forme to be vsed of all Christians and therefore commonly called the Lords Prayer Q. What are the words of the Lords Prayer A. Our Father which art in heauen c. Q. What are the parts of this Prayer A. They are three Viz. 1. A preface of compellation for entrance into Prayer in the first words Our Father which art in heauen 2. A bodie of petitions containing the matter of Prayer in the words following 3. A conclusion for confirmation and close of Prayer in the last words For thine is the kingdome c. Q. To begin with the preface why doth our Sauiour direct vs to giue such titles vnto God in the entrance of our prayers A. That thereby wee may testifie encrease and strengthen our faith in God considering a Heb. 11.6 what he is to vs to whom we are about to pray Q. What are we to consider from this that we are taught to call God Our Father A. Wee are hereby directed to meditate vpon a two-sold relation The first between our selues God who in Christ is become our Father and giueth vs both the b Ioh 1.12 priuiledge and c Gal 4.6 spirit of sonnes so to call him from whence ariseth not onely confidence in his d Ps 103.13 fatherly loue and compassion towards vs as his children but also necessitie of dutie on our parts that we both e Mal. 1 6â— honour and f Mat. 5.45 imitate him as our g Ephes 5.1 1. Pet. 1.17 Father The second betweene our selues and so many as are or may be Children of the same Father with vs with whom therfore at all times * Mat 5 23 â—â— 1. Tâ—m 2.8 especially when wee make our prayers wee must maintaine or renew loue and peace and for all whom as for our selues wee are to be suiters vnto our God and Father and they in like manner for vs that euery one praying for all and all for euery one wee may iointly encrease and enioy the benefite of the common slocke of prayers laid vp in the hands of God Q. Whereto doe the words following direct vs when wee say which art in heauen A. To the meditation of the glorie powerfull prouidence wisedome and holinesse of God in which regards hee is b Psal 11.4 Esay 57. â—5 said to dwell in the high and holy place not that hee is excluded from or included in any plate who c Ier 23 24 filleth all places yea d 1. Kin. 8.27 whom the heauen of heauens cannot containe but 1. Because his wisedome power and glorie appeareth most euidently in the rule of the e Ps 14.1 c 8.3 heauens as of the most excellent bodily creatures Ps 103.19 by which inferiour natures are ruled 2. Because a Ps 123.1 Col. 3.1 2 there and not on earth wee should now seek him where also wee hope another day to dwell with him in the same happy fellowship which now the holy Angels blessed soules doe enioy 3. To teach vs to pray b Eccles 5.1 reuerently before him who is so high aboue vs yea feruently also that our prayers may c 2. Chro. 32.20 ascend into heauen 4. That acknowledging him to ride on the heauens for our help d Psal 125 3 able as in heauen to doe for vs whatsoeuer as a Father hee will wee might with full confidence in his power and loue aske e Psal 2.8 Luc. 11.13 euery good thing of him SECT XL. Of the first Petition Q. TO come to the body and matter of prayer How many Petitions are there in the Lords Prayer A. Six wherof the three first are referred to things concerning GOD a Ioh. 12.27 28. whose glory seruice we are to preferre before our own good the three latter to things concerning our selues b Psa 50.15 which wee must refer to the former Q. To begin therefore with those that concerne God What are the words of the first Petition A. c Mat. 6.9 Luk. 11.2 Hallowed be thy Name Q. What is the meaning of these words A 1. By the Name of God wee are to vnderstand God d Esay 26.8 himselfe as he maketh knowne to vs the fame glorie of his nature otherwise e Gen. 32.29 vnconceiueable whether by his f Exod. 3 14 6.3 Titles as Iehouah Elohim c. or g Exo. 33.28 19. c. 34.5 6. c. Attributes as of loue wisedome power iustice c. which being essentiall in him are for our capacitie expressed vnder the names of such qualities in vs or Memorials as his workes of a Psal 104. creation and prouidence but especially b Psal 19.14 redemption or his c Psa 138.2 19.7 c word and worship which is the booke of grace and the box of ointment out of which the sweet d Cant. 1.2 sauour of his name is most effectually powred 2. By hallowing wee must vnderstand the separating of the name of
