heart_n and_o affection_n 3._o earnestness_n and_o appear_a fervency_n in_o prayer_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a delivery_n of_o the_o word_n of_o it_o yea_o though_o the_o mind_n be_v so_o affect_v as_o to_o contribute_v much_o thereunto_o will_v not_o of_o themselves_o prove_v that_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n therein_o do_v arise_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n there_o be_v a_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o prayer_n that_o be_v one_o of_o the_o best_a property_n of_o it_o be_v a_o earnest_n act_v of_o love_n faith_n and_o desire_n but_o there_o be_v a_o fervency_n wherewith_o the_o mind_n itself_o may_v be_v affect_v that_o may_v arise_v from_o other_o cause_n 1._o it_o may_v do_v so_o from_o the_o engagement_n of_o natural_a affection_n unto_o the_o object_n of_o their_o prayer_n or_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o man_n may_v be_v mighty_a earnest_n and_o intent_n in_o their_o mind_n in_o pray_v for_o a_o dear_a relation_n or_o for_o deliverance_n from_o eminent_a trouble_n or_o imminent_a danger_n and_o yet_o all_o this_o fervour_n arise_v from_o the_o vehement_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n about_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o excite_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n by_o the_o present_a duty_n hence_o god_n call_v the_o earnest_a cry_n of_o some_o for_o temporal_a thing_n not_o a_o cry_v unto_o he_o but_o a_o howl_v hosea_n 7.14_o that_o be_v the_o cry_n of_o hungry_a ravenous_a beast_n that_o will_v be_v satisfy_v 2._o sometime_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o sharpness_n of_o conviction_n which_o will_v make_v man_n even_o roar_v in_o their_o prayer_n for_o disquietment_n of_o heart_n and_o this_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o true_a grace_n as_o yet_o receive_v nor_o it_o may_v be_v ever_o will_v be_v so_o for_o the_o perplex_v work_n of_o conviction_n go_v before_o real_a conversion_n and_o as_o it_o produce_v many_o other_o effect_n and_o change_n in_o the_o mind_n so_o it_o may_v do_v this_o of_o great_a fervency_n in_o vocal_a prayer_n especial_o if_o it_o be_v accompany_v with_o outward_a affliction_n pain_n or_o trouble_n psal._n 78.34_o 35._o 3._o ofttime_n the_o mind_n and_o affection_n be_v very_o little_o concern_v in_o that_o fervour_n and_o earnestness_n which_o appear_v in_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n but_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gift_n and_o through_o their_o own_o utterance_n man_n put_v their_o natural_a affection_n into_o such_o a_o agitation_n as_o shall_v carry_v they_o out_o into_o a_o great_a vehemency_n in_o their_o expression_n it_o have_v be_v so_o with_o sundry_a person_n who_o have_v be_v discover_v to_o be_v rot_a hypocrite_n and_o have_v afterward_o turn_v curse_v apostate_n wherefore_o all_o these_o thing_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o gracious_a spring_n or_o vital_a principle_n act_v itself_o from_o within_o in_o spiritual_a thought_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v design_v a_o advantage_n by_o their_o conception_n unto_o the_o interest_n of_o profaneness_n and_o scoff_v for_o if_o there_o may_v be_v these_o evil_n under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n both_o in_o constancy_n and_o with_o fervency_n if_o there_o may_v be_v a_o total_a want_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o true_a grace_n with_o it_o and_o under_o it_o than_o it_o may_v be_v all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o this_o gift_n and_o its_o use_n be_v but_o hypocrisy_n and_o talk_n but_o i_o say_v 1._o it_o may_v be_v as_o well_o pretend_v that_o because_o the_o sun_n shine_v on_o a_o dunghill_n do_v occasion_n offensive_a and_o noisome_a steam_n therefore_o all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o its_o influence_n on_o spice_n and_o flower_n cause_v they_o to_o give_v out_o their_o fragrancy_n be_v utter_o false_a no_o man_n ever_o think_v that_o spiritual_a gift_n do_v change_v or_o renew_v the_o mind_n and_o nature_n of_o man_n where_o they_o be_v alone_o they_o only_o help_v and_o assist_v unto_o the_o useful_a exercise_n of_o natural_a faculty_n and_o power_n and_o therefore_o where_o the_o heart_n be_v not_o saving_o renew_v no_o gift_n can_v stir_v up_o a_o save_a exercise_n of_o faith_n but_o where_o it_o be_v so_o they_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o cause_v the_o savour_n of_o it_o to_o flow_v forth_o 2._o be_v it_o so_o that_o there_o may_v be_v some_o evil_n find_v under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n what_o remedy_n for_o they_o may_v be_v propose_v be_v it_o that_o man_n shall_v renounce_v their_o use_n of_o it_o and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n only_o 1._o the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o spiritual_a gift_n whatever_o for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o liable_a unto_o abuse_n and_o shall_v we_o reject_v all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v the_o whole_a complexe_n of_o gospel_n gift_n for_o the_o commuication_n whereof_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v promise_v to_o continue_v his_o spirit_n with_o his_o church_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n because_o by_o some_o they_o be_v abuse_v 2._o not_o only_o the_o same_o but_o far_o great_a evil_n may_v be_v find_v in_o and_o under_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n which_o need_v no_o further_a demonstration_n than_o what_o it_o give_v of_o itself_o every_o day_n 3._o it_o be_v hard_o to_o understand_v how_o any_o benefit_n at_o all_o can_v accrue_v unto_o any_o by_o this_o relief_n when_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o other_o way_n be_v evident_a wherefore_o the_o enquiry_n remain_v how_o we_o may_v know_v unto_o our_o own_o satisfaction_n that_o the_o thought_n we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v from_o internal_a fountain_n of_o grace_n and_o so_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v whereunto_o all_o these_o thing_n do_v tend_v some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v offer_v towards_o satisfaction_n herein_o 1._o i_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v on_o the_o evidence_n before_o give_v that_o person_n who_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n and_o will_v diligent_o examine_v and_o try_v their_o own_o heart_n will_v be_v able_a to_o discern_v what_o real_a act_n of_o faith_n of_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n there_o be_v in_o their_o duty_n and_o consequent_o what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o their_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o general_n we_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o 1_o joh._n 5.10_o sincere_a faith_n will_v be_v its_o own_o evidence_n and_o where_o there_o be_v sincere_a act_n of_o faith_n they_o will_v evidence_n themselves_o if_o we_o try_v all_o thing_n impartial_o by_o the_o word_n but_o if_o man_n do_v as_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o do_v content_v themselves_o with_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o duty_n without_o a_o examination_n of_o their_o principle_n frames_n and_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o walk_v in_o all_o uncertainty_n 2._o when_o the_o soul_n find_v a_o sweet_a spiritual_a complacency_n in_o and_o after_o its_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o grace_n have_v be_v act_v in_o its_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o desire_n jer._n 31._o the_o prophet_n receive_v a_o long_a gracious_a message_n from_o god_n fill_v up_o with_o excellent_a promise_n and_o pathetical_a exhortation_n unto_o the_o church_n the_o whole_a be_v as_o it_o be_v sum_v up_o in_o the_o close_a of_o it_o ver._n 25._o for_o i_o have_v satiate_v the_o weary_a soul_n and_o i_o have_v replenish_v every_o sorrowful_a soul_n whereon_o the_o prophet_n add_v upon_o this_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v and_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o god_n gracious_a message_n have_v so_o compose_v his_o spirit_n and_o free_v his_o mind_n from_o trouble_n as_o that_o he_o be_v at_o quiet_a repose_n in_o himself_o like_o a_o man_n asleep_a but_o after_o the_o end_n of_o it_o he_o stir_v up_o himself_o unto_o a_o review_n and_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v speak_v unto_o he_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v or_o i_o stir_v up_o myself_o and_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v deliver_v unto_o i_o and_o say_v he_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o i_o find_v a_o gracious_a complacency_n in_o and_o refreshment_n unto_o my_o soul_n from_o what_o i_o have_v hear_v and_o receive_v so_o be_v it_o ofttimes_o with_o a_o soul_n that_o have_v have_v real_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n it_o find_v itself_o both_o in_o it_o and_o afterward_o when_o it_o be_v awaken_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o spiritual_o refresh_v it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o he_o this_o holy_a complacency_n this_o rest_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o mind_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o delight_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o duty_n they_o do_v not_o pray_v only_o because_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v nor_o yet_o because_o
they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o it_o so_o as_o that_o they_o can_v live_v without_o it_o but_o they_o have_v delight_n in_o it_o and_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o it_o be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o their_o daily_a food_n and_o refreshment_n now_o we_o can_v have_v no_o delight_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o what_o we_o have_v find_v some_o sweetness_n rest_v and_o complacency_n in_o without_o any_o such_o experience_n we_o may_v do_v or_o use_v any_o thing_n but_o can_v do_v it_o with_o delight_n and_o it_o arise_v 1._o from_o the_o approach_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o god_n therein_o it_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n a_o access_n unto_o god_n on_o a_o throne_n of_o grace_n ephes._n 2.18_o heb._n 10.19_o 20._o and_o when_o this_o access_n be_v animate_v by_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n the_o soul_n have_v a_o spiritual_a experience_n of_o a_o nearness_n in_o that_o approach_n now_o god_n be_v the_o fountain_n and_o centre_n of_o all_o spiritual_a refreshment_n rest_v and_o complacency_n and_o in_o such_o a_o access_n unto_o he_o there_o be_v a_o refresh_a taste_n of_o they_o communicate_v unto_o the_o soul_n psal._n 36.7_o 8_o 9_o how_o excellent_a be_v thy_o love_a kindness_n o_o god_n therefore_o the_o child_n of_o man_n put_v their_o trust_n under_o the_o shadow_n of_o thy_o wing_n they_o shall_v be_v abundant_o satisfy_v with_o the_o fatness_n of_o thy_o house_n and_o thou_o shall_v make_v they_o drink_v of_o the_o river_n of_o thy_o pleasure_n for_o with_o thou_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o life_n in_o thy_o light_n we_o shall_v see_v light_n god_n be_v propose_v in_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o love_a kindness_n which_o be_v comprehensive_a of_o his_o goodness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n and_o so_o be_v he_o also_o as_o the_o spring_n of_o life_n and_o light_n all_o spiritual_a power_n and_o joy_n those_o that_o believe_v be_v describe_v by_o their_o trust_n under_o the_o shadow_n of_o his_o wing_n in_o his_o worship_n the_o fatness_n of_o his_o house_n they_o make_v their_o approach_n unto_o he_o and_o the_o fruit_n hereof_o be_v that_o he_o make_v they_o to_o drink_v of_o the_o river_n of_o his_o pleasure_n the_o satisfy_n refresh_a stream_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o goodness_n they_o approach_v unto_o he_o as_o unto_o the_o fountain_n of_o life_n so_o as_o to_o drink_v of_o that_o fountain_n in_o renew_a communication_n of_o life_n and_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o light_n of_o god_n the_o light_n of_o his_o countenance_n to_o see_v light_n in_o satisfy_v joy_n in_o these_o thing_n do_v consist_v and_o from_o they_o do_v arise_v that_o spiritual_a complacency_n which_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v in_o their_o duty_n 2._o from_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o delight_n the_o grace_n wherein_o the_o life_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n do_v principal_o consist_v there_o be_v a_o suitableness_n unto_o our_o natural_a constitution_n and_o a_o secret_a complacency_n of_o our_o nature_n in_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o life_n natural_a for_o its_o own_o preservation_n and_o increase_n there_o be_v so_o in_o our_o spiritual_a constitution_n in_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o the_o power_n of_o our_o spiritual_a life_n unto_o its_o preservation_n and_o increase_n these_o grace_n in_o their_o due_a exercise_n do_v compose_v and_o refresh_v the_o mind_n as_o those_o which_o be_v perfective_a of_o its_o state_n which_o quell_v and_o cast_v out_o whatever_o trouble_v it_o thence_o a_o bless_a satisfaction_n and_o complacency_n befall_v the_o soul_n herein_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o beside_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v never_o real_o act_v on_o christ_n but_o they_o prepare_v and_o make_v meet_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v communication_n of_o love_n and_o grace_n from_o he_o which_o it_o never_o fail_v of_o although_o it_o be_v not_o always_o sensible_a thereof_o 3._o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n unto_o our_o sincerity_n both_o in_o aim_n end_n and_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n hence_o a_o gracious_a repose_n of_o mind_n and_o great_a satisfactoriness_n do_v ensue_v if_o we_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o these_o thing_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o we_o walk_v at_o random_n in_o the_o best_a of_o our_o duty_n for_o they_o be_v among_o the_o principal_a thing_n that_o we_o do_v or_o aught_o to_o pray_v for_o and_o if_o we_o have_v not_o experience_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o prayer_n in_o our_o heart_n we_o neither_o have_v advantage_n by_o they_o nor_o give_v glory_n unto_o god_n in_o they_o but_o yet_o here_o as_o in_o most_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n one_o of_o the_o worst_a of_o vice_n be_v ready_a to_o impose_v itself_o in_o the_o room_n and_o place_n of_o the_o best_a of_o our_o grace_n and_o this_o be_v self-pleasing_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n this_o instead_o of_o a_o grace_n steep_v in_o humility_n as_o all_o true_a grace_n be_v be_v a_o vile_a effect_n of_o spiritual_a pride_n or_o the_o offering_n of_o a_o sacrifice_n unto_o our_o own_o net_n and_o drag_v it_o be_v a_o glory_v in_o the_o flesh_n for_o whatever_o of_o self_n any_o do_v glory_n in_o it_o be_v but_o flesh._n when_o man_n have_v have_v enlargement_n in_o their_o expression_n and_o especial_o when_o they_o apprehend_v that_o other_o be_v satisfy_v or_o affect_v therewith_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o have_v a_o secret_a self-pleasing_a in_o what_o they_o have_v do_v which_o before_o they_o be_v aware_a turn_n into_o pride_n and_o a_o noxious_a elation_n of_o mind_n the_o same_o may_v befall_v man_n in_o their_o most_o secret_a duty_n perform_v outward_o by_o the_o aid_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n but_o this_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o and_o contrary_n unto_o that_o spiritual_a complacency_n in_o duty_n which_o we_o speak_v of_o which_o yet_o it_o will_v pretend_v unto_o until_o it_o be_v diligent_o examine_v the_o language_n of_o this_o spiritual_a complacency_n be_v i_o will_v go_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n i_o will_v make_v mention_n of_o thy_o righteousness_n of_o thy_o only_a psal._n 71.16_o that_o of_o spiritual_a pride_n be_v god_n i_o thank_v thou_o that_o i_o have_v do_v thus_o and_o thus_o as_o it_o be_v express_v by_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi that_o be_v in_o god_n alone_o this_o be_v in_o self_n that_o draw_v forth_o the_o savour_n of_o all_o grace_n this_o immediate_o cover_v and_o bury_v they_o all_o if_o there_o be_v any_o in_o the_o sâ—ul_a that_o fill_v the_o soul_n eminent_o with_o humility_n and_o self-abasement_n this_o with_o a_o lift_n up_o of_o the_o mind_n and_o proud_a self-conceit_n that_o cast_v out_o all_o remembrance_n of_o what_o we_o have_v do_v ourselves_o retain_v only_o a_o sense_n of_o what_o we_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n of_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n this_o blot_n out_o all_o remembrance_n of_o what_o we_o have_v free_o receive_v from_o god_n and_o retain_v only_o what_o we_o have_v do_v ourselves_o wherever_o it_o be_v there_o be_v no_o due_a sense_n either_o of_o the_o greatness_n or_o goodness_n of_o god_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v say_v that_o if_o it_o be_v so_o they_o for_o their_o part_n be_v cut_v off_o they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o any_o such_o spiritual_a rest_n and_o complacency_n in_o god_n in_o or_o after_o their_o prayer_n at_o the_o best_a they_o begin_v they_o with_o tear_n and_o end_v they_o in_o sorrow_n and_o sometime_o they_o know_v not_o what_o be_v become_v of_o they_o but_o fear_v that_o god_n be_v not_o glorify_v by_o they_o nor_o their_o own_o soul_n better_v i_o answer_v 1._o there_o be_v great_a spiritual_a refreshment_n in_o that_o godly_a sorrow_n which_o be_v at_o work_n in_o our_o prayer_n where_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n he_o cause_v mourn_v and_o in_o that_o mourn_a there_o be_v joy_n 2._o the_o secret_a encouragement_n which_o we_o receive_v by_o pray_v to_o adhere_v unto_o god_n constant_o in_o prayer_n arise_v from_o some_o experience_n of_o this_o holy_a complacency_n though_o we_o have_v not_o a_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o it_o 3._o perhaps_o some_o of_o they_o who_o make_v this_o complaint_n if_o they_o will_v awaken_v and_o consider_v will_v find_v that_o their_o soul_n at_o least_o sometime_o have_v be_v thus_o refresh_v and_o bring_v unto_o a_o holy_a rest_n in_o god_n 4._o then_o shall_v you_o know_v the_o lord_n if_o you_o follow_v on_o to_o know_v he_o abide_v in_o seek_v after_o this_o complacency_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n and_o you_o shall_v attain_v it_o 3._o it_o be_v a_o sure_a evidence_n that_o our_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o supplication_n be_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v not_o mere_o occasion_v by_o the_o
