that_o duty_n the_o spirit_n know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o be_v the_o intelligencer_n of_o heaven_n he_o direct_v we_o to_o the_o most_o favourable_a season_n and_o by_o soft_a whisper_v and_o warm_a impulse_n bring_v we_o in_o god_n presence_n to_o pray_v for_o mercy_n when_o god_n be_v ready_a to_o bestow_v they_o he_o do_v with_o sensible_a enlargement_n open_v our_o heart_n in_o the_o duty_n and_o as_o under_o the_o law_n when_o fire_n fall_v from_o heaven_n upon_o the_o sacrifice_n it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o god_n acceptance_n so_o when_o a_o sacred_a fire_n kindle_v our_o affection_n it_o be_v a_o sign_n our_o request_n be_v accept_v he_o mix_v in_o our_o prayer_n reverence_n with_o filial_a confidence_n resignation_n to_o the_o will_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n with_o reliance_n upon_o his_o love_n and_o power_n and_o when_o a_o mercy_n be_v bestow_v the_o spirit_n convert_v our_o prayer_n into_o praise_n and_o by_o the_o mercy_n confirm_v our_o faith_n inflame_v our_o love_n and_o endear_v obedience_n to_o we_o concern_v the_o person_n of_o who_o the_o follow_a paper_n give_v a_o account_n i_o shall_v only_o say_v he_o be_v a_o christian_n inward_o who_o have_v have_v a_o state_v intercourse_n with_o heaven_n and_o have_v record_v the_o gracious_a passage_n of_o providence_n the_o rich_a return_v of_o prayer_n to_o he_o it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v a_o continual_a succession_n of_o mercy_n through_o all_o the_o minute_n of_o our_o life_n which_o we_o can_v observe_v and_o remember_v but_o as_o there_o be_v a_o different_a glory_n in_o the_o light_n of_o heaven_n one_o glory_n of_o the_o sun_n another_o of_o the_o moon_n and_o another_o of_o the_o star_n so_o some_o be_v eminent_a and_o illustrious_a above_o other_o and_o aught_o to_o be_v remember_v and_o acknowledge_v with_o solemnity_n of_o these_o mercy_n he_o have_v be_v deep_o sensible_a and_o can_v not_o be_v silent_a but_o open_v the_o treasure_n of_o his_o experience_n and_o with_o david_n the_o great_a pattern_n of_o thankfulness_n call_v upon_o those_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n to_o read_v what_o he_o have_v do_v for_o his_o soul_n his_o end_n be_v to_o glorify_v his_o bless_a benefactor_n and_o to_o invite_v other_o to_o partake_v of_o the_o same_o mercy_n may_v his_o example_n excite_v we_o with_o diligence_n and_o delight_n to_o maintain_v communion_n with_o god_n on_o earth_n the_o sweet_a and_o sure_a anticipation_n and_o earnest_n of_o our_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o his_o temple_n above_o where_o light_n and_o love_n and_o joy_n shine_v in_o their_o perfection_n for_o ever_o to_o the_o reader_n who_o among_o the_o adopt_a son_n of_o god_n can_v behold_v the_o abound_a vice_n of_o the_o profane_a the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n make_v a_o cloak_n for_o sin_n and_o error_n and_o the_o laziness_n of_o christian_n life_n in_o our_o day_n and_o not_o awaken_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v god_n speak_v in_o the_o same_o language_n to_o we_o as_o to_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n isa_n 43.10_o you_o be_v my_o witness_n be_v god_n divine_a providence_n practical_o deny_v or_o retrench_v when_o so_o much_o thereof_o be_v in_o the_o constant_a view_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n deny_v by_o a_o sectary_n of_o deist_n when_o so_o much_o thereof_o be_v feel_v as_o real_a in_o the_o soul_n of_o christian_n be_v the_o godhead_n of_o christ_n with_o the_o be_v of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n so_o audacious_o and_o profane_o deny_v when_o those_o who_o have_v experience_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o first_o by_o the_o powerful_a application_n of_o the_o latter_a witness_v the_o reality_n of_o both_o i_o be_o resolve_v therefore_o to_o make_v no_o other_o apology_n for_o my_o print_n the_o follow_a discourse_n than_o that_o it_o be_v in_o obedience_n to_o the_o apostle_n charge_n to_o all_o believer_n in_o the_o 10_o verse_n of_o the_o four_o chapter_n of_o the_o first_o epistle_n of_o peter_n as_o every_o man_n have_v receive_v the_o gift_n even_o so_o minister_v the_o same_o one_o to_o another_o as_o good_a steward_n of_o the_o manifold_a grace_n of_o god_n what_o i_o have_v impart_v i_o have_v receive_v and_o in_o these_o gradual_a step_n and_o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o mean_n treat_v of_o in_o the_o first_o and_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o discourse_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o impart_v of_o what_o god_n have_v do_v for_o my_o soul_n and_o by_o what_o mean_n i_o hope_v i_o stand_v his_o witness_n this_o day_n on_o the_o earth_n and_o approve_v myself_o a_o faithful_a steward_n in_o minister_a the_o same_o thing_n to_o other_o and_o that_o in_o the_o way_n wherein_o they_o be_v receive_v there_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o confederacy_n between_o satan_n and_o the_o man_n of_o this_o age_n to_o discredit_v the_o oracle_n of_o god_n but_o his_o word_n be_v a_o firm_a foundation_n of_o faith_n and_o sincere_a christian_n clear_o see_v the_o character_n of_o its_o divinity_n and_o feel_v the_o sanctify_a comfort_a efficacy_n of_o it_o and_o many_o have_v seal_v its_o truth_n with_o their_o blood_n other_o in_o their_o die_a hour_n when_o man_n speak_v with_o most_o feeling_n and_o least_o affectation_n have_v declare_v their_o unshaken_a belief_n of_o it_o and_o other_o in_o converse_n with_o those_o they_o most_o dear_o love_v and_o therefore_o will_v not_o deceive_v each_o christian_a therefore_o be_v under_o obligation_n to_o glorify_v god_n according_a to_o their_o measure_n of_o experience_n concern_v god_n and_o his_o divine_a truth_n all_o be_v not_o in_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o there_o seem_v in_o our_o day_n but_o small_a opportunity_n in_o conversation_n to_o witness_v for_o christianity_n converse_v with_o the_o profane_a be_v of_o so_o dangerous_a consequence_n that_o discourse_n of_o such_o thing_n occasion_n god_n and_o his_o truth_n to_o be_v mock_v yea_o to_o my_o certain_a knowledge_n blaspheme_v converse_v with_o some_o under_o the_o character_n of_o great_a sobriety_n draw_v forth_o such_o open_a confidence_n in_o error_n as_o to_o tell_v we_o god_n word_n the_o rule_n of_o our_o faith_n be_v to_o be_v lay_v aside_o and_o debate_n in_o christianity_n be_v to_o be_v leave_v off_o at_o the_o first_o chapter_n of_o genesis_n they_o give_v no_o credit_n to_o its_o truth_n than_o so_o far_o as_o their_o natural_a reason_n can_v comprehend_v whereas_o the_o soul_n be_v corrupt_v in_o all_o its_o faculty_n by_o the_o fall_n although_o in_o the_o structure_n of_o the_o world_n and_o its_o preservation_n with_o the_o various_a turn_n of_o providence_n there_o be_v clear_a discovery_n of_o the_o divine_a maker_n yet_o how_o little_a advance_v do_v the_o wise_a philosopher_n make_v to_o that_o perfection_n of_o soul_n which_o be_v in_o man_n before_o