freed from all mixture of corruption doe in their kind perfectly obey God whom therfore we desire to imitate in the maner though wee know we cannot equall them in measure and degree of obedience Q. What doe wee then aske of God in this Petition A. Three things viz. 1. That all wils of wicked d Zech. 3.2 Angels and e Psal 140.8 men as contrary to the will of God may bee disappointed 2. That in vs f Psal 119.18 ignorance of the reueiled will of God g 1. Sam. 15.22 23. rebellion disobedience murmuring c. being remooued all pretences and dispensations or powers presuming to dispence with the wil of God disclaimed and our hearts by grace a Psal 119.32 set at large strengthened and b Vers 36. directed wee may both know and obey the will of our heauenly Father and Lord. 3 That for the manner of performance we may after the heauenly patterne aforementioned c Psal 110.3 willingly without constraint or repugnancy d Psal 119 60. speedilte without delay e Deut 5.28 29. sincerelie without hypocrisie f Psal 119.6 fully without reseruation g Vers 112. constantly without intermission beleeue the promises of mercie and obey the precepts of holinesse SECT XLIII Of the fourth Petition Q. THus farre of the three first petitions for things concerning God To come to the three latter concerning our selues What are we generally to note in them A. The order dependance they haue 1. From the former three concerning God for we are then allowed and a Luc. 17.7 c. not til then to seeke good things for our selues when wee haue first minded sought those things that concerne the glory of God because vnto b 1. Tim. 4.8 godlinesse only the promises of this life and that which is to come are entailed 2. Betweene themselues wherein is to be obserued First that we haue but one petition for outward things as lesse to be esteemed but for spirituall things two as about c Mat 6.33 which our care is to bee doubled Secondly that yet the first place is giuen to outward things not as chiefest but as d Gen. 28.20.21 helps to enable vs to spirituall duties and as steppes e Act. 17.27 28. whereby our weak faith may the better ascend to lay claime hold on spirituall graces Thirdly that according to the order obserued in the Creed called the Apostles we are taught to depend On the prouidence of God the Father our Creator for outward blessings On the mercy of Christ our Sauiour for the remission of our sinnes On the powerfull assistance of the holy Spirit our sanctifier for the resisting and subduing of al temptations vnto euill Lastly that in all these petitions vnder one thing expressed other things are figuratiuely included as shall appeare Q. To proceed in order What are the words of the fourth petition A. a Mat 6.11 Luke 11.3 Giue vs this day our dailie bread Q. What is the meaning of these words A. First by bread we must vnderstand b Pro. 27.27 31.14 all outward things seruing for our necessitie and sober delight as foode physicke sleepe raiment house c. together with the meanes thereof as peace seasonable weather and such like Secondly by daily bread or bread instātly necessary or such as is to be added to our substance we vnderstand such prouision and such a proportion thereof as may best a Pro. 30.8 agree with our nature charge and calling Thirdly by our bread we vnderstand b 2. Thes 3.12 such as commeth to vs by the blessing of God on our lawfull labours so that neither God nor man can iustly implead vs for it Fourthly when wee say giue we professe our selues c Luk. 17.10 Gen. 32.10 vnable by any seruice or labour to merit our bread much lesse our saluation at the hands of God but that our right vnto the creatures beeing forfeited in Adam wee haue nothing to plead but onely Gods deed of gift made vnto vs in Christ the second Adam and d Heb. 1.2 heire of all things e Rom. 8.32 in whom and with whom all things are conueyed to vs. Fiftly when we say giue vs wee professe our selues petitioners for all men especially the houshold of faith that for the most part euery one may haue sufficient and where want is a 2. Cor. 8.14 others may bee enabled to supply it out of their abundance Lastly when we say this day or for the day we professe the b Math. 6.34 moderation of our care and desire of earthly things with our purpose euery day by labour and prayer to seeke these blessings