duty_n itself_o when_o we_o find_v the_o daily_a fruit_n and_o advantage_n of_o they_o especial_o in_o the_o preservation_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o a_o holy_a humble_a watchful_a frame_n innumerable_a be_v the_o advantage_n benefit_n and_o effect_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v common_o speak_v unto_o growth_n in_o grace_n and_o consolation_n be_v the_o substance_n of_o they_o where_o there_o be_v continuance_n in_o prayer_n there_o will_v be_v spiritual_a growth_n in_o some_o proportion_n for_o man_n to_o be_v earnest_a in_o prayer_n and_o thriftless_a in_o grace_n be_v a_o certain_a indication_n of_o prevalent_a corruption_n and_o want_v of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a in_o prayer_n itself_o if_o a_o man_n eat_v his_o daily_a food_n let_v he_o eat_v never_o so_o much_o or_o so_o often_o if_o he_o be_v not_o nourish_v by_o it_o his_o body_n be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o prevalent_a distemper_n and_o so_o be_v his_o spiritual_a constitution_n who_o thrive_v not_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o food_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n but_o that_o which_o i_o fix_v upon_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o present_a enquiry_n be_v the_o frame_n that_o it_o preserve_v the_o soul_n in_o it_o will_v keep_v it_o humble_a and_o upon_o a_o diligent_a watch_n as_o unto_o its_o disposition_n and_o act_n he_o who_o pray_v as_o he_o ought_v will_v endeavour_v to_o live_v as_o he_o pray_v this_o none_o can_v do_v who_o do_v not_o with_o diligence_n keep_v his_o heart_n unto_o the_o thing_n he_o have_v pray_v about_o to_o pray_v earnest_o and_o live_v careless_o be_v to_o proclaim_v that_o a_o man_n be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v in_o his_o prayer_n hereby_o than_o we_o shall_v know_v what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o those_o spiritual_a thought_n which_o our_o mind_n be_v exercise_v withal_o in_o our_o supplication_n if_o they_o be_v influence_v unto_o a_o constant_a daily_a watch_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o that_o frame_n of_o spirit_n those_o disposition_n and_o inclination_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o we_o pray_v for_o they_o be_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n if_o there_o be_v general_o a_o unsuitableness_n in_o our_o mind_n unto_o what_o we_o seem_v to_o contend_v for_o in_o our_o prayer_n the_o gift_n may_v be_v in_o exercise_n but_o the_o grace_n be_v want_v if_o a_o man_n be_v every_o day_n on_o the_o exchange_n and_o there_o talk_v diligent_o and_o earnest_o about_o merchandise_n and_o the_o affair_n of_o trade_n but_o when_o he_o come_v home_n think_v no_o more_o of_o they_o because_o indeed_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v no_o interest_n in_o they_o he_o may_v be_v a_o very_a poor_a man_n notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n and_o he_o may_v be_v spiritual_o very_o poor_a who_o be_v on_o occasion_n fervent_a in_o prayer_n if_o when_o he_o retire_v unto_o himself_o he_o be_v not_o careful_a and_o diligent_a about_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o 4._o when_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o due_a preparation_n of_o heart_n unto_o the_o duty_n do_v excite_v and_o animate_v the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n and_o not_o the_o gift_n make_v impression_n on_o the_o affection_n then_o be_v we_o spiritual_o mind_a therein_o gift_n be_v servant_n not_o ruler_n in_o the_o mind_n be_v bestow_v on_o we_o to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o grace_n not_o to_o lead_v it_o but_o to_o follow_v it_o and_o to_o be_v ready_a with_o their_o assistance_n on_o its_o exercise_n for_o the_o most_o part_n where_o they_o lead_v all_o they_o be_v all_o alone_a this_o be_v the_o natural_a order_n of_o these_o thing_n grace_n habitual_o incline_v and_o dispose_v the_o heart_n unto_o this_o duty_n providence_n and_o rule_n give_v the_o occasion_n for_o its_o excercise_n sense_n of_o duty_n call_v for_o preparation_n grace_n come_v into_o actual_a exercise_n gift_n come_v in_o with_o their_o assistance_n if_o they_o lead_v all_o all_o be_v out_o of_o order_n it_o may_v be_v otherwise_o sometime_o a_o person_n indispose_v and_o lifeless_a engage_v into_o prayer_n in_o a_o way_n of_o obedience_n upon_o conviction_n of_o duty_n may_v in_o and_o by_o the_o gift_n have_v his_o affection_n excite_v and_o grace_n engage_v unto_o its_o proper_a work_n it_o may_v be_v so_o i_o say_v but_o let_v man_n take_v heed_n how_o they_o trust_v unto_o this_o order_n and_o method_n for_o where_o it_o be_v so_o there_o may_v be_v little_a or_o nothing_o of_o the_o exercise_n of_o true_a grace_n in_o all_o their_o fervour_n and_o commotion_n of_o affection_n but_o when_o the_o genuine_a act_n of_o faith_n love_n holy_a reverence_n and_o gracious_a desire_n do_v stir_v up_o the_o gift_n unto_o its_o exercise_n call_v in_o its_o assistance_n unto_o the_o expression_n of_o themselves_o then_o be_v the_o heart_n and_o mind_n in_o their_o proper_a order_n 5._o it_o be_v so_o when_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n be_v equal_o regard_v and_o attend_v unto_o with_o prayer_n itself_o he_o all_o who_o religion_n lie_v in_o prayer_n and_o hearing_n have_v none_o at_o all_o god_n have_v a_o equal_a respect_n unto_o all_o other_o duty_n and_o so_o must_v we_o have_v also_o so_o be_v it_o express_v as_o unto_o the_o instance_n of_o alm_n act_v 10.31_o and_o james_n place_v all_o religion_n herein_o because_o there_o be_v none_o without_o it_o jam._n 1.27_o i_o shall_v not_o value_v his_o prayer_n at_o all_o be_v he_o never_o so_o earnest_a and_o frequent_a in_o they_o who_o give_v not_o alm_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n and_o this_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n be_v require_v of_o we_o who_o be_v minister_n that_o we_o be_v not_o like_o a_o hand_n set_v up_o in_o cross_a way_n direct_v other_o which_o way_n to_o go_v but_o stay_v behind_o itself_o this_o digression_n about_o the_o rise_n and_o spring_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o prayer_n i_o judge_v not_o unnecessary_a in_o such_o a_o time_n and_o season_n wherein_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v very_o jealous_a lest_o gift_n impose_v themselves_o in_o the_o room_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v careful_a that_o they_o be_v employ_v only_o unto_o their_o proper_a end_n which_o be_v to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o grace_n in_o its_o exercise_n and_o not_o otherwise_o 3._o there_o be_v another_o occasion_n of_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o do_v not_o spring_v from_o a_o live_a principle_n within_o and_o so_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o this_o be_v the_o discourse_n of_o other_o they_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n will_v be_v speak_v one_o to_o another_o of_o the_o thing_n wherein_o his_o glory_n be_v concern_v mal._n 3.16_o to_o declare_v the_o righteousness_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v the_o delight_n of_o his_o saint_n psal._n 145._o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o great_a be_v the_o lord_n and_o great_o to_o be_v praise_v and_o his_o greatness_n be_v unsearchable_a one_o generation_n shall_v praise_v thy_o work_n to_o another_o and_o shall_v declare_v thy_o mighty_a work_n i_o will_v speak_v of_o the_o glorious_a honour_n of_o thy_o majesty_n and_o of_o thy_o wondrous_a work_n and_o man_n shall_v speak_v of_o the_o might_n of_o thy_o terrible_a act_n and_o i_o will_v declare_v thy_o greatness_n they_o shall_v abundant_o utter_v the_o memory_n of_o thy_o great_a goodness_n and_o shall_v sing_v of_o thy_o righteousness_n the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a and_o full_a of_o compassion_n slow_a to_o anger_n and_o of_o great_a mercy_n and_o according_o there_o be_v some_o who_o be_v ready_a on_o all_o occasion_n to_o be_v speak_v or_o make_v mention_n of_o thing_n divine_a spiritual_a and_o holy_a and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o there_o be_v more_o of_o they_o all_o the_o flagitious_a sin_n that_o the_o world_n be_v fill_v withal_o be_v not_o a_o great_a evidence_n of_o the_o degeneracy_n of_o christian_a religion_n than_o this_o be_v that_o it_o be_v grow_v unusual_a yea_o a_o shame_n or_o scorn_v for_o man_n to_o speak_v together_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o so_o when_o religion_n be_v in_o its_o primitive_a power_n and_o glory_n nor_o be_v it_o so_o with_o they_o who_o real_o fear_v god_n and_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o duty_n some_o i_o say_v there_o be_v who_o embrace_v all_o occasion_n of_o spiritual_a communication_n those_o with_o who_o they_o do_v converse_v if_o they_o be_v not_o profligate_v if_o they_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n can_v but_o so_o far_o comply_v with_o what_o they_o say_v as_o to_o think_v of_o the_o thing_n speak_v which_o be_v spiritual_a oft_o time_n the_o track_n and_o course_n of_o man_n thought_n lie_v so_o out_o of_o the_o way_n be_v so_o contrary_a unto_o such_o thing_n that_o they_o seem_v strange_a unto_o they_o they_o give_v they_o no_o entertainment_n you_o do_v but_o cross_v their_o way_n with_o such_o discourse_n whereon_o they_o stand_v still_o a_o little_a and_o
in_o fear_n of_o death_n and_o the_o like_a and_o withal_o have_v some_o renew_a conviction_n of_o sin_n in_o commission_n or_o omission_n of_o duty_n and_o thereon_o do_v endeavour_n to_o be_v more_o spiritual_o mind_v in_o the_o constant_a exercise_n of_o our_o thought_n on_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o we_o fail_v in_o and_o these_o thought_n decay_n as_o our_o conviction_n in_o the_o cause_n of_o they_o do_v wear_v off_o or_o be_v remove_v we_o have_v attain_v a_o very_a low_a degree_n in_o this_o grace_n if_o we_o have_v any_o interest_n in_o it_o at_o all_o water_n that_o arise_v and_o flow_v from_o a_o live_a spring_n run_v equal_o and_o constant_o unless_o it_o be_v obstruct_v or_o divert_v by_o some_o violent_a opposition_n but_o that_o which_o be_v from_o thunder-shower_n run_v furious_o for_o a_o season_n but_o be_v quick_o dry_v up_o so_o be_v those_o spiritual_a thought_n which_o arise_v from_o a_o prevalent_a internal_a principle_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n they_o be_v even_o and_o constant_a unless_o a_o interruption_n be_v put_v upon_o they_o for_o a_o season_n by_o temptation_n but_o those_o which_o be_v excite_v by_o the_o thunder_n of_o conviction_n however_o their_o stream_n may_v be_v fill_v for_o a_o season_n they_o quick_o dry_v up_o and_o utter_o decay_v 2._o such_o thought_n may_v arise_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n not_o spiritual_o mind_v from_o outward_a mean_n and_o occasion_n such_o i_o intend_v as_o be_v indeed_o useful_a yea_o appoint_v of_o god_n for_o this_o end_n among_o other_o that_o they_o may_v ingenerate_v and_o stir_v up_o holy_a thought_n and_o affection_n in_o we_o but_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o their_o use_n and_o operation_n in_o some_o they_o excite_v the_o inward_a principle_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o act_v in_o holy_a thought_n according_a unto_o its_o own_o sanctify_a disposition_n and_o prevalent_a affection_n this_o be_v their_o proper_a end_n and_o use._n in_o other_o they_o occasional_o suggest_v such_o thought_n unto_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n which_o spring_v only_o from_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o thing_n propose_v unto_o they_o with_o respect_n unto_o this_o end_n also_o they_o be_v of_o singular_a use_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n howbeit_o such_o thought_n do_v not_o prove_v man_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v where_o you_o till_o and_o manure_v your_o land_n if_o it_o bring_v forth_o plentiful_a crop_n of_o corn_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o the_o soil_v it_o self_n be_v good_a and_o fertile_a the_o dress_n of_o it_o only_o give_v occasion_n and_o advantage_n to_o put_v forth_o its_o own_o fruitbearing_a virtue_n but_o if_o in_o the_o till_v of_o land_n you_o lay_v much_o dung_n upon_o it_o and_o it_o bring_v forth_o here_o and_o there_o a_o handful_n where_o the_o dung_n lie_v you_o will_v say_v the_o soil_n be_v barren_a it_o bring_v forth_o nothing_o of_o itself_o these_o mean_n that_o we_o shall_v treat_v of_o be_v as_o the_o till_v of_o a_o fruitful_a soil_n which_o help_v it_o in_o bring_v forth_o its_o fruit_n by_o exciting_a its_o own_o virtue_n and_o power_n they_o stir_v up_o holy_a affection_n unto_o holy_a thought_n and_o desire_n but_o in_o other_o who_o heart_n be_v barren_a they_o only_o serve_v as_o it_o be_v some_o of_o they_o here_o and_o there_o to_o stir_v up_o spiritual_a thought_n which_o give_v no_o evidence_n of_o a_o gracious_a heart_n or_o spirit_n but_o because_o this_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a importance_n it_o shall_v be_v handle_v distinct_o by_o itself_o chap._n iii_o outward_a mean_n and_o occasion_n of_o thought_n of_o such_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o do_v not_o prove_v man_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v preach_v of_o the_o word_n exercise_n of_o gift_n prayer_n how_o we_o may_v know_v whether_o our_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o prayer_n be_v true_o spiritual_a thought_n prove_v we_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v 1._o such_o a_o mean_n be_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n itself_o it_o be_v observe_v concern_v many_o in_o the_o gospel_n that_o they_o hear_v it_o willing_o receive_v it_o with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o upon_o the_o preach_a of_o it_o and_o we_o see_v the_o same_o thing_n exemplify_v in_o multitude_n every_o day_n but_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v without_o many_o thought_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o such_o person_n about_o the_o spiritual_a thing_n of_o the_o word_n for_o they_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o such_o thought_n and_o be_v wrought_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n will_v produce_v more_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n yet_o be_v they_o all_o hypocrite_n concern_v who_o these_o thing_n be_v speak_v and_o be_v never_o spiritual_o mind_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o miscarriage_n be_v give_v we_o by_o our_o saviour_n math._n 13.20_o 21._o he_o that_o receive_v the_o seed_n into_o stony_a place_n the_o same_o be_v he_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o anon_o receive_v it_o with_o joy_n yet_o have_v he_o not_o root_v in_o himself_o but_o dure_v for_o a_o while_n the_o good_a thought_n they_o have_v proceed_v not_o from_o any_o principle_n in_o themselves_o neither_o their_o affection_n nor_o their_o thought_n of_o these_o thing_n have_v any_o internal_a root_n whereon_o they_o shall_v grow_v so_o be_v it_o with_o many_o who_o live_v under_o the_o present_a dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n they_o have_v thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n continual_o suggest_v unto_o they_o and_o they_o do_v abide_v with_o they_o more_o or_o less_o according_a as_o they_o be_v affect_v for_o i_o speak_v not_o of_o they_o who_o be_v either_o despiser_n of_o what_o they_o hear_v or_o way-side_n hearer_n who_o understand_v nothing_o of_o what_o they_o hear_v and_o immediate_o lose_v all_o sense_n of_o it_o all_o thought_n about_o it_o but_o i_o speak_v of_o they_o who_o attend_v with_o some_o diligence_n and_o receive_v the_o word_n with_o some_o joy_n these_o insensible_o grow_v in_o knowledge_n and_o understanding_n and_o therefore_o can_v be_v without_o some_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n howbeit_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o be_v as_o be_v say_v but_o like_v unto_o water_n that_o run_v after_o a_o shower_n of_o rain_n they_o pour_v out_o themselves_o as_o if_o they_o proceed_v from_o some_o strong_a live_a spring_n whereas_o indeed_o they_o have_v none_o at_o all_o when_o once_o the_o water_n of_o the_o shower_n be_v spend_v their_o channel_n be_v dry_a there_o be_v nothing_o in_o it_o but_o stone_n and_o dirt_n when_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o word_n fall_v on_o such_o person_n as_o shower_n of_o rain_n it_o give_v a_o course_n sometime_o great_a sometime_o less_o unto_o their_o thought_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o they_o have_v not_o a_o well_o of_o water_n in_o they_o spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n wherefore_o after_o a_o while_n their_o mind_n be_v dry_v up_o from_o such_o thought_n nothing_o remain_v in_o they_o but_o earth_n and_o that_o perhaps_o foul_a and_o dirty_a it_o must_v be_v observe_v that_o the_o best_a of_o man_n the_o most_o holy_a and_o spiritual_o mind_v may_v have_v nay_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n excite_v multiply_a and_o confirm_v by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n it_o be_v one_o end_n of_o its_o dispensation_n one_o principal_a use_n of_o it_o in_o they_o by_o who_o it_o be_v receive_v and_o it_o have_v this_o effect_n two_o way_n 1._o as_o it_o be_v the_o spiritual_a food_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o its_o principle_n of_o life_n and_o grace_n be_v maintain_v and_o strengthen_v the_o more_o this_o be_v do_v the_o more_o shall_v we_o thrive_v in_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v 2._o as_o it_o administer_v occasion_n unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o grace_n for_o propose_v the_o proper_a object_n of_o faith_n love_n fear_v trust_v reverence_n unto_o the_o soul_n it_o draw_v forth_o all_o those_o grace_n into_o exercise_n wherefore_o although_o the_o vigorous_a act_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n be_v occasional_a from_o the_o word_n be_v more_o under_o and_o after_o the_o preach_n of_o it_o than_o at_o other_o time_n it_o be_v no_o more_o but_o what_o arise_v from_o the_o nature_n and_o use_n of_o the_o ordinance_n by_o god_n own_o appointment_n nor_o be_v it_o any_o evidence_n that_o those_o with_o who_o it_o be_v so_o be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o they_o be_v yet_o where_o man_n have_v no_o other_o thought_n of_o this_o matter_n but_o what_o be_v occasion_v by_o the_o outward_a dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n such_o thought_n do_v not_o prove_v they_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v their_o endeavour_n in_o they_o be_v like_o those_o of_o man_n in_o a_o dream_n under_o some_o oppression_n of_o their_o spirit_n their_o imagination_n fix_v on_o something_o or_o other_o that_o be_v
in_o the_o moon_n and_o star_n than_o in_o the_o sun_n but_o because_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n be_v great_a than_o our_o visive_a faculty_n can_v direct_o bear_v and_o behold_v so_o we_o can_v more_o clear_o discover_v the_o truth_n and_o distinct_a nature_n of_o thing_n moral_a and_o natural_a than_o we_o can_v of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a see_v john_n 3.14_o not_o that_o there_o be_v more_o substance_n or_o reality_n in_o they_o but_o because_o the_o ability_n of_o our_o understanding_n be_v more_o suit_v unto_o the_o comprehension_n of_o they_o the_o other_o be_v above_o we_o we_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o our_o mind_n be_v liable_a to_o be_v hinder_v and_o disorder_v in_o their_o apprehension_n of_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a by_o ignorance_n temptation_n and_o prejudices_fw-la of_o all_o sort_n in_o nothing_o more_o be_v man_n subject_a unto_o mistake_n than_o in_o the_o application_n of_o thing_n unto_o themselves_o and_o a_o judgement_n of_o their_o interest_n in_o they_o fear_v self-love_n with_o the_o prevalency_n of_o temptation_n and_o corruption_n do_v all_o engage_v their_o power_n to_o darken_v the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o to_o pervert_v its_o judgement_n in_o no_o case_n do_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o of_o sin_n which_o be_v all_o one_o more_o act_n itself_o hence_o multitude_n say_v peace_n to_o themselves_o to_o who_o god_n do_v not_o speak_v peace_n and_o some_o who_o be_v child_n of_o light_n do_v yet_o walk_v in_o darkness_n hence_o be_v that_o fervent_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n for_o help_v in_o this_o case_n ephes._n 1.16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o there_o be_v also_o a_o great_a similitude_n between_o temporary_a faith_n and_o that_o which_o be_v save_v and_o durable_a and_o between_o gift_n and_o grace_n in_o their_o operation_n which_o be_v that_o that_o be_v under_o present_a consideration_n it_o be_v acknowledge_v therefore_o that_o without_o the_o especial_a light_n and_o conduct_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n no_o man_n can_v make_v such_o a_o judgement_n of_o his_o state_n and_o his_o action_n as_o shall_v be_v a_o stable_a foundation_n of_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n and_o of_o obtain_v peace_n unto_o his_o own_o soul._n and_o therefore_o the_o great_a part_n of_o mankind_n do_v constant_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o these_o thing_n but_o ordinary_o under_o this_o bless_a conduct_n in_o the_o search_n of_o ourselves_o and_o the_o concernment_n of_o our_o duty_n we_o may_v come_v unto_o a_o satisfaction_n whether_o they_o be_v influence_v by_o faith_n and_o have_v grace_n exercise_v in_o they_o especial_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n or_o whether_o it_o derive_v from_o the_o power_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n raise_v by_o light_n and_o spiritual_a gift_n only_o and_o so_o whether_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n therein_o do_v spring_n from_o a_o vital_a principle_n of_o grace_n or_o whether_o they_o come_v from_o occasional_a impression_n on_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n itself_o if_o man_n be_v willing_a to_o deceive_v themselves_o or_o to_o hide_v themselves_o from_o themselves_o to_o walk_v with_o god_n at_o all_o per_fw-la adventure_n to_o leave_v all_o thing_n at_o hazard_n to_o put_v off_o all_o trial_n unto_o that_o at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o so_o never_o call_v themselves_o unto_o a_o account_n as_o unto_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o duty_n in_o any_o particular_a instance_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v make_v any_o distinction_n in_o this_o matter_n as_o unto_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o their_o thought_n in_o spiritual_a duty_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v hereunto_o 1._o that_o we_o impartial_o and_o severe_o examine_v and_o try_v the_o frames_n and_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o thereon_o not_o be_v afraid_a to_o speak_v that_o plain_o unto_o our_o soul_n which_o the_o word_n speak_v unto_o we_o this_o diligent_a search_n ought_v to_o respect_v our_o principle_n aim_n end_n act_n with_o the_o whole_a deportment_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o every_o duty_n see_v 2_o cor._n 13.5_o if_o a_o man_n receive_v much_o money_n and_o look_v only_o on_o the_o outward_a form_n and_o superscription_n when_o he_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v great_a store_n of_o currant_n coin_n in_o gold_n and_o silver_n he_o may_v have_v only_a heap_n of_o lead_n or_o copper_n by_o he_o but_o he_o that_o trade_v in_o it_o as_o the_o comfort_n and_o support_v of_o his_o natural_a life_n and_o condition_n he_o will_v try_v what_o he_o receive_v both_o by_o the_o balance_n and_o the_o touchstone_n as_o the_o occasion_n require_v especial_o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o time_n when_o much_o adulterate_v coin_n be_v passant_a in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o a_o man_n reckon_v on_o his_o duty_n by_o tale_n and_o number_n he_o may_v be_v utter_o deceive_v and_o be_v spiritual_o poor_a and_o a_o bankrupt_a when_o he_o esteem_v himself_o rich_a increase_v in_o good_n and_o want_v nothing_o some_o duty_n may_v appear_o hold_v in_o the_o balance_n as_o to_o weight_n which_o will_v not_o hold_v it_o at_o the_o touchstone_n as_o to_o worth_n both_o mean_n be_v to_o be_v use_v if_o we_o will_v not_o be_v mistake_v in_o our_o account_n thus_o god_n himself_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o multitude_n of_o duty_n call_v the_o people_n to_o try_v and_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o be_v such_o as_o have_v faith_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o and_o so_o like_a to_o have_v acceptance_n with_o he_o isa._n 58.