the_o fall_n or_o to_o that_o that_o be_v obtain_v under_o the_o influence_a light_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o divine_a spirit_n or_o shall_v be_v in_o man_n place_v in_o a_o state_n of_o glory_n and_o though_o god_n have_v add_v to_o we_o his_o bless_a scripture_n in_o conjunction_n with_o the_o work_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n to_o exercise_v our_o thought_n upon_o for_o the_o perfect_a of_o our_o knowledge_n yet_o to_o what_o little_a advancement_n do_v many_o attain_v in_o the_o understanding_n of_o god_n and_o divine_a mystery_n therefore_o our_o compassionate_a father_n in_o christ_n sensible_a of_o our_o weakness_n in_o the_o real_a and_o firm_a understanding_n of_o divine_a thing_n have_v give_v forth_o another_o help_n to_o our_o dark_a soul_n in_o conjunction_n with_o the_o former_a even_o his_o divine_a spirit_n teach_v we_o all_o truth_n and_o help_v we_o to_o a_o rest_n and_o reliance_n upon_o his_o word_n work_v in_o we_o a_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o those_o great_a and_o marvellous_a mystery_n for_o prepare_v our_o soul_n towards_o the_o more_o full_a and_o glorious_a perception_n of_o they_o the_o revelation_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v like_o the_o morning-light_n mix_v with_o the_o shade_n of_o the_o night_n the_o revelation_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v clear_a day_n but_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o heaven_n be_v like_o the_o sun_n at_o noon_n in_o its_o full_a lustre_n if_o this_o therefore_o have_v be_v god_n gradual_a method_n to_o restore_v man_n and_o we_o enjoy_v so_o bright_a a_o discovery_n of_o mercy_n to_o save_v we_o those_o who_o refuse_v to_o accept_v it_o can_v escape_v the_o condemnation_n due_a as_o the_o recompense_n of_o it_o the_o dwell_n in_o darkness_n with_o the_o child_n of_o darkness_n and_o disobedience_n for_o ever_o rom._n 2._o if_o those_o who_o have_v have_v no_o other_o help_n in_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o invisible_a thing_n of_o god_n beside_o the_o behold_n of_o create_a thing_n be_v
will_v with_o heat_n contend_v for_o their_o opinion_n in_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o clear_a nor_o of_o great_a moment_n as_o if_o they_o be_v fundamental_a doctrine_n there_o be_v some_o christian_n that_o have_v not_o only_o the_o life_n of_o grace_n plant_v in_o they_o but_o the_o liveliness_n of_o grace_n they_o be_v work_v and_o watchful_a to_o prevent_v any_o impression_n and_o taint_n of_o evil_a from_o the_o contagion_n of_o the_o world_n wherewith_o they_o be_v encompass_v and_o they_o be_v watchful_a unto_o good_a they_o be_v ready_a to_o exercise_v every_o grace_n in_o its_o season_n and_o by_o a_o continual_a derivation_n of_o strength_n from_o christ_n they_o be_v preserve_v from_o sinful_a error_n and_o irregular_a passion_n our_o bless_a lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v pay_v the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n and_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o interest_n therein_o and_o enjoy_v the_o privilege_n thereof_o as_o evidence_n and_o earnest_n of_o heaven_n god_n have_v appoint_v mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v obtain_v this_o bless_a end_n mean_n that_o be_v suitable_a in_o their_o use_n to_o rational_a and_o lapse_v creature_n in_o their_o human_a capacity_n such_o as_o exclude_v boast_v in_o ourselves_o and_o of_o presumption_n licentiousness_n and_o security_n in_o a_o carnal_a conversation_n these_o mean_n be_v prescribe_v in_o the_o gospel_n as_o prayer_n meditation_n hear_v and_o the_o participation_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n these_o be_v the_o sphere_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v activity_n in_o these_o we_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n and_o he_o draw_v near_o we_o by_o these_o mean_n christ_n with_o all_o his_o save_a benefit_n be_v apply_v to_o soul_n by_o these_o they_o be_v revive_v from_o the_o death_n of_o sin_n and_o restore_v to_o the_o favour_n and_o image_n of_o god_n they_o live_v in_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o be_v confirm_v thereby_o against_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o evil_a spirit_n who_o rule_v the_o world_n those_o who_o neglect_v the_o holy_a and_o constant_a use_n of_o these_o mean_n whether_o from_o the_o delusion_n of_o their_o mind_n or_o the_o corruption_n of_o their_o heart_n will_v find_v that_o darkness_n be_v their_o guide_n and_o the_o issue_n of_o their_o way_n will_v be_v fatal_a and_o destructive_a let_v i_o therefore_o apply_v the_o forego_n narrative_a thus_o there_o be_v some_o professor_n that_o have_v knowledge_n in_o a_o eminent_a degree_n and_o be_v of_o a_o fair_a unblemished_a conversation_n by_o the_o advantage_n and_o impression_n of_o education_n but_o be_v stranger_n to_o the_o inward_a power_n of_o godliness_n as_o ignorant_a heathen_n let_v such_o due_o consider_v the_o case_n and_o neither_o despair_n for_o the_o divine_a spirit_n can_v quicken_v they_o nor_o delay_v the_o serious_a and_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v make_v effectual_a for_o the_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n of_o other_o let_v they_o observe_v both_o the_o outward_a providence_n of_o god_n and_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o apply_v themselves_o to_o god_n in_o the_o ordinance_n both_o private_a and_o public_a that_o they_o may_v receive_v renew_v grace_n of_o god_n and_o be_v preserve_v from_o destructive_a evil_n if_o a_o notional_a knowledge_n of_o god_n word_n and_o a_o unblemished_a outward_a conversation_n be_v no_o real_a christianity_n no_o certain_a testimony_n of_o real_a and_o save_v grace_n how_o utter_o void_a of_o it_o be_v the_o profane_a to_o they_o i_o will_v give_v this_o counsel_n not_o to_o be_v averse_a from_o serious_a and_o real_a religion_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o some_o professor_n who_o have_v only_o a_o name_n to_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a or_o from_o a_o conceit_n that_o the_o christian_a religion_n be_v so_o extreme_o rigorous_a as_o to_o deprive_v we_o of_o all_o natural_a comfort_n or_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o different_a opinion_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n but_o to_o remove_v all_o prejudices_fw-la and_o to_o endeavour_v to_o understand_v the_o gospel_n to_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n to_o obey_v the_o precept_n of_o it_o and_o then_o they_o will_v find_v christianity_n to_o be_v more_o than_o a_o outward_a profession_n a_o serious_a divine_a principle_n regulate_v the_o heart_n and_o life_n and_o that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v obtain_v of_o god_n by_o every_o sincere_a seeker_n of_o it_o and_o that_o it_o allow_v the_o temperate_a use_n of_o natural_a comfort_n and_o only_o forbid_v the_o licentious_a abuse_n of_o they_o whereby_o man_n become_v most_o unlike_a god_n and_o be_v like_o the_o beast_n