up_o to_o god_n thus_o at_o least_o he_o intend_v it_o but_o by_o our_o depravation_n and_o folly_n they_o become_v obstacle_n in_o our_o way_n to_o he_o they_o turn_v we_o from_o the_o path_n to_o life_n and_o happiness_n and_o as_o the_o wiseman_n say_v wisd_v 14.11_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n become_v stumble_a block_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o a_o snare_n to_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o unwise_a of_o the_o unwise_a he_o say_v such_o as_o will_v not_o take_v god_n for_o their_o guide_n such_o as_o turn_v their_o eye_n from_o his_o glorious_a light_n to_o enjoy_v the_o shade_n and_o obscurity_n of_o creature_n thereby_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o darkness_n and_o so_o become_v uncapable_a of_o ever_o abide_v the_o divine_a save_a light_n 2._o now_o if_o all_o creature_n be_v create_v for_o this_o to_o be_v as_o help_v and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v obtain_v our_o end_n then_o be_v we_o to_o take_v off_o our_o affection_n from_o they_o to_o place_v they_o upon_o the_o creator_n who_o be_v the_o end_n we_o shall_v aim_v at_o for_o the_o end_n shall_v be_v love_v and_o desire_v without_o end_n and_o without_o competitor_n in_o goodness_n be_v independent_a supreme_a and_o alone_o satisfactory_a whereas_o mean_n have_v no_o far_o goodness_n than_o as_o they_o help_v to_o obtain_v the_o end_n a_o christian_n shall_v therefore_o refer_v to_o god_n all_o his_o thought_n and_o word_n and_o action_n and_o that_o not_o lazy_o or_o verbal_o only_a but_o with_o a_o strong_a affection_n and_o with_o a_o pure_a heart_n avoid_v thereby_o the_o cheat_n man_n often_o put_v upon_o themselves_o in_o be_v deceive_v with_o their_o own_o formality_n and_o specious_a pretence_n when_o even_o in_o religion_n and_o spiritual_a exercise_n they_o often_o seek_v and_o please_v themselves_o rather_o than_o god_n upon_o this_o account_n the_o scripture_n call_v the_o way_n to_o life_n straight_o and_o narrow_a because_o deprave_a man_n refer_v all_o to_o himself_o and_o can_v hardly_o follow_v the_o pure_a and_o direct_a way_n which_o god_n prescribe_v be_v natural_o averse_a to_o a_o upright_a intention_n but_o when_o this_o aversion_n be_v once_o overcome_v by_o a_o assiduous_a diligence_n and_o delight_n in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n then_o divine_a commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a the_o way_n to_o life_n be_v wide_a and_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n be_v light_a and_o pleasant_a chap._n xi_o that_o man_n trifle_v about_o thing_n eternal_a and_o be_v earnest_a about_o the_o world_n be_v the_o cause_n why_o so_o many_o attain_v not_o their_o main_a end_n 1._o that_o the_o number_n of_o fool_n be_v past_a number_n be_v right_o affirm_v by_o the_o wise_a man_n for_o indeed_o infinite_a multitude_n of_o man_n trifle_v away_o their_o day_n so_o simple_o act_n so_o childish_o or_o rather_o so_o much_o like_o mad_a man_n that_o their_o intolerable_a folly_n can_v be_v sufficient_o deplore_v they_o set_v the_o flesh_n above_o the_o spirit_n they_o prefer_v time_n to_o eternity_n and_o earth_n to_o heaven_n till_o the_o unhappy_a comedy_n of_o their_o sinful_a lifâ—_n end_v in_o a_o sad_a tragedy_n of_o death_n and_o they_o go_v down_o to_o hell_n in_o a_o moment_n if_o a_o suit_n at_o law_n be_v to_o be_v determine_v or_o a_o estate_n gain_v or_o a_o place_n of_o honour_n obtain_v than_o they_o spare_v no_o cost_n nor_o labour_n no_o search_n no_o diligence_n no_o study_n but_o if_o heaven_n be_v to_o be_v purchase_v and_o eternal_a life_n and_o glory_n make_v sure_a than_o no_o man_n stir_v they_o be_v all_o asleep_a and_o unactive_a no_o regard_n no_o care_n be_v have_v of_o it_o 2._o in_o thing_n that_o touch_v and_o afflict_v the_o body_n as_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n heat_n and_o cold_a pain_n and_o infirmity_n our_o sense_n be_v quick_a and_o can_v never_o be_v deceive_v and_o therefore_o with_o all_o our_o might_n and_o industry_n we_o present_o occur_v to_o those_o evil_n and_o endeavour_v to_o remove_v they_o but_o if_o our_o soul_n suffer_v under_o the_o same_o or_o the_o like_a spiritual_a evil_n we_o be_v not_o sensible_a and_o we_o care_v no_o more_o than_o if_o that_o noble_a part_n of_o we_o whereby_o we_o live_v and_o be_v rational_a and_o like_a to_o angel_n have_v no_o be_v at_o all_o and_o this_o because_o the_o flesh_n have_v get_v the_o upper_a hand_n and_o we_o value_v this_o sport_n uncertain_a life_n more_o than_o life_n eternal_a and_o we_o make_v it_o our_o first_o and_o sole_a employment_n to_o rescue_v that_o carcase_n from_o death_n for_o a_o few_o moment_n which_o certain_o must_v soon_o become_v its_o prey_n 3._o one_o cause_n of_o these_o preposterous_a do_n be_v the_o gross_a and_o brutish_a ignorance_n or_o rather_o inconsideration_n of_o too_o too_o many_o who_o will_v neither_o know_v nor_o consider_v to_o what_o end_n man_n be_v create_v what_o it_o be_v he_o shall_v seek_v and_o design_n in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o life_n and_o what_o way_n he_o shall_v take_v that_o he_o may_v not_o miss_v of_o his_o great_a aim_n jer._n 12.11_o the_o whole_a land_n be_v make_v desolate_a because_o no_o man_n lay_v it_o to_o heart_n i._n e._n because_o no_o man_n consider_v wise_o another_o cause_n of_o this_o mischief_n be_v the_o great_a number_n and_o power_n of_o those_o enemy_n that_o perpetual_o assault_v we_o who_o snare_n no_o man_n can_v possible_o avoid_v without_o god_n break_v they_o and_o deliver_v he_o for_o we_o be_v continual_o besiege_v by_o a_o frail_a flesh_n a_o flatter_a world_n and_o legion_n of_o devil_n who_o seek_v to_o devour_v we_o 4._o last_o our_o folly_n and_o misery_n proceed_v partly_o from_o our_o blindness_n the_o whole_a world_n be_v in_o darkness_n we_o want_v light_a to_o guide_v we_o and_o yet_o will_v not_o beg_v it_o of_o god_n and_o pray_v he_o devout_o he_o will_v lead_v we_o aright_o who_o alone_o be_v able_a and_o willing_a to_o do_v it_o and_o partly_o from_o our_o sloth_n and_o inconstancy_n for_o we_o be_v virtuous_a in_o wish_n and_o not_o in_o effect_n because_o we_o be_v lazy_a to_o work_v and_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o practice_n we_o find_v difficulty_n and_o be_v soon_o tire_v and_o dishearten_v hasty_o give_v over_o before_o we_o have_v effect_v any_o thing_n all_o christian_n no_o doubt_n will_v be_v glad_a to_o come_v at_o last_o to_o christ_n but_o they_o have_v no_o heart_n to_o come_v after_o he_o they_o will_v be_v glad_a to_o enjoy_v he_o but_o care_v not_o to_o imitate_v he_o fain_o will_v they_o come_v to_o he_o but_o not_o follow_v he_o man_n will_v obtain_v riches_n without_o labour_n and_o crown_n without_o fight_v they_o like_v well_o of_o reward_n but_o they_o will_v take_v no_o pain_n ghap._n xii_o how_o man_n suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v deceive_v by_o a_o fair_a outside_n and_o false_a appearance_n of_o good_a 1._o this_o world_n felicity_n put_v all_o together_o with_o all_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v most_o esteem_v by_o the_o generality_n of_o mankind_n the_o whole_a be_v but_o like_o a_o coarse_a picture_n which_o seem_v to_o have_v something_o please_v and_o invite_v when_o you_o look_v upon_o it_o with_o a_o false_a light_n or_o in_o a_o place_n somewhat_o obscure_a or_o with_o a_o small_a blind_a candle_n such_o as_o be_v the_o dim_a and_o deceitful_a light_n of_o present_a time_n but_o if_o you_o bring_v forth_o the_o picture_n and_o view_v it_o before_o that_o glorious_a sun_n that_o shine_v for_o ever_o the_o radiant_a brightness_n of_o eternity_n there_o it_o will_v appear_v deform_v and_o unfinished_a a_o dark_a and_o imperfect_a shadow_n which_o represent_v nothing_o a_o confuse_a heap_n of_o stroke_n and_o line_n draw_v without_o order_n or_o design_n for_o though_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n enlighten_v the_o world_n yet_o it_o remain_v in_o darkness_n man_n will_v not_o see_v the_o glorious_a discovery_n which_o the_o gospel_n make_v the_o light_n shine_v in_o the_o darkness_n but_o the_o darkness_n comprehend_v it_o not_o 3._o yet_o that_o light_n it_o be_v and_o none_o else_o that_o clear_o show_v the_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o good_a and_o evil_n btwixt_a vile_a and_o precious_a betwixt_o truth_n and_o appearance_n how_o we_o may_v know_v and_o choose_v the_o one_o from_o the_o other_o by_o this_o bless_a light_n of_o christianity_n which_o dwell_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o instruct_v it_o and_o abide_v for_o ever_o by_o it_o we_o be_v teach_v not_o to_o cleave_v to_o the_o creature_n because_o of_o their_o attractive_a beauty_n but_o so_o to_o consider_v their_o perfection_n as_o to_o be_v by_o they_o lead_v to_o the_o fountain_n whence_o they_o proceed_v to_o the_o love_n and_o admiration_n of_o the_o glorious_a maker_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o the_o same_o divine_a light_n it_o be_v make_v i_o see_v
eye_n and_o mind_n on_o that_o original_a which_o he_o mean_v to_o copy_n so_o shall_v a_o follower_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o word_n and_o action_n set_v before_o himself_o his_o master_n life_n as_o the_o most_o perfect_a exemplar_n he_o be_v resolve_v to_o imitate_v and_o never_o to_o swerve_v from_o 2._o now_o he_o that_o profess_v christ_n and_o remain_v in_o he_o shall_v walk_v as_o he_o walk_v careful_o observe_v and_o follow_v the_o step_n of_o his_o new_a and_o better_a lord_n for_o as_o while_o we_o remain_v in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n and_o follow_v its_o instinct_n we_o be_v child_n of_o wrath_n and_o be_v slave_n to_o satan_n and_o to_o our_o own_o lust_n so_o now_o we_o be_v redeem_v from_o that_o unhappy_a slavery_n by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n his_o grace_n must_v be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o our_o action_n we_o must_v careful_o follow_v he_o who_o member_n we_o be_v 1_o cor._n 15.47_o the_o first_o man_n be_v of_o the_o earth_n earthly_a the_o second_o man_n be_v the_o lord_n from_o heaven_n therefore_o as_o we_o have_v bear_v the_o image_n of_o the_o earthy_a we_o shall_v also_o bear_v the_o image_n of_o the_o heavenly_a make_v that_o our_o first_o and_o chief_a care_n that_o we_o walk_v worthy_a of_o our_o high_a call_n as_o be_v lead_v by_o his_o spirit_n from_o who_o we_o have_v our_o high_a title_n for_o if_o any_o man_n have_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n he_o be_v none_o of_o he_o say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 8.9_o 3._o now_o he_o alone_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n who_o outward_a and_o inward_a life_n that_o be_v who_o â—_z and_o affection_n be_v according_a to_o the_o pattern_n of_o christ_n bless_a example_n who_o endeavour_v always_o to_o speak_v and_o act_v as_o christ_n his_o master_n do_v according_a as_o we_o be_v exhort_v not_o to_o walk_v after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n be_v create_v anew_o in_o jesus_n christ_n unto_o good_a work_n we_o shall_v look_v unto_o the_o rock_n whence_o we_o be_v hew_v not_o live_v after_o the_o method_n of_o deprave_a man_n but_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o that_o righteous_a god_n from_o who_o we_o have_v our_o be_v that_o we_o be_v holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n may_v be_v own_a to_o be_v the_o child_n of_o our_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n for_o he_o certain_o be_v no_o child_n of_o god_n who_o be_v not_o lead_v and_o sanctify_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n chap._n xviii_o the_o just_a live_v by_o faith_n not_o by_o the_o law_n of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n 1._o faith_n be_v to_o all_o virtue_n and_o to_o a_o christian_a life_n the_o same_o thing_n as_o the_o root_n be_v to_o the_o tree_n the_o foundation_n to_o the_o building_n and_o the_o spring_n to_o the_o fountain_n for_o it_o be_v the_o first_o lesson_n of_o christianity_n from_o whence_o we_o learn_v all_o the_o rest_n there_o we_o must_v first_o begin_v and_o without_o it_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n for_o the_o just_a life_n by_o faith_n the_o commendation_n job_n give_v to_o wisdom_n chap._n 28._o be_v just_o due_a to_o faith_n faith_n be_v the_o principle_n of_o it_o and_o likewise_o it_o be_v evident_a and_o grant_v by_o all_o wise_a man_n that_o solomon_n high_a encomium_n of_o wisdom_n do_v but_o set_v forth_o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o faith_n wisd_v 7._o gold_n in_o respect_n of_o she_o be_v as_o little_a sand_n and_o silver_n shall_v be_v count_v as_o clay_n before_o she_o she_o be_v a_o treasure_n unto_o man_n that_o never_o fail_v which_o they_o that_o use_v become_v the_o friend_n of_o god_n she_o be_v the_o brightness_n of_o the_o everlasting_a light_n the_o unspotted_a mirror_n of_o the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o the_o image_n of_o his_o goodness_n the_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n apprehend_v by_o faith_n teach_v we_o all_o truth_n inform_v our_o soul_n what_o we_o ought_v to_o love_v what_o to_o shun_v and_o what_o to_o pursue_v it_o teach_v we_o that_o what_o the_o world_n count_v good_a be_v evil_a and_o that_o worldly_a calamity_n be_v good_a if_o endure_v patient_o it_o teach_v we_o to_o despise_v thing_n visible_a and_o temporal_a and_o all_o that_o which_o be_v for_o no_o use_n but_o to_o the_o material_a part_n of_o we_o it_o teach_v we_o to_o know_v god_n and_o to_o know_v ourselves_o which_o be_v the_o true_a save_a knowledge_n and_o the_o high_a of_o our_o wisdom_n and_o it_o free_v we_o from_o the_o pernicious_a error_n of_o this_o foolish_a world_n and_o from_o its_o wretched_a slavery_n to_o make_v we_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n and_o set_v we_o at_o perfect_a liberty_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o vast_a distance_n and_o great_a contrariety_n betwixt_o the_o instruction_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o custom_n of_o this_o present_a world_n but_o then_o christ_n who_o deliver_v the_o first_o be_v ever_o true_a and_o infallible_a it_o be_v clear_o our_o duty_n and_o interest_n to_o live_v by_o faith_n and_o not_o by_o sense_n to_o follow_v the_o holy_a light_n of_o our_o holy_a faith_n not_o the_o wicked_a example_n of_o this_o wicked_a world_n and_o withal_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v observe_v that_o deprave_v as_o we_o now_o be_v there_o be_v nothing_o in_o we_o nothing_o in_o our_o nature_n but_o what_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n and_o altogether_o destructive_a of_o they_o for_o it_o be_v the_o constant_a dictate_v and_o endeavour_v of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n and_o natural_a reason_n to_o procure_v by_o all_o mean_v possible_a a_o well-being_n to_o ourselves_o in_o this_o present_a world_n without_o take_v any_o further_a care_n of_o a_o better_a life_n and_o a_o bless_a eternity_n this_o evil_a man_n have_v from_o adam_n and_o from_o those_o lust_n which_o reign_n in_o their_o mortal_a body_n and_o the_o best_a of_o man_n have_v still_o some_o cause_n to_o groan_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o rom._n 7._o the_o good_a that_o i_o will_v i_o do_v not_o and_o the_o evil_n which_o i_o hate_v that_o i_o do_v o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o the_o body_n of_o this_o death_n st._n paul_n answer_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n will_v deliver_v we_o for_o by_o grace_n we_o be_v save_v from_o our_o blindness_n and_o impotency_n and_o enable_v to_o see_v and_o choose_v that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o to_o perform_v the_o same_o and_o the_o first_o and_o chief_a work_n of_o that_o grace_n be_v faith_n whereby_o we_o be_v unite_v to_o christ_n and_o receive_v a_o new_a life_n from_o he_o chap._n xix_o that_o faith_n work_v in_o a_o christian_a self-denial_n and_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n 1._o great_a be_v the_o power_n and_o strength_n of_o faith_n for_o it_o make_v the_o faithful_a christian_n to_o be_v as_o itself_o be_v unshaken_a and_o unmovable_a the_o true_a believer_n who_o faith_n be_v lively_a and_o active_a regard_n and_o seek_v nothing_o but_o god_n and_o in_o he_o alone_o find_v light_n and_o peace_n delight_n and_o full_a satisfaction_n but_o in_o the_o world_n and_o in_o the_o son_n of_o man_n he_o find_v neither_o rest_n nor_o pleasure_n for_o in_o time_n of_o need_n there_o be_v no_o help_n in_o they_o they_o be_v like_o all_o other_o thing_n under_o the_o sun_n perish_v and_o unstable_a so_o that_o he_o that_o rely_v on_o they_o must_v expect_v the_o same_o destiny_n whereas_o he_o that_o trust_v on_o god_n who_o be_v unmoveable_a be_v establish_v for_o ever_o as_o the_o saint_n that_o see_v god_n as_o he_o be_v become_v like_a unto_o he_o so_o shall_v our_o life_n express_v the_o holiness_n of_o our_o belief_n our_o action_n shall_v be_v a_o lively_a representation_n of_o what_o we_o see_v by_o faith_n and_o we_o shall_v glory_v in_o nothing_o but_o in_o the_o cross_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n which_o to_o the_o lover_n of_o this_o present_a world_n be_v a_o reproach_n and_o a_o offence_n 2._o the_o first_o man_n indeed_o in_o the_o state_n of_o his_o innocence_n may_v have_v come_v to_o bliss_n by_o a_o free_a and_o lawful_a use_n of_o those_o good_a creature_n which_o god_n have_v prepare_v for_o he_o in_o the_o delight_n of_o paradise_n but_o after_o he_o have_v rebel_v against_o god_n and_o infect_v his_o unborn_a posterity_n with_o sin_n the_o divine_a wisdom_n appoint_v another_o way_n to_o bliss_n that_o be_v the_o way_n of_o the_o cross_n and_o self-denial_n through_o which_o christ_n himself_o pass_v and_o appoint_v the_o same_o to_o all_o his_o follower_n say_v luke_n 9.23_o if_o any_o man_n will_v come_v after_o i_o let_v he_o deny_v himself_o and_o take_v up_o his_o cross_n daily_o and_o follow_v i_o and_o again_o luke_n 14.26_o 33._o