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o 2._o add_v we_o must_v unto_o our_o own_o diligent_a enquiry_n fervent_a prayer_n unto_o god_n that_o he_o will_v search_v and_o try_v we_o as_o unto_o our_o sincerity_n and_o discover_v unto_o we_o the_o true_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n hereof_o we_o have_v a_o express_a example_n psal._n 139.23_o 24._o search_v i_o o_o god_n and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o and_o lead_v i_o in_o the_o way_n everlasting_a this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v have_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n witness_v unto_o our_o sincerity_n with_o our_o own_o spirit_n there_o be_v need_n of_o call_v in_o divine_a assistance_n in_o this_o matter_n both_o from_o the_o importance_n of_o it_o and_o from_o its_o difficulty_n god_n alone_o know_v full_o and_o perfect_o what_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n i_o no_o way_n doubt_v but_o that_o in_o the_o impartial_a use_n of_o these_o mean_n a_o man_n may_v come_v to_o assure_a satisfaction_n in_o his_o own_o mind_n such_o as_o wherein_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v deceive_v whether_o he_o do_v animate_v and_o quicken_v his_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o duty_n with_o inward_a vital_a grace_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v impression_n on_o his_o mind_n by_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o duty_n a_o duty_n this_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n and_o necessity_n now_o hypocrisy_n have_v make_v so_o great_a a_o inroad_a on_o profession_n and_o gift_n have_v doflowred_a grace_n in_o its_o principal_a operation_n no_o person_n be_v in_o great_a danger_n of_o walk_v at_o hazard_n with_o god_n than_o those_o who_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n in_o duty_n unto_o their_o own_o satisfaction_n and_o other_o for_o they_o may_v countenance_v themselves_o with_o a_o appearance_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o in_o reality_n and_o power_n when_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o it_o in_o they_o and_o so_o it_o have_v fall_v out_o we_o have_v see_v many_o earnest_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o gift_n who_o have_v turn_v vile_a and_o debauch_a apostate_n some_o have_v be_v know_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o a_o indulgence_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o yet_o to_o abide_v constant_a in_o their_o duty_n isa._n 1.15_o and_o we_o may_v hear_v prayer_n sometime_o that_o open_o discover_v themselves_o unto_o spiritual_a sense_n to_o be_v the_o labour_n of_o the_o brain_n by_o the_o help_n of_o gift_n in_o memory_n and_o invention_n without_o a_o evidence_n of_o any_o mixture_n of_o humility_n reverence_n or_o godly_a fear_n without_o any_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n they_o flow_v as_o wine_n yet_o smell_v and_o taste_v of_o the_o unsavoury_a cask_n from_o whence_o they_o proceed_v it_o be_v necessary_a therefore_o that_o we_o shall_v put_v ourselves_o on_o the_o severe_a trial_n lest_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v not_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o spiritual_a duty_n gift_n be_v gracious_a vouchsafement_n of_o christ_n to_o make_v grace_n useful_a unto_o ourselves_o and_o other_o yea_o they_o may_v make_v they_o useful_a unto_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o who_o have_v no_o grace_n in_o themselves_o but_o as_o
unto_o our_o own_o soul_n they_o be_v of_o no_o other_o advantage_n or_o benefit_n but_o to_o stir_v up_o grace_n unto_o its_o proper_a exercise_n and_o to_o be_v a_o vehicle_n to_o carry_v it_o on_o in_o its_o proper_a use_n if_o we_o do_v not_o always_o regard_v this_o in_o their_o exercise_n we_o have_v better_o be_v without_o they_o if_o instead_o hereof_o they_o once_o begin_v to_o impose_v themselves_o practical_o upon_o we_o so_o as_o that_o we_o rest_v in_o spiritual_a light_n act_v our_o invention_n memory_n and_o judgement_n with_o a_o ready_a utterance_n or_o such_o as_o it_o be_v there_o be_v no_o form_n of_o prayer_n can_v be_v more_o prejudicial_a unto_o our_o soul_n as_o wine_n if_o take_v moderate_o and_o seasonable_o help_v the_o stomach_n in_o digestion_n and_o quicken_v the_o natural_a spirit_n enable_v the_o power_n of_o nature_n unto_o their_o duty_n be_v useful_a and_o helpful_a unto_o it_o but_o if_o it_o be_v take_v in_o excess_n it_o do_v not_o help_v nature_n but_o oppress_v it_o and_o take_v on_o itself_o to_o do_v what_o nature_n shall_v be_v assist_v unto_o it_o fill_v man_n carcase_n with_o disease_n as_o well_o as_o their_o soul_n with_o sin_n so_o while_o spiritual_a gift_n be_v use_v and_o employ_v only_o to_o excite_v aid_n and_o assist_v grace_n in_o its_o operation_n they_o be_v unutterable_o useful_a but_o if_o they_o put_v themselves_o in_o the_o room_n thereof_o to_o do_v all_o that_o grace_n shall_v do_v they_o be_v hurtful_a and_o pernicious_a we_o have_v need_v therefore_o to_o be_v very_o diligent_a in_o this_o enquiry_n whether_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n even_o in_o our_o prayer_n be_v not_o rather_o occasion_v from_o the_o duty_n than_o spring_n from_o a_o gracious_a principle_n in_o our_o heart_n or_o be_v the_o act_n of_o real_a save_a grace_n 2._o where_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o prayer_n be_v occasional_a only_o in_o the_o way_n before_o describe_v such_o prayer_n will_v not_o be_v a_o mean_n of_o spiritual_a growth_n unto_o the_o soul._n they_o will_v not_o make_v the_o soul_n humble_a holy_a watchful_a and_o diligent_a in_o universal_a obedience_n grace_n will_v not_o thrive_v under_o the_o great_a constancy_n in_o such_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o astonish_a thing_n to_o see_v how_o under_o frequency_n of_o prayer_n and_o a_o seem_a fervency_n therein_o many_o of_o we_o be_v at_o a_o stand_n as_o to_o visible_a thrive_a in_o the_o fruit_n of_o grace_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v without_o any_o increase_n of_o strength_n in_o the_o root_n of_o it_o god_n hand_n be_v not_o shorten_v that_o he_o can_v save_v nor_o his_o ear_n deafen_a that_o he_o can_v hear_v he_o be_v the_o same_o as_o in_o the_o day_n of_o old_a when_o our_o father_n cry_v unto_o he_o and_o be_v deliver_v when_o they_o trust_v in_o he_o and_o be_v not_o confound_v jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o same_o yesterday_o and_o to_o day_n and_o for_o ever_o prayer_n be_v the_o same_o that_o it_o be_v and_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o of_o its_o prevalency_n while_o this_o world_n endure_v whence_o be_v it_o then_o that_o there_o be_v so_o much_o prayer_n among_o we_o and_o so_o little_a success_n i_o speak_v not_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o outward_a dispensation_n of_o divine_a providence_n in_o affliction_n or_o persecution_n wherein_o god_n always_o act_n in_o a_o way_n of_o sovereignty_n and_o ofttimes_o give_v the_o most_o useful_a answer_n unto_o our_o prayer_n by_o deny_v our_o request_n i_o intend_v that_o only_o whereof_o the_o psalmist_n give_v we_o his_o experience_n psal._n 138.3_o in_o the_o day_n when_o i_o cry_v thou_o answer_v i_o and_o strengthn_v i_o with_o strength_n in_o my_o soul._n where_o prayer_n be_v effectual_a they_o will_v bring_v in_o spiritual_a strength_n but_o the_o prayer_n of_o many_o seem_v to_o be_v very_o spiritual_a and_o to_o express_v all_o conceivable_a supply_n of_o grace_n and_o they_o be_v persist_v in_o with_o constancy_n and_o god_n forbid_v we_o shall_v judge_v they_o to_o be_v hypocritical_a and_o whole_o insincere_a yet_o be_v there_o a_o defect_n somewhere_o which_o shall_v be_v inquire_v after_o for_o they_o be_v not_o so_o answer_v as_o that_o they_o who_o pray_v they_o be_v strengthen_v with_o strength_n in_o their_o soul_n there_o be_v not_o that_o spiritual_a thrive_a that_o growth_n in_o grace_n which_o may_v be_v expect_v to_o accompany_v such_o supplication_n i_o know_v that_o a_o man_n may_v pray_v often_o pray_v sincere_o and_o frequent_o for_o a_o especial_a mercy_n grace_n or_o deliverance_n from_o a_o particular_a temptation_n and_o yet_o no_o spiritual_a supply_n of_o strength_n unto_o his_o own_o experience_n come_v in_o thereby_o so_o paul_n pray_v thrice_o for_o the_o removal_n of_o his_o temptation_n and_o yet_o have_v the_o exercise_n of_o it_o continue_v in_o such_o a_o case_n there_o may_v be_v no_o defect_n in_o prayer_n and_o yet_o the_o grace_n in_o particular_a aim_v at_o not_o be_v attain_v for_o god_n have_v other_o holy_a end_n to_o accomplish_v hereby_o on_o the_o soul_n but_o how_o person_n shall_v continue_v in_o prayer_n in_o general_a according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o can_v be_v outward_o discover_v and_o yet_o thrive_v not_o at_o all_o as_o unto_o spiritual_a strength_n in_o their_o soul_n be_v hard_o to_o be_v understand_v and_o which_o be_v yet_o more_o astonishable_a man_n abide_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o that_o in_o constancy_n in_o their_o family_n and_o otherwise_o and_o yet_o live_v in_o know_a sin_n whatever_o spiritual_a thought_n such_o man_n have_v in_o and_o by_o their_o prayer_n they_o be_v not_o spiritual_o mind_v shall_v we_o now_o say_v that_o all_o such_o person_n be_v gross_a hypocrite_n such_o as_o know_v they_o do_v but_o mock_v god_n and_o man_n know_v that_o they_o have_v not_o desire_v nor_o aim_n after_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o mention_v in_o their_o own_o prayer_n but_o do_v these_o thing_n either_o for_o some_o corrupt_a end_n or_o at_o best_a to_o satisfy_v their_o conviction_n can_v we_o thus_o resolve_v the_o whole_a difficulty_n of_o the_o case_n be_v take_v off_o for_o such_o double_a mind_a man_n have_v no_o reason_n to_o think_v that_o they_o shall_v receive_v any_o thing_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o james_n speak_v chap._n 1.7_o indeed_o they_o do_v not_o they_o never_o act_n faith_n with_o reference_n unto_o their_o own_o prayer_n but_o it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o all_o of_o this_o sort_n some_o judge_n themselves_o sincere_a and_o in_o good_a earnest_n in_o their_o prayer_n not_o without_o some_o hope_n and_o expectation_n of_o success_n i_o will_v not_o say_v of_o all_o such_o person_n that_o they_o be_v among_o the_o number_n of_o they_o concern_v who_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n say_v because_o i_o call_v unto_o they_o and_o they_o refuse_v they_o shall_v call_v on_o i_o but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v they_o shall_v seek_v i_o early_o and_o shall_v not_o find_v i_o prov._n 1.18_o 19_o 20_o 21._o and_o although_o we_o may_v say_v unto_o such_o person_n in_o general_a either_o leave_v your_o sin_v or_o leave_v your_o pray_v from_o psal._n 50.16_o 17._o and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o present_a scandal_n and_o certain_a miscarriage_n in_o the_o end_n if_o both_o be_v continue_v in_o yet_o in_o particular_a i_o will_v not_o advise_v any_o such_o person_n to_o leave_v off_o his_o pray_v until_o he_o have_v leave_v his_o sin_n this_o be_v to_o advise_v a_o sick_a man_n to_o use_v no_o remedy_n until_o he_o be_v well_o cure_v who_o know_v but_o that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o work_v when_o and_o how_o he_o please_v may_v take_v a_o time_n to_o animate_v these_o lifeless_a prayer_n and_o make_v they_o a_o mean_n of_o deliverance_n from_o the_o power_n of_o this_o sin_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o fault_n and_o gild_n be_v whole_o their_o own_o who_o have_v effect_v a_o consistency_n between_o a_o way_n in_o sin_v and_o a_o course_n in_o pray_v and_o it_o arise_v from_o hence_o that_o they_o have_v never_o labour_v to_o fill_v up_o their_o request_n with_o grace_n what_o there_o have_v be_v of_o earnestness_n or_o diligence_n in_o they_o have_v be_v from_o a_o force_n put_v upon_o they_o by_o their_o conviction_n and_o fear_n for_o no_o man_n be_v ever_o absolute_o prevail_v on_o by_o sin_n who_o pray_v for_o deliverance_n according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n every_o pray_v man_n that_o perish_v be_v a_o hypocrite_n the_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n in_o his_o promise_n will_v not_o allow_v we_o to_o judge_n otherwise_o wherefore_o the_o thought_n that_o such_o person_n have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n even_o in_o their_o duty_n do_v not_o arise_v from_o within_o nor_o be_v a_o natural_a emanation_n of_o the_o frame_v of_o their_o
all_o the_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o spiritual_a judgement_n as_o well_o as_o natural_a affection_n and_o i_o do_v not_o understand_v how_o a_o man_n can_v be_v a_o sincere_a believer_n unto_o who_o sin_n be_v not_o the_o great_a burden_n and_o sorrow_n wherefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o belong_v unto_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o it_o be_v a_o state_n wherein_o we_o shall_v be_v eternal_o free_v from_o sin_n and_o all_o the_o concernment_n of_o it_o but_o only_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n by_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o he_o that_o true_o hate_v sin_n and_o abhor_v it_o who_o principal_a desire_n and_o design_n of_o life_n be_v to_o be_v free_v from_o it_o so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v possible_a who_o walk_v in_o self_n abasement_n through_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o many_o disappointment_n when_o he_o hope_v it_o shall_v act_v in_o he_o no_o more_o can_v as_o i_o judge_v but_o frequent_o betake_v himself_o for_o refreshment_n unto_o thought_n of_o that_o state_n wherein_o he_o shall_v be_v free_v from_o it_o and_o triumph_n over_o it_o unto_o eternity_n this_o be_v a_o notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v easy_o apprehend_v and_o fix_v on_o the_o mind_n which_o we_o may_v dwell_v upon_o unto_o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o soul_n frequent_a thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o heaven_n under_o this_o notion_n do_v argue_v a_o man_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o it_o be_v a_o convince_a evidence_n that_o sin_n be_v a_o burden_n unto_o he_o that_o he_o belong_v to_o be_v deliver_v from_o it_o and_o all_o its_o consequent_n that_o no_o thought_n be_v more_o welcome_a unto_o he_o than_o those_o of_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o and_o although_o man_n be_v trouble_v about_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v desirous_o be_v free_v from_o they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o perplex_v their_o mind_n and_o make_v their_o conscience_n uneasy_a yet_o if_o they_o be_v not_o much_o in_o the_o prospect_n of_o this_o relief_n if_o they_o find_v not_o refreshment_n in_o it_o i_o fear_v their_o trouble_n be_v not_o such_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v wherefore_o when_o man_n can_v so_o wrangle_v and_o wrestle_v with_o their_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o take_v up_o the_o best_a of_o their_o relief_n in_o hope_n that_o it_o will_v be_v better_o with_o they_o at_o some_o time_n or_o other_o in_o this_o world_n without_o long_a desire_n after_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o they_o can_v give_v no_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v it_o be_v quite_o otherwise_o with_o sincere_a believer_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o duty_n the_o consideration_n of_o the_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n of_o the_o purity_n and_o holiness_n of_o that_o good_a spirit_n that_o dwell_v in_o they_o of_o the_o light_n grace_n and_o mercy_n which_o they_o have_v attain_v through_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v those_o which_o make_v the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n most_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o they_o this_o be_v that_o which_o even_o break_v their_o heart_n and_o make_v some_o of_o they_o go_v mourn_v all_o the_o day_n long_o namely_o that_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o which_o alone_a god_n hate_v shall_v be_v find_v in_o they_o or_o be_v remain_v with_o they_o it_o be_v in_o this_o condition_n a_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v if_o together_o with_o watchful_a endeavour_n for_o the_o universal_a mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o utter_a excision_n of_o it_o both_o root_n and_o branch_n they_o constant_o add_v these_o thought_n of_o that_o bless_a state_n wherein_o they_o shall_v be_v absolute_o and_o eternal_o free_v from_o all_o sin_n with_o refreshment_n delight_n and_o complacency_n these_o thing_n belong_v unto_o our_o direction_n for_o the_o fix_v of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n on_o thing_n above_o this_o the_o mean_a and_o weak_a person_n who_o have_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o grace_n be_v capable_a of_o apprehend_v and_o able_a to_o practice_v and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o the_o sense_n they_o have_v of_o the_o evil_a of_o sin_n will_v put_v they_o on_o every_o day_n if_o they_o shut_v not_o their_o eye_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o refreshment_n that_o be_v in_o it_o let_v they_o who_o can_v arise_v in_o their_o mind_n unto_o fix_a and_o stable_a thought_n of_o any_o other_o notion_n of_o these_o invisible_a thing_n dwell_v on_o this_o consideration_n of_o they_o wherein_o they_o will_v find_v no_o small_a spiritual_a advantage_n and_o refreshment_n unto_o their_o soul_n 2._o as_o unto_o the_o positive_a part_n of_o this_o glorious_a future_a state_n the_o thought_n and_o apprehension_n of_o man_n be_v very_o various_a and_o that_o we_o may_v know_v as_o well_o what_o to_o avoid_v as_o what_o to_o embrace_v we_o shall_v a_o little_a reflect_v on_o some_o of_o they_o 1._o many_o be_v able_a to_o entertain_v no_o rational_a conception_n about_o a_o future_a state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n no_o notion_n wherein_o either_o faith_n or_o reason_n be_v concern_v imagination_n they_o have_v of_o something_o that_o be_v great_a and_o glorious_a but_o what_o it_o be_v they_o know_v not_o no_o wonder_n if_o such_o person_n have_v no_o delight_n in_o no_o use_n of_o thought_n of_o heaven_n when_o their_o imagination_n have_v fluctuate_v up_o and_o down_o in_o all_o uncertainty_n for_o a_o while_n they_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o nothing_o glorious_a and_o therefore_o desirable_a they_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o it_o must_v be_v but_o nothing_o can_v be_v so_o unto_o they_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a unto_o their_o present_a disposition_n inclination_n and_o principle_n and_o hereof_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o true_a spiritual_a glory_n of_o heaven_n or_o in_o the_o eternal_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n these_o thing_n be_v not_o suit_v unto_o the_o will_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o therefore_o they_o can_v rise_v up_o unto_o any_o constant_a desire_n of_o they_o hence_o to_o please_v themselves_o they_o begin_v to_o imagine_v what_o be_v not_o but_o whereas_o what_o be_v true_o heaven_n please_v they_o not_o and_o what_o do_v please_v they_o be_v not_o heaven_n nor_o there_o to_o be_v find_v they_o seldom_o or_o never_o endeavour_v in_o good_a earnest_n to_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o it_o it_o be_v well_o if_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o future_a state_n and_o eternal_a glory_n do_v not_o exceed_o prejudice_n believer_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o meditation_n about_o they_o they_o have_v nothing_o fix_v or_o state_v in_o their_o mind_n which_o they_o can_v betake_v themselves_o unto_o in_o their_o thought_n when_o they_o will_v contemplate_v about_o they_o and_o by_o the_o way_n whatever_o do_v divert_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o the_o power_n and_o life_n of_o spiritual_a worship_n as_o do_v all_o pompous_a solemnity_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o do_v great_o hinder_v they_o as_o unto_o right_a conception_n of_o our_o future_a state_n there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n give_v unto_o the_o saint_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n but_o whereas_o they_o be_v oblige_v unto_o a_o worship_n that_o be_v carnal_a and_o outward_o pompous_a they_o never_o have_v clear_a and_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o glory_n for_o life_n and_o immortality_n be_v bring_v to_o light_n by_o the_o gospel_n wherefore_o although_o no_o man_n live_a can_v see_v or_o find_v out_o the_o infinite_a riches_n of_o eternal_a glory_n yet_o be_v it_o the_o duty_n of_o all_o to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o in_o general_a so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v fix_v thought_n of_o it_o love_n unto_o it_o earnest_n desire_v after_o it_o all_o under_o its_o own_o true_a and_o proper_a notion_n 2._o so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o mankind_n as_o the_o mahometan_n unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v all_o the_o principal_a and_o most_o desirable_a part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o inhabit_v and_o possess_v do_v conceive_v the_o state_n of_o future_a blessedness_n to_o consist_v in_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o their_o sensual_a lust_n and_o pleasure_n a_o evidence_n this_o be_v that_o the_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v have_v no_o power_n or_o efficacy_n on_o their_o mind_n to_o change_v they_o from_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n or_o place_v their_o happiness_n in_o fulfil_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o flesh._n it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o enlighten_v their_o mind_n to_o discern_v a_o beauty_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n nor_o excite_v their_o affection_n unto_o the_o love_n of_o they_o nor_o free_v the_o soul_n