that_o perish_v and_o the_o lawful_a sober_a enjoyment_n of_o nature_n be_v consistent_a with_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o saint_n which_o be_v infinite_o more_o satisfy_a and_o last_v than_o all_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n for_o which_o so_o many_o lose_a heaven_n and_o be_v condemn_v to_o eternal_a torment_n if_o christianity_n and_o its_o power_n may_v be_v real_o feel_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o yet_o damp_v by_o the_o too_o long_a intermission_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n and_o cloud_v by_o the_o admixture_n of_o too_o much_o of_o self_n produce_v a_o kind_n of_o christian_n lazy_a in_o the_o obtain_n the_o continue_a power_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o so_o be_v in_o danger_n both_o of_o long_a intermission_n of_o fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o break_v of_o fellowship_n one_o to_o another_o more_o dishonour_v god_n than_o either_o the_o mere_a professor_n or_o profane_v who_o never_o experience_v the_o reality_n and_o comfort_n of_o true_a christianity_n to_o such_o i_o will_v apply_v this_o exhortation_n not_o only_o to_o be_v in_o the_o right_a use_n of_o mean_n but_o in_o the_o more_o continue_v right_o use_v than_o ever_o former_o for_o undoubted_o if_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o way_n by_o which_o he_o walk_v and_o by_o which_o he_o communicate_v to_o believer_n to_o the_o truth_n whereof_o all_o experience_a christian_n will_v put_v their_o seal_n than_o the_o often_o christian_n walk_v in_o those_o way_n the_o often_o and_o the_o more_o they_o receive_v both_o of_o knowledge_n and_o comfort_n from_o god_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o some_o real_a christian_n go_v beyond_o other_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o way_n and_o be_v in_o the_o more_o close_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n with_o more_o inward_a fellowship_n with_o god_n both_o in_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n and_o common_a conversation_n that_o therefore_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o doubt_v whereof_o be_v one_o great_a occasion_n of_o error_n and_o vice_n may_v be_v experience_v as_o truth_n and_o the_o mean_n lead_v thereto_o give_v forth_o i_o shall_v previous_o lay_v down_o two_o proposition_n the_o first_o instructive_a the_o other_o cautionary_a the_o first_o be_v that_o all_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o their_o pilgrimage-state_n be_v under_o three_o sort_n of_o conduct_n the_o first_o be_v that_o of_o god_n word_n the_o foundation_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o the_o infallible_a rule_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o judge_v of_o all_o doctrine_n of_o all_o our_o experience_n and_o all_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n the_o second_o be_v that_o of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n who_o according_a to_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n instruct_v we_o in_o all_o save_v truth_n by_o the_o word_n and_o bring_v it_o to_o our_o remembrance_n to_o guide_v we_o safe_o to_o heaven_n the_o three_o be_v that_o of_o divine_a providence_n sometime_o enlighten_v what_o seem_v dark_a in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o in_o the_o act_n of_o christ_n spirit_n but_o found_v upon_o his_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o agreeable_a to_o both_o though_o the_o dispensation_n of_o providence_n be_v no_o certificate_n of_o god_n special_a love_n to_o man_n yet_o we_o be_v assure_v by_o the_o scripture_n that_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a tender_a providence_n of_o god_n that_o regard_v his_o child_n which_o be_v declarative_a of_o his_o special_a love_n and_o by_o a_o serious_a observation_n of_o it_o their_o duty_n and_o comfort_n will_v be_v encourage_v and_o improve_v second_o cautionary_a not_o to_o limit_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o any_o particular_a way_n or_o time_n of_o work_v in_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o plant_v of_o grace_n or_o its_o further_a growth_n though_o by_o observation_n of_o outward_a providence_n god_n be_v please_v to_o bring_v i_o to_o the_o first_o serious_a sense_n of_o myself_o and_o to_o a_o dependence_n upon_o god_n for_o life_n and_o for_o salvation_n and_o by_o marvellous_a step_n of_o his_o outward_a dispensation_n join_v with_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n he_o have_v begin_v and_o increase_v a_o gracious_a change_n in_o my_o soul_n yet_o he_o have_v use_v various_a method_n in_o the_o conversion_n and_o sanctification_n of_o
thing_n desire_v and_o not_o to_o the_o utterance_n in_o the_o prayer_n spiritual_o perform_v and_o that_o by_o as_o eminent_a a_o saint_n as_o ever_o live_v on_o earth_n though_o now_o go_v off_o the_o stage_n of_o time_n without_o the_o sight_n of_o its_o return_n yet_o die_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o my_o see_v its_o return_n but_o still_o his_o thought_n be_v upon_o what_o he_o so_o mighty_o press_v for_o in_o his_o own_o desire_n providential_o happen_v to_o design_n a_o matter_n of_o great_a concern_v and_o impart_v the_o design_n with_o some_o passage_n of_o providence_n exciting_a i_o first_o thereto_o to_o this_o saint_n then_o on_o earth_n he_o desire_v some_o time_n to_o think_v upon_o the_o matter_n ere_o he_o return_v his_o advice_n which_o i_o find_v be_v on_o purpose_n to_o lay_v the_o whole_a affair_n before_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n by_o repeat_v address_n thereto_o after_o which_o he_o advise_v my_o undertake_n the_o design_n from_o his_o sense_n of_o god_n lay_v it_o in_o my_o way_n by_o special_a conduct_n of_o providence_n and_o from_o his_o sense_n of_o his_o petition_n accept_v for_o divine_a assistance_n in_o it_o and_o marvellous_a effect_n from_o it_o from_o which_o i_o engage_v in_o the_o endeavour_n but_o all_o attempt_n prove_v unsuccessful_a in_o the_o interim_n of_o which_o endeavour_n my_o thought_n in_o prayer_n never_o fix_v to_o any_o one_o petition_n concern_v it_o beside_o divine_a conduct_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o resignation_n to_o his_o divine_a will_n this_o endeavour_n between_o hope_n from_o this_o prayer_n accept_v and_o discouragement_n from_o the_o unsuccessfulness_n of_o attempt_n continue_v for_o many_o month_n yet_o still_o easy_a and_o with_o amaze_a resignation_n to_o god_n will_n till_o at_o last_o such_o a_o circumstance_n fall_v out_o as_o do_v unalterable_o obstruct_v the_o matter_n and_o the_o return_n that_o he_o apply_v his_o prayer_n unto_o notwithstanding_o of_o which_o among_o his_o last_o word_n to_o i_o on_o earth_n long_o after_o this_o disappointment_n he_o utter_v this_o sentence_n with_o great_a exercise_n of_o faith_n that_o i_o shall_v meet_v with_o a_o full_a discovery_n of_o god_n design_n therein_o and_o that_o in_o answer_n to_o his_o prayer_n prayer_n accept_v and_o the_o intimation_n thereof_o give_v will_v never_o