at the hands of God Q. What doe we then begge of God in this Petition A. Two things Viz. First bread c Iam. 4.3 Num. 11.4 5 6. not quailes or delicates not riches and superfluitie but a proportion of maintenance credit libertie c. d Pro. 30 8 1. Tim 6.8 conuenient for vs and that with condition e Jam. 4.15 2 Sam 7.27 if God shall see good which is a caution proper to this Petition for outward things Secondly faith and grace as well in f Phil. 4.12 want as in abundance to depend on the prouidence of God for outward things to bee g Heb. 13.5 contented with and thankefull for the portion which it shall please the Lord to a Psal 16.6 measure out vnto vs as his gift not enuying such to whom hee giueth more to b Ephes 4.28 labour with our hands the thing that is goo◠that wee may eate our owne bread to adde vnto our labor c 1. Tim. 4.4 5 prayer and thanksgiuing as whereby on our part all Gods blessings are assured and sanctified vnto vs Finally to d Phil. 4.6 Psal 37.5 containe our selues within the care for the meanes leauing euents vnto Gods only disposition SECT XLIIII Of the fift Petition Q. VVHat are the words of the fift Petition A. e Mat. 6.12 Luk. 11.4 And forgiue vs our debts as euen we forgiue our debtors where besides the petition is a reason added for confirmation thereof Q. What is the meaning of the words A. First by debts we must vnderstand sinnes as Saint Luke expoundeth the metaphor and that not in themselues as breaches of the Law of God for who would say that wee owe and are to pay sinne vnto God but with respect to the punishment and satisfaction due to Gods iustice for the offence of sinnes For our debt properly being a Rom. 8.12 13.8 Gal. 5.3 obedience whereto we were bound vnder penaltie of all the curses of the Law especially eternall death we all in Adam forfeited that bond whereby the b Luc. 13.4 Mat. 18.24 c. Rom. 6.23 penaltie became our debt and is daily encreased in vs all by sinning Secondly by forgiuenesse we vnderstand such remission as may agree with Gods iustice which will
works though imperfect do b Jam 2.18 approue their faith whereby they lay hold on Christ and his meritorious righteousnesse to be a true faith as c Gal. 5.6 working by loue in all parts of obedience SECT LII Of the execution of the last Iudgement and the euerlasting estate of the Reprobate in torment and the Elect in glory Q. HItherto of the Act of Iudgement What are we to consider in the third and last place A. The Execution of Iudgement Christ by his Almighty power and ministery of his Angels casting the diuels and reprobate men into hell and bringing Gods elect into the possession of his glorious Kingdome wherein the a Mat. 25.46 reprobate shall first bee dispatched that the b Psal 58 10. righteous may reioice to see the vengeance and as it were wash their feet in the bloud of the wicked Q. What shall be the estate of the reprobate in hell A. They shall remaine for euer in vnspeakeable torment of body and anguish of minde being c 2. Thess 1.9 cast out from the fauourable presence of God and glorious fellowship of Christ and his Saints whose happinesse they shall d Luk. 16.23 and 13.28 see and enuy into that horrible dungeon figured in Scripture by e 2. Pet. 2.17 Matth. 8.12 vtter darkenesse or blackenesse of darkenesse weeping and gnashing of teeth the f Mark 9.44 worme that neuer dieth the fire that neuer goeth out the g Reu. 20.15 lake of fire c. Finally where all things are that can be abhorred and nothing that may be desired Q. What shall be the estate of the Elect in heauen A. They shall bee a 1. Cor. 2.9 vnspeakeably and euerlastingly blessed and glorified in soule and body being freed from all passions imperfections infirmities yea from such b 1. Cor. 13.10 graces as suppose imperfection as faith hope repentance the like in a word froÌ„ all the c Reu 21.4 first things endued with perfect d 1. Cor. 13.12 wisdome and holinesse possessed of all the e Psal 16.11 pleasures that are at the right hand of God seated as Princes in f Reuâ—l 3 21. thrones of maiestie and crowned with g 2. Tim. 4.8 crownes of glory hauing h Reu. 2.26 power ouer all creatures and i 2. Pet. 3.13 possession of that new heauen and new earth wherein dwelleth righteousnesse beholding and being k Psal 17.15 filled with the fruition of the glorious l â— Thes 4.17 Reu 21.3 22 