two_o thing_n that_o the_o weak_a sort_n of_o believer_n may_v be_v exercise_v with_o in_o their_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n which_o may_v occasion_v they_o some_o trouble_n 1._o satan_n know_v the_o weakness_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o the_o immediate_a contemplation_n of_o thing_n infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a will_v sometime_o take_v advantage_n to_o insinuate_v blasphemous_a imagination_n in_o opposition_n unto_o what_o we_o will_v fix_v upon_o and_o relieve_v ourselves_o withal_o he_o will_v take_v that_o very_a time_n trust_v unto_o our_o weakness_n and_o his_o own_o method_n of_o subtlety_n to_o suggest_v his_o temptation_n unto_o atheism_n by_o ensnare_a inquiry_n when_o we_o go_v about_o to_o refresh_v our_o soul_n with_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o excellency_n but_o be_v there_o a_o god_n indeed_o how_o do_v you_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n and_o may_v it_o not_o be_v otherwise_o will_v be_v his_o language_n unto_o our_o mind_n for_o from_o his_o first_o temptation_n by_o way_n of_o a_o ensnare_a question_n yea_o and_o have_v god_n say_v it_o you_o shall_v not_o eat_v of_o every_o tree_n of_o the_o garden_n he_o proceed_v still_o much_o in_o the_o same_o method_n so_o he_o do_v with_o our_o saviour_n himself_o if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v there_o a_o god_n how_o if_o there_o shall_v be_v none_o in_o such_o a_o case_n the_o rule_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o apostle_n above_o all_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n whereby_o you_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o quench_v all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o the_o wicked_a eph._n 6.16_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o wicked_a one_o that_o be_v the_o devil_n and_o two_o way_n will_v faith_n act_n itself_o on_o this_o occasion_n 1._o by_o a_o speedy_a rejection_n of_o such_o diabolical_a suggestion_n with_o detestation_n so_o do_v our_o saviour_n in_o a_o case_n not_o unlike_o it_o get_v thou_o behind_o i_o satan_n wherefore_o if_o any_o such_o thought_n be_v suggest_v or_o seem_v to_o arise_v in_o your_o mind_n know_v assure_o that_o they_o be_v no_o less_o immediate_o from_o the_o devil_n than_o if_o he_o personal_o stand_v before_o you_o and_o visible_o appear_v unto_o you_o if_o he_o do_v so_o there_o be_v none_o of_o you_o but_o will_v arm_v yourselves_o with_o a_o utter_a defiance_n of_o what_o he_o shall_v offer_v unto_o you_o it_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a on_o this_o occasion_n when_o you_o may_v feel_v he_o though_o you_o see_v he_o not_o suffer_v not_o his_o fiery_a dart_n to_o abide_v one_o moment_n with_o you_o entertain_v no_o parley_n or_o dispute_v about_o they_o reject_v they_o with_o indignation_n and_o strengthen_v your_o rejection_n of_o they_o with_o some_o pertinent_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n as_o our_o saviour_n do_v if_o a_o man_n have_v a_o granado_n or_o fireball_n cast_v into_o his_o clothes_n by_o his_o enemy_n he_o do_v not_o consider_v whether_o it_o will_v burn_v or_o no_o but_o immediate_o shake_v it_o off_o from_o he_o deal_v no_o otherwise_o with_o these_o fiery_a dart_n lest_o by_o their_o abode_n with_o you_o they_o inflame_v your_o imagination_n unto_o great_a disturbance_n 2._o in_o case_n they_o utter_o depart_v not_o upon_o this_o endeavour_n for_o their_o exclusion_n and_o cast_v out_o return_v immediate_o without_o further_a dispute_n unto_o your_o own_o experience_n when_o the_o devil_n have_v ask_v you_o the_o question_n if_o you_o answer_v he_o you_o will_v be_v ensnare_v but_o if_o thereon_o you_o ask_v yourselves_o the_o question_n and_o apply_v yourselves_o unto_o your_o own_o experience_n for_o a_o answer_n unto_o it_o you_o will_v frustrate_v all_o his_o design_n there_o be_v argument_n to_o be_v take_v as_o be_v say_v from_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o reason_n in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n sufficient_a to_o defeat_v all_o objection_n of_o that_o kind_n but_o these_o be_v not_o our_o proper_a weapon_n in_o case_n of_o our_o own_o temptation_n which_o alone_o be_v now_o under_o consideration_n it_o require_v long_a and_o more_o sedate_v reason_v than_o such_o a_o state_n will_v admit_v of_o nor_o be_v it_o a_o sanctify_a medium_n for_o our_o relief_n it_o be_v what_o be_v suit_v unto_o suggestion_n on_o the_o occasion_n of_o our_o meditation_n that_o we_o inquire_v after_o in_o they_o we_o be_v not_o to_o argue_v on_o such_o principle_n but_o to_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n to_o quench_v these_o fiery_a dart_n and_o if_o on_o such_o occasion_n satan_n can_v divert_v we_o into_o long_a dispute_n about_o the_o be_v of_o god_n he_o have_v his_o end_n by_o carry_v we_o off_o from_o the_o meditation_n on_o he_o which_o we_o do_v design_n and_o after_o a_o while_o he_o will_v prevail_v to_o make_v it_o a_o common_a road_n and_o trade_n that_o no_o soon_o shall_v we_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o god_n but_o immediate_o we_o must_v dispute_v about_o his_o be_v therefore_o the_o way_n in_o this_o case_n for_o he_o who_o be_v real_o a_o believer_n be_v to_o retreat_v immediate_o unto_o his_o own_o experience_n which_o will_v pour_v shame_n and_o contempt_n on_o the_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n there_o be_v no_o believer_n who_o have_v knowledge_n and_o time_n to_o exercise_v the_o wisdom_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o consideration_n of_o himself_o and_o of_o god_n deal_n with_o he_o but_o have_v a_o witness_n in_o himself_o of_o his_o eternal_a power_n and_o godhead_n as_o also_o of_o all_o those_o other_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n which_o he_o be_v please_v to_o manifest_v and_o glorify_v by_o jesus_n christ._n wherefore_o on_o this_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n that_o there_o be_v no_o god_n he_o will_v be_v able_a to_o say_v that_o he_o may_v better_o tell_v i_o that_o i_o do_v not_o live_v nor_o breathe_v that_o i_o be_o not_o feed_v by_o my_o meat_n nor_o warm_v by_o my_o clothes_n that_o i_o know_v not_o myself_o nor_o any_o thing_n else_o for_o i_o have_v spiritual_a sense_n and_o experience_n of_o the_o contrary_a like_v he_o of_o old_a who_o when_o a_o cunning_a sophister_n will_v prove_v unto_o he_o by_o syllogism_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n as_o motion_n he_o give_v no_o answer_n unto_o his_o argument_n but_o rise_v up_o and_o walk_v how_o often_o will_v he_o say_v have_v i_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o power_n and_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n as_o though_o i_o have_v not_o only_o hear_v of_o he_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o ear_n but_o also_o see_v he_o by_o the_o see_n of_o the_o eye_n how_o often_o have_v he_o put_v forth_o his_o power_n and_o grace_n in_o i_o by_o his_o spirit_n and_o his_o word_n with_o a_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n of_o his_o be_v goodness_n love_n and_o grace_n how_o often_o have_v he_o refresh_v my_o conscience_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n speak_v that_o peace_n unto_o my_o soul_n which_o all_o the_o world_n can_v not_o communicate_v unto_o i_o in_o how_o many_o affliction_n danger_n trouble_n have_v he_o be_v a_o present_a help_n and_o relief_n what_o sensible_a emanation_n of_o life_n and_o power_n from_o he_o have_v i_o obtain_v in_o meditation_n on_o his_o grace_n and_o glory_n as_o he_o who_o have_v be_v blind_a answer_v the_o pharisee_n unto_o their_o ensnare_a captious_a question_n be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v one_o thing_n i_o know_v that_o whereas_o i_o be_v blind_a now_o i_o see_v whatever_o say_v such_o a_o soul_n be_v in_o this_o temptation_n of_o satan_n one_o thing_n i_o know_v full_a well_o that_o whereas_o i_o be_v dead_a i_o be_o alive_a whereas_o i_o be_v blind_a now_o i_o see_v and_o that_o by_o a_o effect_n of_o divine_a power_n this_o shield_n of_o faith_n manage_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o experience_n will_v quench_v the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n and_o he_o will_v fall_v under_o a_o double_a defeat_n 1._o his_o temptation_n will_v be_v repel_v by_o the_o proper_a way_n of_o resistance_n whereon_o he_o will_v not_o only_o desist_v in_o his_o attempt_n but_o even_o fly_v from_o you_o resist_v the_o devil_n say_v the_o apostle_n and_o he_o will_v fly_v from_o you_o he_o will_v not_o only_o depart_v and_o cease_v to_o trouble_v you_o but_o will_v depart_v as_o one_o defeat_v and_o confound_v and_o it_o be_v for_o want_v of_o this_o resistance_n lively_o make_v use_n of_o that_o many_o hang_v so_o long_o in_o the_o briar_n of_o this_o temptation_n 2._o recall_v the_o experience_n we_o have_v have_v of_o god_n will_v lead_v we_o unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v the_o great_a disappointment_n of_o our_o adversary_n 2._o in_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n we_o be_v apt_a to_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n to_o be_v as_o it_o be_v overwhelm_v in_o
in_o any_o place_n it_o behove_v they_o that_o be_v concern_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n and_o regard_n unto_o all_o their_o enemy_n and_o their_o attempt_n against_o they_o but_o if_o they_o be_v vigilant_a and_o diligent_a in_o their_o oppositition_n unto_o those_o that_o be_v without_o that_o visible_o contend_v with_o they_o and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n neglect_v such_o as_o traitorous_o act_v within_o among_o themselves_o betray_v their_o counsel_n and_o weaken_v their_o strength_n they_o will_v be_v undoubted_o ruin_v wise_a man_n do_v first_o take_v care_n of_o what_o be_v within_o as_o know_v if_o they_o be_v there_o betray_v all_o they_o do_v against_o their_o open_a enemy_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n in_o the_o warfare_n wherein_o we_o be_v engage_v we_o have_v enemy_n of_o all_o sort_n that_o open_o and_o visible_o in_o various_a temptation_n fight_v against_o our_o soul_n these_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o watch_v against_o to_o conflict_n with_o and_o to_o seek_v a_o conquest_n over_o but_o it_o be_v this_o internal_a vanity_n of_o mind_n that_o endeavour_n in_o all_o thing_n to_o betray_v we_o to_o weaken_v we_o in_o all_o our_o grace_n or_o to_o hinder_v their_o due_a operation_n and_o to_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n unto_o our_o curse_a enemy_n if_o our_o principal_a endeavour_n be_v not_o to_o discover_v suppress_v and_o destroy_v this_o traitor_n we_o shall_v not_o succeed_v in_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n this_o therefore_o be_v the_o original_a cause_n of_o all_o that_o disabilty_a of_o mind_n as_o unto_o steadiness_n in_o holy_a thought_n and_o meditation_n whereof_o you_o do_v complain_v when_o you_o be_v affect_v therewith_o turn_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o that_o from_o whence_o it_o do_v proceed_v labour_v to_o be_v humble_v great_o and_o to_o walk_v humble_o under_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o remainder_n of_o this_o vanity_n of_o mind_n so_o some_o wholesome_a fruit_n may_v be_v take_v from_o this_o bitter_a root_n and_o meat_n may_v come_v out_o of_o this_o eater_n if_o when_o you_o can_v abide_v in_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o your_o relation_n unto_o he_o you_o reflect_v on_o this_o cause_n of_o it_o to_o your_o further_a humiliation_n and_o self-abasement_n your_o good_a design_n and_o purpose_n be_v not_o lose_v let_v such_o a_o one_o say_v i_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o god_n of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n in_o christ_n jesus_n of_o my_o duty_n towards_o he_o and_o where_o now_o in_o a_o few_o minute_n do_v i_o find_v myself_o i_o be_o get_v into_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n into_o thing_n useless_a and_o earthly_a or_o be_o at_o such_o a_o loss_n as_o that_o i_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o proceed_v in_o the_o work_n wherein_o i_o be_v engage_v o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o what_o a_o curse_a enemy_n have_v i_o within_o i_o i_o be_o ashamed_a of_o myself_o weary_a of_o myself_o loathe_v myself_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o this_o body_n of_o death_n such_o thought_n may_v be_v as_o useful_a unto_o he_o as_o those_o which_o he_o first_o design_v true_a it_o be_v we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v absolute_o from_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o vanity_n and_o instability_n of_o mind_n in_o this_o world_n vnchangeable_n cleave_v unto_o god_n always_o in_o all_o the_o power_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o mind_n be_v reserve_v for_o heaven_n but_o yet_o great_a degree_n may_v be_v attain_v in_o the_o conquest_n and_o expulsion_n of_o it_o such_o as_o i_o fear_v few_o have_v experience_n of_o yet_o ought_v all_o to_o the_o labour_n after_o if_o we_o apply_v ourselves_o as_o we_o ought_v to_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a light_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o labour_v diligent_o to_o abide_v and_o abound_v in_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o that_o in_o love_n to_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o if_o we_o watch_v against_o the_o entertainment_n and_o approbation_n of_o such_o thought_n and_o thing_n in_o our_o mind_n as_o whereby_o this_o vain_a frame_n be_v please_v and_o confirm_v there_o be_v though_o not_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n yet_o a_o bless_a degree_n of_o heavenly_a mindedness_n to_o be_v attain_v and_o therein_o the_o near_a approach_n unto_o glory_n that_o in_o this_o world_n we_o be_v capable_a of_o if_o a_o man_n can_v attain_v a_o athletic_a constitution_n of_o health_n or_o a_o strength_n like_o that_o of_o samson_n yet_o if_o he_o be_v wise_a he_o will_v not_o omit_v the_o use_n of_o such_o mean_n as_o may_v make_v he_o to_o be_v useful_a in_o the_o ordinary_a duty_n of_o life_n and_o although_o we_o can_v attain_v perfection_n in_o this_o matter_n which_o yet_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o be_v continual_o press_v after_o yet_o if_o we_o be_v wise_a will_v be_v endeavour_v such_o a_o cure_n of_o this_o spiritual_a distemper_n as_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o discharge_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o life_n of_o god_n but_o if_o man_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n feed_v the_o vanity_n of_o their_o own_o mind_n if_o they_o permit_v they_o to_o rove_v continual_o after_o thing_n foolish_a sensual_a and_o earthly_a if_o they_o wilful_o supply_v they_o with_o object_n unto_o that_o end_n and_o labour_v not_o by_o all_o mean_n for_o the_o mortification_n of_o this_o evil_a frame_n in_o vain_a shall_v they_o desire_v or_o expect_v to_o bring_v they_o at_o any_o time_n on_o any_o occasion_n to_o be_v steady_a in_o the_o thought_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o any_o as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v it_o be_v with_o many_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o mind_v the_o word_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o first_o place_n make_v the_o tree_n good_a and_o then_o the_o fruit_n will_v be_v good_a and_o not_o before_o when_o the_o power_n of_o sanctify_a grace_n have_v make_v the_o mind_n habitual_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thought_n of_o such_o thing_n will_v be_v natural_a unto_o it_o and_o accompany_v with_o delight_n but_o they_o will_v not_o be_v so_o until_o the_o god_n of_o peace_n have_v sanctify_v we_o in_o our_o whole_a spirit_n soul_n and_o body_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v preserve_v blameless_a unto_o the_o come_n of_o jesus_n christ._n 2._o be_v always_o sensible_a of_o your_o own_o insufficincy_n to_o raise_v in_o your_o mind_n or_o to_o manage_v spiritual_a thought_n or_o thought_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o a_o due_a manner_n but_o in_o this_o case_n man_n be_v apt_a to_o suppose_v that_o as_o they_o may_v so_o they_o can_v think_v of_o what_o they_o please_v thought_n be_v their_o own_o and_o therefore_o be_v they_o of_o what_o sort_n they_o will_v they_o need_v no_o assistance_n for_o they_o they_o can_v think_v as_o they_o ought_v they_o can_v do_v nothing_o at_o all_o and_o nothing_o will_v convince_v they_o of_o their_o folly_n until_o they_o be_v burden_v with_o a_o experience_n of_o the_o contrary_a as_o unto_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o the_o advice_n give_v be_v express_o lay_v down_o by_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o instance_n of_o himself_o 2_o cor._n 3.5_o not_o that_o we_o be_v sufficient_a of_o ourselves_o to_o think_v any_o thing_n as_o of_o ourselves_o but_o our_o sufficiency_n be_v of_o god_n he_o speak_v principal_o of_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o of_o such_o as_o be_v most_o eminent_o furnish_v with_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n as_o he_o declare_v v_o 6._o and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o with_o they_o and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o work_n and_o duty_n of_o their_o call_v how_o much_o more_o be_v it_o so_o with_o other_o who_o have_v not_o their_o grace_n nor_o their_o office_n wherefore_o if_o man_n without_o regard_n unto_o the_o present_a actual_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o the_o supply_n of_o his_o spirit_n do_v suppose_v that_o they_o can_v of_o themselves_o exercise_v their_o mind_n in_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o so_o only_o fret_v at_o themselves_o when_o they_o fall_v into_o disappointment_n not_o know_v what_o be_v the_o matter_n with_o they_o they_o will_v live_v in_o a_o lifeless_a barren_a frame_n all_o their_o day_n by_o the_o strength_n of_o their_o natural_a ability_n man_n may_v frame_v thought_n of_o god_n and_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o their_o mind_n according_a unto_o the_o knowledge_n they_o have_v of_o they_o they_o may_v methodize_v they_o by_o rule_n of_o art_n and_o express_v they_o elegant_o unto_o other_o but_o even_o while_o they_o do_v so_o they_o may_v be_v far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o there_o may_v be_v in_o their_o thought_n no_o act_n of_o faith_n love_n or_o holy_a delight_n in_o god_n or_o any_o grace_n at_o all_o but_o such_o alone_o be_v thing_n which_o we_o inquire_v after_o they_o be_v such_o only_a as_o wherein_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n