want_v its_o return_n clear_o verify_v from_o compare_v his_o letter_n and_o word_n to_o the_o event_n that_o have_v attend_v my_o life_n since_o though_o the_o disappointment_n seem_v a_o evidence_n of_o his_o prayer_n lose_v yet_o real_o have_v lead_v into_o such_o thing_n as_o plain_o appear_v his_o prayer_n return_v his_o mistake_n appear_v to_o be_v fix_v his_o spirituality_n in_o prayer_n with_o his_o other_o evidence_n of_o its_o acceptation_n to_o what_o he_o so_o much_o desire_v to_o wit_n the_o success_n of_o a_o outward_a endeavour_n whereas_o if_o his_o utterance_n have_v be_v record_v reflect_v upon_o and_o compare_v with_o event_n that_o even_o i_o begin_v to_o find_v from_o god_n in_o myself_o and_o do_v discover_v to_o he_o the_o mistake_n may_v have_v be_v prevent_v in_o one_o of_o his_o letter_n he_o express_v himself_o thus_o it_o be_v become_v i_o with_o much_o humble_a sobriety_n to_o speak_v as_o to_o any_o impression_n on_o my_o spirit_n with_o respect_n to_o your_o business_n though_o often_o i_o dare_v say_v i_o have_v have_v some_o special_a assurance_n from_o the_o lord_n of_o his_o gracious_a respect_n to_o you_o so_o as_o i_o can_v not_o question_v the_o evidence_n whereof_o be_v so_o full_a and_o clear_a and_o of_o so_o great_a testimony_n yet_o to_o you_o hereof_o in_o the_o way_n of_o providence_n and_o be_o at_o the_o further_a of_o persuasion_n that_o such_o a_o break_n up_o of_o light_n shall_v occur_v as_o shall_v be_v matter_n both_o of_o joy_n and_o far_a establishment_n and_o if_o after_o such_o unusual_a and_o eminent_a evidence_n he_o have_v give_v of_o his_o respect_n and_o favour_n to_o you_o beyond_o most_o in_o this_o day_n will_v it_o be_v strange_a or_o grievous_a if_o in_o so_o great_a a_o concern_n he_o shall_v take_v a_o new_a trial_n of_o your_o love_n and_o resignation_n to_o he_o by_o give_v it_o entire_o up_o to_o his_o bless_a disposal_n i_o know_v you_o have_v settle_v your_o reliance_n on_o his_o hand_n in_o order_v the_o present_a matter_n who_o have_v be_v your_o god_n and_o the_o god_n of_o your_o youth_n hitherto_o in_o another_o letter_n his_o word_n be_v you_o shall_v see_v the_o design_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o this_o affair_n however_o dark_v it_o at_o present_a appear_v with_o that_o evidence_n as_o shall_v tend_v to_o a_o high_a establishment_n of_o you_o in_o his_o way_n and_o truth_n and_o clear_v all_o former_a dark_a step_n the_o great_a experiment_n of_o trust_n have_v be_v most_o obtain_v in_o the_o great_a extremity_n of_o his_o people_n case_n in_o another_o letter_n his_o word_n be_v though_o it_o be_v not_o easy_a to_o write_v at_o such_o a_o distance_n yet_o i_o have_v confidence_n to_o say_v that_o one_o day_n rare_o pass_v without_o some_o serious_a remembrance_n of_o you_o my_o last_o acquaintance_n with_o you_o have_v be_v among_o the_o most_o sweet_a remark_n of_o my_o be_v in_o england_n especial_o as_o to_o the_o bless_a way_n of_o god_n round_o you_o therein_o you_o have_v be_v a_o further_a strength_n to_o my_o faith_n i_o know_v not_o how_o that_o matter_n be_v with_o you_o but_o i_o hope_v i_o may_v adventure_v to_o say_v that_o if_o ever_o i_o know_v converse_v with_o heaven_n here_o i_o have_v often_o have_v yea_o in_o some_o special_a way_n a_o answer_n of_o peace_n and_o assurance_n about_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a design_n of_o grace_n for_o you_o and_o of_o his_o further_a testify_v the_o same_o to_o your_o soul_n i_o hope_v you_o be_v gain_v new_a ground_n of_o a_o near_a acquaintance_n with_o the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o which_o you_o will_v find_v that_o by_o the_o great_a trial_n he_o take_v of_o his_o follower_n here_o he_o then_o design_n the_o great_a trial_n of_o himself_o and_o his_o truth_n now_o compare_v the_o word_n of_o this_o saint_n express_v concern_v the_o difficulty_n i_o be_v then_o under_o to_o my_o own_o experience_n of_o divine_a providence_n round_o i_o and_o to_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o i_o since_o that_o time_n i_o can_v but_o confirm_v his_o sense_n and_o faith_n of_o prayer_n accept_v and_o witness_v its_o return_n to_o myself_o by_o the_o very_a word_n of_o his_o letter_n the_o current_n of_o his_o petition_n and_o seem_a assurance_n run_v upon_o god_n witness_v his_o special_a favour_n to_o i_o in_o the_o way_n of_o providence_n and_o that_o such_o break_n up_o of_o light_n shall_v occur_v as_o may_v establish_v my_o faith_n in_o god_n which_o bless_v be_v his_o name_n have_v be_v the_o real_a effect_n of_o god_n disappoint_v my_o desire_n and_o endeavour_v after_o this_o outward_a thing_n yea_o have_v be_v a_o mean_a in_o god_n hand_n to_o discover_v his_o special_a love_n to_o myself_o in_o afford_v i_o a_o better_a mercy_n in_o its_o room_n and_o establish_v i_o thereby_o in_o a_o trust_n to_o god_n as_o to_o all_o thing_n else_o beside_o since_o these_o outward_a attempt_n since_o those_o letter_n receive_v such_o marvellous_a occurrence_n of_o providence_n i_o have_v enjoy_v with_o such_o inward_a sensible_a work_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n inform_v and_o comfort_v my_o soul_n and_o make_v progress_n in_o that_o rich_a grace_n of_o faith_n and_o actual_a reliance_n upon_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n both_o as_o to_o soul_n and_o body_n for_o conduct_v in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o event_n follow_v which_o make_v out_o his_o prayer_n accept_v and_o that_o his_o assurance_n be_v firm_o found_v his_o failure_n be_v the_o misapply_v the_o prayer_n thus_o sweet_o put_v up_o to_o a_o return_n of_o what_o he_o desire_v and_o not_o to_o the_o return_n exact_o answer_v the_o utterance_n of_o his_o soul_n when_o christ_n spirit_n breathe_v upon_o his_o petition_n to_o god_n concern_v the_o lord_n gracious_a design_n and_o testimony_n thereof_o to_o my_o soul_n i_o have_v have_v wonderful_a establishment_n no_o more_o amaze_a and_o assure_v to_o he_o in_o his_o actual_a strength_n to_o petition_v it_o than_o to_o i_o in_o its_o enjoyment_n by_o way_n of_o his_o prayer_n return_v it_o be_v conceivable_a by_o none_o but_o those_o who_o be_v strict_a observer_n of_o god_n way_n how_o free_o word_n fly_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o a_o soul_n under_o a_o heavenly_a ravish_v in_o prayer_n how_o familiar_o they_o be_v express_v and_o with_o what_o quiet_a of_o mind_n as_o to_o the_o return_n that_o if_o the_o soul_n out_o of_o this_o frame_n will_v desire_v and_o do_v all_o that_o