23. presence of God and of the Lambe Iesus Christ in the m Heb. 12.22 23 24. company of innumerable Angels and of all the holy Saints that haue been from the beginning of the world c. Q. Shall there not be inequalitie in the proportion of glory and of misery A. Yes for though euery one shall receiue the full measure whereof they are capeable yet First the wicked shall a Matt. 11.22 24. Luk 12.47 48. Reu. 18 7. exceed one another in capacitie of torment according to the greater merit of their sinnes Secondly the Elect shall exceed one another being made capeable of b Dan 12.3 greater glory according to the proportion not of merit but of fauour whereby in their different callings they were c Luke 12 4â— 43 44. 19 â—7 19. furnished with greater graces and made more faithfull in the imploying of them whether in d 2. Cor. 9.6 doing or in e 2. Cor. 4.17 Reu. 7.14 15 suffering for Christ his cause in the time of this life DEVT. 32.29 Oh that men were wise then they would vnderstand this they would consider their latter end A Prayer for the Morning O Lord God the Almightie maker and carefull preseruer of all thy creatures but especially the sauiour sanctifier of them that beleeue by the merit and efficacie of the bloud of Iesus Christ we acknowledge that as all thy works doe praise thee so it becommeth thy Saints especially to blesse thee and that both night and day for the blessings of the night and of the day May it please thee therefore to receiue at the hands of vs thine vnworthy seruants in the name of Iesus Christ this morning sacrifice of thanks praise for all thy mercies and namely those of the night past and of this morning Thou O Lord hast spread the darknes as thy curtaine ouer vs fauouring vs so much as to hide the light of the world and beauty of thy creatures that in the mean time we might commodiously take our rest And in the time of rest thy prouidence O Lord hath not rested in our behalfe but waked for vs whiles wee slept to keepe vs from the feares and danger of the night Yea thou hast blessed the blessing of sleepe vnto vs and hast thereby restored the decaied powres of nature in vs whereas thou mightest iustly haue cursed it turned it into sudden and vnexpected death Againe it hath pleased thee this morning to raise vp the light of the day to shine vnto our bodies laying open vnto vs the goodly shape of thy creatures and inlightning the waies wherein wee are to walke giuing vs ability of body and alacritie of spirit to proceed in the courses of our seuerall callings finally beginning the world with vs as it were and putting vs in possession of all thy works of wonder Further wee remember with thankful hearts all thy mercies formerly bestowed and continued vpon vs namely life health peace libertie maintenance credit fellowship successe in our affaires preseruation from dangers deliuerance from troubles recouery out of sicknesses consolation in afflictions and the issue of them euen a morning of ioy after a night of sorrow Lastly and aboue all for magnifying thy mercy towards vs in the great worke of our redemption and saluation by Iesus Christ and for euery linke of the golden chaine of grace whereby thou hast fastened vs vnto thy selfe namely for election vocation iustification sanctification and hope of glorification likewise for the meanes of grace thy Christ thy spirit thy word thy sacraments thy sabbaths and the assemblies of thy Saints with all the helps of example instruction admonition and fatherly correction by which thou hast indeauoured to further vs in the way of our saluation Yea that though our prouocations of thee be many and greeuous yet thy compassions faile not but are renewed euery morning For all these testimonies of thy bounty thy pitie thy patience towards vs what shall we render vnto thee O Lord Wee doe euen take the cup of saluation and call vpon thy blessed name wee doe according to our pouerty offer thee the calues of our lips confessing thy goodnesse and the due seruice of our bodies and soules as a liuing and reasonable sacrifice And now O Lord wee acknowledge our penurie to be such that we cannot liue but on thine allowance For looking into our selues we finde no store but of sinne and misery our