they_o walk_v and_o cover_v their_o misery_n and_o danger_n so_o that_o they_o neither_o see_v nor_o fear_v the_o dreadful_a tribunal_n of_o that_o just_a judge_n who_o will_v condemn_v all_o apostate_n that_o turn_v from_o the_o right_a way_n they_o walk_v say_v the_o apostle_n in_o the_o vanity_n of_o their_o mind_n have_v the_o understanding_n darken_v be_v alienate_v from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n through_o the_o ignorance_n that_o be_v in_o they_o because_o of_o the_o blindness_n of_o their_o heart_n be_v past_o feeling_n they_o have_v give_v themselves_o over_o to_o lasciviousness_n to_o work_v all_o uncleanness_n with_o greediness_n ephes_n 4.17_o they_o count_v their_o life_n a_o market_n for_o gain_v and_o say_v we_o must_v be_v get_v every_o way_n though_o it_o be_v by_o evil_a mean_n wisd_v 15.12_o and_o then_o it_o often_o happen_v by_o a_o just_a judgement_n that_o their_o faith_n come_v to_o be_v as_o debauch_v as_o their_o life_n that_o have_v long_o say_v it_o by_o their_o wicked_a deed_n they_o at_o last_o say_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n that_o there_o be_v no_o god_n 3._o i_o have_v already_o and_o can_v too_o often_o note_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_a that_o be_v adam_n who_o by_o his_o sin_n not_o only_o lose_v the_o uprightness_n of_o his_o will_n but_o also_o the_o true_a light_n of_o his_o understanding_n so_o that_o in_o he_o who_o be_v the_o stock_n and_o root_n whence_o all_o man_n grow_v we_o be_v deprive_v of_o both_o and_o now_o this_o corruption_n of_o the_o will_n incline_v man_n to_o self-love_n vain_a glory_n and_o a_o imperious_a pride_n to_o covetousness_n sloth_n sensuality_n and_o looseness_n and_o in_o the_o darkness_n of_o the_o understanding_n expose_v he_o to_o ignorance_n and_o false_a apprehension_n of_o thing_n to_o doubt_n error_n and_o lie_n and_o make_v he_o have_v a_o aversion_n to_o good_a and_o serious_a thought_n thus_o man_n be_v become_v earthly_a weak_a and_o distemper_v unable_a to_o resist_v the_o sinful_a motion_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o unable_a to_o know_v or_o to_o attain_v true_a felicity_n but_o rather_o as_o it_o be_v write_v his_o way_n be_v always_o grievous_a and_o god_n judgement_n be_v far_o above_o out_o of_o his_o sight_n psal_n 10.5_o and_o he_o now_o be_v alienate_v from_o god_n to_o who_o all_o thing_n shall_v be_v refer_v be_v also_o a_o stranger_n to_o virtue_n which_o consist_v in_o the_o intention_n in_o be_v design_v to_o please_v god_n rather_o than_o in_o the_o act_n but_o that_o soul_n which_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o bless_a jesus_n be_v redeem_v from_o this_o power_n of_o satan_n and_o slavery_n to_o sin_n be_v also_o enable_v to_o cleave_v steadfast_o to_o god_n in_o who_o it_o enjoy_v peace_n and_o joy_n and_o full_a satisfaction_n all_o that_o can_v make_v he_o entire_o happy_a for_o he_o be_v unreasonable_a and_o too_o unsatiable_a to_o who_o god_n be_v not_o sufficient_a chap._n xvi_o another_o reason_n why_o so_o many_o miss_n of_o their_o end_n their_o live_n too_o much_o by_o sense_n 1._o whereas_o reason_n itself_o teach_v and_o all_o man_n free_o confess_v that_o thing_n to_o come_v shall_v be_v prefer_v to_o thing_n present_a heavenly_a thing_n to_o thing_n earthly_a and_o thing_n eternal_a to_o thing_n that_o last_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n it_o be_v hard_a to_o conceive_v why_o so_o many_o who_o believe_v and_o acknowledge_v this_o yet_o by_o their_o action_n strong_o deny_v it_o in_o worldly_a matter_n and_o such_o as_o concern_v this_o present_a life_n they_o be_v very_o active_a very_o wise_a and_o very_a laborious_a in_o other_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v neither_o sense_n nor_o reason_n if_o you_o speak_v to_o they_o of_o god_n of_o holy-living_a and_o life_n eternal_a they_o understand_v you_o not_o or_o they_o present_o forget_v what_o you_o say_v thing_n material_a and_o perish_a be_v sensible_a and_o therefore_o more_o regard_v and_o set_v by_o though_o oftentimes_o experience_n will_v force_v they_o to_o know_v that_o all_o human_a concern_v be_v flit_a uncertain_a and_o very_o deceitful_a yet_o man_n follow_v sense_n and_o they_o soon_o return_v to_o embrace_v those_o thing_n which_o custom_n and_o a_o familiar_a converse_n have_v make_v dear_a to_o they_o 2._o the_o fall_n as_o i_o say_v of_o our_o first_o parent_n be_v the_o head-spring_n whence_o all_o this_o mischief_n flow_v from_o it_o proceed_v all_o temptation_n as_o also_o the_o darkness_n and_o inconstancy_n of_o our_o mind_n but_o the_o more_o immediate_a cause_n of_o it_o which_o i_o now_o consider_v be_v the_o imbecility_n depravation_n and_o weakness_n of_o the_o faculty_n of_o our_o soul_n which_o have_v no_o right_a apprehension_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o but_o a_o imperfect_a confuse_a notion_n of_o the_o amaze_a concern_v of_o eternity_n the_o loveliness_n of_o virtue_n and_o the_o great_a deformity_n of_o sin_n the_o terror_n of_o death_n and_o the_o dread_n of_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n the_o joy_n of_o saint_n above_o and_o the_o grievous_a torment_n of_o the_o wicked_a in_o hell_n these_o be_v but_o word_n which_o we_o hear_v we_o have_v dark_a and_o narrow_a conception_n of_o they_o we_o understand_v not_o of_o how_o great_a a_o importance_n they_o be_v and_o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o so_o affect_v with_o they_o as_o to_o be_v make_v wise_a unto_o salvation_n of_o thing_n offer_v to_o our_o consideration_n we_o only_o mind_v that_o least_o outward_a part_n which_o fall_v under_o the_o reach_n of_o sense_n but_o we_o attend_v not_o to_o that_o which_o be_v less_o sensible_a though_o more_o considerable_a and_o apt_a effectual_o to_o work_v upon_o the_o mind_n thus_o in_o sin_n we_o look_v most_o of_o all_o to_o what_o be_v temporal_a we_o be_v more_o concern_v for_o the_o impair_n of_o our_o same_o and_o the_o diminution_n of_o our_o worth_n or_o self-complacency_a than_o for_o have_v offend_v god_n and_o make_v ourselves_o obnoxious_a to_o a_o infinite_a pain_n likewise_o in_o a_o die_a man_n we_o most_o observe_v what_o be_v in_o view_n outward_a symptom_n and_o accident_n little_o regard_v the_o more_o essential_a adjunct_n which_o concern_v the_o soul_n and_o be_v of_o far_o great_a moment_n and_o we_o conceive_v of_o the_o last_o judgement_n and_o the_o unquenchable_a flame_n of_o hell_n which_o be_v imperceptible_a to_o sense_n as_o of_o thing_n which_o be_v nothing_o to_o we_o and_o which_o we_o have_v no_o interest_n to_o mind_n 3._o the_o same_o deception_n also_o extend_v itself_o to_o thing_n present_v which_o gratify_v our_o appetite_n we_o take_v notice_n only_o of_o that_o outside_n which_o please_v we_o and_o so_o deplorable_a be_v our_o sottish_a mistake_n that_o we_o count_v ourselves_o very_o happy_a to_o enjoy_v that_o for_o a_o moment_n which_o must_v make_v we_o eternal_o miserable_a every_o man_n know_v his_o soul_n be_v immortal_a and_o many_o philosopher_n have_v write_v great_a thing_n upon_o that_o subject_n but_o where_o be_v they_o that_o be_v solicitous_a for_o its_o well-being_n after_o death_n do_v not_o most_v man_n neglect_v their_o soul_n and_o live_v as_o if_o it_o be_v to_o die_v with_o the_o body_n the_o mischief_n be_v that_o general_o man_n live_v neither_o by_o faith_n nor_o by_o reason_n they_o follow_v blindfold_a and_o brutish_o just_a as_o sense_n lead_v they_o avoid_v careful_o what_o be_v now_o troublesome_a to_o the_o flesh_n as_o if_o nothing_o else_o be_v to_o be_v do_v here_o and_o nothing_o else_o fear_v hereafter_o chap._n xvii_o that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n aught_o to_o be_v guide_v by_o his_o spirit_n and_o by_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n 1._o if_o a_o man_n shall_v right_o understand_v and_o serious_o consider_v that_o god_n by_o a_o gracious_a adoption_n own_v he_o for_o his_o son_n that_o he_o be_v redeem_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o bear_v again_o by_o holy_a baptism_n into_o the_o hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n he_o will_v doubtless_o esteem_v it_o his_o noble_a title_n and_o his_o great_a honour_n he_o will_v despise_v all_o earthly_a advantage_n and_o mind_n and_o value_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v divine_a and_o eternal_a and_o passionate_o desire_v to_o come_v to_o his_o father_n he_o will_v do_v nothing_o unworthy_a of_o he_o as_o he_o that_o act_v the_o king_n on_o the_o stage_n though_o it_o be_v but_o a_o vain_a show_n to_o delight_v vain_a people_n yet_o be_v careful_a to_o do_v and_o to_o speak_v nothing_o but_o what_o befit_v a_o king_n so_o and_o much_o more_o careful_a shall_v a_o christian_a be_v to_o do_v nothing_o unworthy_a of_o that_o honourable_a name_n which_o make_v he_o a_o brother_n and_o disciple_n of_o jesus_n and_o a_o heir_n of_o his_o heavenly_a kingdom_n and_o as_o a_o picture-drawer_n when_o he_o be_v upon_o a_o great_a design_n fix_v his_o
ground_v upon_o humility_n but_o if_o this_o fail_v virtue_n be_v but_o hypocrisy_n a_o vain_a ostentation_n and_o a_o empty_a name_n he_o gather_v dust_n before_o the_o wind_n that_o be_v not_o humble_a and_o yet_o will_v be_v virtuous_a 3._o but_o he_o be_v to_o be_v count_v true_o humble_a who_o be_v more_o lowly_a than_o the_o low_a condition_n and_o high_a than_o the_o high_a who_o be_v not_o lift_v up_o with_o honour_n nor_o swell_v with_o the_o wind_n of_o man_n applause_n and_o who_o be_v never_o so_o much_o afflict_v and_o disgrace_v but_o he_o be_v persuade_v he_o deserve_v much_o worse_a he_o be_v true_o humble_a who_o be_v willing_a to_o be_v vile_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o as_o he_o ever_o be_v in_o his_o own_o who_o if_o he_o have_v advance_v a_o untruth_n be_v not_o ashamed_a to_o retract_v it_o and_o to_o ask_v pardon_n of_o other_o if_o by_o surprise_n or_o any_o other_o way_n he_o have_v offend_v they_o in_o word_n or_o deed_n this_o be_v know_v to_o good_a man_n to_o be_v a_o great_a self-denial_n he_o be_v true_o humble_a that_o be_v careful_a to_o do_v nothing_o for_o which_o he_o may_v just_o be_v despise_v and_o yet_o he_o be_v content_a to_o be_v so_o and_o meek_o bear_v with_o reproach_n grieve_v for_o the_o offence_n to_o god_n but_o rejoice_v in_o his_o own_o abasement_n he_o who_o most_o innocent_a action_n be_v misunderstand_v and_o misreport_v who_o be_v disappoint_v of_o his_o due_a reward_n and_o requite_v evil_a for_o good_a and_o yet_o be_v patient_a and_o content_v make_v it_o appear_v that_o he_o neither_o value_v himself_o nor_o his_o best_a action_n the_o humble_a man_n be_v silent_a of_o himself_o and_o dead_a to_o the_o world_n and_o when_o he_o be_v forsake_v and_o persecute_v yet_o in_o god_n he_o find_v refuge_n and_o comfort_n he_o be_v decent_o courteous_a and_o oblige_v to_o all_o person_n even_o to_o they_o that_o be_v his_o inferior_n he_o compare_v what_o be_v natural_a to_o he_o to_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n in_o other_o his_o imperfection_n to_o their_o virtue_n and_o so_o entertain_v always_o mean_a thought_n of_o himself_o and_o be_v content_a to_o have_v other_o prefer_v before_o he_o and_o to_o sit_v low_a and_o be_v conceal_v in_o his_o humility_n i_o may_v add_v that_o humility_n will_v make_v a_o man_n obedient_a to_o his_o superior_n meek_a and_o peaceable_a under_o government_n and_o always_o ready_a to_o believe_v better_o of_o the_o goodness_n and_o wisdom_n of_o his_o ruler_n than_o of_o his_o own_o but_o these_o must_v suffice_v 4._o this_o be_v a_o rude_a draught_n and_o but_o a_o imperfect_a image_n of_o that_o lovely_a creature_n call_v a_o humble_a christian_a whereby_o yet_o a_o man_n may_v discern_v how_o unlike_a he_o must_v be_v to_o the_o original_n that_o come_v not_o near_o to_o the_o copy_n that_o be_v how_o far_o he_o be_v from_o be_v master_n of_o that_o bless_a virtue_n which_o christ_n our_o bless_a lord_n do_v so_o much_o recommend_v to_o his_o follower_n by_o his_o low_a and_o wonderful_a humiliation_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o humility_n there_o be_v no_o danger_n of_o excess_n we_o can_v never_o be_v too_o humble_a but_o we_o may_v easy_o not_o be_v humble_a enough_o here_o the_o danger_n be_v great_a as_o the_o crime_n also_o as_o he_o that_o will_v come_v in_o at_o a_o door_n which_o be_v low_a of_o entrance_n if_o he_o bow_v himself_o more_o than_o needs_o there_o be_v no_o harm_n do_v but_o if_o he_o come_v too_o upright_o and_o never_o so_o little_a too_o high_a he_o must_v bruise_v his_o head_n if_o not_o break_v his_o skull_n so_o the_o low_a humility_n will_v never_o hurt_v the_o soul_n but_o the_o least_o pride_n may_v destroy_v it_o let_v a_o christian_a therefore_o to_o avoid_v this_o danger_n not_o only_o not_o exalt_v himself_o but_o even_o not_o equal_v himself_o to_o other_o for_o in_o so_o do_v he_o shall_v best_o imitate_v the_o bless_a jesus_n who_o be_v son_n of_o god_n yet_o take_v on_o he_o the_o form_n of_o a_o servant_n that_o be_v may_v show_v to_o we_o the_o true_a form_n of_o humility_n chap._n xxx_o of_o the_o conformity_n of_o our_o will_n to_o go_n 1._o we_o can_v offer_v to_o god_n nothing_o more_o please_v no_o victim_n better_o and_o more_o acceptable_a than_o our_o own_o will_n entire_o to_o resign_v that_o to_o god_n and_o desire_v that_o in_o all_o thing_n it_o may_v be_v subject_a and_o conformable_a to_o his_o bless_a will_n be_v that_o live_n and_o holy_a sacrifice_n wherein_o god_n delight_v which_o none_o but_o a_o pious_a man_n can_v offer_v and_o which_o be_v the_o high_a act_n of_o religion_n we_o can_v perform_v on_o earth_n for_o in_o this_o submit_v and_o conform_v our_o will_n to_o the_o divine_a pleasure_n we_o offer_v not_o to_o god_n any_o one_o particular_a thing_n alone_o but_o our_o whole_a self_n body_n and_o soul_n and_o all_o that_o we_o have_v without_o any_o reservation_n therefore_o we_o shall_v make_v that_o our_o daily_a study_n thus_o to_o deny_v and_o forsake_v ourselves_o to_o empty_v our_o heart_n of_o all_o self-desire_n and_o self-affection_n that_o even_o here_o god_n may_v be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o we_o and_o we_o may_v be_v whole_o devote_v to_o he_o prepare_v and_o willing_a to_o be_v in_o all_o thing_n dispose_v of_o by_o he_o according_a as_o he_o shall_v think_v good_a for_o god_n will_v not_o work_v in_o we_o his_o good_a and_o acceptable_a will_n if_o we_o have_v a_o will_n of_o our_o own_o distinct_a from_o and_o contrary_a to_o he_o he_o require_v the_o whole_a heart_n and_o he_o that_o give_v less_o give_v nothing_o it_o may_v be_v allow_v indeed_o to_o human_a frailty_n that_o we_o shall_v wish_v and_o will_n after_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n but_o then_o we_o must_v soon_o recollect_v ourselves_o and_o lift_v up_o our_o heart_n to_o god_n lay_v our_o will_n in_o the_o dust_n that_o we_o may_v acquiesce_v in_o he_o and_o cleave_v to_o he_o who_o be_v the_o sovereign_n have_v absolute_a dominion_n over_o all_o he_o be_v the_o creator_n we_o be_v his_o creature_n he_o be_v the_o lord_n we_o be_v all_o his_o servant_n he_o be_v omnipotent_a we_o be_v weak_a and_o infirm_a we_o must_v therefore_o restrain_v our_o own_o and_o give_v up_o ourselves_o whole_o to_o his_o bless_a will_n say_v in_o all_o contingency_n not_o as_o i_o will_v o_o lord_n but_o as_o thou_o will_v 2._o thus_o pray_v our_o bless_a redeemer_n when_o he_o act_v for_o we_o and_o suffer_v in_o our_o stead_n not_o that_o he_o who_o godhead_n be_v one_o with_o the_o father_n can_v will_v any_o thing_n contrary_a to_o he_o but_o to_o teach_v we_o how_o to_o behave_v ourselves_o in_o resign_v all_o our_o desire_n to_o god_n therefore_o he_o also_o teach_v we_o to_o make_v it_o our_o daily_a prayer_n thy_o will_v be_v do_v in_o earth_n as_o it_o be_v in_o heaven_n that_o as_o the_o angel_n be_v always_o ready_a to_o fulfil_v god_n will_n we_o may_v be_v so_o likewise_o in_o all_o thing_n desirous_a to_o be_v obedient_a to_o his_o law_n and_o dispensation_n that_o that_o unhappy_a fight_n and_o contention_n may_v be_v take_v away_o of_o which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v gal._n 5.17_o the_o flesh_n lu_v against_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spirit_n against_o the_o flesh_n that_o so_o god_n will_n may_v be_v obey_v by_o the_o whole_a man_n body_n soul_n and_o spirit_n without_o any_o opposition_n or_o reluctancy_n and_o nature_n may_v be_v govern_v by_o grace_n and_o human_a affection_n be_v change_v into_o holy_a charity_n for_o this_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n even_o our_o sanctification_n there_o be_v one_o only_a god_n and_o he_o that_o cleave_v to_o he_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o spirit_n and_o in_o will_n and_o can_v but_o be_v holy_a and_o happy_a 3._o there_o be_v not_o a_o more_o excellent_a duty_n than_o to_o receive_v whatever_o happen_v as_o come_v from_o god_n hand_n with_o a_o quiet_a and_o a_o content_a mind_n cast_v all_o our_o care_n upon_o he_o for_o he_o care_v for_o we_o 1_o pet._n 5.6_o there_o be_v no_o true_a evil_n but_o the_o evil_a of_o sin_n all_o other_o thing_n so_o count_v do_v proceed_v from_o god_n prosperity_n and_o adversity_n life_n and_o death_n poverty_n and_o riches_n come_v of_o the_o lord_n say_v the_o son_n of_o sirach_n ecclus._n 11.14_o therefore_o god_n say_v by_o his_o prophet_n isa_n 45.7_o i_o form_n the_o light_n and_o create_v darkness_n i_o make_v peace_n and_o create_v evil_a i_o the_o lord_n do_v all_o these_o thing_n whereas_o therefore_o all_o thing_n even_o those_o that_o seem_v to_o be_v most_o accidental_a depend_v upon_o god_n most_o wise_a determination_n and_o secret_a counsel_n we_o must_v submit_v ourselves_o to_o his_o