be_v two_o other_o head_n of_o thing_n that_o offer_v themselves_o unto_o our_o consideration_n first_o the_o way_n mean_n arguing_n and_o enticement_n which_o the_o world_n make_v use_v of_o to_o draw_v keep_v and_o secure_v the_o affection_n of_o man_n unto_o itself_o second_o the_o secret_a powerful_a efficacy_n of_o grace_n in_o take_v off_o the_o heart_n from_o these_o thing_n turn_v and_o draw_v it_o unto_o god_n with_o the_o argument_n and_o motive_n that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n make_v use_v of_o in_o and_o by_o the_o word_n unto_o this_o end_n and_o wherein_o we_o must_v show_v what_o be_v the_o act_n of_o conquer_a grace_n wherein_o the_o heart_n be_v final_o prevail_v on_o to_o choose_v and_o adhere_v unto_o god_n in_o love_n immutable_a but_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v handle_v in_o any_o measure_n according_a to_o their_o nature_n and_o importance_n without_o such_o length_n of_o discourse_n as_o i_o can_v not_o here_o divert_v unto_o i_o shall_v therefore_o proceed_v unto_o that_o which_o be_v the_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a subject_n before_o we_o chap._n xii_o what_o be_v require_v in_o and_o unto_o our_o affection_n that_o they_o may_v be_v spiritual_a a_o threefold_a work_n on_o the_o affection_n describe_v to_o declare_v the_o interest_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o this_o frame_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o what_o they_o contribute_v thereunto_o i_o shall_v do_v these_o three_o thing_n first_o declare_v what_o be_v require_v hereunto_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v be_v spiritual_a wherein_o lie_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o whole_a duty_n second_o what_o be_v their_o act_n when_o they_o be_v so_o spiritual_a three_o what_o be_v the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v keep_v and_o preserve_v in_o that_o frame_n with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n how_o our_o affection_n be_v concern_v in_o or_o do_v belong_v unto_o the_o frame_n of_o mind_n inquire_v after_o have_v be_v before_o declare_v without_o spiritual_a affection_n we_o can_v be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o that_o they_o may_v be_v of_o this_o use_n three_o thing_n be_v require_v first_o their_o principle_n second_o their_o object_n three_o the_o way_n and_o manner_n of_o their_o application_n unto_o their_o proper_a object_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o principle_n first_o as_o unto_o the_o principle_n act_v in_o they_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v be_v spiritual_a and_o the_o spring_n of_o our_o be_v spiritually-minded_n it_o be_v require_v that_o they_o be_v change_v renew_v and_o in-laid_a with_o grace_n spiritual_n and_o supernatural_a to_o clear_v the_o sense_n hereof_o we_o must_v a_o little_a consider_v what_o be_v their_o state_n by_o nature_n and_o then_o by_o what_o mean_v they_o may_v be_v wrought_v upon_o as_o unto_o a_o change_n or_o a_o renovation_n for_o they_o be_v like_a unto_o some_o thing_n which_o in_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v poisonous_a but_o be_v correct_v and_o receive_v a_o due_a temperament_n from_o a_o mixture_n of_o other_o ingredient_n become_v medicinal_a and_o of_o excellent_a use._n first_o by_o nature_n our_o affection_n all_o of_o they_o be_v deprave_v and_o corrupt_v nothing_o in_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o man_n no_o power_n or_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v fall_v under_o great_a disorder_n and_o depravation_n by_o the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n than_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o and_o by_o they_o be_v the_o heart_n whole_o go_v and_o turn_v off_o from_o god_n tit._n 3.3_o it_o be_v a_o long_a work_n to_o set_v forth_o this_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n nor_o do_v it_o belong_v unto_o our_o present_a design_n some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v brief_o observe_v concern_v it_o to_o make_v way_n unto_o what_o be_v propose_v concern_v their_o change_n first_o this_o be_v the_o only_a corruption_n and_o depravation_n of_o our_o nature_n by_o the_o fall_v evident_a in_o and_o unto_o reason_n or_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n itself_o those_o who_o be_v wise_a among_o the_o heathen_a both_o see_v it_o and_o complain_v of_o it_o they_o find_v a_o weakness_n in_o the_o mind_n but_o see_v nothing_o of_o its_o darkness_n and_o depravation_n as_o unto_o thing_n spiritual_a but_o they_o be_v sensible_a enough_o of_o this_o disorder_n and_o tumult_n of_o the_o affection_n in_o thing_n moral_a which_o render_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt._n this_o great_o aggravate_v the_o neglect_n of_o they_o who_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o it_o in_o themselves_o see_v it_o be_v discernible_a in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n second_o they_o be_v as_o deprave_v the_o seat_n and_o subject_n of_o all_o lust_n both_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n yea_o lust_n or_o evil_a concupiscence_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o irregular_a motion_n and_o act_v of_o our_o affection_n as_o deprave_a defile_v corrupt_a rom._n 7.9_o hence_o no_o one_o sin_n can_v be_v mortify_v without_o a_o change_n wrought_v in_o the_o affection_n three_o they_o be_v the_o spring_n root_n and_o cause_n of_o all_o actual_a sin_n in_o the_o world_n mat._n 15.9_o the_o evil_a heart_n in_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o corrupt_a affection_n of_o it_o with_o the_o imagination_n of_o the_o mind_n whereby_o they_o be_v excite_v and_o act_v gen._n 6.5_o these_o be_v they_o which_o at_o this_o time_n fill_v the_o whole_a world_n with_o wickedness_n darkness_n confusion_n and_o terror_n and_o we_o may_v learn_v what_o be_v their_o force_n and_o efficacy_n from_o these_o effect_n so_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o plague_n be_v most_o evident_a when_o we_o see_v thousand_o die_v of_o it_o every_o week_n four_o they_o be_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o soul_n apply_v itself_o unto_o all_o sinful_a object_n and_o act_n hence_o be_v they_o call_v our_o member_n our_o earthly_a member_n because_o as_o the_o body_n apply_v itself_o unto_o its_o operation_n by_o its_o member_n so_o do_v the_o soul_n apply_v itself_o unto_o what_o belong_v unto_o it_o by_o its_o affection_n rom._n 6.13_o col._n 3.5_o five_o they_o will_v not_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o mind_n its_o light_n or_o conviction_n rebellion_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v the_o very_a form_n whereby_o their_o corruption_n act_v itself_o job_n 24.13_o let_v the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o its_o notion_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n be_v what_o they_o will_v they_o reject_v they_o and_o lead_v the_o soul_n in_o pursuit_n of_o their_o inclination_n hence_o no_o natural_a man_n whatsoever_o do_v in_o any_o measure_n answer_v the_o light_n of_o his_o mind_n or_o the_o conviction_n of_o his_o understanding_n but_o he_o see_v and_o approve_v of_o better_a thing_n follow_v those_o that_o be_v worse_o and_o there_o be_v no_o great_a spiritual_a judgement_n than_o for_o man_n to_o be_v give_v up_o unto_o themselves_z and_o their_o own_o evil_a affection_n rom._n 1.26_o many_o other_o instance_n may_v be_v give_v of_o the_o greatness_n of_o that_o depravation_n which_o our_o affection_n be_v fall_v under_o by_o sin_n these_o may_v suffice_v as_o unto_o our_o present_a purpose_n in_o general_n this_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n by_o nature_n may_v be_v reduce_v unto_o two_o head_n first_o a_o utter_a aversation_n from_o god_n and_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o this_o lie_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o that_o dislike_n of_o god_n and_o his_o way_n that_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v fill_v withal_o yea_o they_o do_v not_o only_o produce_v a_o aversation_n from_o they_o and_o dislike_n of_o they_o but_o they_o fill_v the_o mind_n with_o a_o enmity_n against_o they_o therefore_o man_n say_v in_o their_o heart_n unto_o god_n depart_v from_o we_o for_o we_o desire_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thy_o way_n what_o be_v the_o almighty_a that_o we_o shall_v serve_v he_o or_o what_o profit_n shall_v we_o have_v if_o we_o pray_v unto_o he_o job_n 21.14_o 15._o see_v rom._n 1.28_o chap._n 8._o 7_o 8._o second_o a_o inordinate_a cleave_v unto_o thing_n vain_a earthly_a and_o sensual_a cause_v the_o soul_n to_o engage_v into_o the_o pursuit_n of_o they_o as_o the_o horse_n rush_n into_o the_o battle_n while_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n we_o be_v far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritually-minded_n nor_o be_v it_o possible_a to_o engage_v they_o into_o a_o adherence_n unto_o or_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o this_o state_n they_o may_v be_v two_o way_n wrought_v upon_o and_o yet_o not_o so_o renew_v as_o to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o this_o end_n first_o there_o may_v be_v various_a temporary_a impression_n make_v on_o they_o sometime_o there_o be_v so_o by_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n hereon_o man_n may_v hear_v it_o with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o sometime_o it_o be_v so_o by_o
judgement_n danger_n sickness_n apprehension_n of_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n psal._n 34_o 78.35_o 37._o these_o thing_n take_v man_n off_o for_o a_o season_n from_o their_o greedy_a delight_n in_o earthly_a thing_n and_o the_o pursuit_n of_o the_o interest_n of_o lust_n in_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh._n on_o many_o other_o occasion_n by_o great_a variety_n of_o cause_n there_o may_v be_v temporary_a impression_n make_v on_o the_o affection_n that_o shall_v seem_v for_o a_o season_n to_o have_v turn_v the_o stream_n of_o they_o and_o thereon_o we_o have_v many_o who_o every_o day_n will_v be_v whole_o as_o it_o be_v for_o god_n resolve_v to_o forsake_v sin_n and_o all_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o but_o the_o next_o return_n unto_o all_o their_o former_a excess_n for_o this_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o those_o impression_n that_o whereas_o man_n ordinary_o be_v predominant_o act_v by_o love_n desire_v and_o delight_n which_o lead_v they_o to_o act_v according_a unto_o the_o true_a natural_a principle_n of_o the_o soul_n now_o they_o be_v for_o a_o season_n act_v by_o fear_n and_o dread_a which_o put_v a_o kind_n of_o force_n on_o all_o their_o inclination_n hereon_o they_o have_v other_o thought_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a of_o thing_n eternal_a and_o tmporal_a of_o god_n and_o their_o own_o duty_n for_o a_o season_n and_o hereon_o some_o of_o they_o may_v and_o do_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o there_o be_v a_o change_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o affection_n which_o there_o be_v not_o like_o a_o man_n who_o persuade_v himself_o that_o he_o have_v lose_v his_o ague_n because_o his_o present_a fit_a be_v over_o the_o next_o trial_n of_o temptation_n carry_v they_o away_o again_o unto_o the_o world_n and_o sin_n there_o be_v sometime_o sudden_a impression_n make_v on_o spiritual_a affection_n which_o be_v always_o of_o great_a advantage_n to_o the_o soul_n renew_v its_o engagement_n unto_o god_n and_o duty_n so_o be_v it_o with_o jacob_n gen._n 28.16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o 20._o so_o be_v it_o often_o with_o believer_n in_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o other_o occasion_n on_o all_o of_o they_o they_o renew_v their_o cleaving_n unto_o god_n with_o love_n and_o delight_n but_o the_o effect_n of_o these_o impression_n on_o unrenewed_a affection_n be_v neither_o spiritual_a nor_o durable_a yea_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o be_v but_o check_v give_v in_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o rage_a of_o their_o lusts._n psal._n 9.20_o second_o they_o be_v liable_a unto_o a_o habitual_a change_n this_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o age_n give_v testimony_n to_o there_o may_v be_v a_o habitual_a change_n wrought_v in_o the_o passion_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o mind_n as_o unto_o the_o inordinate_a and_o violent_a pursuit_n of_o their_o inclination_n without_o any_o gracious_a renovation_n of_o they_o education_n philosophy_n or_o reason_n long_a affliction_n spiritual_a light_n and_o gift_n have_v wrought_v this_o change_n so_o saul_n upon_o his_o call_n to_o be_v king_n become_v another_o man._n hereby_o person_n natural_o passionate_a and_o furious_a have_v be_v make_v sedate_n and_o moderate_v and_o those_o who_o have_v be_v sensual_a have_v become_v temperate_a yea_o and_o hater_n of_o religion_n to_o be_v professor_n of_o it_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o many_o more_o of_o the_o like_a nature_n have_v proceed_v from_o a_o change_n wrought_v upon_o the_o affection_n only_o while_o the_o mind_n will_n and_o conscience_n have_v be_v total_o unsanctified_a by_o this_o change_n where_o it_o be_v alone_o no_o man_n ever_o become_v spiritually-minded_n for_o whereas_o there_o be_v two_o part_n of_o the_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n that_o whereby_o they_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o god_n and_o that_o whereby_o they_o inordinate_o cleave_v unto_o other_o thing_n their_o change_n principal_o if_o not_o only_o respect_v the_o latter_a they_o be_v bring_v into_o some_o order_n with_o respect_n unto_o present_a thing_n the_o mind_n be_v not_o continual_o toss_v up_o and_o down_o by_o they_o as_o the_o wave_n of_o the_o sea_n that_o be_v trouble_v and_o cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n they_o do_v not_o carry_v those_o in_o who_o they_o be_v into_o vicious_a sensual_a action_n but_o they_o allow_v they_o to_o make_v virtue_n in_o moderation_n sobriety_n temperance_n fidelity_n and_o usefulness_n in_o several_a way_n to_o be_v their_o design_n and_o it_o be_v admirable_a to_o think_v what_o degree_n of_o eminency_n in_o all_o sort_n of_o moral_a virtue_n upon_o this_o one_o principle_n of_o moderate_v the_o affection_n even_o many_o among_o the_o heathen_n attain_v unto_o but_o as_o unto_o their_o aversation_n from_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o the_o true_a spiritual_a notion_n of_o they_o they_o be_v not_o cure_v by_o this_o change_n at_o least_o this_o change_n may_v be_v and_o yet_o this_o latter_a not_o be_v wrought_v again_o this_o alteration_n do_v but_o turn_v the_o course_n or_o stream_n of_o man_n affection_n it_o do_v not_o change_v the_o nature_n of_o they_o they_o be_v the_o same_o in_o their_o spring_n and_o fountain_n as_o ever_o they_o be_v only_o they_o be_v habituate_v unto_o another_o course_n than_o what_o of_o themselves_o they_o be_v incline_v unto_o you_o may_v take_v a_o young_a whelp_n of_o the_o most_o fierce_a and_o savage_a creature_n as_o of_o a_o tiger_n or_o a_o wolf_n and_o by_o custom_n or_o usage_n make_v it_o as_o tame_v and_o harmless_a as_o any_o domestic_a creature_n a_o dog_n or_o the_o like_a but_o although_o it_o may_v be_v turn_v unto_o quite_o another_o way_n or_o course_n of_o act_v than_o what_o it_o be_v of_o itself_o incline_v unto_o yet_o its_o nature_n be_v not_o change_v and_o therefore_o frequent_o on_o occasion_n opportunity_n or_o provocation_n it_o will_v fall_v into_o its_o own_o savage_a inclination_n and_o have_v taste_v of_o the_o blood_n of_o creature_n it_o will_v never_o be_v reclaim_v so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o deprave_a affection_n of_o man_n with_o respect_n unto_o their_o change_n their_o stream_n be_v turn_v they_o be_v habituate_v unto_o a_o new_a course_n their_o nature_n be_v not_o alter_v at_o least_o not_o from_o rational_a unto_o spiritual_a from_o earthly_a unto_o heavenly_a yet_o this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v most_o beautiful_a and_o desirable_a in_o nature_n the_o glory_n of_o it_o and_o the_o utmost_a of_o its_o attainment_n he_o who_o have_v by_o any_o mean_v proceed_v unto_o such_o a_o moderation_n of_o his_o affection_n as_o to_o render_v he_o kind_n benign_a patient_a useful_a prefer_v public_a good_a before_o private_a inordinate_a and_o temperate_a in_o all_o thing_n will_v rise_v up_o in_o judgement_n against_o those_o who_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o light_n of_o grace_n do_v yet_o by_o be_v morose_n angry_a selfish_a worldly_a manifest_a that_o their_o affection_n be_v not_o subdue_v by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o grace_n wherefore_o that_o we_o may_v be_v spiritually-minded_n there_o be_v yet_o another_o work_n upon_o our_o affection_n require_v which_o be_v their_o internal_a renovation_n whereby_o not_o only_o the_o course_n of_o their_o act_n be_v change_v but_o their_o nature_n be_v alter_v and_o spiritual_o renew_v i_o intend_v that_o which_o be_v express_v in_o that_o great_a evangelical_n promise_v isai._n 17.6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o the_o wolf_n shall_v dwell_v with_o the_o lamb_n the_o leopard_n shall_v lie_v down_o with_o the_o kid_n and_o the_o calf_n and_o the_o young_a lion_n and_o the_o fatling_n together_o and_o a_o little_a child_n shall_v lead_v they_o and_o the_o cow_n and_o the_o bear_n shall_v feed_v their_o young_a one_o shall_v lie_v down_o together_o and_o the_o lion_n shall_v eat_v straw_n like_o the_o ox_n and_o the_o suck_a child_n shall_v play_v on_o the_o hole_n of_o the_o asp_n and_o the_o wean_a child_n shall_v put_v his_o hand_n on_o the_o cockatrice_n den._n they_o shall_v not_o hurt_v nor_o destroy_v in_o all_o my_o holy_a mountain_n a_o change_n and_o alteration_n be_v promise_v in_o the_o nature_n principle_n and_o first_o inclination_n of_o the_o worst_a and_o most_o savage_a sinner_n who_o pass_v under_o the_o power_n of_o gospel_n grace_n this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v require_v of_o we_o in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n ephes._n 4.13_o and_o be_v you_o renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o your_o mind_n there_o be_v a_o renovation_n of_o the_o mind_n itself_o by_o the_o communication_n of_o spiritual_n save_v light_n and_o understanding_n thereunto_o whereof_o i_o have_v treat_v elsewhere_o at_o large_a see_v rom._n 12.2_o ephes._n 1.17_o 18._o but_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o mind_n that_o whereby_o it_o be_v enliven_v lead_v and_o dispose_v unto_o its_o act_n that_o be_v to_o be_v renew_v also_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v in_o this_o place_n oppose_v unto_o