vnderstanding full of blindnesse vanitie and infidelitie our consciences dead and remorselesse our hearts hard and impenitent our affections disorderly and violent our appetites sensuall and brutish our whole nature deformed with originall corruption our whole life abounding with the fruits thereof in all maner of actuall transgressions no ability to any good duty no restraint or moderation in sinning against thee yea if we doe any good thing we are apt to blemish it with selfe-loue and hypocrisie if we abstaine from any euill it is manie times rather from the act then from the loue of it In this case O Lord if thou shouldest looke vpon vs as a Iudge straightly to marke iniquities or take this our confession as an euidence against vs how should we be able to stand before thee But we beseech thee take knowledge of it as of our complaint and pitie our pouerty our miserie and our nakednes Cloath vs with the righteousnesse of Iesus Christ that may both hide our filthinesse from thy sight and as the garment of the elder brother make vs accepted before thee and procure thy blessing Acquaint thy selfe with vs O Lord and renew daily with vs the couenant of thy peace and euen now this morning let thy spirit from heauen bring vs a new patent of mercie that being to meet with thee in the waies and works of this day wee may be sure to meet thee as a reconciled Father not as an offeÌ„ded Iudge Fill vs with all ioy and peace in beleeuing Comfort vs ouer all our sinnes by the assurance of thy mercie Confirme vnto our heares our title vnto thy Kingdome And because o Lord we liue vpon thine hand and all our welldoing is from thee graunt that we may yeeld thee so much due that no Lords besides thee may rule ouer vs. And to that end good Lord doe thou free vs from the contrary power rule of Sathan of sinne It is not for thine honour O Lord that thy seruants should be vnder the yoake of thine enemies redeeme vs therefoâ—e mightily froÌ„ the thraldome of the diuel help vs to leade our captiuity captiue and stablish our hearts for euer by thy free spirit For where thy spirit is there is freedome Let that spirit of thine therefore O Lord come vpon vs and strengthen vs with a greater might then that of Samson to breake in sunder the strongest cords euen our speciall sinnes Teach vs to see the vilenesse of them powre vpon vs the spirit of grace and godly sorow that we may mourne for them affect vs with an holy hatred detestation of them waken vs out of our security with the feare of thy iudgements strenghen our weakenesse with the power of thy might arme vs with the furniture of thy grace encourage vs with the presence of thy spirit and be with vs in our spirituall conflict as the King in the armie Couer our heâ—ds assure our hearts instruct our hands helpe vs so to fight that wee may ouercome so to ouercome that we may receaue the crown of victorie Further O Lord we entreat thee so to let thy kingdome preuaile in vs that wee may not onely be thy souldiers but thy seruants and subiects To this end write thy lawes in our inward parts giue vs vnderstanding of thy will set vp the scepter of thy kingdome in our consciences subdue our hearts to the obedience of thy commandements win our affections to the loue of thy statutes conforme our liues to the rule of thy righteousnesse and transforme vs daily into thine image from glorie to glory Blesse all the meanes of grace vnto vs and blesse vs with hearts sanctified and set vpon the meanes for encrease of grace Let thy holy word O Lord bee our chiefest treasure thy statutes our counsellors thy promises our comforters thy sacraments our delicates thy sabbaths our best daies and thy seruants our deerest companions Let thy seruice be our liberty let thy yoake be our ease and thy burthen as wings vnto vs. Let thy louing countenance bee our sunne thy protection our shield and thy fauourable acceptance our exceeding great reward Grant that we may account this time of thy Gospell as our haruest and let vs not now sleepe least we be the sonnes of confusion but let vs so lay vp in these daies of plenty that in the time of dearth wee may haue something in store Teach vs so to number our daies and so to spend them that euerie day and euery night we may be able to giue vp a good account especially in the night of death and morrow of iudgement And now hauing begun to speak to thee our Lord though we be but dust and ashes we are bold to continue our suit euen