redemption_n the_o infinite_a love_n and_o charity_n of_o the_o bless_a jesus_n and_o the_o glorious_a reward_n and_o promise_v offer_v to_o all_o that_o will_v be_v true_a christian_n while_o man_n shall_v be_v so_o stupid_a as_o to_o neglect_v these_o it_o will_v be_v no_o hard_a matter_n to_o impose_v upon_o they_o and_o it_o must_v not_o seem_v strange_a that_o the_o mean_n be_v despise_v where_o the_o end_n itself_o be_v disregard_v until_o christian_n make_v it_o their_o first_o and_o chief_a business_n to_o secure_v a_o bless_a eternity_n by_o live_v holy_a life_n it_o can_v be_v expect_v they_o shall_v make_v wise_a and_o serious_a inquiry_n into_o those_o truth_n which_o be_v more_o disputable_a and_o less_o necessary_a for_o the_o mix_n secular_a interest_n with_o thing_n of_o religion_n first_o make_v and_o still_o maintain_v the_o error_n and_o breach_n of_o the_o christian_a world_n and_o the_o way_n to_o bring_v to_o a_o end_n many_o controversy_n be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o decide_v as_o to_o bury_v they_o at_o least_o to_o make_v they_o give_v place_n to_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v much_o more_o plain_a and_o much_o more_o requisite_a and_o beneficial_a and_o here_o again_o i_o may_v have_v a_o just_a occasion_n to_o commend_v this_o church_n we_o live_v in_o for_o the_o best_a guide_n of_o soul_n for_o either_o she_o meddle_v not_o with_o many_o dispute_n or_o else_o she_o always_o stand_v on_o the_o much_o sure_a side_n of_o the_o question_n hold_v that_o which_o even_o her_o adversary_n can_v but_o acknowledge_v for_o truth_n and_o never_o amuse_v her_o child_n with_o unnecessary_a speculation_n or_o unprofitable_a contest_v but_o as_o it_o be_v her_o great_a design_n to_o make_v we_o obedient_a to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n and_o bring_v we_o to_o a_o sincere_a practice_n of_o all_o holy_a virtue_n so_o i_o shall_v conclude_v this_o preface_n with_o a_o exhortation_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n that_o thou_o will_v serious_o and_o often_o consider_v that_o thy_o life_n be_v short_a and_o uncertain_a and_o that_o the_o world_n pass_v away_o and_o all_o thing_n here_o below_o and_o that_o thou_o resolve_v thereupon_o not_o to_o lose_v not_o to_o venture_v thy_o portion_n of_o good_a thing_n above_o for_o any_o earthly_a enjoyment_n that_o thou_o will_v bear_v eternity_n in_o mind_n and_o weigh_v the_o importance_n of_o these_o two_o word_n which_o conclude_v our_o creed_n life_n everlasting_a and_o that_o afterward_o thou_o resolve_v careful_o to_o follow_v the_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o it_o the_o doctrine_n and_o example_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n who_o have_v purchase_v and_o promise_v it_o to_o all_o that_o love_n and_o follow_v he_o live_v therefore_o as_o one_o that_o follow_v the_o king_n of_o eternity_n to_o a_o bless_a eternity_n and_o despise_v the_o world_n use_v diligent_o such_o mean_n as_o will_v make_v thou_o know_v thy_o duty_n and_o encourage_v and_o assist_v thou_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o it_o and_o among_o they_o good_a book_n which_o read_v with_o attention_n and_o a_o design_n to_o make_v their_o goodness_n our_o own_o be_v very_o useful_a instrument_n of_o virtue_n and_o religion_n this_o i_o hope_v will_v somewhat_o conduce_v to_o their_o advancement_n nay_o i_o be_o sure_a thou_o shall_v be_v much_o better_v by_o it_o if_o thou_o will_v transcribe_v it_o with_o thy_o life_n as_o i_o have_v with_o my_o pen_n and_o make_v it_o thy_o hearty_a endeavour_n as_o i_o do_v my_o prayer_n l._n b._n the_o author_n dedication_n to_o all_o true_a christian_n with_o due_a reverence_n i_o offer_v this_o small_a volume_n to_o you_o bless_a soul_n vessel_n of_o honour_n and_o mercy_n elect_v and_o holy_a child_n of_o god_n predestinate_v to_o glory_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n who_o be_v redeem_v from_o death_n by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o from_o sin_n by_o the_o gift_n of_o grace_n be_v not_o ashamed_a to_o own_o the_o despise_a cross_n of_o your_o redeemer_n for_o to_o you_o it_o be_v give_v to_o know_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n to_o you_o that_o be_v not_o bear_v of_o blood_n nor_o of_o the_o will_n of_o the_o flesh_n nor_o of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n you_o be_v call_v by_o the_o father_n to_o a_o portion_n of_o the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n that_o you_o may_v be_v holy_a and_o unreprovable_a in_o his_o sight_n in_o love_n and_o in_o christ_n you_o be_v choose_v according_a to_o the_o purpose_n and_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n not_o for_o your_o own_o work_n and_o merit_n for_o you_o the_o bless_a jesus_n pray_v when_o be_v ready_a to_o leave_v the_o world_n and_o go_v to_o the_o father_n he_o say_v i_o have_v manifest_v thy_o name_n unto_o the_o man_n who_o thou_o give_v i_o out_o of_o the_o world_n thy_o they_n be_v and_o thou_o give_v they_o i_o i_o pray_v for_o they_o i_o pray_v not_o for_o the_o world_n but_o for_o they_o which_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o for_o they_o be_v thou_o he_o pray_v not_o for_o the_o world_n because_o all_o that_o be_v in_o it_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n and_o the_o pride_n of_o life_n be_v not_o of_o the_o father_n and_o therefore_o they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o world_n hear_v not_o or_o at_o least_o will_v not_o regard_v and_o understand_v the_o word_n of_o eternal_a life_n for_o the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o though_o christ_n be_v the_o true_a light_n which_o lighten_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n yet_o the_o world_n see_v he_o not_o nor_o know_v he_o neither_o can_v it_o receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n on_o this_o will_v be_v ground_v the_o just_a judgement_n of_o the_o wicked_a this_o will_v be_v their_o condemnation_n that_o light_n come_v into_o the_o world_n and_o man_n love_v darkness_n rather_o than_o light_v because_o their_o deed_n be_v evil_a and_o every_o one_o that_o do_v evil_a hate_v the_o light_n now_o if_o christ_n be_v a_o light_n in_o his_o life_n and_o doctrine_n he_o be_v so_o much_o more_o in_o his_o suffering_n he_o do_v shine_v on_o the_o cross_n most_o glorious_o to_o all_o the_o world_n the_o tree_n of_o death_n to_o which_o he_o be_v tie_v become_v his_o pulpit_n whence_o he_o preach_v his_o divine_a sermon_n teach_v we_o that_o great_a lesson_n die_v which_o he_o set_v while_o he_o be_v alive_a he_o that_o do_v not_o take_v up_o my_o cross_n and_o follow_v i_o can_v be_v my_o disciple_n therefore_o to_o take_v up_o our_o cross_n and_o follow_v jesus_n be_v our_o great_a safety_n as_o well_o as_o duty_n our_o sure_a title_n to_o glory_n the_o cross_n be_v the_o high_a pitch_n of_o christian_a learning_n to_o know_v jesus_n christ_n and_o he_o crucify_a i_o hearty_o wish_v that_o they_o that_o shall_v read_v the_o ensue_a precept_n and_o practical_a rule_n may_v have_v sanctify_v affection_n and_o a_o clear_a understanding_n that_o by_o the_o divine_a grace_n they_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o know_v and_o to_o follow_v the_o truth_n and_o my_o prayer_n for_o they_o be_v that_o god_n will_v strengthen_v they_o by_o his_o good_a spirit_n in_o the_o inner_a man_n that_o love_n may_v abound_v in_o they_o more_o and_o more_o and_o that_o they_o may_v be_v sincere_a and_o unblameable_a replenish_v with_o the_o fruit_n of_o righteousness_n please_v to_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n without_o contention_n and_o without_o offence_n i_o also_o beg_v for_o myself_o of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n that_o the_o glorious_a light_n of_o christ_n may_v enlighten_v and_o guide_v my_o mind_n and_o that_o his_o strength_n may_v be_v perfect_v in_o my_o weakness_n lest_o after_o have_v preach_v to_o other_o i_o myself_o shall_v become_v a_o castaway_n by_o act_v contrary_a to_o my_o own_o instruction_n and_o therefore_o i_o also_o beseech_v you_o good_a friend_n of_o god_n bless_a christian_n who_o be_v the_o sheep_n of_o his_o pasture_n remember_v i_o in_o your_o prayer_n that_o what_o i_o teach_v i_o may_v fulfil_v that_o the_o precept_n contain_v in_o this_o book_n may_v be_v my_o practice_n by_o his_o divine_a grace_n and_o assistance_n without_o who_o we_o can_v do_v nothing_o who_o with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o holy-ghost_n live_v and_o reign_v one_o ever_o glorious_a and_o adore_a god_n amen_n imprimatur_fw-la geo._n hooper_n r._n p._n d._n gil_n ep._n cant._n à _fw-la sacris_fw-la dom._n may_v 29._o 1677._o the_o content_n of_o the_o first_o part_n part_n i._o of_o the_o christian_a life_n and_o of_o its_o end_n and_o office_n pag._n 1_o chap._n i._n of_o the_o distribution_n of_o all_o christian_n into_o three_o rank_n good_a middle-sort_n and_o bad_a ibid._n chap._n ii_o a_o further_a description_n of_o
account_n they_o make_v their_o glory_n their_o felicity_n their_o wisdom_n to_o consist_v in_o such_o thing_n as_o the_o world_n account_v shame_n misery_n and_o folly_n they_o detest_v the_o false_a principle_n on_o which_o proceed_v carnal_a prudence_n as_o that_o we_o must_v be_v rich_a and_o great_a honour_v by_o the_o world_n and_o above_o other_o and_o they_o love_v and_o hearty_o embrace_v the_o christian_a verity_n which_o teach_v we_o to_o despise_v riches_n to_o deny_v ourselves_o and_o to_o glory_n in_o nothing_o save_v in_o the_o cross_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n in_o a_o word_n their_o conversation_n be_v in_o heaven_n and_o they_o so_o live_v that_o all_o their_o action_n seem_v to_o speak_v aloud_o that_o their_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n these_o thing_n indeed_o be_v high_a and_o difficult_a but_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n suffer_v violence_n and_o be_v only_o to_o be_v take_v by_o force_n and_o withal_o it_o well_o deserve_v all_o our_o labour_n and_o noble_a contention_n chap._n xxii_o several_a useful_a caution_n how_o a_o christian_a shall_v undertake_v and_o perfect_v his_o work_n 1._o all_o the_o action_n of_o a_o christian_a shall_v be_v do_v in_o peace_n and_o meekness_n and_o he_o ought_v to_o consider_v the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n and_o person_n and_o especial_o of_o the_o end_n of_o that_o he_o be_v about_o but_o withal_o let_v he_o take_v care_n of_o be_v rash_a and_o hasty_a of_o follow_v sudden_a motion_n of_o nature_n rather_o than_o reason_n grace_n and_o religion_n let_v not_o his_o mind_n be_v light_n and_o inconstant_a easy_o wander_v after_o vain_a project_n but_o let_v he_o attend_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o entertain_v and_o to_o obey_v the_o illumination_n and_o motion_n of_o the_o good_a spirit_n when_o he_o be_v about_o to_o begin_v any_o work_n let_v not_o his_o mind_n be_v too_o busy_a and_o distract_v with_o other_o thought_n for_o than_o he_o must_v expect_v to_o want_v his_o wit_n and_o fail_v in_o many_o thing_n which_o afterward_o will_v grieve_v he_o when_o it_o will_v be_v too_o late_o when_o he_o first_o enter_v upon_o any_o design_n let_v he_o humble_o beg_v that_o god_n will_v guide_v and_o assist_v he_o and_o let_v he_o serious_o consider_v what_o share_n god_n have_v in_o the_o business_n and_o how_o much_o of_o it_o be_v on_o his_o own_o account_n in_o the_o carry_v on_o of_o his_o work_n let_v not_o self-complacency_a turn_v he_o from_o the_o good_a end_n he_o propose_v and_o in_o the_o finish_n thereof_o let_v he_o be_v cautious_a that_o all_o he_o have_v do_v be_v not_o mar_v and_o spoil_v by_o self-applause_n and_o vainglory_n above_o all_o let_v he_o be_v serious_o intent_n upon_o this_o that_o he_o seek_v not_o the_o praise_n of_o man_n but_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n keep_v down_o proud_a thought_n in_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o being_n nothing_o 2._o he_o shall_v not_o meddle_v with_o any_o business_n except_o god_n by_o his_o providence_n call_v he_o to_o it_o and_o then_o he_o ought_v to_o go_v through_o with_o it_o cheerful_o and_o diligent_o and_o with_o noble_a design_n of_o charity_n to_o man_n special_o to_o their_o soul_n consider_v that_o the_o bliss_n or_o perfection_n of_o this_o present_a life_n consist_v not_o in_o the_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n but_o in_o the_o conformity_n of_o our_o will_n to_o he_o in_o the_o do_n and_o suffer_v his_o pleasure_n except_o necessity_n compel_v he_o let_v he_o not_o undertake_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o his_o strength_n that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a he_o may_v lose_v nothing_o of_o his_o peace_n nor_o of_o the_o freedom_n of_o his_o mind_n for_o to_o be_v too_o intent_n and_o too_o much_o take_v up_o with_o thing_n without_o we_o common_o quench_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o deprive_v our_o soul_n of_o tranquillity_n rather_o as_o the_o angel_n which_o be_v say_v to_o have_v accompany_v tobit_n though_o it_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o serve_v he_o yet_o nevertheless_o attend_v to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o be_v always_o present_a to_o he_o so_o shall_v a_o good_a christian_a mind_n the_o necessary_a concern_v of_o this_o life_n and_o be_v outward_o trouble_v and_o employ_v about_o they_o when_o yet_o his_o heart_n shall_v be_v with_o god_n and_o his_o soul_n in_o heaven_n there_o to_o be_v free_a from_o the_o distraction_n and_o all_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o world_n chap._n xxiii_o that_o to_o discharge_v the_o duty_n of_o our_o station_n be_v the_o best_a thing_n we_o can_v do_v 1._o to_o do_v that_o which_o our_o place_n and_o calling_n require_v of_o we_o here_o and_o that_o which_o will_v make_v we_o happy_a hereafter_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n for_o no_o man_n more_o certain_o work_v out_o his_o salvation_n than_o he_o that_o honest_o and_o diligent_o work_v in_o his_o proper_a sphere_n therefore_o the_o devil_n common_o lay_v this_o snare_n in_o our_o way_n to_o christian_a perfection_n to_o make_v we_o aspire_v after_o the_o do_v of_o great_a matter_n which_o be_v no_o part_n of_o our_o office_n thereby_o to_o busy_a and_o distract_v our_o mind_n that_o we_o may_v not_o attend_v to_o our_o proper_a duty_n which_o lie_v before_o we_o and_o the_o do_v whereof_o be_v our_o great_a virtue_n 2._o he_o therefore_o great_o deceive_v himself_o that_o will_v fain_o change_v his_o