the_o old_a man_n which_o be_v corrupt_a according_a to_o deceitful_a lust_n or_o deprave_a affection_n v_o 22._o these_o therefore_o be_v that_o spirit_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o incline_v bend_v and_o lead_v it_o to_o act_v suitable_o unto_o its_o inclination_n which_o be_v to_o be_v renew_v and_o when_o our_o affection_n be_v incline_v by_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n then_o be_v they_o renew_v and_o not_o else_o no_o other_o change_n will_v give_v they_o a_o spiritual_a renovation_n hereby_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v only_o natural_a affection_n in_o themselves_o in_o they_o that_o believe_v become_v fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n gal._n 5.22_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v love_n joy_n peace_n etc._n etc._n they_o continue_v the_o same_o as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o essence_n substance_n and_o natural_a power_n but_o be_v change_v in_o their_o property_n quality_n inclination_n when_o ever_o a_o new_a nature_n be_v give_v unto_o they_o so_o the_o water_n at_o marah_n be_v the_o same_o water_n still_o before_z and_o after_o their_o cure_n but_o of_o themselves_o and_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n they_o be_v bitter_a so_o as_o that_o the_o people_n can_v not_o drink_v they_o in_o the_o cast_n of_o a_o tree_n into_o they_o they_o be_v make_v sweet_a and_o useful_a exod._n 15.25_o 26._o so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o water_n of_o jericho_n which_o be_v cure_v by_o cast_v salt_n into_o they_o 2_o king_n 19_o 20_o 21._o our_o affection_n continue_v the_o same_o as_o they_o be_v on_o their_o nature_n and_o essence_n but_o they_o be_v so_o cure_v by_o grace_n as_o that_o their_o property_n quality_n and_o inclination_n be_v all_o cleanse_v or_o renew_v the_o tree_n or_o salt_n that_o be_v cast_v into_o these_o water_n whereby_o the_o cure_n be_v wrought_v be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n above_o all_o proceed_v from_o faith_n in_o he_o by_o christ_n jesus_n chap._n xiii_o the_o work_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o affection_n how_o difference_v from_o any_o other_o impression_n on_o or_o change_v wrought_v in_o they_o and_o how_o it_o be_v evidence_v so_o to_o be_v the_o first_o instance_n in_o the_o universality_n accompany_v of_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v the_o order_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o affection_n with_o respect_n unto_o their_o object_n that_o which_o be_v our_o concernment_n herein_o be_v to_o inquire_v of_o what_o nature_n that_o work_n be_v which_o have_v be_v on_o our_o own_o affection_n or_o in_o they_o and_o how_o it_o differ_v from_o those_o which_o whatever_n they_o do_v or_o effect_v yet_o will_v not_o render_v we_o nor_o themselves_o spiritual_a and_o we_o ought_v to_o use_v the_o best_a of_o our_o diligence_n herein_o because_o the_o great_a mean_n whereby_o multitude_n delude_v and_o deceive_v their_o own_o soul_n persuade_v themselves_o that_o there_o have_v be_v a_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o they_o be_v the_o change_n that_o they_o find_v in_o their_o affection_n which_o may_v be_v on_o many_o occasion_n without_o any_o spiritual_a renovation_n first_o as_o unto_o the_o temporary_a and_o occasional_a impression_n in_o the_o affection_n before_o mention_v whether_o from_o the_o word_n or_o any_o other_o divine_a warning_n by_o affliction_n or_o mercy_n they_o be_v common_a to_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n some_o there_o be_v who_o conscience_n be_v sear_v with_o a_o hot_a iron_n 1_o tim._n 4.2_o who_o thereon_o be_v past_o feel_n senseless_a of_o all_o call_v warning_n and_o rebuke_n do_v give_v themselves_o over_o unto_o lasciviousness_n to_o work_v all_o uncleanness_n with_o greediness_n eph._n 4.19_o such_o person_n have_v harden_v themselves_o in_o a_o long_a course_n of_o sin_n and_o be_v give_v up_o unto_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n or_o vile_a affection_n in_o a_o way_n of_o judgement_n have_v it_o may_v be_v no_o such_o impression_n on_o their_o affection_n on_o any_o occasion_n as_o to_o move_v they_o with_o a_o sense_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o eternal_a they_o may_v be_v terrify_v with_o danger_n sudden_a judgement_n and_o other_o revelation_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n from_o heaven_n against_o the_o ungodliness_n of_o man_n but_o they_o be_v not_o draw_v to_o take_v shelter_n in_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n nothing_o but_o hell_n will_v awaken_v they_o unto_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o themselves_o and_o thing_n eternal_a it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o the_o generality_n of_o man_n who_o be_v not_o profligate_v and_o impudent_a in_o sin_v for_o although_o they_o be_v in_o a_o natural_a condition_n and_o a_o course_n of_o sin_n in_o the_o neglect_n of_o know_a duty_n yet_o by_o one_o mean_n or_o other_o most_o frequent_o by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n their_o affection_n be_v stir_v towards_o heavenly_a thing_n sometime_o they_o be_v afraid_a sometime_o they_o have_v hope_n and_o desire_n about_o they_o these_o put_v they_o on_o resolution_n and_o some_o temporary_a endeavour_n to_o change_v their_o life_n to_o abstain_v from_o sin_n and_o to_o perform_v holy_a duty_n but_o as_o the_o prophet_n complain_v their_o goodness_n be_v as_o the_o morning_n cloud_n and_o as_o the_o early_a dew_n so_o pass_v it_o away_o yet_o by_o mean_n hereof_o do_v many_o poor_a ignorant_a soul_n deceive_v themselves_o and_o cry_v peace_n peace_n when_o there_o be_v no_o peace_n and_o they_o will_v sometime_o so_o express_v how_o they_o be_v affect_v with_o complaint_n of_o themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o long_a neglect_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n that_o other_o may_v entertain_v good_a hope_n concern_v they_o but_o all_o come_v to_o nothing_o in_o the_o trial_n there_o be_v no_o difficulty_n unto_o spiritual_a light_n to_o distinguish_v between_o these_o occasional_a impression_n on_o the_o affection_n and_o that_o spiritual_a renovation_n of_o they_o which_o we_o inquire_v after_o this_o alone_a be_v sufficient_a to_o do_v it_o that_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o temporary_a and_o evanid_a they_o abide_v for_o a_o while_n only_o as_o our_o saviour_n speak_v and_o every_o occasion_n defeat_v all_o their_o efficacy_n they_o may_v be_v frequent_o renew_v but_o they_o never_o abide_v some_o of_o they_o immediate_o pass_v away_o and_o be_v utter_o lose_v between_o the_o place_n where_o they_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o their_o own_o habitation_n and_o in_o vain_a shall_v they_o inquire_v after_o they_o again_o they_o be_v go_v for_o ever_o some_o have_v a_o large_a continuance_n endure_v long_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o produce_v some_o outward_a effect_n none_o of_o they_o will_v hold_v any_o trial_n or_o shock_n of_o temptation_n yet_o i_o have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v unto_o those_o who_o have_v such_o impression_n on_o their_o affection_n and_o warning_n by_o they_o 1_o despise_v they_o not_o for_o god_n be_v in_o they_o although_o he_o may_v not_o be_v in_o they_o in_o a_o way_n of_o save_v grace_n yet_o he_o be_v in_o they_o in_o that_o which_o may_v be_v preparatory_a thereto_o they_o be_v not_o common_a humane_a accident_n but_o especial_a divine_a warning_n 2_o labour_v to_o retain_v they_o or_o a_o sense_n of_o they_o upon_o your_o heart_n and_o conscience_n you_o have_v get_v nothing_o by_o lose_v so_o many_o of_o they_o already_o and_o if_o you_o proceed_v in_o their_o neglect_n after_o a_o while_o you_o will_v hear_v of_o they_o no_o more_o 3_o put_v no_o more_o in_o they_o than_o belong_v unto_o they_o do_v not_o present_o conclude_v that_o your_o state_n be_v good_a because_o you_o have_v be_v affect_v at_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n or_o under_o a_o sickness_n or_o in_o a_o danger_n hereon_o many_o think_v that_o now_o all_o be_v well_o with_o they_o wherewith_o they_o please_v themselves_o until_o they_o be_v whole_o immerse_v in_o their_o former_a security_n second_o we_o may_v consider_v the_o difference_n that_o be_v between_o the_o habitual_a change_n of_o the_o affection_n before_o describe_v &_o that_o renovation_n by_o grace_n which_o render_v they_o spiritual_a and_o this_o be_v of_o great_a concernment_n unto_o we_o all_o to_o inquire_v into_o it_o with_o diligence_n multitude_n be_v herein_o deceive_v and_o that_o unto_o their_o ruin_n for_o they_o resolve_v their_o present_a peace_n into_o and_o build_v their_o hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n on_o such_o a_o change_n in_o themselves_o as_o will_v not_o abide_v the_o trial_n this_o difference_n therefore_o be_v to_o be_v examine_v by_o scripture_n light_n and_o the_o experience_n of_o they_o that_o do_v believe_v and_o 1._o there_o be_v a_o double_a universality_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o spiritual_a renovation_n of_o our_o affection_n 1_o that_o which_o be_v subjective_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o affection_n themselves_o and_o 2_o that_o which_o be_v objective_n with_o respect_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n first_o sanctification_n extend_v itself_o unto_o the_o whole_a spirit_n
in_o they_o and_o disesteem_n the_o chief_a benefit_n which_o be_v to_o be_v obtain_v by_o they_o whence_o shall_v zeal_n for_o they_o delight_n in_o they_o or_o diligence_n in_o attendance_n unto_o they_o arise_v let_v not_o any_o please_v themselves_o under_o the_o power_n of_o such_o decay_n they_o be_v indication_n of_o their_o inward_a frame_n and_o those_o infallible_a such_o person_n will_v grow_v cold_a careless_a and_o negligent_a as_o unto_o the_o duty_n of_o public_a worship_n they_o will_v put_v themselves_o neither_o to_o charge_v nor_o trouble_v about_o they_o every_o occasion_n of_o life_n divert_v they_o and_o find_v ready_a entertainment_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o when_o they_o do_v attend_v upon_o they_o it_o be_v with_o great_a indifferency_n and_o unconcernedness_n yet_o will_v they_o have_v it_o think_v that_o all_o be_v still_o well_o within_o as_o ever_o it_o be_v they_o have_v as_o good_a a_o respect_n unto_o religion_n as_o any_o but_o these_o thing_n open_o discover_v a_o ulcerous_a disease_n in_o the_o very_a soul_n of_o man_n as_o evident_o as_o if_o it_o be_v write_v on_o their_o forehead_n what_o ever_o they_o pretend_v unto_o the_o contrary_a they_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o woeful_a decay_n from_o all_o due_a regard_n unto_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a thing_n and_o i_o will_v avoid_v the_o society_n of_o such_o person_n as_o those_o who_o carry_v a_o infectious_a disease_n about_o they_o unless_o it_o be_v to_o help_v on_o their_o cure_n but_o herein_o it_o be_v that_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v manifest_v themselves_o when_o we_o do_v delight_n in_o and_o value_v the_o duty_n of_o god_n worship_n because_o we_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o they_o be_v and_o have_v be_v unto_o we_o mean_n of_o communicate_v a_o sense_n and_o renew_v pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o all_o the_o benefit_n and_o privilege_n which_o depend_v thereon_o then_o be_v our_o affection_n renew_v in_o and_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n second_o they_o come_v for_o supply_n of_o internal_a sanctify_a strengthen_v grace_n this_o be_v the_o second_o great_a design_n of_o believer_n in_o their_o approach_n unto_o god_n in_o his_o worship_n the_o want_n hereof_o as_o unto_o measure_n and_o degree_n they_o find_v in_o themselves_o and_o be_v sensible_a of_o it_o yea_o therein_o lie_v the_o great_a burden_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o world_n all_o that_o we_o do_v in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n may_v be_v refer_v unto_o two_o head_n first_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o obedience_n and_o second_o the_o conflict_n with_o and_o conquest_n over_o temptation_n about_o these_o thing_n be_v we_o continual_o exercise_v hence_o the_o great_a thing_n which_o we_o desire_v labour_n for_o and_o pant_v after_o be_v spiritual_a strength_n and_o ability_n for_o the_o discharge_v of_o ourselves_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o thing_n this_o be_v that_o which_o every_o true_a believer_n groan_v after_o in_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o which_o he_o prefer_v infinite_o above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n so_o he_o may_v have_v grace_n sufficient_a in_o any_o competent_a measure_n for_o these_o end_n let_v what_o will_v befall_v he_o he_o desire_v no_o more_o in_o this_o world_n god_n in_o christ_n be_v the_o only_a fountain_n of_o all_o this_o grace_n there_o be_v not_o one_o drachm_n of_o it_o to_o be_v obtain_v but_o from_o he_o alone_o and_o as_o he_o do_v communicate_v it_o unto_o we_o of_o his_o own_o sovereign_a goodness_n and_o pleasure_n so_o the_o ordinary_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o he_o will_v do_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n isaiah_n 40.28_o 29_o 30_o 31._o have_v thou_o not_o know_v have_v thou_o not_o hear_v that_o the_o everlasting_a god_n the_o lord_n the_o creator_n of_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n faint_v not_o neither_o be_v weary_a there_o be_v no_o search_v of_o his_o understanding_n he_o give_v power_n to_o the_o faint_a and_o to_o they_o that_o have_v no_o may_v he_o increase_v strength_n even_o the_o youth_n shall_v faint_v and_o be_v weary_a and_o the_o young_a man_n shall_v utter_o fail_v but_o they_o that_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n shall_v renew_v their_o strength_n they_o shall_v mount_v up_o with_o wing_n as_o eagle_n they_o shall_v run_v and_o not_o be_v weary_a they_o shall_v walk_v and_o not_o faint_a all_o grace_n and_o spiritual_a strength_n be_v original_o seat_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n v_o 28._o but_o what_o relief_n can_v that_o afford_v unto_o we_o who_o be_v weak_a feeble_a faint_a he_o will_v act_v suitable_o unto_o his_o nature_n in_o the_o communication_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o power_n v_o 29._o but_o how_o shall_v we_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o this_o grace_n in_o these_o opperation_n wait_v on_o he_o in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o his_o worship_n v_o 31._o the_o word_n as_o preach_v be_v the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o god_n administer_v growth_n and_o strength_n unto_o they_o joh._n 17.17_o 1_o pet._n 2.23_o desire_v say_v he_o the_o sincere_a milk_n of_o the_o word_n that_o you_o may_v grow_v thereby_o but_o what_o encouragement_n have_v we_o thereunto_o if_o so_o be_v say_v he_o you_o have_v taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a if_o in_o and_o by_o the_o dispensation_n of_o this_o word_n you_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o the_o grace_n the_o goodness_n the_o kindness_n of_o god_n unto_o your_o soul_n you_o can_v but_o desire_v it_o and_o delight_n in_o it_o and_o otherwise_o you_o will_v not_o do_v so_o when_o man_n have_v fate_n some_o good_a while_n under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o other_o ordinance_n without_o taste_v in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a they_o will_v grow_v weary_a of_o it_o and_o they_o wherefore_o prayer_n be_v the_o way_n of_o his_o appointment_n for_o the_o application_n of_o our_o soul_n unto_o he_o to_o obtain_v a_o participation_n of_o all_o needful_a grace_n which_o therefore_o he_o have_v propose_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o promise_v of_o the_o covenant_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o to_o ask_v and_o how_o to_o plead_v for_o it_o in_o the_o sacrament_n the_o same_o promise_n be_v seal_v unto_o we_o and_o the_o grace_n represent_v in_o they_o effectual_o exhibit_v meditation_n confirm_v our_o soul_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n about_o it_o and_o be_v the_o especial_a open_v of_o the_o heart_n unto_o the_o reception_n of_o it_o by_o these_o mean_n i_o say_v do_v god_n communicate_v all_o supply_n of_o renew_v strengthen_v and_o sanctify_a grace_n unto_o we_o that_o we_o may_v live_v unto_o he_o in_o all_o holy_a obedience_n and_o be_v able_a to_o get_v the_o victory_n over_o our_o temptation_n under_o this_o apprehension_n do_v believer_n approach_v unto_o god_n in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o his_o worship_n they_o come_v unto_o they_o as_o the_o mean_n of_o god_n communication_n unto_o their_o soul_n hence_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n so_o far_o as_o their_o affection_n be_v renew_v so_o the_o spouse_n testify_v of_o herself_o i_o sit_v down_o under_o his_o shadow_n with_o great_a delight_n cant_n 2.3_o in_o these_o ordinance_n be_v the_o protect_a refresh_a presence_n of_o christ._n this_o she_o rest_v in_o with_o great_a delight_n as_o they_o come_v unto_o they_o with_o these_o design_n and_o expectation_n so_o they_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o spiritual_a benefit_n and_o advantage_n which_o they_o receive_v by_o they_o which_o more_o and_o more_o engage_v they_o unto_o they_o in_o their_o affection_n and_o delight_n all_o these_o thing_n those_o who_o have_v a_o change_v wrought_v in_o their_o affection_n but_o not_o a_o spiritual_a renovation_n be_v stranger_n unto_o they_o neither_o have_v the_o design_n before_o mention_v in_o come_v to_o they_o nor_o the_o experience_n of_o this_o efficacy_n now_o propose_v in_o their_o attendance_n on_o they_o but_o these_o benefit_n be_v great_a as_o for_o instance_n when_o man_n find_v the_o worth_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o word_n preach_v on_o their_o soul_n in_o its_o enlighten_v refresh_a strengthen_v transform_a power_n when_o they_o find_v their_o heart_n warm_v their_o grace_n excite_v and_o strengthen_v the_o love_n of_o god_n improve_v their_o disponding_n spirit_n under_o trial_n and_o temptation_n relieve_v their_o whole_a soul_n gradual_o more_o and_o more_o conform_v unto_o christ_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o by_o it_o extricate_v out_o of_o snare_n doubt_n fear_n temptation_n and_o bring_v unto_o satisfaction_n and_o rest_n they_o can_v but_o delight_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o it_o and_o rejoice_v in_o it_o as_o the_o food_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o it_o be_v a_o great_a hindrance_n unto_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o
obstruction_n unto_o fruitfulness_n thrnkfulness_n and_o consolation_n when_o we_o be_v negligent_a in_o our_o meditation_n about_o the_o benefit_n that_o we_o receive_v by_o the_o word_n and_o the_o advantage_n which_o we_o have_v thereby_o for_o while_o it_o be_v so_o with_o we_o we_o can_v neither_o value_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o grant_v we_o this_o inestimable_a privilege_n nor_o perform_v any_o duty_n with_o respect_n unto_o it_o in_o a_o right_a manner_n this_o render_v it_o a_o especial_a object_n of_o our_o affection_n as_o spiritual_o renew_v that_o secret_a love_n unto_o and_o heavenly_a delight_n in_o the_o statute_n and_o testimony_n of_o god_n which_o david_n express_v psal_n 119._o arise_v from_o the_o spiritual_a benefit_n and_o advantage_n which_o he_o receive_v by_o they_o as_o he_o constant_o declare_v and_o the_o sole_a reason_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n why_o man_n grow_v so_o careless_a negligent_a and_o cold_a in_o their_o attendance_n unto_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n be_v because_o they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o any_o spiritual_a benefit_n or_o advantage_n by_o it_o they_o have_v be_v bring_v unto_o it_o by_o one_o mean_n or_o another_o most_o by_o conviction_n of_o their_o duty_n their_o mind_n have_v be_v various_o affect_v with_o it_o unto_o a_o joy_n in_o the_o hear_n of_o it_o and_o readiness_n unto_o sundry_a duty_n of_o obedience_n but_o after_o a_o while_n when_o a_o sense_n of_o those_o temporary_a impression_n be_v wear_v off_o find_v no_o real_a spiritual_a benefit_n by_o it_o they_o lose_v all_o delight_n in_o it_o and_o become_v very_o indifferent_a as_o unto_o its_o enjoyment_n the_o frame_n which_o such_o person_n at_o length_n arrive_v unto_o be_v describe_v mal._n 1.13_o and_o 3.14_o and_o none_o can_v give_v any_o great_a evidence_n of_o the_o decay_n of_o all_o manner_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o or_o of_o their_o be_v destitute_a of_o all_o saving-grace_n than_o when_o they_o apostatise_v from_o some_o degree_n of_o zeal_n for_o and_o delight_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n with_o such_o a_o curse_a indifferency_n as_o many_o be_v overtake_v withal_o it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o for_o see_v this_o be_v a_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o grace_n it_o will_v not_o be_v neglect_v but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o decay_n of_o all_o grace_n however_o man_n may_v please_v themselves_o with_o other_o pretence_n and_o when_o they_o be_v thus_o ensnare_v every_o foolish_a prejudice_n every_o provocation_n every_o wanton_a opinion_n and_o imagination_n will_v confirm_v they_o in_o and_o increase_v their_o gradual_a backslide_n and_o as_o it_o be_v with_o believer_n as_o unto_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n in_o general_n so_o it_o be_v as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o advantage_n which_o they_o find_v by_o it_o when_o man_n have_v enjoy_v the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n spiritual_a and_o effectual_a if_o they_o can_v be_v content_a to_o forego_v it_o for_o that_o which_o be_v more_o cold_a and_o lifeless_a provide_v it_o possess_v the_o same_o time_n and_o outward_a form_n with_o the_o other_o it_o be_v no_o great_a evidence_n that_o their_o soul_n do_v prosper_v it_o be_v therefore_o those_o alone_a who_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o word_n on_o their_o soul_n and_o conscience_n unto_o all_o the_o holy_a end_n of_o it_o who_o cleave_v unto_o it_o with_o spiritual_a love_n and_o delight_n they_o continual_o remember_v what_o holy_a impression_n it_o have_v make_v on_o they_o what_o engagement_n it_o have_v bring_v their_o soul_n into_o what_o encouragement_n unto_o faith_n and_o obedience_n it_o have_v furnish_v they_o withal_o and_o long_o after_o renew_v sense_n of_o its_o enjoyment_n when_o we_o do_v not_o find_v in_o ourselves_o this_o foundation_n of_o spiritual_a delight_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n we_o can_v have_v no_o great_a evidence_n that_o our_o affection_n be_v renew_v so_o also_o it_o be_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o meditation_n when_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o believer_n have_v have_v experience_n of_o the_o communion_n which_o it_o have_v have_v with_o god_n in_o they_o or_o either_o of_o they_o of_o the_o spiritual_a refreshment_n which_o it_o have_v have_v from_o they_o of_o the_o benefit_n and_o mercy_n