benefit_n which_o the_o son_n of_o god_n purchase_v and_o the_o spirit_n apply_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o unfeigned_a believer_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o one_o in_o a_o violent_a hot_a country_n unacquainted_a with_o the_o blow_n of_o wind_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o one_o that_o never_o taste_v honey_n be_v it_o possible_a i_o say_v that_o the_o first_o and_o latter_a from_o the_o description_n either_o of_o the_o blow_n of_o the_o wind_n or_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o honey_n in_o the_o most_o perspicuous_a word_n can_v so_o well_o understand_v or_o so_o firm_o believe_v the_o blow_n and_o refresh_v effect_n of_o the_o wind_n or_o the_o nature_n and_o the_o sweetness_n of_o the_o honey_n as_o those_o who_o have_v enjoy_v of_o the_o first_o and_o taste_v of_o the_o latter_a this_o be_v a_o true_a resemblance_n of_o their_o condition_n who_o be_v void_a of_o the_o real_a inward_a knowledge_n of_o religion_n and_o their_o slight_n and_o disbelief_n of_o the_o spiritual_a efficacy_n of_o the_o ordinance_n can_v weaken_v the_o faith_n of_o believer_n who_o have_v experience_v the_o reality_n thereof_o upon_o their_o soul_n but_o give_v they_o great_a establishment_n and_o afford_v they_o matter_n of_o repeat_v exercise_n of_o love_n to_o he_o who_o pass_v by_o some_o and_o call_v other_o and_o advance_v they_o to_o a_o further_a reliance_n upon_o he_o in_o the_o due_a use_n of_o mean_n for_o the_o obtain_v a_o rich_a abundance_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o the_o error_n of_o the_o profane_a and_o mere_o profess_v christian_n endanger_v the_o stagger_a of_o any_o real_a and_o true_a christian_a it_o be_v often_o my_o fear_n lest_o that_o christian_a have_v be_v too_o careless_a of_o his_o duty_n and_o have_v not_o improve_v the_o pure_a motion_n and_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n within_o and_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o external_a mean_n of_o grace_n for_o else_o he_o will_v be_v above_o the_o impression_n of_o the_o objection_n of_o carnal_a person_n against_o his_o own_o feel_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o force_n of_o the_o most_o powerful_a argument_n of_o the_o great_a rationalist_n cover_v with_o the_o fine_a dress_n of_o word_n against_o the_o sweetness_n of_o honey_n can_v shake_v the_o faith_n of_o any_o one_o that_o have_v taste_v thereof_o perhaps_o he_o can_v discover_v the_o sophistry_n of_o the_o allegation_n but_o he_o know_v its_o false_a like_o the_o poor_a woman_n when_o oppose_v by_o the_o enemy_n of_o truth_n her_o faith_n be_v firm_a in_o her_o saviour_n and_o she_o answer_v all_o argument_n with_o these_o word_n i_o can_v dispute_v for_o christ_n but_o i_o can_v die_v for_o he_o a_o sincere_a christian_a can_v say_v i_o can_v perhaps_o demonstrate_v with_o rational_a argue_v the_o be_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o his_o effect_n of_o renew_v the_o soul_n conform_v it_o to_o christ_n image_n and_o spiritualize_v its_o frame_n in_o duty_n but_o i_o be_o well_o assure_v of_o it_o against_o all_o the_o infidel_n on_o earth_n let_v what_o i_o have_v say_v move_v thou_o o_o profane_a and_o mere_a profess_v christian_a to_o the_o use_n of_o observation_n and_o right_a performance_n of_o prayer_n as_o help_n by_o which_o you_o may_v experience_n the_o reality_n of_o inward_a christian_a religion_n yea_o let_v it_o move_v you_o o_o lazy_a christian_a who_o know_v not_o so_o much_o of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o of_o inward_a religion_n as_o be_v attainable_a by_o you_o be_v more_o serious_a and_o constant_a in_o converse_n with_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o his_o mean_n that_o you_o may_v enjoy_v what_o other_o have_v be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o wise_a and_o serious_a observer_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o his_o soul_n who_o frequent_o reflect_v upon_o they_o will_v better_o understand_v the_o harmonious_a agreement_n between_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o the_o divine_a disposal_n of_o thing_n in_o this_o low_a life_n than_o another_o sincere_a christian_a who_o do_v not_o acquaint_v himself_o so_o intimate_o with_o god_n by_o a_o constant_a application_n of_o himself_o to_o he_o in_o all_o the_o way_n wherein_o he_o draw_v near_o to_o we_o it_o be_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o diligent_a in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n that_o make_v rich_a so_o be_v it_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o diligent_a christian_a in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n that_o be_v fill_v with_o knowledge_n god_n private_a council_n be_v not_o to_o be_v dive_v into_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a to_o his_o word_n be_v to_o be_v seek_v after_o and_o may_v be_v find_v out_o it_o be_v the_o trial_n of_o his_o word_n that_o bring_v experience_n and_o experience_n bring_v hope_n and_o it_o be_v the_o not_o try_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n that_o make_v so_o many_o doubt_n and_o shake_n in_o a_o christian_n faith_n and_o so_o much_o of_o unsettle_a hope_n of_o their_o inheritance_n above_o i_o return_v from_o the_o lazy_a christian_a again_o to_o the_o mere_a professor_n and_o profane_a and_o beg_v you_o will_v be_v entreat_v to_o join_v the_o easy_a and_o advantageous_a duty_n of_o prayer_n to_o all_o your_o endeavour_n not_o content_v yourselves_o with_o the_o cold_a form_n of_o word_n but_o mix_v holy_a affection_n which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o prayer_n and_o observe_v the_o gracious_a return_n of_o prayer_n when_o perform_v by_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n this_o be_v a_o privilege_n provide_v for_o you_o and_o to_o be_v obtain_v by_o you_o in_o the_o use_n and_o continue_a use_n of_o right_a mean_n the_o reason_n you_o miss_v the_o divine_a bounty_n be_v because_o you_o do_v present_v yourself_o in_o god_n way_n if_o a_o beggar_n expect_v the_o alm_n of_o a_o prince_n he_o will_v endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o the_o same_o street_n he_o pass_v through_o and_o as_o near_o he_o as_o ever_o be_v possible_a he_o will_v neither_o go_v to_o a_o contrary_a street_n nor_o to_o the_o opposite_a side_n of_o the_o same_o street_n neither_o will_v he_o plead_v his_o poverty_n alone_o but_o express_v all_o his_o want_n one_o after_o another_o as_o so_o many_o motive_n to_o move_v charitable_a compassion_n all_o beggar_n keep_v not_o to_o the_o same_o form_n of_o word_n but_o open_v their_o cry_n different_o according_a to_o the_o different_a sore_o lameness_n blindness_n or_o the_o like_a wherewithal_o they_o be_v afflict_v sensible_o with_o prayer_n be_v god_n way_n wherein_o a_o poor_a creature_n may_v draw_v near_o to_o he_o without_o hindrance_n of_o this_o or_o the_o other_o diversion_n between_o his_o soul_n and_o his_o king_n and_o when_o a_o christian_a be_v once_o sensible_a of_o his_o want_n and_o of_o the_o all-sufficiency_n and_o condescension_n that_o be_v in_o god_n it_o be_v not_o form_n or_o fine_a word_n but_o fervent_a serious_a pour_v out_o the_o desire_n that_o move_v the_o compassionate_a father_n in_o christ_n a_o closet-prayer_n be_v oftentimes_o the_o opportunity_n of_o receive_v great_a mercy_n from_o god_n and_o be_v many_o time_n the_o settle_n of_o a_o disquiet_v mind_n and_o the_o change_n of_o a_o carnal_a earthly_a frame_n to_o a_o spiritual_a heavenly_a one_o it_o allay_v our_o sorrow_n and_o give_v peace_n under_o sharp_a affliction_n