for bodily blessings Blesse vs therefore we pray thee this day followinâ— and all the daies of our life with that portion of health peace prosperitie and euery good thing that may enable vs and make vs cheerefull in dutie Aduise vs in all our thoughts and purposes giue good successe vnto our lawfull endeauors strengthen vs in our bodily labours sanctifie vs in our meats and drinkes recreations and companies Grant that in doing seruice to our selues and one ano her wee may still remember that wee are thy seruants Giue vs such spirituall eyesight that we may see thee in thy creatures and in thy prouidence Grant that nothing may draw vs away from thee but that euery thing may bring vs neerer vnto thee Lord let vs liue in thy sight Let vs not liue without thee as Gentils let vs not be cast out of thy presence as Kain let vs not runne against thee as Balaam but let vs walke with thee as Enoch Noah and Abraham taking knowledge of thee in all our waies And take thou knowledge of vs vpholding vs with thine hand watching ouer vs with thine eie guiding vs with thy grace setting thine heart vpon vs to loue vs and doe vs good and not euill all the daies of our life Last of all wee come vnto thee O Lord in the behalfe of thy whole Church and of all our brethren and and sisters thine elect seruants wheresoeuer they bee Call the vncalled perfect the called raise vp the fallen strengthen the weake enlighten the ignorant heale the sicke releeue the needie and distressed release such as are in restraint comfort them that mourne especially such as mourne for sinne strengthen the hand and heart of them that stand in the iust defence of religion and right quaile and confound euerie Aduersarie and Antichristian power and pollicie and so publish and propagate the Gospell of Iesus Christ that thy name may be knowne thy kingdome enlarged the number of thy Saints fulfilled Specially wee beseech thee beholde and visite this thy vine which hauing rescued from the Egyptian darkenes and slauerie of Antichrist thou hast beene pleased to plant among vs of this nation Make vs more thankefull for our long peace and for the Gospell of peace Blesse thy seruant Iames
soule whiles I flutter about like the Doue of Noah finding no rest in this world ouer-flowed with wickednesse till it shall please thee to stretch forth thine hand out of the Arke of heauen and take me to thy glorious rest Finally O my Lord being come vnto thy kingdome remember me thy seruant with the fauour of thy people and visit mee with thy saluation Let me see the felicitie of thy chosen and reioyce with the ioy of thy people and glory with thine inheritance Let mee in this life behold thy face in righteousnes and when I shall awake in the resurrection of the iust let mee bee satisfied with thine image To thee O Christ with the Father and the Holy Ghost one God and King euerlasting be all glorie dominion mercie and saluation ascribed for euer Amen A priuate Prayer for the grace of Sanctification O Lord God Father of lights author and giuer of euery perfect gift the holy one of Israel and the sanctifier thereof before whom the Seraphims hide their faces and in whose sight the heauens are not pure When I compare my filthinesse and pollution with thine absolute puritie I cannot without feare and astonishment without shame and confusion approch into thy presence that am a vile sinner of polluted lips and of vncircumcised heart But when I consider thy great mercy and goodnesse that doest open vnto sinners not onely a way into thy fauourable presence by the vaile of the flesh of Iesus Christ but also thy gracious hand to bestow the gift of holinesse vpon all those that finding lacke of it in themselues doe seeke it of thee I am encouraged to come before thee compassed as I am with miseries and infirmities that I may returne from thee compassed and cloathed with thy glorious graces O Lord if I let thee see my sinnes and defilements thou maiest proceed in iudgement against mee for them if I hide them from thee how can I look to bee cured and cleansed of them Nay I cannot hide them from thee O Lord but labouring to conceale them I shall make them more apparent Onely shew me this fauour not to behold them as a Iudge to bee auenged of them but as the onely soueraigne Physitian of my soule to cure and heale them And so good Lord