which_o be_v obtain_v by_o they_o in_o recovery_n from_o temptation_n snare_n despondency_n in_o victory_n over_o sin_n and_o satan_n in_o spiritual_a impression_n work_v it_o unto_o a_o holy_a watchful_a frame_n which_o have_v abode_n with_o it_o in_o other_o way_n and_o occasion_n with_o the_o like_a advantage_n wherewith_o fervent_a and_o effectual_a prayer_n and_o sincere_a heavenly_a meditation_n be_v accompany_v it_o can_v but_o have_v love_n unto_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o but_o if_o indeed_o we_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o these_o thing_n if_o we_o find_v not_o these_o advantage_n in_o and_o by_o these_o duty_n they_o can_v but_o be_v a_o burden_n unto_o we_o nor_o do_v serve_v unto_o any_o other_o end_v but_o to_o satisfy_v conviction_n he_o who_o have_v the_o benefit_n of_o a_o serene_a and_o wholesome_a air_n in_o a_o recovery_n from_o many_o disease_n and_o distemper_n with_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o health_n so_o obtain_v will_v love_v it_o and_o prize_v it_o and_o so_o will_v he_o these_o duty_n who_o have_v be_v partaker_n of_o any_o of_o these_o save_v mercy_n and_o privilege_n wherewith_o they_o be_v accompany_v some_o have_v be_v deliver_v from_o the_o worst_a of_o temptation_n and_o the_o near_a approach_n of_o their_o prevalency_n as_o to_o destroy_v themselves_o by_o a_o sudden_a remembrance_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o the_o intimation_n of_o god_n love_n in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o prayer_n at_o such_o a_o time_n some_o have_v have_v the_o same_o deliverance_n from_o temptation_n unto_o sin_n when_o they_o have_v be_v carry_v away_o under_o the_o power_n of_o their_o corruption_n and_o all_o circumstance_n have_v concur_v under_o the_o apprehension_n of_o it_o a_o sudden_a thought_n of_o such_o a_o prayer_n or_o meditation_n with_o the_o engagement_n they_o make_v of_o themselves_o therein_o unto_o god_n have_v cause_v all_o the_o weapon_n of_o sin_n to_o fall_v out_o of_o its_o hand_n and_o all_o the_o beauty_n of_o its_o allurement_n to_o disappear_v when_o other_o have_v be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o such_o dispondency_n and_o disconsolation_n as_o that_o no_o present_a tender_n of_o relief_n can_v approach_v unto_o they_o they_o have_v be_v sudden_o raise_v and_o refresh_v by_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o intimate_a love_n and_o kindness_n between_o christ_n and_o their_o soul_n that_o have_v evidence_v itself_o in_o former_a duty_n multitude_n in_o fear_n distress_n and_o temptation_n have_v find_v relief_n unto_o their_o spirit_n and_o encouragement_n unto_o their_o faith_n in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o return_v they_o have_v have_v unto_o former_a supplication_n in_o the_o like_a distress_n these_o be_v ground_n of_o spiritual_a delight_n in_o these_o duty_n heartless_n lifeless_a wordy_a prayer_n the_o fruit_n of_o conviction_n and_o gift_n or_o of_o custom_n and_o outward_a occasion_n however_o multiply_v and_o whatever_o devotion_n they_o seem_v to_o be_v accompany_v withal_o will_v never_o engage_v spiritual_a affection_n unto_o they_o when_o these_o thing_n be_v absent_a when_o the_o soul_n have_v not_o experience_n of_o they_o prayer_n be_v but_o a_o lifeless_a form_n a_o dead_a carcase_n which_o it_o will_v be_v a_o torment_n unto_o a_o soul_n spiritual_o alive_a to_o be_v tie_v unto_o there_o may_v be_v a_o season_n indeed_o when_o god_n will_v seem_v to_o hide_v himself_o from_o believer_n in_o their_o prayer_n so_o as_o they_o shall_v neither_o find_v that_o life_n in_o themselves_o which_o they_o have_v do_v former_o nor_o be_v sensible_a of_o any_o gracious_a communication_n from_o he_o but_o this_o be_v do_v only_o for_o a_o time_n and_o principal_o to_o stir_v they_o up_o unto_o that_o fervency_n and_o preseverance_n in_o prayer_n as_o may_v recover_v they_o into_o their_o former_a or_o a_o better_a estate_n than_o yet_o they_o have_v attain_v unto_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v concern_v all_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n or_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n four_o believer_n who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v do_v delight_n great_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n because_o they_o be_v the_o great_a institute_v way_n whereby_o they_o may_v give_v glory_n unto_o god_n this_o be_v the_o first_o and_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o religion_n as_o they_o respect_v divine_a appointment_n namely_o to_o ascribe_v and_o give_v unto_o god_n the_o glory_n that_o be_v his_o due_n for_o in_o they_o all_o acknowledgement_n be_v make_v of_o all_o the_o glorious_a excellency_n
as_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o and_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n it_o be_v true_a the_o light_n of_o it_o can_v full_o comprehend_v the_o nature_n of_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o its_o affection_n for_o they_o be_v infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a such_o as_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o some_o of_o they_o as_o future_a glory_n be_v not_o yet_o clear_o reveal_v but_o it_o discern_v they_o all_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v in_o themselves_o and_o not_o in_o any_o corrupt_a representation_n or_o imagination_n of_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n they_o be_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2.14_o which_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o natural_a man_n can_v receive_v they_o namely_o because_o he_o have_v not_o ability_n spiritual_o to_o discern_v they_o and_o this_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o mind_n the_o principal_a quality_n and_o effect_n of_o faith_n namely_o the_o communication_n unto_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o act_n in_o we_o of_o a_o spiritual_a save_v light_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v and_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n kind_a and_o proper_a use_n see_v ephes._n 1.17_o 18_o 19_o that_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n may_v give_v unto_o you_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o the_o eye_n of_o your_o understanding_n be_v enlighten_v that_o you_o know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o call_v and_o what_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o inheritance_n in_o the_o saint_n and_o what_o be_v the_o exceed_a greatness_n of_o his_o power_n to_o us-ward_n who_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o work_n of_o his_o mighty_a power_n 2_o cor._n 4.6_o god_n shine_v in_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ._n the_o end_n god_n design_n be_v to_o draw_v our_o heart_n and_o affection_n unto_o himself_o and_o unto_o this_o end_n he_o give_v unto_o we_o a_o glorious_a internal_a light_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o discern_v the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v to_o cleave_v unto_o with_o love_n and_o delight_n without_o this_o we_o have_v nothing_o but_o false_a image_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o mind_n not_o always_o as_o unto_o the_o truth_n or_o doctrine_n concern_v they_o but_o as_o unto_o their_o reality_n power_n and_o efficacy_n this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o principal_a effect_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o mind_n namely_o to_o discover_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o represent_v unto_o the_o affection_n thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o their_o nature_n beauty_n and_o genuine_a excellency_n this_o attract_v they_o if_o they_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v and_o cause_v they_o to_o cleave_v with_o delight_n unto_o what_o be_v so_o propose_v unto_o they_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n who_o thereon_o discover_v the_o excellency_n of_o his_o person_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o mediation_n will_v both_o love_v he_o and_o on_o his_o believe_a rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n so_o be_v it_o in_o all_o other_o instance_n the_o more_o steady_a be_v our_o view_n by_o faith_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n the_o more_o firm_a and_o constant_a will_v our_o affection_n be_v in_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o wherever_o the_o mind_n be_v darken_v about_o they_o by_o temptation_n or_o seduction_n from_o the_o truth_n there_o the_o affection_n will_v be_v quick_o weaken_v and_o impair_v wherefore_o three_o affection_n thus_o lead_v unto_o and_o fix_v on_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o the_o light_n and_o conduct_v of_o faith_n be_v more_o and_o more_o renew_v or_o make_v in_o themselves_o more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a they_o be_v in_o their_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o continual_o change_v and_o assimulate_v unto_o the_o thing_n themselves_o become_v more_o and_o more_o to_o be_v what_o they_o be_v namely_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a this_o transformation_n be_v wrought_v by_o faith_n and_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o excellent_a faculty_n and_o operation_n see_v 2_o cor._n 3.18_o and_o the_o mean_n whereby_o it_o work_v herein_o be_v our_o affection_n in_o they_o as_o we_o be_v carnal_a we_o be_v conform_v unto_o this_o world_n and_o by_o they_o as_o sanctify_v be_v we_o transform_v in_o the_o renew_n of_o our_o mind_n rom._n 12.2_o and_o this_o transformation_n be_v the_o introduction_n of_o a_o new_a form_n or_o nature_n into_o our_o soul_n diverse_a from_o that_o wherewith_o we_o be_v before_o endue_v so_o be_v it_o describe_v isaiah_n 11.6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o a_o spiritual_a nature_n they_o be_v change_v into_o and_o it_o be_v twofold_a first_o original_a and_o radical_a as_o to_o the_o substance_n or_o essence_n of_o it_o which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o first_o act_n of_o divine_a grace_n upon_o our_o soul_n when_o we_o be_v make_v new_a creature_n herein_o our_o affection_n be_v passive_a they_o do_v not_o transform_v we_o but_o be_v transform_v second_o gradual_a as_o unto_o its_o increase_n and_o therein_o faith_n work_v in_o and_o by_o the_o affection_n whenever_o the_o affection_n do_v cleave_v intense_o unto_o any_o object_n they_o receive_v a_o impression_n from_o it_o as_o the_o wax_n do_v from_o the_o seal_n when_o apply_v unto_o it_o which_o change_v they_o into_o its_o own_o likeness_n so_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v of_o sensual_a unclean_a person_n they_o have_v eye_n full_a of_o adultery_n 2_o pet._n 2.14_o their_o affection_n be_v so_o whole_o possess_v and_o fill_v with_o their_o lustful_a object_n as_o that_o they_o have_v bring_v forth_o their_o own_o likeness_n upon_o their_o imagination_n that_o blot_v out_o all_o other_o and_o leave_v they_o no_o inclination_n but_o what_o they_o stir_v up_o in_o they_o when_o man_n be_v fill_v with_o the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n which_o carry_v along_o with_o it_o all_o their_o other_o affection_n their_o hope_n fear_n and_o desire_n unto_o a_o constant_a exercise_n about_o the_o same_o object_n they_o become_v earthly-minded_n their_o mind_n be_v so_o change_v into_o the_o image_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o by_o the_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o corrupt_a principle_n of_o sin_n self-love_n and_o lust_n as_o if_o they_o be_v make_v up_o of_o the_o earth_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o savour_n of_o any_o thing_n else_o in_o like_a manner_n when_o by_o faith_n man_n come_v to_o embrace_v heavenly_a thing_n through_o the_o effectual_a work_v of_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o they_o be_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o make_v heavenly_a the_o inward_a man_n be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n love_n be_v more_o sincere_a and_o ardent_a delight_n be_v more_o ravish_a and_o sensible_a desire_n be_v more_o enlarge_v and_o intense_a and_o by_o all_o a_o taste_n and_o relish_v of_o heavenly_a thing_n be_v heighten_v into_o refresh_a experience_n see_v rom._n 5.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o this_o be_v the_o way_n whereby_o one_o grace_n be_v add_v unto_o another_o 2_o pet._n 1.5_o 6._o in_o degree_n great_a be_v the_o assimulation_n between_o renew_a affection_n and_o their_o spiritual_a object_n that_o by_o this_o mean_n may_v be_v attain_v the_o mind_n hereby_o become_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o dwell_v by_o the_o spirit_n christ_n also_o dwell_v in_o believer_n and_o they_o in_o he_o god_n be_v love_n and_o he_o that_o dwell_v in_o love_n dwell_v in_o god_n and_o god_n in_o he_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o love_n in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n give_v a_o mutual_a inhabitation_n unto_o god_n and_o believer_n in_o brief_a he_o who_o affection_n be_v set_v upon_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n will_v be_v heavenly-minded_n and_o in_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o they_o will_v that_o heavenly_a mindedness_n be_v increase_v the_o transformation_n and_o assimulation_n that_o be_v wrought_v be_v not_o in_o the_o object_n or_o spiritual_a thing_n themselves_o they_o be_v not_o change_v neither_o in_o themselves_o nor_o in_o the_o representation_n make_v of_o they_o unto_o our_o mind_n but_o the_o change_n be_v in_o our_o affection_n which_o be_v make_v like_o unto_o they_o two_o case_n derive_v from_o this_o principle_n and_o consideration_n may_v be_v here_o speak_v unto_o and_o shall_v be_v so_o the_o first_o in_o this_o and_o the_o other_o in_o the_o follow_a chapter_n the_o one_o be_v concern_v the_o slowness_n and_o imperceptibility_n of_o the_o growth_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o their_o assimulation_n unto_o
which_o a_o well_o dispose_v appetite_n find_v unto_o savoury_a meat_n as_o the_o full_a soul_n loathe_v the_o hony-comb_n so_o a_o mind_n under_o the_o power_n of_o carnal_a affection_n have_v a_o aversation_n unto_o all_o spiritual_a sweetness_n but_o spiritualise_v affection_n desire_v they_o have_v a_o appetite_n unto_o they_o ready_o receive_v they_o on_o all_o occasion_n as_o those_o which_o be_v natural_a unto_o they_o as_o milk_n be_v unto_o newborn_a babe_n 2_o affection_n so_o dispose_v constant_o find_v a_o gust_n a_o pleasant_a taste_n a_o relish_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n they_o do_v in_o they_o taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a 1_o pet._n 2.3_o to_o taste_v of_o god_n goodness_n be_v to_o have_v a_o experience_n of_o a_o savoury_a relish_n and_o sweetness_n in_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o person_n who_o affection_n be_v thus_o renew_v and_o thus_o improve_v do_v taste_v a_o sweet_a savour_n in_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n some_o of_o they_o as_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n be_v sometime_o as_o it_o be_v too_o hard_o for_o they_o and_o overpower_v they_o until_o they_o be_v sick_a of_o love_n and_o do_v rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o of_o they_o however_o condit_v with_o affliction_n or_o mortification_n but_o it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o they_o prov._n 27.7_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v wholesome_a food_n that_o be_v good_a nourishment_n though_o it_o be_v but_o bitter_a herb_n be_v sweet_a to_o he_o that_o be_v hungry_a and_o when_o by_o our_o affection_n we_o have_v raise_v up_o in_o we_o a_o spiritual_a appetite_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n however_o any_o of_o they_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n or_o in_o their_o dispensation_n may_v be_v bitter_a to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n as_o be_v all_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o cross_n they_o be_v all_o sweet_a unto_o we_o and_o we_o can_v taste_v how_o gracious_a the_o lord_n be_v in_o they_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o earthly_a thing_n the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n or_o when_o the_o appetite_n be_v lose_v by_o spiritual_a sickness_n or_o vitiate_v and_o corrupt_v by_o any_o prevalent_a sin_n heavenly_a thing_n be_v unsavoury_a and_o sapless_a or_o as_o job_n speak_v like_o the_o white_a of_o a_o egg_n wherein_o there_o be_v no_o taste_n there_o may_v be_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n a_o taste_n or_o please_a relish_v give_v unto_o the_o fancy_n there_o may_v be_v so_o unto_o the_o notional_a understanding_n when_o the_o affection_n find_v no_o complacency_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o but_o unto_o they_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a unto_o the_o degree_n intend_v they_o be_v all_o sweet_a savoury_a pleasant_a the_o affection_n taste_v they_o immediate_o as_o the_o palate_n do_v meat_n 3_o they_o be_v a_o just_a repository_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o therein_o the_o treasury_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n who_o formal_a direct_a residence_n be_v in_o the_o understanding_n and_o the_o will_n as_o faith_n itself_o and_o therein_o be_v all_o other_o grace_n radical_o comprise_v they_o grow_v from_o the_o root_n howbeit_o the_o most_o of_o they_o have_v their_o principal_a residence_n in_o the_o affection_n in_o they_o be_v they_o preserve_v secure_a and_o ready_a for_o exercise_n on_o all_o occasion_n and_o when_o they_o be_v due_o spiritual_a there_o be_v nothing_o that_o tend_v to_o their_o growth_n or_o improvement_n to_o their_o cherish_n or_o quicken_a which_o they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o continual_o and_o which_o god_n have_v make_v provision_n for_o in_o his_o word_n but_o they_o reaedy_o receive_v it_o lay_v it_o up_o keep_v and_o preserve_v it_o hereby_o they_o come_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o grace_n with_o all_o grace_n for_o there_o be_v room_n in_o they_o for_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o inhabit_v and_o do_v ready_o comply_v with_o the_o light_n and_o direction_n of_o faith_n unto_o their_o exercise_n when_o faith_n discern_v and_o determine_v that_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v or_o suffer_v in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o affection_n thus_o dispose_v do_v not_o shut_v up_o or_o stifle_v the_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o they_o but_o chcareful_o offer_v they_o unto_o their_o proper_a exercise_n there_o be_v some_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o our_o affection_n conform_v unto_o heavenly_a thing_n will_v attain_v unto_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v by_o be_v fix_v on_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a they_o be_v more_o and_o more_o conform_v unto_o they_o make_v like_o they_o and_o become_v more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a themselves_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o with_o they_o who_o affection_n have_v only_o a_o occasional_a change_n wrought_v upon_o they_o by_o the_o mean_v before_o describe_v but_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a such_o person_n do_v design_n to_o debate_v spiritual_a thing_n to_o bring_v down_o heavenly_a thing_n into_o a_o conformity_n with_o their_o affection_n which_o however_o change_v be_v not_o spiritual_a but_o carnal_a to_o evince_v this_o we_o may_v observe_v 1_o these_o affection_n be_v under_o the_o light_n and_o conduct_v of_o such_o notion_n in_o the_o mind_n and_o understanding_n as_o do_v not_o give_v a_o clear_a distinct_a representation_n of_o they_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n unto_o they_o for_o where_o they_o be_v not_o themselves_o spiritual_o renew_v there_o the_o mind_n itself_o be_v carnal_a and_o unrenewed_a and_o such_o a_o mind_n discern_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n nor_o can_v do_v so_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v they_o can_v be_v discern_v aright_o in_o their_o own_o beauty_n and_o glory_n but_o in_o and_o by_o a_o spiritual_a save_a light_n which_o the_o mind_n be_v devoid_a of_o and_o where_o they_o be_v not_o thus_o represent_v the_o affection_n can_v receive_v or_o cleave_v unto_o they_o as_o they_o ought_v nor_o will_v ever_o be_v conform_v unto_o they_o 2_o those_o notion_n in_o such_o person_n be_v ofttimes_o various_o influence_v and_o corrupt_v by_o fancy_n and_o imagination_n they_o be_v mere_o puff_v up_o in_o their_o fleshly_a mind_n that_o be_v they_o be_v fill_v with_o vain_a foolish_a proud_a imagination_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v col._n 2.18_o 19_o and_o the_o work_n of_o fancy_n in_o a_o fleshly_a mind_n be_v to_o raise_v up_o such_o image_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o may_v render_v they_o suitable_a unto_o natural_a unrenewed_a affection_n 3_o this_o in_o the_o progress_n of_o it_o produce_v superstition_n false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o a_o attempt_v to_o represent_v spiritual_a thing_n in_o a_o way_n suit_v unto_o carnal_a unrenewed_a affection_n hence_o man_n suppose_v themselves_o to_o be_v excite_v by_o they_o unto_o love_n joy_n fear_v delight_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o when_o they_o all_o respect_n that_o false_a representation_n of_o they_o whereby_o they_o be_v suit_v unto_o they_o as_o carnal_a these_o have_v be_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n first_o the_o mind_n and_o affection_n have_v be_v change_v and_o tincture_v with_o devotion_n by_o some_o of_o the_o mean_n we_o have_v before_o insist_v on_o herein_o they_o will_v one_o way_n or_o other_o be_v exercise_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o receive_v impression_n from_o any_o thing_n that_o superstition_n can_v impose_v upon_o they_o second_o they_o be_v by_o error_n and_o false_a information_n set_v at_o liberty_n from_o the_o only_a rule_n of_o their_o act_n and_o exercise_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n man_n satisfy_v themselves_o that_o so_o their_o affection_n be_v engage_v about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a it_o be_v no_o matter_n at_o all_o whether_o the_o way_n of_o their_o exercise_n be_v direct_v by_o the_o scripture_n or_o no._n have_v thus_o lose_v their_o guide_n and_o their_o way_n every_o igâ—u_n fatuus_fw-la every_o wander_a meteor_n allure_v they_o to_o follow_v its_o conduct_n into_o foolish_a superstition_n nothing_o almost_o be_v so_o ridiculous_a nothing_o so_o horrid_a and_o difficult_a that_o they_o will_v not_o embrace_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a three_o the_o carnal_a mind_n of_o man_n have_v no_o proper_a distinct_a apprehension_n and_o notion_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n do_v endeavour_n to_o present_v they_o under_o such_o â—otions_n and_o image_n as_o may_v suit_v they_o unto_o their_o carnal_a unrenewed_a affection_n for_o it_o be_v implant_v a_o most_o indelible_o upon_o they_o that_o the_o end_n of_o all_o knowledge_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v to_o propose_v they_o unto_o the_o embrace_n of_o