this_o duty_n spiritual_o and_o constant_o perform_v will_v make_v you_o happy_a by_o experience_n and_o to_o resolve_v with_o the_o psalmist_n it_o be_v good_a for_o i_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n but_o to_o discourse_v more_o particular_o concern_v prayer_n spiritual_o perform_v be_v please_v to_o remember_v the_o many_o experience_n in_o the_o forepart_n of_o this_o discourse_n concern_v spirituality_n in_o prayer_n as_o evidential_a of_o its_o right_a performance_n yea_o god_n acceptance_n thereof_o and_o of_o god_n return_v what_o be_v ask_v therein_o i_o hope_v with_o a_o humble_a rejoice_n i_o may_v say_v that_o since_o ever_o i_o begin_v to_o experience_n a_o real_a heavenly_a frame_n in_o prayer_n when_o my_o soul_n therein_o have_v be_v carry_v forth_o to_o god_n with_o high_a spirituality_n concern_v any_o one_o particular_a event_n with_o full_a quiet_a of_o mind_n and_o sensible_a exercise_n of_o resignation_n at_o the_o time_n concern_v it_o a_o return_n to_o that_o address_n have_v never_o as_o yet_o fail_v i_o and_o that_o when_o my_o desire_n have_v be_v in_o exercise_n towards_o any_o one_o thing_n that_o god_n will_v not_o bestow_v i_o find_v myself_o by_o the_o strict_a observation_n under_o a_o constraint_n from_o this_o spiritual_a frame_n yea_o sometime_o from_o word_n to_o utter_v any_o petition_n or_o when_o word_n have_v be_v utter_v it_o have_v be_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n as_o when_o i_o be_v altogether_o unacquainted_a with_o inward_a religion_n these_o and_o other_o experience_n be_v build_v upon_o no_o
knowledge_n of_o divine_a thing_n but_o pure_o as_o the_o effect_n of_o natural_a curiosity_n induce_v i_o both_o to_o observe_v and_o to_o record_v they_o with_o great_a pleasure_n in_o review_v they_o and_o find_v the_o more_o i_o observe_v the_o great_a and_o more_o numerous_a thing_n be_v present_v to_o i_o i_o become_v strict_a in_o observe_v thing_n of_o great_a and_o small_a moment_n while_o i_o continue_v in_o this_o practice_n a_o dispensation_n of_o providence_n occur_v that_o induce_v i_o not_o to_o trust_v in_o myself_o or_o second_o cause_n but_o by_o a_o siducial_a assent_n to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o god_n in_o his_o full_a govern_v power_n as_o to_o person_n and_o thing_n with_o a_o full_a desire_n of_o be_v interest_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o this_o great_a and_o omnipotent_a god_n to_o live_v in_o a_o entire_a dependence_n upon_o he_o the_o providence_n be_v as_o follow_v be_v call_v to_o attempt_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a concern_v that_o many_o far_o excel_v i_o in_o age_n rational_a judgement_n and_o natural_a activity_n have_v endeavour_v though_o unsuccessful_o to_o bring_v about_o i_o bring_v the_o business_n and_o that_o in_o a_o very_a few_o day_n to_o all_o seem_a probability_n of_o success_n but_o be_v oblige_v by_o a_o providential_a occasion_n to_o be_v absent_a and_o to_o appear_v where_o those_o that_o have_v try_v their_o endeavour_n to_o no_o effect_n do_v usual_o reside_v i_o find_v the_o progress_n i_o have_v already_o make_v with_o the_o prospect_n of_o perfect_v the_o matter_n have_v so_o increase_v the_o esteem_n of_o myself_o that_o disparage_v of_o those_o be_v the_o game_n i_o then_o exercise_v myself_o withal_o but_o return_v to_o the_o place_n where_o the_o business_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v matter_n be_v altogether_o change_v for_o the_o worst_a and_o upon_o enquiry_n of_o the_o time_n this_o change_n happen_v my_o custom_n of_o observation_n have_v bring_v i_o to_o some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a curiosity_n in_o it_o i_o find_v it_o exact_o answer_v the_o time_n my_o lust_n of_o pride_n put_v forth_o its_o tyranny_n in_o my_o conversation_n and_o step_v from_o the_o floor_n to_o my_o bed_n that_o very_a night_n this_o suggestion_n sudden_o and_o strong_o dart_v into_o my_o mind_n that_o by_o my_o ill_a return_n to_o god_n kindness_n afford_v such_o hope_n of_o success_n in_o detract_n from_o he_o the_o praise_n that_o be_v entire_o due_a for_o such_o a_o eminent_a providence_n and_o in_o not_o retain_v a_o humble_a sense_n of_o my_o own_o unworthiness_n and_o insufficiency_n i_o have_v provoke_v the_o lord_n thus_o to_o turn_v the_o course_n of_o the_o affair_n immediate_o convince_a i_n who_o it_o be_v that_o have_v make_v i_o to_o differ_v from_o other_o of_o more_o promise_a ability_n than_o i_o and_o impress_v my_o mind_n with_o great_a seriousness_n of_o thought_n and_o force_v to_o prayer_n beg_v pardon_n from_o he_o and_o his_o further_a assistance_n in_o the_o matter_n with_o a_o full_a resolution_n of_o look_v to_o god_n extol_v he_o and_o debase_v myself_o in_o the_o success_n my_o prayer_n be_v immediate_o return_v evident_a by_o the_o great_a alteration_n that_o immediate_o happen_v as_o a_o sweet_a condescension_n of_o god_n to_o train_v a_o poor_a creature_n to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o himself_o and_o to_o delight_v in_o he_o but_o in_o a_o week_n time_n more_o be_v call_v to_o the_o same_o place_n as_o before_o i_o find_v the_o same_o self-applause_n return_v this_o be_v a_o full_a conviction_n to_o i_o of_o the_o great_a need_n of_o continue_a supply_n of_o heaven_n after_o the_o great_a confirmation_n of_o god_n love_n to_o preserve_v we_o from_o forget_v his_o mercy_n or_o repeat_v failure_n and_o correspondent_a to_o this_o the_o same_o unsuccessful_a turn_n happen_v in_o the_o affair_n which_o be_v so_o powerful_o bear_v home_o upon_o my_o soul_n that_o i_o can_v not_o but_o see_v god_n with_o favour_n in_o one_o hand_n and_o punishment_n in_o another_o marvellous_a mercy_n in_o bring_v i_o to_o the_o sense_n of_o my_o failure_n and_o the_o repetition_n of_o my_o address_n to_o heaven_n punishment_n in_o withhold_v his_o assistance_n the_o just_a merit_n of_o my_o forgetfulness_n and_o of_o my_o repeat_v failure_n upon_o address_n to_o god_n by_o serious_a and_o sincere_a prayer_n with_o unfeigned_a confession_n the_o business_n turn_v again_o with_o a_o favourable_a aspect_n of_o success_n suitable_a to_o the_o psalmist_n i_o confess_v my_o sin_n and_o thou_o forgave_v the_o iniquity_n or_o punishment_n of_o my_o sin_n and_o at_o last_o by_o his_o divine_a assistance_n attain_v a_o final_a and_o perfect_a success_n though_o between_o my_o first_o undertake_v and_o this_o final_a issue_n there_o be_v four_o turn_n of_o providence_n exact_o answer_v my_o soul_n posture_n from_o hence_o i_o date_n my_o first_o sense_n of_o inward_a serious_a thoughtfulness_n of_o passage_n of_o divine_a providence_n of_o mind_v god_n in_o all_o undertake_n with_o a_o entire_a dependence_n upon_o he_o for_o conduct_v to_o the_o right_a use_n of_o mean_n and_o for_o a_o divine_a blessing_n to_o make_v they_o successful_a of_o the_o certainty_n of_o access_n to_o he_o for_o this_o very_a end_n with_o a_o distrust_n of_o selfsufficiency_n all_o which_o meet_v as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o moment_n in_o my_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n