condition_n imagine_v he_o can_v better_o serve_v god_n if_o he_o be_v here_o or_o there_o or_o so_o or_o so_o after_o providence_n or_o a_o prudent_a choice_n have_v otherwise_o determine_v it_o it_o do_v but_o make_v he_o lazy_a and_o negligent_a in_o do_v what_o he_o shall_v while_o he_o think_v of_o what_o belong_v not_o to_o he_o it_o make_v he_o to_o sit_v idle_a and_o do_v nothing_o in_o the_o place_n where_o he_o be_v while_o he_o project_n to_o do_v great_a feat_n where_o he_o be_v not_o whereas_o the_o unblameable_a integrity_n or_o perfection_n at_o which_o a_o christian_a shall_v aim_v depend_v upon_o particular_a action_n they_o that_o be_v negligent_a and_o incurious_a to_o do_v they_o well_o set_v themselves_o backward_o and_o make_v no_o progress_n for_o their_o heart_n be_v absent_a and_o their_o thought_n employ_v somewhere_o else_o they_o do_v but_o little_a where_o they_o be_v and_o yet_o that_o little_a be_v do_v after_o a_o dream_v careless_a way_n such_o man_n be_v always_o beginning_n or_o about_o to_o begin_v to_o live_v well_o they_o contrive_v many_o thing_n but_o bring_v nothing_o to_o perfection_n they_o be_v all_o leaf_n and_o no_o fruit_n like_a tree_n that_o be_v often_o remove_v they_o no_o where_n take_v firm_a root_n and_o so_o remain_v every_o where_o useless_a chap._n xxiv_o how_o christian_n be_v to_o live_v and_o to_o be_v sincere_a 1._o christians_n shall_v not_o indulge_v to_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o low_a belly_n or_o to_o the_o pleasure_n of_o a_o nice_a or_o gluttonous_a palate_n they_o shall_v abstain_v from_o all_o vanity_n and_o undecency_n in_o their_o apparel_n and_o from_o all_o idle_a sport_n that_o be_v too_o expensive_a of_o time_n and_o their_o life_n shall_v be_v free_a from_o sloth_n and_o negligence_n from_o ambition_n and_o pride_n and_o from_o covetousness_n and_o desire_n of_o riches_n anger_n ought_v not_o to_o lodge_v in_o their_o breast_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o do_v that_o to_o other_o which_o they_o will_v not_o have_v do_v to_o themselves_o they_o shall_v do_v nothing_o careless_o nor_o yet_o rash_o least_o of_o all_o deceitful_o and_o hypocritical_o christian_n duty_n and_o act_n of_o virtue_n that_o be_v not_o do_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n with_o attention_n and_o a_o good_a intention_n be_v mere_a dissemble_a and_o pageantry_n in_o some_o place_n where_o religion_n be_v make_v a_o theatrical_a representation_n you_o shall_v often_o find_v man_n of_o wicked_a life_n act_v the_o high_a virtue_n of_o the_o great_a saint_n one_o the_o constancy_n of_o martyr_n another_o the_o modesty_n of_o the_o bless_a virgin_n or_o perhaps_o the_o heroic_a action_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n but_o the_o end_n of_o the_o play_n put_v a_o end_n to_o their_o fine_a dissemble_n they_o no_o long_o appear_v those_o holy_a man_n they_o be_v but_o present_o return_v to_o their_o nature_n to_o their_o profaneness_n and_o impurity_n just_o so_o be_v they_o that_o have_v a_o fair_a specious_a outside_n appear_v precise_a and_o godly_a to_o be_v see_v and_o praise_v or_o drive_v a_o interest_n they_o be_v mere_a juggler_n and_o stage-player_n they_o put_v a_o fair_a vizard_n over_o a_o ugly_a face_n holiness_n outward_o inward_o unmortified_a lust_n and_o perverse_a passion_n their_o life_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o comedy_n that_o will_v have_v a_o tragical_a end_n 2._o for_o indeed_o this_o be_v
shake_v off_o the_o thought_n and_o the_o comfort_n of_o god_n presence_n because_o it_o put_v a_o restraint_n upon_o our_o appetite_n and_o when_o at_o any_o time_n spiritual_a joy_n be_v deny_v we_o we_o present_o seek_v for_o earthly_a pleasure_n because_o we_o open_v not_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o faith_n to_o see_v god_n present_a and_o we_o embrace_v he_o not_o with_o devout_a affection_n and_o we_o care_v not_o to_o converse_v with_o he_o this_o be_v the_o way_n to_o perfection_n which_o god_n himself_o show_v to_o abraham_n to_o have_v always_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o divine_a presence_n gen._n 17.1_o i_o be_o the_o almighty_a god_n walk_v before_o i_o and_o be_v thou_o perfect_a holy_a david_n likewise_o make_v a_o great_a use_n of_o this_o to_o be_v always_o mindful_a that_o god_n be_v with_o we_o psal_n 16.8_o i_o have_v set_v the_o lord_n always_o before_o i_o because_o he_o be_v at_o my_o right_a hand_n i_o shall_v not_o be_v move_v he_o can_v never_o but_o be_v happy_a that_o dwell_v with_o the_o author_n of_o all_o happiness_n chap._n xxviii_o why_o the_o imitation_n of_o god_n saint_n appear_v difficult_a 1._o we_o think_v it_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a difficulty_n to_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o those_o christian_a worthy_n that_o have_v go_v before_o we_o because_o we_o represent_v they_o to_o ourselves_o as_o be_v now_o of_o another_o nature_n free_v from_o the_o body_n inhabitant_n of_o the_o mansion_n of_o bliss_n whence_o anger_n lust_n and_o all_o temptation_n be_v for_o ever_o banish_v and_o where_o they_o enjoy_v peace_n and_o joy_n and_o eternal_a felicity_n but_o if_o we_o real_o desire_v to_o follow_v their_o step_n and_o to_o conform_v our_o life_n to_o they_o then_o be_v we_o to_o consider_v that_o as_o we_o be_v so_o be_v they_o mortal_a man_n cumber_v with_o the_o uneasy_a burden_n of_o the_o flesh_n infect_v with_o sin_n tempt_v by_o sinful_a affection_n and_o expose_v to_o misery_n and_o danger_n but_o that_o by_o faith_n they_o overcome_v all_o these_o subdue_v kingdom_n wrought_v righteousness_n and_o by_o fight_v obtain_v the_o crown_n 2._o elias_n say_v st._n james_n 5.17_o be_v a_o man_n subject_n to_o the_o like_a passion_n as_o we_o be_v and_o he_o pray_v earnest_o that_o it_o may_v not_o rain_v and_o it_o rain_v not_o on_o the_o earth_n by_o the_o space_n of_o three_o year_n and_o six_o month_n and_o again_o he_o pray_v and_o the_o heaven_n give_v rain_n and_o the_o earth_n bring_v forth_o her_o fruit_n the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o any_o other_o saint_n that_o have_v do_v the_o great_a wonder_n they_o be_v like_o we_o make_v of_o the_o same_o clay_n and_o subject_a to_o the_o same_o passion_n and_o temptation_n while_o they_o be_v on_o earth_n they_o be_v only_o above_o we_o in_o this_o that_o with_o great_a and_o assiduous_a pain_n they_o conquer_v pride_n and_o lust_n and_o escape_v the_o snare_n of_o the_o devil_n by_o diligent_a care_n and_o invincible_a resolution_n why_o then_o do_v we_o draw_v back_o and_o make_v delay_n to_o they_o that_o be_v true_o resolve_v and_o willing_a it_o be_v not_o difficult_a to_o become_v saint_n by_o the_o imitation_n of_o those_o that_o have_v go_v before_o we_o if_o shake_v off_o our_o sloth_n and_o laziness_n we_o will_v serious_o endeavour_v we_o may_v by_o the_o help_n of_o divine_a grace_n arrive_v to_o the_o same_o height_n of_o sanctification_n and_o bliss_n as_o they_o have_v for_o he_o have_v proceed_v far_o towards_o holiness_n that_o sincere_o desire_v to_o be_v holy_a chap._n xxix_o how_o we_o shall_v in_o all_o thing_n aim_v at_o god_n glory_n 1._o it_o be_v the_o precept_n of_o st._n paul_n that_o god_n shall_v be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o work_n that_o they_o may_v be_v good_a and_o acceptable_a 1_o cor._n 10.31_o whether_o you_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o whatsoever_o you_o do_v do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o again_o col._n 3.17_o whatsoever_o you_o do_v in_o word_n or_o deed_n do_v all_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n give_v thanks_o to_o god_n and_o the_o father_n by_o he_o for_o a_o good_a work_n which_o be_v not_o do_v upon_o god_n account_n do_v become_v evil_a it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o virtue_n to_o receive_v its_o form_n from_o the_o end_n rather_o than_o from_o the_o act_n and_o if_o we_o cleave_v to_o the_o creature_n and_o love_v they_o for_o their_o own_o sake_n without_o reference_n to_o god_n this_o be_v that_o lust_n or_o sinful_a love_n which_o saint_n john_n condemn_v 1_o ep._n 2.15_o love_v not_o the_o world_n neither_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n love_v they_o not_o so_o as_o to_o rest_v in_o they_o for_o here_o we_o be_v pilgrim_n traveller_n go_v home_o to_o our_o father_n house_n to_o our_o god_n and_o so_o what_o creature_n we_o meet_v in_o our_o way_n we_o may_v use_v they_o as_o convenience_n to_o carry_v we_o forward_o towards_o he_o but_o we_o may_v not_o dwell_v with_o they_o as_o if_o we_o be_v at_o our_o journey_n end_n god_n alone_o be_v to_o be_v love_v for_o himself_o he_o alone_o be_v infinite_o good_a and_o the_o last_o and_o best_a end_n we_o can_v propound_v to_o ourselves_o in_o he_o alone_o our_o appetite_n shall_v rest_v satisfy_v our_o enjoyment_n shall_v be_v secure_a and_o our_o joy_n undisturbed_a for_o ever_o whosoever_o know_v not_o and_o pursue_v not_o this_o end_n know_v not_o why_o he_o live_v nor_o how_o to_o live_v well_o but_o he_o that_o know_v it_o know_v whither_o to_o direct_v his_o intention_n and_o whither_o to_o tend_v in_o all_o his_o action_n 2._o it_o be_v grant_v that_o some_o natural_a action_n as_o to_o walk_v to_o eat_v to_o sleep_v and_o such_o like_a be_v of_o themselves_o neither_o good_a nor_o evil_a yet_o all_o divine_n teach_v that_o they_o become_v sin_n if_o we_o do_v they_o not_o to_o some_o further_a and_o better_a end_n that_o be_v to_o live_v to_o serve_v god_n who_o glory_n shall_v be_v the_o ultimate_a design_n of_o all_o man_n action_n because_o as_o he_o be_v the_o beginning_n so_o shall_v he_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o thing_n the_o light_n of_o the_o body_n be_v the_o eye_n say_v our_o bless_a saviour_n mat._n 6.22_o if_o therefore_o thy_o eye_n be_v single_a thy_o whole_a body_n shall_v be_v full_a of_o light_n but_o if_o thy_o eye_n be_v evil_a thy_o whole_a body_n shall_v be_v full_a of_o darkness_n this_o eye_n be_v the_o intention_n of_o every_o man_n in_o his_o action_n if_o it_o be_v not_o good_a they_o become_v work_n of_o darkness_n and_o good_a it_o can_v be_v except_o it_o be_v refer_v to_o god_n the_o supreme_a goodness_n every_o good_a thing_n come_v from_o god_n and_o whatever_o return_v not_o to_o he_o be_v evil_a chap._n xxx_o self-love_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o evil_a 1._o after_o our_o first_o parent_n by_o prefer_v himself_o to_o god_n commit_v that_o grievous_a transgression_n whereby_o all_o mankind_n become_v obnoxious_a to_o death_n lust_n and_o ignorance_n darkness_n and_o evil_a propensity_n seize_v upon_o our_o nature_n man_n forsake_v god_n and_o turn_v to_o seek_v himself_o and_o have_v lose_v all_o sense_n of_o spiritual_a comfort_n run_v dissolute_o after_o carnal_a pleasure_n hence_o self-love_n the_o great_a enemy_n to_o virtue_n come_v to_o tyrannize_v over_o man_n who_o to_o comply_v with_o it_o seek_v nothing_o now_o but_o wealth_n honour_n and_o sensual_a delight_n and_o now_o say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 8.7_o the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v not_o subject_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n neither_o indeed_o can_v be_v for_o all_o its_o instinct_n and_o impulse_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o sin_n and_o to_o sin_n only_o 2._o and_o yet_o self-love_n which_o seek_v so_o much_o our_o own_o ease_n and_o satisfaction_n be_v indeed_o its_o chief_a hindrance_n for_o god_n have_v create_v we_o for_o his_o glory_n and_o enjoin_v we_o to_o design_n it_o always_o when_o by_o self-love_n we_o seek_v only_o ourselves_o and_o our_o own_o advantage_n we_o do_v nothing_o whereby_o to_o obtain_v god_n favour_n and_o eternal_a life_n but_o rather_o fall_v into_o a_o wretched_a state_n of_o damnation_n we_o be_v debtor_n not_o to_o the_o flesh_n to_o live_v after_o the_o flesh_n say_v saint_n paul_n rom._n 8.13_o for_o if_o you_o live_v after_o the_o flesh_n you_o shall_v die_v but_o if_o you_o through_o the_o spirit_n do_v mortify_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o body_n you_o shall_v live_v now_o to_o this_o mortification_n we_o be_v strong_o oblige_v by_o christian_a religion_n its_o great_a design_n be_v to_o bring_v we_o out_o of_o ourselves_o to_o god_n that_o as_o we_o yield_v our_o member_n servant_n to_o uncleanness_n and_o to_o iniquity_n even_o so_o now_o we_o shall_v yield_v they_o servant_n
to_o righteousness_n unto_o holiness_n as_o it_o be_v write_v be_v you_o holy_a for_o i_o be_o holy_a say_v the_o lord_n leu._n 11.45_o 3._o now_o as_o christianity_n check_v and_o restrain_v self-love_n so_o do_v self-love_n keep_v man_n from_o understanding_n and_o approve_v the_o christian_a doctrine_n for_o how_o can_v he_o that_o seek_v and_o love_v himself_o right_o apprehend_v that_o whatever_o the_o world_n dote_v upon_o be_v mere_a vanity_n that_o estate_n and_o honour_n bring_v great_a vexation_n and_o great_a slavery_n that_o to_o forgive_v enemy_n and_o do_v good_a to_o they_o that_o hate_v we_o be_v the_o part_n of_o a_o noble_a and_o generous_a mind_n that_o it_o be_v better_a to_o despise_v than_o to_o possess_v riches_n that_o it_o be_v more_o honourable_a to_o be_v subject_a where_o god_n command_v than_o to_o bear_v rule_n and_o to_o domineer_v that_o for_o a_o man_n to_o restrain_v his_o appetite_n and_o conquer_v himself_o be_v more_o glorious_a than_o to_o win_v battle_n and_o take_v fence_v city_n these_o be_v paradox_n hard_a and_o incredible_a say_n to_o the_o self-lover_n who_o fondness_n of_o himself_o tie_v he_o fast_o to_o this_o earth_n to_o whatever_o can_v be_v useful_a and_o any_o way_n pleasant_a to_o the_o flesh_n whereas_o the_o child_n of_o god_n live_v to_o god_n be_v not_o lead_v and_o govern_v by_o the_o flesh_n but_o by_o the_o spirit_n they_o live_v in_o the_o flesh_n but_o not_o after_o the_o flesh_n some_o of_o their_o action_n be_v natural_a while_o they_o be_v in_o the_o body_n yet_o they_o proceed_v from_o a_o supernatural_a principle_n and_o be_v design_v to_o a_o noble_a end_n for_o they_o continual_o deny_v themselves_o and_o mortify_v all_o sensual_a unruly_a desire_n self-lover_n hold_v a_o great_a regard_n shall_v be_v have_v to_o the_o flesh_n it_o be_v true_a but_o it_o must_v be_v such_o as_o christ_n have_v teach_v we_o to_o keep_v it_o under_o otherwise_o saint_n paul_n have_v declare_v that_o to_o be_v carnal_o mind_v be_v death_n chap._n xxxi_o that_o self-love_n be_v that_o babylon_n out_o of_o which_o god_n have_v call_v we_o 1._o god_n at_o first_o place_v man_n in_o paradise_n but_o adam_n in_o who_o we_o all_o sin_v transport_v we_o into_o this_o world_n out_o of_o paradise_n out_o of_o jerusalem_n into_o babylon_n out_o of_o our_o freedom_n into_o slavery_n out_o of_o integrity_n into_o corruption_n out_o of_o our_o country_n into_o banishment_n and_o out_o of_o life_n into_o death_n thus_o from_o truth_n and_o perfection_n we_o fall_v into_o vanity_n we_o be_v now_o like_a unto_o vanity_n nay_o every_o man_n be_v but_o vanity_n as_o the_o psalmist_n say_v psal_n 39.6_o man_n be_v vain_a in_o his_o body_n which_o end_v in_o death_n and_o corruption_n vain_a in_o his_o soul_n which_o be_v enslave_v to_o sin_n be_v obnoxious_a to_o death_n eternal_a and_o vain_a in_o all_o his_o outward_a enjoyment_n which_o all_o perish_v or_o must_v be_v forsake_v when_o he_o die_v yet_o man_n strange_o dote_v on_o this_o vanity_n he_o passionate_o run_v after_o these_o transitory_a thing_n which_o be_v all_o cheat_n and_o lie_v whereby_o he_o be_v draw_v into_o thousand_o of_o pernicious_a error_n and_o out_o of_o the_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n into_o a_o hellish_a babylon_n 2._o now_o these_o two_o city_n be_v build_v by_o two_o sort_n of_o love_n to_o love_n god_n so_o as_o to_o despise_v ourselves_o make_v the_o city_n of_o god_n and_o to_o love_v ourselves_o so_o as_o to_o despise_v god_n make_v the_o devil_n babylon_n the_o city_n of_o this_o world_n the_o way_n to_o this_o be_v broad_a and_o short_a to_o that_o be_v straight_o difficult_a and_o long_a because_o dull_a and_o earthly_a as_o now_o we_o be_v we_o more_o easy_o fall_v on_o the_o earth_n and_o descend_v down_o to_o hell_n than_o we_o can_v raise_v up_o ourselves_o and_o ascend_v to_o heaven_n let_v every_o man_n therefore_o examine_v himself_o and_o find_v out_o what_o he_o chief_o love_v for_o if_o he_o love_v god_n so_o as_o to_o deny_v himself_o he_o be_v doubtless_o a_o citizen_n of_o the_o jerusalem_n which_o be_v from_o above_o but_o if_o he_o love_v himself_o so_o as_o to_o prefer_v his_o own_o desire_n to_o god_n it_o be_v plain_a he_o belong_v to_o that_o babylon_n out_o of_o which_o god_n have_v call_v his_o child_n for_o thus_o the_o scripture_n cry_v aloud_o go_v you_o forth_o of_o babylon_n and_o remove_v out_o of_o the_o