the_o text_n from_o whence_o the_o whole_a be_v educe_v be_v to_o manifest_v how_o it_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n which_o be_v affirm_v by_o the_o apostle_n this_o shall_v be_v do_v with_o all_o brevity_n as_o have_v pass_v through_o that_o which_o be_v principal_o design_v and_o two_o thing_n be_v we_o to_o inquire_v into_o 1_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o life_n and_o peace_n 2_o in_o what_o sense_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a be_v both_o of_o they_o 1_o that_o spiritual_a life_n whereof_o we_o be_v make_v partaker_n in_o this_o world_n be_v threefold_a or_o there_o be_v three_o gospel_n privilege_n or_o grace_n so_o express_v 1_o there_o be_v the_o life_n of_o justification_n therein_o the_o just_a by_o faith_n do_v live_v as_o free_v from_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o the_o law_n so_o the_o righteousness_n of_o one_o come_v on_o all_o that_o believe_v unto_o the_o justification_n of_o life_n rom._n 5.18_o it_o give_v unto_o believer_n a_o right_a and_o title_n to_o life_n for_o they_o that_o receive_v the_o abundance_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o righteousness_n shall_v reign_v in_o life_n by_o one_o christ_n jesus_n vers_fw-la 17._o this_o be_v not_o the_o life_n here_o intend_v for_o this_o life_n depend_v sole_o on_o the_o sovereign_a grace_n of_o god_n by_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n unto_o we_o unto_o pardon_n right_o to_o life_n and_o salvation_n 2_o there_o be_v a_o life_n of_o sanctification_n as_o life_n in_o the_o forego_n sense_n in_o oppose_a unto_o death_n spiritual_a as_o unto_o the_o the_o gild_n of_o it_o and_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o death_n wherewith_o it_o be_v accompany_v so_o in_o this_o it_o be_v oppose_v unto_o it_o as_o unto_o its_o internal_a power_n on_o and_o efficacy_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o keep_v it_o under_o a_o impotency_n unto_o all_o act_n of_o spiritual_a life_n yea_o a_o enmity_n against_o they_o this_o be_v that_o life_n wherewith_o we_o be_v quicken_v by_o christ_n jesus_n when_o before_o we_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n ephes._n 2.1_o 5._o of_o this_o life_n the_o apostle_n treat_v direct_o in_o this_o place_n for_o have_v in_o the_o first_o four_o verse_n of_o the_o chapter_n declare_v the_o life_n of_o justification_n in_o the_o nature_n and_o cause_n of_o it_o in_o the_o follow_a he_o treat_v of_o death_n spiritual_a in_o sin_n with_o the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n whereby_o we_o be_v free_v from_o it_o and_o to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n be_v this_o life_n in_o a_o double_a sense_n 1_o in_o that_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a effect_n and_o fruit_n of_o that_o life_n the_o life_n itself_o consist_v in_o the_o infusion_n and_o communication_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o life_n that_o be_v of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n unto_o all_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o our_o soul_n enable_v we_o to_o live_v unto_o god_n to_o be_v spiritually-minded_n which_o be_v a_o grace_n whereunto_o many_o duty_n do_v concur_v and_o that_o not_o only_o as_o to_o the_o act_n of_o all_o grace_n in_o they_o but_o as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o exercise_n can_v be_v this_o life_n formal_o but_o it_o be_v that_o wherein_o the_o power_n of_o this_o principle_n of_o life_n do_v in_o the_o first_o and_o chief_a place_n put_v forth_o itself_o all_o act_n of_o grace_n all_o duty_n of_o obedience_n internal_a and_o external_a do_v proceed_v from_o this_o spring_n and_o fountain_n nothing_o of_o that_o kind_n be_v acceptable_a unto_o god_n but_o what_o be_v influence_v by_o it_o and_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o it_o but_o it_o principal_o put_v forth_o its_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n in_o render_v our_o mind_n spiritual_a which_o if_o it_o effect_v not_o it_o work_v not_o at_o all_o that_o be_v we_o be_v utter_o destitute_a of_o it_o the_o next_o and_o immediate_a work_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o life_n in_o our_o sanctification_n be_v to_o renew_v the_o mind_n to_o make_v it_o spiritual_a and_o thereon_o gradual_o to_o carry_v it_o on_o unto_o that_o degree_n which_o be_v here_o call_v be_v spiritually-minded_n 2_o it_o be_v the_o proper_a adjunct_n and_o evidence_n of_o it_o will_v any_o one_o know_v whether_o he_o be_v spiritual_o alive_a unto_o god_n with_o the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n and_o holiness_n the_o communication_n of_o it_o unto_o he_o be_v by_o a_o almighty_a act_n of_o create_a power_n ephes_n 2.10_o it_o be_v not_o easy_o discernible_a so_o as_o to_o help_v we_o to_o make_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o it_o from_o its_o essence_n or_o form_n but_o where_o thing_n be_v in_o themselves_o indiscernible_a we_o may_v know_v they_o from_o their_o proper_a and_o inseparable_a adjunct_n which_o be_v therefore_o call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o the_o essence_n or_o the_o form_n itself_o such_o be_v this_o be_v spiritually-minded_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n it_o be_v a_o inseparable_a property_n and_o adjunct_n of_o it_o whereby_o it_o infallible_o evidence_v if_o self_n unto_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v in_o these_o two_o respect_n it_o be_v the_o life_n of_o sanctification_n 3_o life_n be_v take_v for_o the_o comfort_n and_o refreshment_n of_o life_n so_o speak_v the_o apostle_n 1_o thes._n 3.8_o now_o we_o live_v if_o you_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o lord_n now_o our_o life_n will_v do_v we_o good_a we_o have_v the_o comfort_n the_o refreshment_n and_o the_o joy_n of_o it_o non_fw-fr est_fw-fr vivere_fw-la sed_fw-la valere_fw-la vita_fw-la the_o comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o life_n be_v more_o life_n than_o life_n itself_o it_o be_v life_n that_o be_v that_o which_o make_v life_n to_o be_v so_o bring_v in_o that_o satisfaction_n those_o refreshment_n unto_o it_o which_o make_v it_o pleasant_a and_o desirable_a and_o i_o do_v suppose_v this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v principal_o intend_v in_o the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n it_o be_v life_n a_o cheerful_a joyous_a life_n a_o life_n worth_a the_o live_n in_o explication_n and_o confirmation_n whereof_o it_o be_v add_v that_o it_o be_v peace_n also_o peace_n be_v twofold_a 1_o general_n and_o absolute_a that_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v celebrate_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o which_o be_v the_o only_a original_a spring_n and_o fountain_n of_o all_o consolation_n unto_o believer_n that_o which_o virtual_o contain_v in_o it_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a useful_a or_o desirable_a unto_o they_o but_o it_o be_v not_o here_o precise_o intend_v it_o be_v not_o so_o 1_o as_o to_o the_o immediate_a ground_n and_o cause_n of_o it_o which_o be_v our_o justification_n not_o our_o sanctification_n rom._n 5.1_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n so_o christ_n alone_o be_v our_o peace_n as_o he_o who_o have_v make_v peace_n for_o we_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o cross_n ephes._n 2.14_o 15._o hereof_o our_o be_v spiritually-minded_n be_v no_o way_n the_o cause_n or_o reason_n only_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n and_o pledge_n of_o it_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v 2_o not_o as_o unto_o the_o formal_a nature_n of_o it_o peace_n with_o god_n through_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v one_o thing_n and_o peace_n in_o our_o mind_n through_o a_o holy_a frame_n in_o they_o be_v another_o the_o former_a be_v communicate_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n dwell_v in_o we_o rom._n 5.5_o the_o latter_a be_v a_o effect_n on_o our_o mind_n begin_v and_o gradual_o carry_v on_o by_o the_o duty_n we_o have_v before_o at_o large_a declare_v the_o immediate_a act_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o seal_v we_o witness_v unto_o our_o adoption_n and_o be_v a_o earnest_a of_o glory_n be_v require_v unto_o the_o former_a our_o own_o sedulity_n and_o diligence_n in_o duty_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o grace_n be_v require_v unto_o the_o latter_a 2_o peace_n be_v take_v for_o a_o peculiar_a fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n consist_v in_o a_o gracious_a quietness_n and_o composure_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o difficulty_n temptation_n trouble_n and_o such_o other_o thing_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o fill_v we_o with_o fear_n despondency_n and_o disquietment_n this_o be_v that_o which_o keep_v the_o soul_n in_o its_o own_o power_n free_a from_o transport_v by_o fear_n or_o passion_n on_o all_o the_o abide_a ground_n of_o gospel_n consolation_n for_o although_o this_o be_v a_o peculiar_a especial_a grace_n yet_o it_o it_o that_o which_o be_v influence_v and_o keep_v alive_a by_o the_o consideration_n of_o all_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o and_o whereas_o peace_n include_v in_o the_o first_o notion_n of_o it_o a_o inward_a freedom_n from_o opposition_n and_o trouble_n which_o those_o in_o who_o it_o be_v be_v outward_o expose_v
unto_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n from_o which_o we_o be_v secure_v by_o this_o peace_n which_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a the_o first_o be_v offence_n there_o be_v nothing_o of_o who_o danger_n we_o be_v more_o warn_v in_o the_o gospel_n than_o of_o offence_n wo_n to_o the_o world_n say_v our_o saviour_n because_o of_o offence_n all_o age_n all_o time_n and_o season_n be_v fill_v with_o they_o and_o they_o prove_v pernicious_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o many_o such_o be_v the_o scandalous_a division_n that_o be_v among_o christian_n the_o endless_a difference_n of_o opinion_n and_o diversity_n of_o practice_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n the_o fall_v and_o sin_n of_o professor_n the_o fearful_a end_n of_o some_o of_o they_o the_o reproach_n that_o be_v cast_v on_o all_o that_o engage_v into_o any_o peculiar_a way_n of_o holiness_n and_o strictness_n of_o life_n with_o other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n whereby_o the_o soul_n of_o innumerable_a person_n be_v disquiet_v subvert_v or_o infect_v be_v to_o be_v reckon_v unto_o this_o head_n against_o any_o hurtful_a or_o noxious_a influence_n on_o our_o mind_n from_o these_o thing_n against_o disquietment_n dejection_n of_o spirit_n and_o disconsolation_n be_v we_o secure_v by_o this_o peace_n so_o the_o psalmist_n assure_v we_o psal._n 119.165_o great_a peace_n have_v they_o that_o love_v thy_o law_n and_o nothing_o shall_v offend_v they_o the_o law_n or_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a way_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o will_n unto_o we_o and_o the_o only_a outward_a way_n and_o rule_n of_o our_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o wherefore_o to_o love_v the_o law_n be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o be_v heavenly_a mind_a yea_o virtual_o that_o which_o comprehend_v the_o whole_a for_o such_o as_o do_v so_o nothing_o none_o of_o the_o thing_n before_o mention_v nor_o any_o other_o of_o the_o like_a nature_n shall_v be_v a_o offence_n a_o stumble_a block_n or_o cause_n of_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o they_o have_v such_o a_o experience_n in_o themselves_o of_o the_o truth_n power_n efficacy_n and_o holiness_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o that_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o man_n under_o a_o profession_n of_o it_o shall_v never_o be_v unto_o they_o a_o occasion_n of_o fall_v or_o be_v offend_v at_o christ._n and_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o very_a evil_a frame_n of_o heart_n when_o man_n be_v concern_v in_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o some_o that_o have_v make_v profession_n whereby_o they_o be_v it_o may_v be_v damage_v in_o their_o outward_a concern_v so_o as_o that_o they_o be_v surprise_v into_o reflection_n on_o that_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v profess_v the_o same_o themselves_o 2_o the_o second_o be_v affliction_n persecution_n and_o suffering_n of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v know_v by_o all_o it_o be_v well_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o well_o know_v what_o disquietment_n dejection_n and_o disconsolation_n these_o thing_n be_v apt_a to_o fill_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n withal_o what_o fear_n trouble_n sorrow_n they_o reflect_v upon_o they_o against_o all_o these_o effect_n of_o they_o this_o peace_n intend_v give_v we_o security_n it_o make_v we_o to_o preserve_v a_o peaceable_a yea_o a_o joyous_a life_n in_o our_o conflict_n with_o they_o see_v joh._n 16.33_o both_o these_o as_o here_o join_v together_o life_n and_o peace_n do_v comprise_v a_o holy_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n wherein_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v rest_n quietness_n refreshment_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o temptation_n affliction_n offence_n and_o suffering_n it_o be_v the_o soul_n composure_n of_o itself_o in_o god_n in_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n jesus_n so_o as_o not_o great_o to_o be_v put_v out_o of_o order_n to_o be_v cast_v down_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v befall_v it_o but_o afford_v man_n cheerfulness_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o themselves_o though_o they_o walk_v sometime_o in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n such_o person_n have_v that_o in_o they_o abide_v with_o they_o as_o will_v give_v they_o life_n and_o peace_n under_o all_o occurrence_n 2_o our_o next_o enquiry_n be_v how_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n or_o what_o it_o contribute_v unto_o they_o how_o it_o produce_v the_o frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o express_v and_o this_o it_o do_v several_a way_n 1_o it_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n on_o our_o part_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o it_o as_o shed_v abroad_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o first_o and_o only_a foundation_n of_o all_o durable_a comfort_n such_o as_o will_v support_v and_o refresh_v we_o under_o all_o opposition_n and_o distress_n that_o be_v of_o life_n and_o peace_n in_o our_o soul_n in_o any_o condition_n this_o god_n communicate_v by_o a_o act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n for_o the_o most_o part_n without_o any_o preparation_n for_o it_o in_o ourselves_o he_o create_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o lip_n peace_n peace_n but_o although_o divine_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o unchangeable_a and_o always_o the_o same_o yet_o this_o sense_n of_o it_o may_v be_v lose_v as_o it_o be_v in_o david_n when_o he_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v restore_v unto_o he_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n psal._n 51.12_o and_o so_o many_o other_o have_v find_v it_o by_o woeful_a experience_n to_o insist_v upon_o all_o that_o be_v require_v on_o our_o part_n that_o we_o may_v retain_v a_o gracious_a refresh_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n after_o it_o be_v once_o grant_v unto_o we_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o present_a purpose_n but_o this_o i_o say_v there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v more_o concern_v for_o to_o be_v careful_a and_o diligent_a in_o than_o as_o unto_o what_o belong_v to_o that_o end_n for_o man_n who_o by_o a_o mere_a act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n have_v taste_v herein_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o have_v have_v the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o it_o to_o be_v negligent_a in_o the_o keep_n and_o preserve_v it_o in_o their_o soul_n be_v a_o provocation_n that_o they_o will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o be_v sensible_a of_o there_o be_v nothing_o do_v more_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n than_o to_o have_v his_o especial_a work_n whereby_o he_o seal_v we_o unto_o the_o day_n of_o redemption_n neglect_v or_o despise_v and_o it_o argue_v a_o mighty_a prevalency_n of_o some_o corruption_n or_o temptation_n that_o shall_v cause_v man_n willing_o and_o by_o their_o own_o sloth_n to_o forfeit_v so_o inestimable_a a_o grace_n mercy_n and_o privilege_n and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o there_o be_v but_o few_o of_o we_o who_o have_v not_o reason_n to_o bewail_v our_o folly_n in_o every_o intimation_n of_o divine_a love_n be_v a_o inestimable_a jewel_n which_o if_o safe_o treasure_v up_o in_o our_o heart_n add_v unto_o our_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o be_v lose_v will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o affect_v we_o with_o sorrow_n and_o i_o be_o afraid_a that_o many_o of_o we_o be_v very_o negligent_a herein_o unto_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o spiritual_n state_n many_o such_o intimation_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o the_o word_n which_o we_o take_v little_a notice_n of_o either_o we_o know_v not_o the_o voice_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o or_o do_v not_o hearken_v unto_o he_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n or_o refuse_v a_o compliance_n with_o he_o when_o we_o can_v but_o know_v that_o he_o speak_v unto_o we_o see_v cant._n 5.2_o 3._o or_o if_o we_o receive_v any_o impression_n of_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o they_o we_o quick_o lose_v they_o not_o know_v how_o much_o the_o life_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v concern_v therein_o and_o what_o use_n of_o they_o we_o may_v have_v in_o our_o follow_a temptation_n trial_n and_o duty_n now_o the_o great_a mean_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o only_a spring_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n unto_o our_o soul_n be_v this_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n this_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o duty_n for_o 1_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n preserve_v of_o itself_o in_o a_o frame_n meet_v to_o receive_v and_o retain_v this_o sense_n of_o god_n love_n what_o other_o way_n can_v there_o be_v on_o our_o part_n but_o that_o our_o mind_n which_o be_v so_o to_o receive_v it_o and_o retain_v it_o be_v spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a always_o prepare_v for_o that_o holy_a converse_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o which_o he_o