bear_v home_o this_o passage_n upon_o i_o but_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o god_n further_a method_n of_o outward_a providence_n and_o inward_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n i_o have_v find_v that_o these_o be_v but_o little_a glimmering_n of_o light_n a_o eye_n beginning_n to_o be_v open_v after_o a_o sound_n and_o secure_a sleep_n god_n have_v marvellous_o enlighten_v my_o eye_n since_o and_o make_v i_o to_o see_v what_o before_o i_o know_v only_o in_o the_o notion_n enable_v i_o to_o discourse_v thereof_o but_o what_o now_o i_o hope_v i_o may_v say_v i_o have_v feel_v and_o be_o well_o assure_v of_o even_o the_o truth_n of_o a_o inward_a change_n upon_o the_o soul_n put_v itself_o forth_o with_o such_o power_n as_o to_o hinder_v thought_n word_n and_o action_n to_o run_v in_o the_o same_o course_n from_o the_o same_o principle_n or_o towards_o the_o same_o end_n as_o before_o but_o to_o tread_v according_a to_o a_o rule_n not_o of_o self_n but_o of_o god_n will._n i_o can_v subjoin_v many_o circumstance_n of_o this_o providence_n here_o relate_v that_o may_v marvellous_o affect_v the_o reader_n yea_o other_o providence_n concern_v the_o lord_n first_o exciting_a design_n as_o well_o as_o his_o method_n in_o bring_v they_o successful_o about_o be_v it_o not_o that_o i_o be_o unwilling_a to_o be_v know_v to_o the_o world_n and_o that_o for_o these_o reason_n first_o that_o mocker_n at_o and_o unbeliever_n of_o these_o great_a thing_n experimental_a religion_n have_v make_v know_v to_o my_o soul_n may_v not_o prejudice_v themselves_o by_o imagine_v show_n self-commendation_n and_o applause_n at_o the_o bottom_n of_o this_o design_n the_o faithful_a aim_n thereof_o be_v to_o bring_v man_n off_o their_o reliance_n upon_o notional_a religion_n and_o their_o trust_n to_o their_o rational_a conclusion_n as_o fit_a mean_n to_o inform_v they_o of_o christianity_n or_o to_o their_o own_o strength_n as_o sufficient_a help_n to_o the_o right_a performance_n of_o gospel_n duty_n and_o to_o lead_v they_o to_o the_o vital_a part_n of_o christianity_n experience_n therein_o not_o to_o be_v maintain_v by_o notional_a knowledge_n or_o quarrel_a debate_n but_o by_o a_o serious_a and_o strict_a use_n of_o mean_n god_n common_o impart_v the_o experience_n of_o himself_o and_o his_o word_n by_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v forth_o great_a truth_n to_o be_v try_v and_o experience_v in_o the_o christian_a soul_n but_o we_o be_v not_o at_o the_o pain_n either_o to_o observe_v they_o or_o by_o mutual_a converse_n to_o confirm_v one_o another_o in_o the_o truth_n of_o they_o a_o second_o reason_n be_v lest_o it_o prove_v temptation_n to_o myself_o exciting_a a_o corrupt_a principle_n within_o to_o puff_v up_o whereas_o great_a humility_n be_v the_o companion_n of_o such_o experience_n when_o first_o feel_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v preserve_v in_o impart_v they_o to_o other_o lest_o we_o ourselves_o be_v exalt_v above_o measure_n or_o engage_v other_o to_o think_v of_o we_o above_o what_o we_o be_v again_o this_o change_n wrought_v in_o my_o soul_n be_v the_o lord_n be_v own_o do_v let_v it_o therefore_o in_o its_o declaration_n glorify_v he_o by_o confirm_v some_o and_o instruct_v other_o without_o any_o knowledge_n of_o myself_o therein_o but_o with_o full_a discovery_n of_o the_o act_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n this_o seriousness_n bring_v forth_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o so_o remarkable_a a_o outward_a providence_n in_o the_o hand_n
perform_v a_o distinct_a worship_n of_o christ_n in_o prayer_n and_o do_v hope_n that_o i_o be_o under_o the_o instruction_n and_o inward_a power_n of_o that_o divine_a spirit_n who_o he_o have_v promise_v shall_v guide_v we_o unto_o all_o truth_n in_o the_o use_n of_o his_o mean_n john_n 14.26_o what_o be_v a_o guide_n otherwise_o in_o nature_n and_o way_n of_o power_n upon_o the_o soul_n than_o that_o the_o product_v only_o of_o religious_a education_n and_o of_o the_o notional_a knowledge_n of_o christianity_n as_o by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n with_o a_o frequent_a use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n so_o by_o this_o very_a experience_n i_o have_v be_v wonderful_o establish_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o godhead_n of_o christ_n against_o all_o the_o socinianism_n falsehood_n of_o the_o man_n of_o this_o age_n in_o that_o duty_n of_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n i_o have_v often_o be_v so_o ravish_v with_o the_o contemplation_n of_o christ_n love_n in_o himself_o as_o god_n and_o man_n that_o at_o the_o very_a time_n i_o have_v be_v in_o great_a exercise_n of_o pity_n towards_o those_o poor_a creature_n who_o deny_v his_o godhead_n and_o have_v oft_o think_v with_o myself_o that_o unacquaintance_n with_o themselves_o on_o god_n own_o word_n experience_n in_o their_o soul_n be_v the_o occasion_n of_o their_o distrust_n of_o christ_n as_o god_n how_o weak_a be_v the_o socinian_n argument_n against_o our_o bless_a redeemer_n as_o god_n and_o though_o they_o be_v prevalent_a upon_o some_o unacquainted_a with_o god_n word_n at_o least_o not_o experimental_o feel_v as_o truth_n upon_o their_o soul_n yet_o they_o be_v easy_o to_o be_v repel_v by_o the_o scriptural_a discovery_n of_o christ_n two_o distinct_a nature_n in_o one_o person_n for_o ever_o and_o how_o much_o more_o weak_a will_v they_o appear_v at_o that_o bless_a day_n of_o resurrection_n when_o they_o shall_v see_v he_o in_o his_o perfect_a glory_n as_o god-man_n redeemer_n of_o lose_a man_n and_o the_o judge_n of_o they_o that_o will_v not_o comprehend_v he_o as_o a_o glorious_a god_n what_o be_v more_o plain_a than_o that_o scriptural_a evidence_n of_o the_o godhead_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o first_o epistle_n of_o john_n chap._n 5._o v._n 20_o and_o we_o know_v that_o the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v come_v and_o have_v give_v we_o understanding_n that_o we_o may_v know_v he_o that_o be_v true_a and_o we_o be_v in_o he_o that_o be_v true_a even_o in_o his_o son_n christ_n jesus_n this_o be_v the_o true_a god_n and_o eternal_a life_n if_o we_o be_v in_o he_o ingra_v by_o the_o operation_n of_o his_o divine_a spirit_n we_o shall_v draw_v forth_o such_o knowledge_n of_o he_o both_o as_o certain_o come_v against_o all_o the_o jew_n on_o earth_n and_o as_o god_n and_o eternal_a life_n against_o all_o the_o socinian_o at_o this_o day_n from_o my_o own_o experience_n i_o desire_v to_o put_v my_o poor_a seal_n to_o this_o scripture-truth_n discoverable_a in_o what_o i_o have_v already_o lay_v before_o you_o i_o do_v believe_v that_o the_o professor_n of_o christianity_n turn_v socinian_n never_o know_v christ_n any_o other_o way_n than_o by_o a_o notional_a knowledge_n please_v to_o its_o self_n but_o never_o feel_v that_o saving-knowledge_n of_o he_o by_o the_o work_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n plant_v or_o water_v grace_n in_o the_o soul_n john_n c._n 