midst_n of_o she_o isa_n 48.20_o jer._n 50.8_o and_o again_o the_o psalmist_n psal_n 137.8_o o_o daughter_n of_o babylon_n who_o be_v to_o be_v destroy_v happy_a shall_v he_o be_v that_o take_v and_o dash_v thy_o little_a one_o against_o the_o stone_n we_o come_v out_o of_o babylon_n when_o we_o leave_v the_o confusion_n of_o sin_n forsake_v our_o disorderly_a course_n of_o life_n and_o we_o dash_v the_o child_n of_o babylon_n against_o the_o stone_n when_o our_o love_n to_o christ_n overcome_v our_o ill_a desire_n and_o ill_a inclination_n self-love_n be_v the_o death_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v its_o life_n therefore_o he_o do_v not_o true_o love_v himself_o who_o by_o self-love_n destroy_v himself_o chap._n xxxii_o how_o man_n natural_o seek_v themselves_o even_o in_o their_o best_a work_n 1._o it_o may_v seem_v strange_a to_o observe_v that_o whereas_o man_n opinion_n and_o inclination_n be_v so_o various_a and_o different_a yet_o all_o man_n be_v agree_v in_o this_o that_o none_o appear_v vile_a to_o himself_o none_o be_v willing_a to_o yield_v and_o submit_v to_o other_o none_o though_o never_o so_o mean_v but_o think_v himself_o somebody_o and_o be_v desirous_a to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o every_o one_o seek_v to_o be_v high_a than_o other_o every_o one_o be_v indulgent_a to_o himself_o and_o severe_a to_o other_o all_o man_n will_v have_v their_o will_n and_o their_o say_n all_o applaud_v to_o their_o own_o invention_n and_o conceit_n and_o censure_v other_o they_o count_v their_o own_o folly_n wisdom_n and_o notwithstanding_o their_o great_a ignorance_n there_o be_v nothing_o but_o what_o they_o think_v to_o know_v they_o careful_o hide_v their_o own_o fault_n and_o pretend_v to_o those_o virtue_n they_o know_v they_o have_v not_o and_o what_o be_v most_o of_o all_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o even_o good_a man_n who_o endeavour_v to_o please_v god_n and_o seem_v to_o aim_v at_o nothing_o but_o his_o honour_n and_o glory_n even_o they_o sometime_o in_o their_o best_a action_n by_o a_o secret_a and_o natural_a instinct_n almost_o unknown_a to_o themselves_o seek_v their_o own_o comfort_n and_o complacency_n most_o of_o all_o and_o the_o more_o excellent_a be_v their_o work_n the_o more_o subtle_a and_o undiscernible_a be_v this_o snare_n which_o self-love_n set_v to_o the_o most_o spiritual_a 2._o what_o better_a than_o to_o obey_v god_n to_o read_v his_o sacred_a word_n and_o preach_v it_o to_o receive_v and_o administer_v his_o holy_a sacrament_n yet_o these_o duty_n be_v common_o stain_v with_o some_o secret_a desire_n of_o praise_n and_o except_o the_o christian_a be_v very_o watchful_a over_o his_o own_o heart_n he_o may_v easy_o lose_v his_o better_a reward_n though_o i_o speak_v with_o the_o tongue_n of_o man_n and_o angel_n say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 13.1_o and_o have_v not_o charity_n i_o be_o become_v like_o sound_a brass_n and_o a_o tinkle_a cymbal_n and_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v give_v all_o his_o good_n to_o the_o poor_a and_o even_o his_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v yet_o without_o charity_n without_o the_o love_n of_o god_n have_v purify_v his_o heart_n it_o will_v profit_v he_o nothing_o according_a to_o the_o say_n of_o the_o prophet_n haggai_n 1.6_o you_o eat_v but_o you_o have_v not_o enough_o you_o drink_v but_o you_o be_v not_o fill_v with_o drink_n and_o he_o that_o yearn_v wage_n earn_v wage_n to_o put_v into_o a_o bag_n with_o hole_n for_o thus_o good_a work_n avail_v nothing_o if_o do_v out_o of_o respect_n to_o ourselves_o and_o not_o to_o please_v god_n this_o be_v therefore_o the_o bent_n of_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n to_o draw_v we_o to_o ourselves_o we_o ought_v careful_o to_o examine_v ourselves_o and_o search_v the_o hide_a corner_n of_o our_o heart_n that_o there_o lurk_v not_o in_o they_o some_o ill_a purpose_n of_o vainglory_n or_o self-interest_n to_o mix_v with_o our_o best_a action_n either_o first_o or_o last_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o a_o true_a christian_a life_n always_o to_o seek_v and_o love_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o never_o his_o own_o chap._n xxxiii_o thing_n which_o every_o christian_n be_v bind_v to_o know_v in_o order_n to_o obedience_n 1._o every_o disciple_n of_o christ_n ought_v to_o know_v those_o divine_a and_o human_a law_n under_o which_o he_o live_v and_o the_o which_o he_o be_v
oblige_v to_o observe_v the_o divine_a be_v contain_v in_o the_o ten_o commandment_n and_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n which_o contain_v the_o precept_n of_o faith_n hope_n and_o charity_n faith_n oblige_v all_o the_o faithful_a to_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christianity_n as_o they_o be_v sum_v up_o in_o our_o creed_n by_o hope_n we_o trust_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o obtain_v and_o use_v all_o necessary_a mean_n of_o grace_n and_o eternal_a life_n at_o last_o all_o which_o in_o this_o assurance_n we_o hearty_o beg_v in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n and_o charity_n require_v of_o we_o to_o love_n god_n above_o all_o thing_n and_o our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o a_o christian_a by_o these_o three_o virtue_n be_v make_v a_o new_a and_o holy_a creature_n faith_n inlighten_v and_o direct_v his_o understanding_n hope_n raise_v he_o up_o and_o set_v his_o will_n at_o work_n for_o god_n and_o to_o god_n charity_n unite_v he_o whole_o it_o be_v also_o necessary_a to_o understand_v the_o necessity_n of_o baptism_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o true_a repentance_n which_o be_v all_o divine_a institution_n indispensable_o necessary_a to_o all_o that_o will_v be_v save_v for_o except_v a_o man_n be_v bear_v again_o of_o water_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n he_o can_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n joh._n 3.5_o and_o except_o we_o eat_v the_o flesh_n and_o drink_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n we_o have_v no_o life_n in_o we_o joh._n 6.53_o and_o as_o for_o repentance_n it_o be_v the_o only_a remedy_n we_o have_v for_o the_o sin_n commit_v after_o baptism_n that_o by_o it_o we_o may_v be_v make_v clean_o again_o 2._o last_o there_o be_v also_o human_a law_n enact_v by_o the_o church_n or_o the_o state_n we_o live_v in_o and_o they_o we_o be_v also_o to_o know_v and_o to_o observe_v with_o meekness_n and_o humility_n and_o for_o conscience_n sake_n but_o no_o man_n of_o himself_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v all_o these_o law_n which_o god_n have_v bind_v upon_o we_o none_o can_v obey_v they_o without_o the_o true_a light_n from_o above_o enlighten_v and_o guide_v he_o as_o it_o be_v write_v psal_n 94.12_o bless_a be_v the_o man_n who_o thou_o chastne_v o_o lord_n and_o teach_v he_o in_o thy_o law_n for_o ever_o since_o sin_n come_v into_o the_o world_n man_n without_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n sit_v in_o darkness_n and_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n and_o take_v a_o account_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n not_o by_o the_o measure_n of_o truth_n but_o by_o their_o lust_n and_o deprave_a passion_n we_o must_v therefore_o earnest_o beg_v the_o divine_a assistance_n that_o he_o that_o command_v what_o he_o will_v will_v enable_v we_o to_o do_v what_o he_o have_v command_v heal_v our_o blindness_n and_o impotency_n destroy_v self-love_n and_o fill_v our_o heart_n with_o devout_a love_n to_o he_o for_o the_o end_n of_o the_o commandment_n be_v charity_n and_o he_o that_o true_o love_v god_n keep_v his_o commandment_n without_o hypocrisy_n or_o reservation_n chap._n xxxiv_o the_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o outward_a and_o the_o inward_a man_n 1._o our_o christian_a hope_n be_v not_o for_o this_o world_n nor_o for_o this_o present_a time_n and_o we_o be_v not_o create_v to_o enjoy_v that_o earthly_a happiness_n which_o the_o world_n only_o seek_v but_o god_n make_v we_o for_o that_o eternal_a bliss_n which_o he_o have_v promise_v and_o who_o excellency_n we_o can_v as_o yet_o understand_v for_o eye_n have_v not_o see_v nor_o ear_n hear_v neither_o be_v it_o enter_v into_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n what_o thing_n god_n have_v prepare_v for_o they_o that_o love_v he_o we_o therefore_o that_o be_v call_v to_o the_o possession_n of_o that_o kingdom_n which_o be_v prepare_v for_o we_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n ought_v not_o to_o govern_v ourselves_o only_o by_o human_a reason_n and_o live_v by_o natural_a instinct_n after_o the_o common_a manner_n of_o man_n who_o be_v unacquainted_a with_o the_o way_n of_o eternity_n and_o the_o motion_n of_o divine_a grace_n but_o happy_a be_v they_o that_o wise_o dive_v into_o the_o depth_n of_o thing_n who_o live_v to_o god_n and_o common_a with_o he_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o suffer_v not_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n to_o range_v and_o dwell_v abroad_o 2._o these_o man_n live_v a_o inward_a life_n they_o be_v recollect_v and_o dwell_v at_o home_n always_o dispose_v to_o hear_v god_n voice_n within_o they_o and_o to_o understand_v his_o secret_n whereas_o they_o live_v a_o outward_a life_n that_o be_v most_o affect_v with_o outward_a thing_n have_v fair_a pretence_n for_o their_o worldly-mindedness_a be_v greedy_a of_o news_n and_o curious_a sight_n and_o sensual_a pleasure_n walk_v say_v the_o apostle_n eph._n 4.17_o in_o the_o vanity_n of_o their_o mind_n alienate_v from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n through_o the_o ignorance_n that_o be_v in_o they_o for_o the_o more_o a_o man_n profit_v in_o carnal_a wisdom_n the_o more_o ignorant_a he_o become_v in_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n as_o much_o as_o we_o love_v the_o creature_n as_o much_o we_o lessen_v our_o love_n to_o the_o creator_n chap._n xxxv_o how_o dangerous_a it_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v by_o opinion_n and_o false_a apprehension_n of_o thing_n 1._o he_o be_v a_o wise_a man_n that_o weigh_v thing_n just_o and_o then_o esteem_v they_o according_a to_o their_o intrinsic_a value_n for_o every_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n have_v a_o twofold_a aspect_n or_o a_o double_a face_n the_o one_o natural_a and_o real_a and_o the_o other_o disguise_v and_o fallacious_a the_o first_o be_v what_o god_n judge_v and_o have_v reveal_v it_o to_o be_v and_o the_o second_o depend_v on_o man_n passion_n and_o false_a opinion_n thus_o for_o example_n the_o dignity_n of_o a_o bishop_n be_v in_o effect_n and_o according_a to_o god_n appointment_n a_o high_a and_o angelic_a office_n of_o such_o a_o weight_n as_o shall_v make_v human_a strength_n tremble_v and_o shrink_v under_o it_o it_o be_v a_o place_n of_o great_a honour_n but_o also_o it_o require_v the_o great_a labour_n and_o diligence_n to_o watch_v for_o the_o soul_n entrust_v with_o the_o dignify_a prelate_n who_o shall_v give_v a_o strict_a account_n for_o they_o in_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n but_o in_o the_o world_n account_n a_o bishopric_n be_v only_o a_o degree_n of_o honour_n in_o the_o church_n which_o promote_v the_o owner_n of_o it_o to_o riches_n and_o greatness_n and_o temporal_a advantage_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o they_o that_o right_o apprehend_v what_o the_o office_n be_v fear_v and_o avoid_v it_o and_o be_v so_o far_o from_o seek_v that_o they_o refuse_v it_o when_o offer_v and_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o they_o follow_v the_o world_n judgement_n and_o seek_v themselves_o that_o seek_v it_o and_o make_v it_o their_o aim_n and_o the_o object_n of_o their_o passionate_a desire_n the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o other_o dignity_n and_o place_n of_o trust_n in_o church_n and_o state_n generally_n man_n have_v a_o wrong_a notion_n of_o they_o and_o understand_v not_o their_o definition_n and_o hence_o the_o confusion_n and_o malvorsation_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n that_o man_n mistake_v thing_n and_o hate_v truth_n and_o will_v not_o see_v nor_o follow_v divine_a light_n but_o the_o darkness_n of_o their_o own_o perverse_a heart_n 2._o such_o name_n be_v common_o use_v among_o man_n as_o be_v consecrate_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o high_a virtue_n of_o his_o great_a saint_n as_o that_o some_o be_v call_v bishop_n priest_n deacon_n monk_n or_o hermit_n some_o king_n prince_n and_o magistrate_n and_o all_o together_o christian_n but_o who_o be_v there_o that_o due_o consider_v the_o great_a worth_n the_o strength_n and_o true_a signification_n of_o those_o name_n what_o virtue_n what_o perpetual_a care_n what_o duty_n they_o require_v from_o such_o as_o bear_v they_o the_o bare_a title_n with_o a_o vain_a shadow_n of_o the_o thing_n remain_v but_o the_o reality_n and_o significancy_n of_o they_o be_v vanish_v few_o man_n be_v in_o truth_n what_o they_o call_v themselves_o few_o live_v according_a to_o the_o name_n of_o christian_a because_o few_o make_v it_o their_o first_o care_n to_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o christ_n this_o unhappy_a deceit_n be_v also_o a_o effect_n of_o the_o first_o and_o worst_a of_o evil_n self-love_n the_o most_o crafty_a deceiver_n hardly_o find_v out_o by_o the_o wise_a and_o seldom_o quite_o conquer_v by_o the_o best_a of_o man_n 3._o the_o truth_n be_v that_o the_o good_a and_o evil_a thing_n of_o this_o present_a life_n be_v so_o mix_v and_o confuse_a that_o if_o we_o take_v a_o exact_a view_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o we_o shall_v hardly_o discern_v the_o one_o
audible_a voice_n to_o the_o ear_n the_o pleasure_n which_o those_o sense_n receive_v from_o a_o beautiful_a sight_n or_o a_o sweet_a harmony_n may_v be_v call_v their_o life_n and_o their_o death_n or_o mortification_n in_o proportion_n to_o this_o be_v their_o be_v deprive_v of_o those_o object_n whereon_o they_o act_v with_o delight_n which_o deprivation_n be_v very_o useful_a if_o not_o altogether_o requisite_a to_o arrive_v to_o a_o state_n of_o virtue_n and_o sanctification_n for_o nothing_o be_v more_o destructive_a of_o a_o christian_a life_n than_o a_o life_n of_o sense_n the_o imagination_n be_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o middle_n betwixt_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o sense_n when_o these_o work_n upon_o she_o as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o outward_a object_n she_o likewise_o work_v upon_o the_o soul_n and_o draw_v it_o to_o assent_v to_o the_o voluptuousness_n of_o low_a faculty_n and_o this_o be_v not_o to_o be_v avoid_v without_o we_o bar_v our_o sense_n by_o a_o strict_a restraint_n from_o those_o thing_n which_o affect_v they_o with_o sinful_a delight_n 3._o in_o this_o consist_v the_o death_n of_o sense_n which_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v as_o twofold_a the_o first_o natural_a when_o there_o be_v such_o a_o real_a separation_n betwixt_o sense_n and_o its_o object_n that_o they_o can_v possible_o meet_v the_o second_o moral_a when_o sense_n perceive_v but_o enjoy_v not_o its_o object_n be_v restrain_v from_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o the_o first_o some_o judge_n to_o be_v less_o difficult_a and_o more_o safe_a it_o be_v easy_a to_o avoid_v all_o occasion_n of_o sinful_a pleasure_n than_o to_o keep_v a_o due_a moderation_n when_o we_o engage_v in_o they_o but_o in_o this_o discretion_n and_o due_a measure_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v the_o second_o be_v according_o think_v to_o be_v more_o dangerous_a because_o sensual_a pleasure_n be_v very_a entice_a and_o insinuate_v and_o be_v know_v by_o sad_a experience_n to_o have_v a_o great_a prevalency_n over_o the_o soul_n and_o noble_a affection_n 4._o and_o then_o far_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o we_o suck_v the_o poison_n of_o voluptuousness_n together_o with_o our_o milk_n from_o our_o very_a infancy_n we_o learn_v to_o indulge_v sense_n and_o though_o we_o have_v often_o experiment_v that_o its_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n be_v short_a and_o vain_a and_o unsatisfy_v and_o withal_o pernicious_a and_o high_o afflictive_a to_o the_o soul_n yet_o still_o we_o have_v the_o same_o notion_n of_o they_o they_o stick_v close_o to_o our_o mind_n and_o those_o please_v though_o false_a apprehension_n which_o first_o enter_v our_o heart_n will_v not_o be_v rectify_v nor_o be_v go_v till_o we_o have_v a_o long_a time_n use_v serious_a reflection_n and_o consideration_n till_o by_o many_o act_n of_o self-denial_n and_o contrary_a virtue_n we_o have_v imprint_v in_o our_o mind_n the_o true_a principle_n