let me not spare to open vnto thee the sicknes and sores of my corrupt heart and life Yea rather doe thou O Lord for the beginning of thy gracious worke shew me in the glasse of thy word my pollution by sinne that I may seeke after the lauer of thy grace to bee washed and made cleane Light vp O Lord in my heart the lampe of thy word and grace that of thee who onely searchest the heart I may learne to search know my wicked heart by the light of thy word I may bee able to worke vnder groūd vnto the bottome of the mine of sin that lurketh in my nature Let mee count all my sins as Traitors vnto thy glory my safetie search the house of my heart for them but especially for my speciall sin as for the chiefest Rebell Yea grant mee so to search my self that I may auoid preuent thy dreadfull search so to iudge my selfe that I may auoide thy iudgemēt so to cōdemn my self that I may auoid thy sentence so to hate and abhorre my selfe that I may auoide thy wrath so to be auēged of my self that I may auoide thy punishment Let sinne O Lord be as bitter to me in the attempting as in the repenting at least wise more bitter in the repenting then euer it was sweet in the committing that either heedfull preuention may keepe me from bitter repentance or the bitter reares of repentance may exempt mee from that most bitter account in the day of thy iudgement Teach me to bring into discredit with mine heart all iniquitie and all appearances thereof Grant me strength to ouercome my sinfull lusts at least let me alwaies striue against them that I may be assured I am a member of thy Church militant And whensoeuer I cease to striue let me not boast of victorie or reioice of ease but be ashamed of my foyle flight Grant that vnto faith in thee I may alwaies ioyne feare not onely of Satan with whom I am in conflict but also of the frailtie and trecherie of mine owne heart and of the slipperie paths of this sinfull world Bring downe by the batterie of thy spirit the hils of my high and proud thoughts streighten my crooked and distorted affections make plaine and smooth the rough waies of my rebellious and stonie heart that thou maist walke at ease in the middes of me and that I may see thy saluation O God Let me looke on the pleasures and profits of this life not onely as thy liberall allowances to me but also as Satans baites to inueigle me that moderately vsing them I may bee thankefull to thee for them and auoiding the excesse and abuse of them I may bee free from the snares of the Diuell Yea doe thou so weane me from the loue of the world and the things thereof that Satan may bee to seeke of baites to allure mee to sinne Let me account my selfe a stranger on earth and therefore abstaine from fleshly lusts that fight against the soule Let me not value the pleasures of sinne at so high a rate as for them to make shipwracke of a good conscience before thee or of a good report among men Let mee by light esteeming of outward things shew that I take no thought for the flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof and by the deniall of my selfe approue that I liue by faith putting on the Lord Iesus Christ Teach me not to set my heart on vncertaine riches which the more I desire to haue and loue when I haue them the more they will vex mee when I am to part with them but let mee vse them as things that must shortly leaue mee or I them and thy word onely as that which shall abide with me for euer Teach me with Iacob to account my selfe lesse then the least of thy mercies that by humilitie I may bee fitted for greater graces In all things giue mee grace to take heed of offending thy Maiestie and as I would not thou shouldest breake the brused reede or quench the smoaking flax in mee so graunt that I may not dare to quench the sparke of thy spirit and grace in my heart As I would thou shouldest giue mee rest from the terrors of thy wrath so grant that I may giue thy spirit rest from the prouocations of my sinnes On the other side good Lord grant mee that knowledge of religion that may beget conscience that conscience that may preserue religion binding me not by guilt to the punishment of sinne but by grace to the obedience of righteousnesse setting mee at libertie not from the band of dutifull loue but from the yoake of seruile feare Enlighten mine eies that I may discerne of