of_o christianity_n god_n be_v a_o spirit_n and_o a_o spiritual_a life_n be_v the_o way_n to_o he_o to_o chastise_v and_o restrain_v the_o fancy_n to_o keep_v under_o the_o body_n and_o be_v guide_v by_o divine_a precept_n be_v the_o way_n to_o spiritualise_v ourselves_o and_o to_o come_v to_o god_n chap._n vii_o of_o deny_v our_o sensual_a appetite_n especial_o intemperance_n 1._o it_o be_v no_o difficult_a matter_n for_o a_o man_n who_o true_o love_v and_o fear_v god_n and_o study_n to_o please_v he_o to_o despise_v and_o forsake_v all_o worldly_a pleasure_n pomp_n and_o vanity_n but_o to_o abstain_v from_o all_o food_n be_v not_o to_o be_v do_v for_o by_o it_o our_o body_n be_v rescue_v from_o death_n and_o the_o necessity_n of_o it_o return_v upon_o we_o daily_o but_o because_o there_o be_v something_o of_o delight_n in_o the_o satisfy_n of_o this_o need_n there_o be_v danger_n also_o lest_o luxury_n mingle_v with_o it_o and_o pleasure_n which_o may_v follow_v after_o be_v the_o lead_a cause_n to_o our_o refection_n therefore_o though_o we_o can_v whole_o forbear_v eat_v and_o drink_v yet_o we_o must_v take_v great_a heed_n of_o the_o voluptuousness_n of_o it_o that_o necessity_n be_v not_o the_o pretence_n and_o pleasure_v the_o design_n of_o eat_v nature_n be_v satisfy_v with_o a_o little_a but_o greediness_n or_o daintiness_n be_v always_o crave_v and_o sometime_o we_o know_v not_o whether_o want_n or_o wantonness_n call_v for_o food_n and_o we_o be_v glad_a and_o willing_a to_o mistake_v that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o occasion_n to_o gratify_v the_o unruly_a appetite_n in_o these_o we_o must_v daily_o watch_v ourselves_o because_o these_o temptation_n do_v daily_o return_v and_o we_o must_v diet_v ourselves_o with_o such_o moderation_n that_o we_o may_v nourish_v our_o body_n and_o not_o feed_v our_o lust_n plain_o abstemious_a and_o frugal_a food_n be_v the_o health_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n and_o he_o that_o pamper_v not_o his_o flesh_n by_o the_o quality_n or_o quantity_n of_o his_o meat_n and_o drink_n may_v easy_o master_v all_o carnal_a desire_n 2._o to_o seek_v after_o feast_n and_o dainty_n and_o to_o make_v they_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o discourse_n and_o our_o meditation_n be_v the_o part_n of_o a_o epicure_n of_o one_o who_o god_n be_v his_o belly_n and_o who_o mind_v earthly_a thing_n but_o a_o christian_a shall_v be_v indeed_o and_o also_o live_v as_o a_o penitent_a press_v necessity_n shall_v bring_v he_o to_o his_o table_n and_o thither_o he_o shall_v come_v as_o if_o bread_n and_o water_n be_v his_o only_a allowance_n that_o whatever_o be_v superad_v may_v relish_v better_o and_o he_o may_v be_v more_o content_a and_o thankful_a and_o also_o moderate_a this_o we_o may_v easy_o do_v if_o we_o will_v due_o consider_v how_o abstemious_a primitive_a christian_n be_v how_o much_o our_o bless_a lord_n fast_v and_o how_o for_o we_o he_o taste_v vinegar_n and_o gall_n this_o if_o we_o will_v often_o call_v to_o mind_n and_o serious_o set_v ourselves_o to_o the_o imitation_n of_o their_o bless_a example_n our_o conversation_n will_v be_v in_o heaven_n and_o our_o thought_n will_v be_v far_o enough_o from_o dwell_v in_o cave_n and_o kitchen_n as_o for_o the_o other_o fleshly_a lust_n which_o also_o war_n against_o the_o soul_n all_o occasion_n to_o they_o be_v to_o be_v avoid_v and_o idleness_n also_o a_o strict_a watch_n over_o our_o sense_n must_v be_v keep_v the_o rule_n of_o a_o severe_a modesty_n must_v be_v observe_v and_o especial_o we_o must_v shun_v all_o frequent_a and_o familiar_a converse_n with_o the_o other_o sex_n for_o this_o without_o our_o knowledge_n and_o against_o our_o will_n kindle_v a_o dangerous_a and_o secret_a fire_n and_o last_o we_o must_v take_v great_a heed_n that_o we_o be_v not_o confident_a of_o ourselves_o for_o in_o such_o a_o slippery_a way_n he_o be_v in_o some_o manner_n already_o fall_v that_o fear_v not_o to_o fall_v chap._n viii_o of_o talkativeness_n and_o silence_n 1._o the_o evil_n of_o the_o tongue_n be_v past_a number_n therefore_o say_v the_o wise_a man_n prov._n 10.19_o in_o the_o multitude_n of_o word_n there_o want_v not_o sin_n but_o he_o that_o restrain_v his_o lip_n be_v wise_a indeed_o talkativeness_n be_v a_o fountain_n and_o a_o torrent_n of_o iniquity_n it_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o ignorance_n it_o betray_v much_o folly_n and_o be_v a_o great_a enemy_n to_o serious_a thought_n and_o recollection_n man_n word_n for_o the_o most_o part_n proceed_v from_o something_o of_o pride_n for_o they_o common_o speak_v to_o teach_v other_o and_o to_o show_v their_o own_o wisdom_n and_o great_a part_n every_o one_o think_v he_o know_v much_o and_o to_o make_v it_o appear_v and_o be_v think_v somebody_o he_o common_o out_v with_o more_o than_o he_o know_v as_o bad_a air_n draw_v in_o do_v in_o time_n affect_v infect_v the_o body_n so_o do_v the_o breath_n of_o many_o word_n much_o prejudice_n the_o soul_n it_o dissolve_v the_o spirit_n and_o breed_v quarrel_n and_o contention_n and_o utter_v lie_n and_o detraction_n and_o bring_v forth_o loose_a unseemly_a jest_n and_o jeer_v and_o evil_n of_o all_o sort_n in_o vain_a do_v he_o endeavour_v to_o be_v devout_a and_o to_o have_v peace_n within_o who_o do_v not_o refrain_v his_o tongue_n and_o set_v a_o watch_n before_o his_o lip_n in_o vain_a do_v he_o endeavour_v to_o amend_v himself_o that_o censure_n and_o speak_v ill_a of_o other_o this_o be_v a_o snare_n wherein_o many_o be_v catch_v to_o be_v indulgent_a to_o themselves_o and_o severe_a to_o other_o to_o boast_v and_o magnify_v what_o be_v they_o and_o slight_a as_o much_o what_o relate_v to_o other_o few_o there_o be_v that_o whole_o renounce_v to_o this_o vice_n few_o that_o lead_v so_o uncorrupt_a a_o life_n as_o not_o willing_o to_o tax_v other_o corruption_n the_o propensity_n to_o this_o sin_n be_v so_o great_a that_o many_o count_v good_a christian_n
who_o have_v overcome_v divers_a temptation_n and_o mortify_v their_o other_o lust_n yet_o fall_v here_o and_o can_v bridle_v their_o unruly_a tongue_n the_o last_o gin_n the_o devil_n set_v to_o catch_v soul_n and_o it_o have_v be_v observe_v by_o man_n of_o great_a piety_n and_o great_a experience_n that_o a_o great_a talker_n be_v never_o very_o good_a or_o never_o persevere_v to_o be_v so_o 2._o silence_z therefore_o which_o sequester_v we_o from_o man_n vain_a converse_n that_o we_o may_v entertain_v ourselves_o with_o god_n silence_n which_o sanctify_v all_o our_o persecution_n sorrow_n and_o infirmity_n must_v needs_o be_v high_o advantageous_a to_o every_o one_o that_o make_v a_o right_a use_n of_o it_o for_o when_o in_o any_o case_n we_o suffer_v wrongful_o and_o yet_o hold_v our_o tongue_n we_o then_o offer_v to_o god_n our_o soul_n and_o body_n good_n and_o good_a name_n as_o a_o sacrifice_n we_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o christ_n who_o open_v not_o his_o mouth_n but_o be_v lead_v as_o a_o lamb_n to_o the_o slaughter_n and_o we_o possess_v our_o soul_n with_o patience_n and_o free_v ourselves_o from_o clamour_n and_o perturbation_n sometime_o indeed_o a_o just_a defence_n of_o ourselves_o may_v be_v requisite_a but_o we_o must_v be_v very_o cautious_a that_o we_o exceed_v not_o the_o due_a bound_n of_o christian_a meekness_n and_o humility_n and_o yet_o this_o can_v happen_v but_o seldom_o as_o when_o we_o be_v call_v to_o answer_v by_o the_o magistrate_n when_o the_o slander_n will_v make_v we_o uncapable_a of_o exercise_v or_o useless_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o a_o public_a office_n or_o when_o it_o will_v be_v other_o detriment_n in_o these_o case_n we_o may_v speak_v with_o truth_n and_o meekness_n in_o other_o we_o have_v best_o hold_v our_o tongue_n and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v to_o purpose_n we_o must_v also_o refrain_v and_o quell_v our_o inward_a passion_n that_o the_o tumult_n within_o make_v not_o the_o outward_a peace_n insignificant_a i_o keep_v silence_n even_o from_o good_a word_n say_v the_o psalmist_n if_o from_o good_a word_n sometime_o we_o must_v refrain_v much_o more_o always_o from_o vain_a and_o ill_a language_n he_o be_v a_o wise_a man_n that_o can_v hold_v his_o tongue_n for_o it_o be_v less_o difficult_a to_o knâ—â—_n how_o to_o speak_v well_o than_o how_o to_o be_v silent_a chap._n ix_o of_o true_a and_o false_a delight_n and_o of_o self-complacency_a in_o virtue_n 1._o virtue_n alone_o be_v the_o true_a and_o last_a pleasure_n of_o rational_a creature_n other_o thing_n be_v pleasant_a but_o in_o appearance_n and_o for_o a_o short_a uncertain_a time_n and_o according_a to_o man_n various_a opinion_n for_o worldly_a pleasure_n proceed_v not_o from_o reason_n which_o be_v constant_a and_o common_a to_o all_o but_o from_o corrupt_a appetite_n which_o always_o do_v change_n and_o differ_v as_o a_o sick_a palate_n can_v right_o discern_v of_o the_o relish_n of_o meat_n no_o more_o can_v a_o vicious_a man_n feel_v and_o understand_v what_o be_v true_a pleasure_n which_o proceed_v only_o from_o virtue_n to_o which_o he_o be_v too_o much_o a_o stranger_n sensible_n delight_n indeed_o by_o nature_n instinct_n be_v please_v to_o all_o and_o few_o just_o know_v how_o to_o use_v and_o when_o to_o refuse_v they_o but_o man_n be_v create_v to_o a_o noble_a end_n than_o only_o to_o gratify_v sense_n he_o be_v make_v for_o the_o sight_n and_o the_o fruition_n of_o god_n the_o last_o and_o sovereign_a good_a it_o be_v true_a indeed_o we_o can_v contemplate_v truth_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o by_o the_o help_n of_o those_o idea_n and_o representation_n which_o we_o have_v from_o sense_n and_o our_o rational_a faculty_n can_v well_o discharge_v their_o function_n when_o the_o organ_n of_o the_o body_n be_v discompose_v and_o therefore_o we_o must_v have_v such_o care_n of_o our_o body_n as_o may_v render_v they_o fit_a instrument_n for_o our_o soul_n and_o preserve_v they_o so_o 2._o but_o we_o sin_v grievous_o and_o pervert_v the_o order_n which_o god_n and_o nature_n have_v appoint_v if_o we_o make_v bodily_a pleasure_n the_o end_n of_o our_o natural_a action_n whereas_o we_o shall_v design_v they_o and_o make_v they_o subservient_fw-fr to_o those_o noble_a office_n for_o which_o we_o be_v create_v after_o god_n image_n i_o confess_v we_o can_v long_o subsist_v without_o some_o pleasure_n corporal_a or_o spiritual_a and_o we_o can_v divide_v our_o soul_n equal_o betwixt_o both_o but_o then_o this_o oblige_v we_o to_o aspire_v the_o more_o after_o heavenly_a joy_n and_o to_o delight_v ourselves_o so_o much_o the_o more_o in_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o favour_n and_o the_o hope_n of_o his_o glory_n that_o we_o may_v despise_v and_o disrelish_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n and_o vanity_n 3._o but_o let_v it_o be_v observe_v also_o that_o some_o love_n virtue_n more_o for_o its_o glory_n than_o its_o goodness_n sake_n they_o aspire_v after_o god_n because_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n high_a and_o transcendent_a they_o live_v a_o strict_a and_o severe_a life_n because_o it_o denote_v a_o brave_a and_o generous_a spirit_n they_o preserve_v inward_a peace_n because_o it_o be_v pleasant_a they_o inquire_v after_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n and_o to_o that_o purpose_n consult_v many_o book_n that_o they_o may_v enlarge_v their_o knowledge_n and_o satisfy_v their_o curiosity_n and_o they_o walk_v in_o the_o narrow_a way_n to_o perfection_n that_o they_o may_v delight_v in_o themselves_o and_o admire_v their_o own_o excellency_n all_o this_o these_o man_n do_v for_o to_o please_v and_o magnify_v themselves_o when_o they_o think_v most_o of_o all_o to_o serve_v god_n they_o only_o serve_v to_o their_o own_o pride_n and_o when_o at_o last_o they_o shall_v expect_v great_a reward_n they_o shall_v find_v their_o hand_n empty_a of_o good_a work_n and_o their_o heart_n full_a of_o nothing_o but_o self-love_n god_n be_v therefore_o to_o be_v seek_v with_o humility_n with_o singleness_n of_o heart_n and_o a_o sincere_a spirit_n he_o be_v to_o be_v love_v above_o all_o thing_n and_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n this_o life_n be_v the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n a_o state_n of_o warfare_n a_o place_n of_o perpetual_a labour_n rest_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n eternal_a be_v reserve_v for_o a_o better_a life_n chap._n x._o that_o we_o be_v lead_v too_o much_o by_o opinion_n 1._o that_o we_o general_o live_v by_o opinion_n be_v know_v and_o acknowledge_v but_o how_o great_a be_v the_o force_n and_o the_o prevalency_n of_o it_o be_v not_o perhaps_o so_o well_o understand_v opinion_n in_o many_o case_n and_o after_o a_o strange_a way_n do_v exercise_v a_o great_a power_n or_o rather_o tyranny_n over_o man_n it_o make_v they_o as_o it_o please_v healthy_a or_o sickly_a poor_a or_o rich_a miserable_a or_o happy_a for_o no_o man_n be_v either_o of_o these_o but_o as_o he_o think_v himself_o opinion_n bring_v joy_n or_o sorrow_n not_o so_o much_o according_a to_o the_o reality_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n as_o according_a to_o the_o fancy_n for_o experience_n tell_v we_o that_o what_o we_o wish_v or_o fear_v be_v nothing_o so_o pleasant_a or_o grievous_a as_o we_o imagine_v more_o than_o that_o opinion_n not_o only_o give_v a_o kind_n of_o present_a be_v to_o thing_n that_o be_v future_a but_o also_o unite_v together_o thing_n that_o be_v far_o distant_a and_o make_v we_o feel_v in_o one_o moment_n the_o good_n or_o evil_n of_o many_o year_n to_o come_v and_o which_o perhaps_o shall_v never_o be_v opinion_n alone_a for_o the_o most_o part_n bring_v credit_n and_o praise_n to_o man_n and_o their_o action_n and_o if_o all_o the_o dignity_n and_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o world_n be_v unite_v together_o they_o can_v not_o content_v one_o single_a man_n except_o his_o opinion_n be_v also_o satisfy_v hamans_n wealth_n be_v exceed_v great_a and_o he_o be_v first_o in_o the_o court_n of_o king_n ahasuerus_n and_o yet_o he_o think_v himself_o the_o unhappy_a of_o man_n because_o mordecai_n a_o poor_a captive_n will_v not_o stand_v up_o and_o honour_v he_o when_o he_o come_v into_o the_o palace_n 2._o another_o great_a mischief_n of_o opinion_n be_v this_o that_o it_o lengthen_v the_o present_a time_n and_o make_v its_o duration_n in_o some_o manner_n interminable_a as_o if_o our_o life_n and_o worldly_a enjoyment_n be_v to_o have_v no_o end_n and_o that_o contrariwise_o it_o contract_v eternity_n and_o lessen_v to_o almost_o nothing_o those_o incomprehensible_a amaze_a everlasting_a age_n that_o follow_v this_o uncertain_a life_n man_n also_o common_o take_v a_o account_n of_o moral_a good_a and_o evil_n by_o the_o measure_n of_o opinion_n and_o whilst_o they_o seek_v to_o avoid_v one_o extreme_a they_o too_o often_o fall_v into_o another_o as_o some_o from_o a_o dull_a lazy_a life_n become_v
too_o restless_a and_o busy_a from_o prodigality_n many_o fall_n to_o covetousness_n and_o from_o superstition_n to_o profaneness_n and_o irreverence_n the_o last_o cheat_n of_o opinion_n i_o shall_v now_o reckon_v be_v that_o it_o general_o make_v we_o judge_v and_o esteem_v ourselves_o not_o according_a to_o our_o own_o sense_n and_o consciousness_n but_o according_a to_o the_o vain_a thought_n and_o talk_n of_o other_o man_n we_o defer_v so_o much_o not_o only_o to_o our_o own_o but_o also_o to_o other_o opinion_n that_o except_o they_o will_v count_v we_o happy_a we_o can_v be_v so_o we_o be_v not_o content_v to_o live_v to_o ourselves_o but_o we_o must_v also_o entertain_v a_o troublesome_a imaginary_a life_n to_o please_v we_o know_v not_o who_o people_n that_o perhaps_o know_v we_o not_o and_o to_o be_v sure_a care_v not_o for_o we_o who_o judgement_n we_o ourselves_o slight_a in_o other_o thing_n thus_o neglect_v that_o true_a and_o real_a life_n which_o we_o ourselves_o enjoy_v we_o make_v it_o our_o care_n and_o endeavour_v to_o preserve_v and_o adorn_v that_o life_n which_o depend_v on_o other_o and_o have_v no_o subsistence_n but_o in_o we_o and_o other_o man_n fancy_n and_o so_o far_o do_v this_o delusion_n prevail_v that_o what_o we_o ourselves_o feel_v and_o know_v be_v nothing_o to_o we_o except_o other_o be_v acquaint_v with_o it_o from_o all_o these_o mischievous_a error_n and_o deception_n of_o opinion_n we_o can_v be_v free_v by_o the_o power_n of_o natural_a reason_n without_o the_o supernatural_a light_n of_o the_o divine_a grace_n enlighten_v our_o mind_n for_o our_o opinion_n become_v true_a or_o false_a according_a as_o be_v the_o light_n that_o guide_v we_o chap._n xi_o that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n be_v much_o slight_v even_o by_o some_o that_o pretend_v to_o it_o 1._o all_o knowledge_n be_v good_a that_o agree_v with_o truth_n but_o he_o that_o will_v work_v out_o his_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a have_v need_n learn_v first_o what_o concern_v it_o because_o our_o time_n be_v short_a and_o great_a learning_n in_o other_o thing_n be_v great_a trouble_n and_o great_a vanity_n it_o be_v the_o say_n of_o s._n james_n that_o to_o he_o that_o know_v to_o do_v good_a and_o do_v it_o not_o to_o he_o it_o be_v sin_n 4.17_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v that_o it_o be_v ill_o to_o eat_v and_o not_o digest_v for_o as_o indigested_a meat_n nourish_v not_o but_o rather_o hurt_v so_o much_o knowledge_n not_o concoct_v and_o convert_v to_o use_v by_o the_o fire_n of_o holy_a charity_n fill_v man_n with_o pride_n and_o such_o peccant_a humour_n and_o at_o last_o end_n in_o death_n these_o two_o thing_n man_n be_v to_o care_n for_o whilst_o they_o be_v in_o this_o world_n first_o to_o keep_v the_o life_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o consist_v in_o the_o grace_n and_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o second_o to_o preserve_v their_o temporal_a life_n but_o for_o the_o first_o many_o be_v unconcern_v let_v what_o will_v become_v of_o the_o soul_n their_o study_n and_o all_o their_o labour_n be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v well_o with_o the_o body_n and_o so_o they_o run_v blindfold_a after_o their_o lust_n and_o sensual_a enjoyment_n be_v wise_a indeed_o as_o child_n of_o this_o world_n but_o have_v none_o of_o that_o wisdom_n which_o make_v man_n wise_a unto_o salvation_n 2._o they_o that_o speak_v doubtful_o and_o deceitful_o be_v odious_a to_o man_n say_v the_o son_n of_o sirach_n much_o more_o be_v they_o odious_a to_o god_n that_o live_v so_o who_o very_a life_n be_v a_o lie_n as_o well_o as_o their_o word_n they_o pretend_v to_o know_v god_n and_o his_o holy_a way_n and_o vain_o boast_v to_o follow_v they_o when_o yet_o they_o go_v quite_o contrary_a they_o reprove_v and_o tutor_v other_o not_o themselves_o they_o cunning_o dissemble_v their_o vice_n and_o make_v a_o show_n of_o those_o virtue_n they_o be_v stranger_n to_o but_o they_o can_v deceive_v god_n who_o search_v the_o heart_n and_o their_o hypocrisy_n can_v be_v hide_v from_o he_o who_o see_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o secret_a and_o at_o the_o last_o day_n will_v bring_v all_o to_o light_n and_o o_o that_o man_n will_v view_v their_o stain_n and_o imperfection_n in_o the_o great_a and_o eternal_a light_n of_o that_o terrible_a day_n for_o than_o they_o can_v easy_o discern_v and_o as_o easy_o cleanse_v and_o amend_v they_o we_o have_v but_o these_o two_o way_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o our_o defect_n and_o deformity_n either_o in_o the_o light_n of_o our_o own_o reason_n compare_v they_o to_o ourselves_o or_o in_o the_o light_n of_o divine_a revelation_n bring_v they_o forth_o before_o the_o bright_a and_o glorious_a presence_n of_o the_o most_o holy_a god_n the_o first_o be_v like_o a_o winter_n day_n light_a dim_a and_o cold_a but_o the_o second_o be_v the_o sunshine_n of_o a_o summer-day_n so_o clear_a as_o to_o make_v the_o least_o mote_n visible_a and_o hot_a enough_o to_o burn_v and_o consume_v all_o our_o dross_n but_o to_o see_v this_o save_a divine_a light_n a_o man_n must_v come_v out_o of_o himself_o and_o go_v to_o god_n in_o who_o alone_o be_v truth_n and_o wisdom_n and_o out_o of_o who_o all_o thing_n be_v mere_a imposture_n and_o folly_n chap._n xii_o that_o selfwill_a be_v a_o great_a evil_a and_o must_v be_v renounce_v 1._o all_o our_o action_n contrary_a to_o god_n will_n and_o in_o compliance_n to_o our_o own_o be_v the_o fuel_n for_o that_o fire_n which_o be_v unquenchable_a for_o self-will_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o maker_n of_o hell_n and_o the_o leader_n to_o it_o the_o author_n of_o all_o the_o evil_n which_o eternal_o afflict_v all_o the_o wicked_a that_o rebel_v against_o god_n as_o likewise_o even_o in_o time_n the_o less_o a_o man_n follow_v his_o own_o will_n the_o far_o he_o be_v from_o be_v miserable_a the_o near_o he_o come_v to_o true_a happiness_n and_o he_o that_o have_v whole_o renounce_v to_o his_o own_o desire_n and_o inclination_n have_v the_o great_a assurance_n that_o can_v be_v have_v here_o of_o be_v eternal_o happy_a hereafter_o how_o this_o be_v to_o be_v do_v our_o bless_a saviour_n teach_v we_o when_o he_o say_v follow_v i_o for_o he_o himself_o as_o he_o testify_v come_v not_o into_o the_o world_n to_o do_v his_o own_o will_n but_o the_o will_n of_o the_o father_n that_o send_v he_o so_o that_o to_o follow_v he_o we_o must_v follow_v his_o obedience_n forsake_v our_o own_o will_n to_o comply_v with_o he_o to_o follow_v he_o we_o must_v take_v up_o and_o bear_v his_o yoke_n and_o his_o cross_n which_o to_o the_o flesh_n be_v indeed_o hard_a and_o afflictive_a but_o to_o the_o spirit_n be_v comfortable_a and_o delicious_a 2._o this_o our_o christian_a profession_n do_v require_v from_o we_o that_o in_o all_o our_o work_n and_o undertake_n we_o may_v hearty_o say_v not_o my_o will_n but_o god_n will_v be_v do_v this_o also_o be_v the_o design_n of_o the_o supreme_a eternal_a will_n of_o god_n in_o create_v and_o preserve_v man_n will_n that_o they_o may_v free_o serve_v he_o and_o in_o all_o thing_n fulfil_v his_o good_a pleasure_n and_o true_o it_o be_v the_o great_a and_o most_o bless_a freedom_n to_o be_v in_o subjection_n to_o god_n to_o be_v able_a from_o our_o heart_n to_o say_v in_o all_o event_n even_o so_o father_n for_o so_o it_o have_v seem_v good_a before_o thou_o my_o only_a will_n be_v god_n will_v may_v be_v do_v he_o be_v infinite_o good_a and_o wise_a i_o free_o resign_v myself_o to_o he_o and_o desire_v evermore_o to_o have_v a_o entire_a dependence_n on_o he_o and_o to_o be_v content_v with_o all_o the_o disposal_n of_o his_o providence_n and_o that_o in_o all_o thing_n his_o bless_a name_n may_v be_v glorify_v all_o man_n trouble_n and_o vexation_n proceed_v from_o their_o unwillingness_n to_o submit_v to_o god_n for_o there_o be_v not_o a_o great_a pain_n or_o grief_n than_o to_o be_v what_o we_o will_v not_o be_v chap._n xiii_o of_o the_o advantage_n of_o solitariness_n and_o retirement_n 1._o to_o be_v much_o alone_a in_o quiet_a silence_n and_o there_o to_o examine_v and_o instruct_v one_o self_n be_v the_o way_n to_o have_v our_o sense_n and_o our_o thought_n well_o compose_v therefore_o a_o wise_a man_n hate_v much_o talk_n and_o much_o company_n keep_v his_o eye_n close_o to_o curiosity_n and_o his_o ear_n to_o fly_a report_n and_o cumber_v not_o himself_o with_o too_o much_o of_o the_o world_n remember_v the_o say_n of_o wise_a ben-sirach_a that_o he_o shall_v become_v wise_a that_o have_v little_a business_n ecclus._n 38.24_o god_n be_v but_o one_o and_o he_o can_v best_o commune_v with_o god_n that_o dwell_v by_o himself_o and_o if_o a_o wise_a man_n be_v call_v
upon_o all_o inferior_a thing_n as_o perish_v and_o soon_o end_v and_o therefore_o set_v his_o affection_n on_o the_o riches_n above_o which_o be_v true_a and_o everlasting_a there_o he_o seek_v for_o honour_n where_o it_o be_v give_v to_o none_o that_o be_v unworthy_a of_o it_o he_o expect_v that_o kingdom_n which_o be_v obtain_v expel_v all_o fear_n and_o all_o danger_n all_o his_o possession_n here_o he_o offer_v to_o god_n with_o himself_o be_v ready_a free_o to_o be_v in_o want_n if_o providence_n shall_v please_v 3._o now_o by_o these_o token_n it_o will_v appear_v that_o our_o heart_n be_v free_a from_o covetousness_n and_o the_o love_n of_o mammon_n if_o we_o be_v persuade_v that_o they_o be_v a_o cumbrance_n and_o a_o heavy_a burden_n if_o we_o slight_v they_o and_o be_v very_o well_o please_v to_o be_v without_o they_o if_o when_o we_o have_v they_o we_o be_v not_o pu_v up_o with_o pride_n and_o vainglory_n and_o if_o we_o look_v upon_o fine_a house_n and_o rich_a furniture_n and_o such_o thing_n as_o the_o vain_a monument_n of_o man_n vanity_n and_o the_o great_a obstacle_n to_o their_o salvation_n happy_a be_v they_o that_o be_v free_a from_o the_o love_n and_o desire_v of_o those_o thing_n they_o shall_v live_v in_o peace_n and_o safety_n and_o trouble_v and_o fear_n shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o take_v hold_n of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v better_a to_o sleep_v well_o in_o a_o mean_a narrow_a couch_n than_o to_o be_v sick_a and_o restless_a in_o a_o stately_a bed_n so_o be_v it_o much_o better_a to_o be_v content_a and_o quiet_a with_o a_o little_a than_o to_o have_v much_o and_o therewith_o much_o of_o vexation_n he_o that_o be_v content_a be_v rich_a and_o happy_a chap._n xvi_o of_o poverty_n in_o spirit_n and_o the_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n 1._o our_o bless_a saviour_n have_v assign_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n to_o they_o that_o be_v poor_a in_o spirit_n mat._n 5.3_o bless_a be_v the_o poor_a in_o spirit_n for_o they_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n such_o be_v they_o that_o neither_o desire_n to_o be_v rich_a nor_o place_v their_o peace_n and_o contentment_n in_o riches_n who_o wish_n and_o possession_n can_v never_o fail_v nor_o be_v take_v from_o they_o who_o be_v more_o afraid_a of_o have_v their_o good_a thing_n in_o this_o life_n than_o other_o be_v of_o be_v poor_a and_o who_o heart_n raise_v above_o all_o create_a thing_n can_v true_o speak_v in_o this_o manner_n i_o be_o rich_a praise_v be_v god_n and_o have_v more_o than_o sufficient_a for_o my_o need_n and_o more_o than_o i_o desire_v and_o my_o affection_n cleave_v not_o to_o what_o i_o have_v i_o have_v the_o use_n but_o not_o the_o trouble_n of_o it_o for_o i_o can_v free_o part_v with_o it_o without_o pain_n or_o regret_n i_o be_o true_o enrich_v with_o the_o possession_n of_o that_o divine_a truth_n which_o be_v from_o above_o in_o it_o all_o thing_n be_v contain_v and_o it_o be_v all-sufficient_a of_o itself_o for_o in_o it_o i_o perceive_v that_o i_o have_v right_a to_o nothing_o that_o i_o be_o nothing_o and_o that_o i_o can_v do_v nothing_o of_o myself_o that_o bless_a truth_n tell_v i_o that_o i_o must_v not_o place_v my_o contentment_n in_o earthly_a transitory_a thing_n which_o like_a shadow_n will_v soon_o pass_v away_o and_o will_v deceive_v i_o and_o that_o nothing_o can_v happen_v to_o i_o but_o by_o that_o gracious_a providence_n of_o my_o heavenly_a father_n which_o bring_v i_o naked_a from_o my_o mother_n womb_n and_o naked_a will_v bring_v i_o to_o the_o dust_n again_o this_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o just_a infuse_v from_o above_o there_o be_v only_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n for_o they_o only_o despise_v this_o earth_n 2._o will_v to_o god_n christian_n be_v thus_o wise_a and_o do_v well_o understand_v this_o truth_n for_o than_o none_o of_o they_o will_v seek_v after_o the_o perish_a riches_n of_o this_o world_n and_o none_o will_v love_v they_o but_o as_o few_o be_v choose_v few_o be_v wise_a and_o but_o few_o poor_a in_o spirit_n bless_a be_v the_o rich_a that_o be_v find_v without_o blemish_n and_o that_o be_v not_o go_v after_o gold_n say_v the_o son_n of_o sirach_n who_o be_v he_o and_o we_o will_v call_v he_o bless_v for_o wonderful_a thing_n have_v he_o do_v among_o his_o people_n ecclus._n 31.8_o for_o indeed_o you_o shall_v hardly_o find_v one_o man_n that_o can_v possess_v the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n as_o not_o be_v his_o own_o and_o that_o can_v be_v rich_a and_o content_a under_o poverty_n few_o they_o be_v that_o come_v to_o this_o perfection_n because_o man_n love_v the_o vanity_n and_o conveniency_n of_o this_o life_n which_o be_v purchase_v with_o riches_n and_o few_o they_o be_v that_o regard_n the_o precept_n of_o christ_n mat._n 6._o seek_v you_o first_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o its_o righteousness_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n shall_v be_v add_v unto_o you_o and_o be_v content_a with_o your_o food_n and_o raiment_n and_o be_v not_o solicitous_a for_o it_o for_o your_o heavenly_a father_n know_v that_o you_o want_v those_o thing_n why_o then_o do_v it_o we_o believe_v our_o love_a saviour_n and_o trust_v the_o providence_n of_o our_o heavenly_a father_n because_o we_o suffer_v our_o desire_n to_o run_v over_o the_o world_n and_o we_o consider_v not_o that_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n be_v straight_o and_o narrow_a and_o because_o we_o give_v ear_n to_o our_o lust_n and_o will_v not_o hearken_v to_o the_o truth_n nor_o be_v guide_v by_o it_o the_o broad_a way_n be_v for_o they_o that_o carry_v the_o world_n before_o they_o or_o at_o least_o carry_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n but_o the_o narrow_a way_n be_v for_o the_o naked_a such_o who_o spirit_n be_v free_a from_o the_o cumbersome_a riches_n of_o the_o world_n what_o will_v the_o false_a mammon_n avail_v if_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o the_o true_a riches_n we_o be_v stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n travel_v homeward_o through_o a_o straight_a and_o difficult_a way_n and_o great_a load_n can_v be_v but_o great_a hindrance_n chap._n xvii_o of_o the_o necessity_n and_o the_o measure_n of_o almsgiving_n 1._o such_o riches_n as_o be_v not_o employ_v in_o a_o moderate_a supply_n of_o our_o necessity_n according_a to_o our_o quality_n may_v not_o be_v keep_v niggardly_a nor_o spend_v profuse_o upon_o pride_n or_o luxury_n but_o they_o belong_v to_o the_o poor_a they_o must_v be_v spend_v in_o good_a work_n and_o pious_a use_n for_o the_o advancement_n of_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o benefit_n of_o man_n soul_n and_o body_n and_o he_o much_o endanger_v his_o salvation_n that_o do_v not_o dispose_v of_o they_o on_o this_o wise_a money_n keep_v in_o bag_n be_v but_o dress_v its_o worth_n consist_v in_o the_o use_n of_o it_o and_o if_o it_o serve_v not_o for_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o necessitous_a and_o the_o gather_a treasure_n in_o heaven_n than_o it_o become_v mischievous_a and_o the_o guilt_n of_o it_o do_v exceed_v its_o weight_n land_n money_n and_o other_o moveable_n be_v general_o call_v good_n not_o that_o they_o make_v a_o man_n good_a of_o themselves_o but_o because_o the_o owner_n may_v do_v good_a with_o they_o and_o thereby_o make_v himself_o better_o and_o happy_a as_o it_o be_v write_v psal_n 112.9_o he_o have_v disperse_v he_o have_v give_v to_o the_o poor_a his_o righteousness_n endure_v for_o ever_o for_o the_o ransom_n of_o a_o man_n life_n be_v his_o riches_n say_v solomon_n prov._n 13.8_o and_o as_o water_n will_v quench_v a_o flame_a fire_n so_o alm_n make_v a_o atonement_n for_o sin_n say_v the_o wise_a ben-sirach_a ecclus._n 3.30_o nothing_o suit_v better_a with_o our_o christian_a profession_n than_o to_o pity_n and_o help_v the_o afflict_a remember_v and_o relieve_v the_o infirmity_n of_o our_o common_a nature_n in_o the_o affliction_n of_o other_o and_o nothing_o be_v more_o unnatural_a and_o antichristian_a than_o to_o refuse_v comfort_n and_o assistance_n to_o other_o or_o even_o to_o ourselves_o in_o our_o want_n that_o we_o may_v increase_v our_o wealth_n and_o enrich_v our_o heir_n but_o the_o worst_a of_o all_o be_v to_o lose_v our_o share_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n and_o damn_v our_o immortal_a soul_n that_o they_o that_o shall_v seize_v upon_o our_o riches_n may_v have_v wherewith_o to_o be_v prodigal_a and_o vicious_a 2._o i_o shall_v not_o undertake_v to_o determine_v when_o and_o how_o far_o every_o one_o that_o can_v shall_v deprive_v himself_o that_o he_o may_v spare_v for_o charity_n this_o can_v have_v no_o other_o measure_n than_o such_o as_o piety_n and_o christian_a prudence_n shall_v assign_v only_o i_o say_v that_o god_n know_v our_o heart_n and_o ability_n and_o we_o must_v approve_v ourselves_o to_o he_o and_o i_o hear_v
our_o bless_a saviour_n command_v to_o all_o without_o distinction_n luke_n 11.41_o give_v alm_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o you_o have_v and_o the_o great_a preacher_n of_o repentance_n enjoin_v the_o multitude_n that_o ask_v he_o what_o they_o shall_v do_v luke_n 3.11_o he_o that_o have_v two_o coat_n let_v he_o impart_v to_o he_o that_o have_v none_o and_o he_o that_o have_v meat_n let_v he_o do_v likewise_o i_o hear_v the_o psalmist_n declare_v that_o bless_a be_v he_o that_o consider_v the_o poor_a for_o the_o lord_n will_v deliver_v he_o in_o time_n of_o trouble_n psal_n 41.1_o and_o the_o prophet_n instruct_v all_o penitent_n on_o this_o wise_a deal_v thy_o bread_n to_o the_o hungry_a and_o bring_v the_o poor_a that_o be_v cast_v out_o to_o thy_o house_n when_o thou_o see_v the_o naked_a cover_v he_o and_o hide_v not_o thyself_o from_o thy_o own_o flesh_n isa_n 58.7_o i_o hear_v religious_a tobit_n give_v this_o lesson_n to_o his_o son_n give_v alm_n of_o thy_o substance_n and_o when_o thou_o give_v alm_n let_v not_o thy_o hand_n be_v envious_a neither_o turn_v thy_o face_n from_o any_o poor_a and_o the_o face_n of_o god_n shall_v not_o be_v turn_v away_o from_o thou_o if_o thou_o have_v abundance_n give_v alm_n according_o if_o thou_o have_v but_o little_a be_v not_o afraid_a to_o give_v according_a to_o that_o little_a for_o thou_o lay_v up_o a_o good_a treasure_n for_o thyself_o against_o the_o day_n of_o necessity_n because_o that_o alm_n do_v deliver_v from_o death_n and_o suffer_v not_o to_o come_v into_o darkness_n tob._n 4.7_o etc._n etc._n 3._o what_o can_v be_v say_v more_o than_o all_o this_o to_o prove_v almsgiving_n to_o be_v much_o a_o duty_n and_o most_o advantageous_a but_o yet_o let_v we_o hear_v also_o what_o the_o belove_a apostle_n say_v in_o this_o matter_n 1_o john_n 3.17_o whoso_o have_v this_o world_n good_a and_o see_v his_o brother_n have_v need_v and_o shut_v up_o his_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n from_o he_o how_o dwell_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o he_o if_o not_o the_o love_n of_o god_n than_o self-love_n that_o be_v lust_n and_o sin_n dwell_v and_o reign_v in_o he_o and_o his_o portion_n in_o the_o next_o world_n shall_v be_v with_o the_o rich_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n luke_n 16._o who_o be_v clothe_v in_o purple_a and_o fine_a linen_n and_o fare_v sumptuous_o every_o day_n and_o yet_o will_v not_o give_v lazarus_n so_o much_o as_o the_o crumb_n that_o fall_v from_o his_o table_n the_o conscience_n of_o the_o covetous_a cry_v or_o ere_o long_o will_v cry_v against_o he_o why_o do_v thou_o put_v by_o that_o poor_a hungry_a man_n thou_o be_v his_o murderer_n in_o that_o thou_o be_v able_a and_o do_v not_o feed_v he_o that_o bread_n which_o thou_o can_v spare_v be_v he_o those_o garment_n which_o fill_v up_o thy_o trunk_n belong_v to_o the_o naked_a and_o the_o money_n hoard_v in_o thy_o coffer_n be_v the_o just_a right_n of_o the_o necessitous_a christ_n in_o the_o great_a judgement_n will_v condemn_v to_o hell_n such_o merciless_a wretch_n as_o thou_o be_v go_v you_o say_v he_o into_o everlasting_a fire_n for_o i_o be_v hungry_a and_o you_o feed_v i_o not_o i_o be_v thirsty_a and_o you_o give_v i_o no_o drink_n naked_a and_o you_o clothe_v i_o not_o mat._n 25.42_o he_o do_v not_o mention_v such_o press_a extreme_a necessity_n as_o must_v be_v now_o supply_v and_o can_v be_v relieve_v by_o none_o else_o such_o occur_v but_o seldom_o not_o once_o perhaps_o in_o a_o man_n life_n therefore_o we_o must_v not_o stay_v for_o such_o extremity_n to_o be_v charitable_a but_o we_o must_v spare_v as_o much_o as_o we_o can_v and_o what_o we_o can_v we_o must_v give_v in_o good_a work_n for_o charity_n be_v the_o band_n of_o perfectness_n and_o shall_v cover_v a_o multitude_n of_o sin_n neither_o yet_o must_v we_o as_o some_o do_v delay_v our_o charity_n till_o we_o can_v keep_v no_o long_o what_o we_o have_v that_o which_o death_n make_v we_o give_v if_o we_o can_v have_v give_v it_o before_o will_v be_v nothing_o so_o acceptable_a as_o what_o we_o ourselves_o free_o distribute_v when_o we_o have_v power_n to_o keep_v it_o chap._n xviii_o of_o patience_n in_o bear_v and_o forbear_v 1._o of_o all_o the_o virtue_n wherein_o christian_n must_v exercise_v themselves_o that_o they_o may_v come_v to_o life_n eternal_a none_o be_v more_o excellent_a and_o none_o more_o useful_a than_o patience_n by_o it_o we_o imitate_v the_o forbearance_n and_o long-suffering_a of_o god_n who_o provoke_v by_o so_o much_o wickedness_n and_o disobedience_n yet_o do_v good_a to_o all_o man_n and_o make_v his_o sun_n to_o rise_v upon_o the_o just_a and_o the_o unjust_a patience_n govern_v the_o mind_n and_o preserve_v it_o in_o peace_n and_o a_o even_a temper_n it_o break_v anger_n and_o bridle_v the_o tongue_n and_o mortify_v pride_n and_o a_o high_a spirit_n it_o end_v quarrel_n and_o entertain_v friendship_n and_o it_o conquer_v the_o world_n it_o tame_v the_o flesh_n overcome_v temptation_n bear_v noble_o and_o meek_o reproach_n and_o persecution_n and_o it_o perfect_v and_o crown_v the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_n if_o all_o man_n be_v patient_a the_o evil_n of_o mankind_n will_v be_v nothing_o so_o great_a nor_o so_o numerous_a as_o they_o be_v and_o we_o shall_v be_v happy_a with_o abundance_n of_o love_n and_o quietness_n by_o patience_n a_o wise_a and_o good_a man_n may_v be_v distinguish_v from_o a_o vicious_a fool_n it_o be_v so_o diffusive_a a_o virtue_n that_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o all_o other_o virtue_n and_o contrary_a to_o all_o vice_n and_o god_n instruct_v and_o prove_v the_o best_a of_o his_o child_n by_o exercise_v their_o patience_n nothing_o can_v hinder_v but_o that_o injurious_a word_n and_o action_n shall_v affect_v and_o stir_v up_o our_o mind_n and_o nothing_o but_o patience_n can_v make_v we_o master_n of_o ourselves_o can_v pacify_v our_o tumultuous_a spirit_n and_o restrain_v we_o from_o mischief_n and_o revenge_n 2._o philosopher_n themselves_o have_v extol_v very_o high_a the_o praise_n of_o this_o excellent_a virtue_n and_o they_o make_v it_o the_o chief_a mark_n and_o ostentation_n of_o their_o own_o wisdom_n but_o as_o they_o know_v not_o the_o true_a god_n from_o who_o proceed_v and_o to_o who_o tend_v all_o true_a virtue_n so_o their_o patience_n be_v false_a as_o well_o as_o their_o wisdom_n but_o we_o that_o live_v in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n be_v teach_v by_o he_o that_o through_o many_o tribulation_n we_o must_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o only_a true_a wisdom_n to_o know_v jesus_n christ_n and_o he_o crucify_v and_o to_o love_v and_o cheerful_o bear_v his_o cross_n for_o a_o christian_n must_v be_v make_v conformable_a to_o his_o crucify_a saviour_n our_o life_n must_v be_v the_o image_n of_o his_o death_n so_o that_o he_o be_v no_o christian_n that_o hate_v and_o refuse_v the_o cross_n and_o will_v not_o suffer_v let_v none_o of_o we_o sinful_a man_n that_o own_o god_n for_o father_n expect_v to_o be_v without_o chastisement_n in_o this_o world_n for_o his_o own_o natural_a belove_a son_n be_v not_o though_o he_o be_v without_o sin_n even_o the_o christ_n be_v to_o suffer_v that_o he_o may_v enter_v into_o his_o glory_n every_o one_o in_o this_o life_n be_v visit_v with_o pain_n and_o sorrow_n either_o for_o his_o conversion_n or_o for_o his_o great_a perfection_n but_o the_o most_o afflict_a endure_v nothing_o that_o can_v be_v compare_v to_o the_o shame_n and_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n chap._n xix_o adversity_n be_v occasion_n of_o virtue_n and_o must_v be_v patient_o endure_v 1._o this_o our_o present_a life_n be_v the_o way_n through_o which_o we_o must_v go_v to_o heaven_n and_o in_o it_o we_o find_v all_o the_o property_n that_o belong_v to_o a_o way_n sometime_o it_o be_v even_o sometime_o rough_a sometime_o it_o be_v pleasant_a sometime_o full_a of_o brier_n rock_n and_o precipice_n in_o some_o place_n it_o be_v crowd_v with_o company_n in_o some_o it_o be_v desert_a and_o solitary_a and_o here_o and_o there_o you_o meet_v with_o wild_a beast_n and_o robber_n rain_n and_o fair_a weather_n daily_o succeed_v each_o to_o other_o obstacle_n and_o difficulty_n frequent_o occur_v and_o even_o in_o grace_n and_o religion_n the_o philosopher_n say_v do_v take_v place_n omnia_fw-la fieri_fw-la secundum_fw-la litem_fw-la that_o there_o be_v contention_n and_o opposition_n in_o all_o thing_n we_o see_v it_o in_o virtue_n which_o be_v acquire_v by_o fight_v by_o resist_a temptation_n and_o man_n strength_n and_o fortitude_n will_v be_v unknown_a and_o of_o no_o use_n shall_v he_o not_o meet_v with_o affliction_n and_o uneasy_a trial_n i_o know_v this_o be_v not_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o world_n the_o fool_n party_n
that_o no_o man_n without_o a_o special_a revelation_n can_v have_v a_o special_a assurance_n of_o his_o salvation_n but_o we_o have_v that_o which_o be_v as_o good_a to_o secure_v we_o against_o despair_n and_o to_o ground_v a_o holy_a and_o comfortable_a hope_n upon_o that_o we_o be_v redeem_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o devote_v to_o he_o in_o holy_a baptism_n and_o that_o god_n be_v our_o confidence_n and_o refuge_n always_o ready_a to_o help_v they_o that_o call_v upon_o he_o and_o to_o forgive_v they_o that_o beg_v for_o pardon_n with_o tear_n and_o contrition_n and_o a_o serious_a purpose_n of_o amendment_n and_o many_o more_o great_a and_o precious_a assurance_n we_o have_v that_o god_n have_v give_v we_o eternal_a life_n and_o that_o this_o life_n be_v in_o his_o son_n so_o that_o all_o his_o providence_n be_v to_o fit_v we_o for_o it_o if_o we_o do_v not_o wilful_o frustrate_v all_o his_o save_a method_n and_o purpose_n only_o he_o will_v have_v our_o election_n to_o be_v hide_v and_o secret_a that_o security_n may_v not_o breed_v in_o we_o pride_n and_o negligence_n and_o that_o he_o that_o think_v he_o stand_v shall_v take_v heed_n lest_o he_o fall_v 2._o now_o therefore_o because_o the_o choose_a be_v few_o let_v every_o true_a christian_a live_v a_o holy_a life_n with_o the_o few_o that_o he_o may_v make_v his_o call_v and_o election_n sure_a and_o be_v count_v worthy_a at_o last_o to_o receive_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n with_o the_o few_o straight_o be_v the_o way_n and_o narrow_a be_v the_o gate_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n and_o few_o there_o be_v that_o find_v it_o say_v our_o bless_a saviour_n mat._n 7.13_o therefore_o we_o must_v walk_v in_o that_o narrow_a way_n and_o that_o always_o with_o care_n and_o fear_n even_o when_o we_o seem_v to_o run_v with_o most_o speed_n because_o no_o man_n in_o respect_n of_o himself_o be_v absolute_o sure_a of_o perseverance_n yet_o our_o fear_n must_v not_o proceed_v so_o far_o as_o to_o make_v we_o faint_a but_o only_o to_o make_v we_o wary_a and_o make_v we_o put_v our_o trust_n and_o confidence_n in_o god_n and_o with_o a_o cheerful_a submission_n cast_v ourselves_o upon_o he_o both_o for_o time_n and_o eternity_n if_o any_o one_o object_n that_o he_o know_v not_o how_o god_n will_v be_v affect_v towards_o he_o i_o answer_v that_o god_n promise_n be_v sincere_a and_o must_v be_v receive_v as_o they_o be_v general_o set_v forth_o in_o holy_a scripture_n to_o all_o that_o will_v obey_v god_n reveal_v will_n and_o moreover_o that_o his_o own_o will_n be_v much_o more_o uncertain_a so_o that_o it_o be_v much_o more_o safe_a to_o trust_v god_n for_o god_n we_o be_v certain_a be_v infinite_o good_a he_o be_v extreme_o proud_a and_o unhappy_a withal_o that_o rely_v on_o himself_o more_o than_o upon_o god_n but_o happy_a be_v he_o that_o confide_v in_o that_o gracious_a lord_n who_o mercy_n and_o promise_n be_v sure_a for_o ever_o and_o in_o who_o whosoever_o trust_v be_v never_o confound_v chap._n xxxiii_o that_o love_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o christian_a religion_n 1._o though_o it_o be_v by_o virtue_n of_o our_o baptism_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n that_o we_o be_v and_o be_v call_v christian_n yet_o the_o life_n or_o soul_n of_o our_o religion_n be_v charity_n or_o the_o love_n of_o god_n whereby_o we_o be_v enable_v to_o live_v godly_a as_o become_v christian_n for_o as_o god_n by_o his_o great_a love_n wherewith_o he_o love_v we_o send_v his_o dear_a son_n into_o the_o world_n to_o die_v for_o we_o that_o we_o may_v live_v through_o he_o so_o be_v we_o to_o love_n god_n most_o affectionate_o with_o all_o our_o heart_n and_o strength_n and_o our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o for_o his_o sake_n in_o this_o be_v love_n not_o that_o we_o love_v god_n but_o that_o he_o love_v we_o and_o send_v his_o son_n to_o be_v the_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n love_v therefore_o be_v the_o first_o and_o great_a commandment_n on_o which_o depend_v the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n love_n be_v the_o foundation_n and_o excellency_n of_o our_o faith_n to_o know_v the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o pass_v knowledge_n that_o when_o we_o be_v enemy_n we_o be_v reconcile_v to_o he_o by_o the_o death_n of_o his_o son_n love_n be_v that_o fire_n which_o our_o bless_a redeemer_n come_v to_o send_v in_o the_o earth_n luke_n 12.49_o which_o cost_v he_o much_o to_o kindle_v and_o which_o burn_v up_o man_n dross_n and_o impurity_n and_o can_v be_v put_v out_o but_o where_o iniquity_n do_v abound_v and_o love_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o primitive_a christian_n who_o have_v one_o heart_n and_o one_o mind_n and_o be_v even_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n whereby_o it_o be_v unite_v and_o life_n 2._o christ_n leave_v and_o appoint_v love_n as_o the_o mark_n whereby_o his_o follower_n shall_v be_v know_v joh._n 13.35_o by_o this_o shall_v all_o man_n know_v that_o you_o be_v my_o disciple_n if_o you_o love_v one_o another_o and_o so_o in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n consist_v our_o union_n with_o he_o and_o it_o be_v the_o high_a perfection_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n now_o perfection_n be_v the_o work_n of_o grace_n therefore_o we_o must_v not_o rely_v upon_o our_o own_o strength_n but_o we_o must_v beg_v of_o god_n daily_o and_o devout_o that_o by_o his_o good_a spirit_n he_o will_v kindle_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o fire_n of_o a_o holy_a charity_n that_o by_o it_o we_o may_v be_v guide_v quicken_v and_o at_o last_o perfect_v neither_o yet_o must_v we_o lose_v heart_n if_o we_o sometime_o fall_v as_o if_o all_o our_o hope_n be_v in_o our_o own_o strength_n but_o we_o must_v acknowledge_v our_o own_o infirmity_n and_o rise_v quick_o and_o pray_v more_o fervent_o and_o afterward_o fight_v more_o courageous_o still_o pursue_v after_o perfection_n not_o only_o in_o word_n or_o ineffective_a wish_n but_o in_o hearty_a desire_n and_o serious_a endeavour_n manifest_v our_o love_n by_o daily_o mortify_v our_o sin_n and_o attain_v to_o new_a and_o high_a degree_n of_o virtue_n and_o then_o shall_v a_o christian_a be_v most_o perfect_a and_o happy_a when_o his_o heart_n shall_v be_v empty_a of_o himself_o and_o free_a from_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n but_o purify_v and_o burn_a with_o the_o love_n of_o god_n chap._n xxxiv_o of_o the_o right_n place_v and_o order_v of_o love_n 1._o he_o be_v a_o just_a and_o holy_a man_n who_o right_o value_v thing_n according_a to_o their_o worth_n and_o also_o love_v they_o proportionable_o for_o sin_n be_v due_o by_o wise_a man_n define_v to_o be_v a_o disorderly_a love_n and_o virtue_n to_o be_v a_o regular_a and_o well_o place_v love_n and_o though_o there_o be_v other_o natural_a affection_n yet_o they_o all_o proceed_v from_o and_o depend_v upon_o love_n and_o if_o this_o be_v well_o place_v and_o govern_v as_o it_o shall_v the_o rest_n can_v be_v unruly_a it_o be_v virtue_n to_o love_v what_o deserve_v to_o be_v love_v and_o wisdom_n to_o make_v choice_n of_o it_o and_o constancy_n to_o pursue_v it_o through_o all_o danger_n and_o suffering_n and_o to_o be_v draw_v from_o it_o by_o no_o enticement_n be_v temperance_n and_o to_o prefer_v nothing_o to_o it_o be_v justice_n and_o the_o order_n of_o love_n must_v follow_v the_o order_n of_o thing_n and_o so_o god_n be_v to_o be_v love_v infinite_o more_o than_o any_o creature_n because_o he_o be_v infinite_o better_a more_o perfect_a and_o lovely_a we_o become_v good_a and_o pure_a by_o love_v he_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o goodness_n and_o purity_n for_o our_o manner_n follow_v our_o affection_n we_o become_v either_o virtuous_a or_o vicious_a according_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o what_o we_o most_o love_n 2._o the_o true_a object_n of_o love_n be_v god_n our_o neighbour_n and_o ourselves_o god_n in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o who_o all_o love_n be_v due_a and_o from_o who_o it_o must_v pass_v to_o other_o creature_n according_a as_o they_o be_v more_o or_o less_o like_o he_o by_o this_o we_o must_v love_v our_o neighbour_n because_o he_o be_v or_o that_o he_o may_v be_v just_a and_o we_o must_v love_v ourselves_o in_o that_o we_o be_v or_o else_o that_o we_o may_v be_v holy_a take_v from_o god_n the_o measure_n of_o our_o love_n to_o all_o other_o thing_n that_o our_o love_n may_v be_v regular_a and_o we_o may_v be_v happy_a let_v no_o man_n therefore_o love_v sin_n for_o thereby_o he_o hate_v and_o destroy_v his_o soul_n and_o let_v no_o man_n love_v himself_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n but_o upon_o god_n account_n who_o be_v the_o chief_a good_a in_o who_o alone_o we_o can_v be_v entire_o happy_a for_o god_n who_o alone_o be_v the_o author_n of_o our_o be_v