1._o v._n 3._o all_o thing_n be_v make_v by_o he_o and_o in_o five_o 10._o the_o world_n be_v make_v by_o he_o and_o it_o know_v he_o not_o undoubted_o therefore_o he_o make_v up_o one_o of_o they_o gen._n 1.26_o who_o say_v let_v we_o make_v man_n one_o in_o nature_n though_o three_o person_n distinct_a be_v not_o the_o soul_n a_o man_n one_o in_o essence_n though_o different_a in_o its_o faculty_n of_o judgement_n will_n and_o affection_n colos_n ch_n 1._o v._n 14_o 15_o 16._o by_o he_o to_o wit_n the_o son_n that_o redeem_v we_o the_o image_n of_o god_n the_o first_o bear_v from_o the_o dead_a all_o thing_n be_v create_v he_o be_v before_o all_o thing_n and_o all_o thing_n consist_v by_o he_o which_o be_v never_o applicable_a to_o christ_n unless_o he_o be_v god_n as_o well_o as_o man._n again_o god_n attribute_n of_o omnipotence_n can_v never_o be_v appropriate_v to_o he_o if_o he_o be_v not_o god_n as_o well_o as_o man._n john_n 2.24_o but_o jesus_n do_v not_o commit_v himself_o to_o they_o because_o he_o know_v all_o men._n john_n 6.64_o for_o jesus_n know_v from_o the_o beginning_n who_o they_o be_v that_o believe_v not_o and_o who_o shall_v betray_v he_o in_o the_o six_o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n it_o be_v say_v that_o jesus_n know_v he_o have_v be_v a_o long_a time_n in_o that_o case_n isaiah_n 8.13_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n let_v he_o be_v your_o fear_n and_o dread_n he_o shall_v be_v for_o a_o sanctuary_n but_o for_o a_o stone_n of_o stumble_v and_o a_o rock_n of_o offence_n to_o both_o house_n of_o israel_n who_o be_v this_o lord_n of_o host_n that_o be_v to_o be_v a_o stone_n of_o stumble_v and_o a_o rock_n of_o offence_n it_o be_v express_v in_o the_o nine_o chapter_n of_o the_o roman_n and_o 32_o verse_n they_o stumble_v at_o the_o stumbling-stone_n isaiah_n c._n 6._o who_o can_v read_v it_o throughout_o and_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o 12_o chapter_n of_o john_n v._n 38._o and_o not_o be_v convince_v of_o the_o deity_n of_o christ_n therefore_o they_o can_v not_o believe_v because_o isaiah_n say_v he_o have_v blind_v their_o eye_n and_o harden_v their_o heart_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o see_v and_o be_v convert_v as_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o that_o 6_o chapter_n of_o isaiah_n and_o in_o the_o 41st_o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n of_o john_n it_o be_v express_v these_o thing_n say_v isaiah_n when_o he_o see_v his_o glory_n and_o speak_v of_o he_o as_o in_o the_o former_a part_n of_o that_o 6_o chapter_n he_o do_v express_v it_o sit_v upon_o a_o throne_n high_a and_o lift_v up_o his_o train_n fill_v the_o temple_n seraphim_n stand_v above_o it_o cry_v one_o to_o another_o holy_a holy_a holy_a be_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n the_o whole_a earth_n be_v full_a of_o his_o glory_n by_o the_o compare_v of_o both_o chapter_n its_o plain_a that_o it_o be_v christ_n that_o be_v thus_o describe_v and_o whether_o such_o a_o description_n be_v applicable_a to_o mere_a man_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o any_o christian_n to_o judge_v of_o without_o further_o run_v over_o the_o scripture_n attest_v the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n or_o further_o enlarge_n upon_o the_o personal_a experience_n of_o freeness_n of_o worship_n to_o he_o in_o prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n in_o that_o change_n of_o soul_n wherein_o faith_n to_o christ_n be_v implant_v i_o will_v only_o add_v one_o scripture_n more_o not_o only_o accuse_v of_o socinian_o themselves_o but_o these_o of_o christ_n flock_n who_o encourage_v their_o erroneous_a doctrine_n by_o too_o familiar_a converse_n with_o their_o person_n it_o be_v the_o 2d_o epistle_n of_o john_n the_o 9th_o and_o 10_o verse_n who_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n have_v not_o god_n and_o if_o that_o of_o his_o be_v god_n but_o now_o make_v out_o be_v not_o one_o great_a part_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n i_o know_v not_o how_o we_o shall_v understand_v his_o satisfaction_n of_o god_n as_o be_v describe_v in_o his_o word_n in_o the_o 10_o verse_n it_o be_v say_v if_o any_o deceiver_n come_v unto_o you_o and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v they_o not_o in_o your_o house_n neither_o bid_v they_o speed_n both_o be_v a_o argument_n of_o familiarity_n but_o just_o reprove_v those_o who_o be_v so_o far_o from_o give_v such_o discouragement_n to_o deceiver_n that_o if_o by_o they_o can_v be_v divert_v splenetic_a vapour_n by_o acuteness_n of_o their_o wit_n and_o divert_v conversation_n they_o shall_v have_v as_o great_a if_o not_o great_a room_n in_o their_o society_n or_o house_n as_o those_o who_o delight_n be_v to_o communicate_v and_o discourse_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n by_o this_o mean_n we_o hug_v the_o tool_n of_o spread_a error_n in_o our_o bosom_n to_o proceed_v in_o the_o narrative_a of_o god_n further_a method_n of_o carry_v on_o this_o great_a inward_a change_n in_o the_o use_n of_o his_o usual_a mean_n i_o shall_v first_o of_o all_o lay_n before_o you_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o soul_n access_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n of_o the_o seriousness_n of_o frame_n therein_o that_o the_o profane_a and_o mere_a professor_n though_o never_o so_o outward_o religious_a be_v altogether_o unacquainted_a with_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o christ_n spirit_n intercede_v in_o we_o in_o
it_o have_v be_v more_o acceptable_a to_o my_o soul_n than_o a_o outward_a blessing_n wherein_o special_a love_n have_v not_o be_v so_o clear_o discoverable_a the_o method_n of_o god_n advance_v reliance_n have_v be_v by_o sometime_o delay_v the_o answer_n of_o prayer_n and_o withhold_a its_o return_n long_o than_o usual_a though_o there_o have_v be_v evidence_n of_o its_o acceptance_n in_o heaven_n and_o that_o sometime_o to_o the_o last_o extremity_n of_o a_o matter_n concern_v a_o eminent_a instance_n whereof_o be_v concern_v a_o affair_n where_o act_v or_o not_o act_v in_o it_o carry_v along_o the_o danger_n of_o great_a disgrace_n and_o disadvantage_n and_o determine_v with_o myself_o not_o to_o act_v be_v by_o a_o irresistible_a passage_n of_o providence_n constrain_v to_o move_v in_o the_o matter_n which_o at_o first_o seem_v to_o damp_n my_o hope_n that_o my_o prayer_n concern_v it_o be_v accept_v but_o the_o return_n exact_o suit_v my_o frame_n and_o desire_n express_v in_o prayer_n though_o its_o discovery_n be_v so_o long_o defer_v even_o till_o upon_o the_o very_a brink_n of_o act_v and_o then_o providential_o effect_v other_o way_n a_o passage_n which_o at_o the_o time_n ravish_v i_o with_o astonishment_n a_o instance_n instructive_a not_o to_o limit_v god_n to_o time_n or_o desire_n but_o to_o commend_v our_o case_n to_o god_n as_o our_o father_n entire_o to_o depend_v on_o himself_o for_o the_o event_n in_o his_o own_o method_n and_o time_n with_o a_o diligent_a act_v duty_n on_o our_o part_n and_o then_o the_o blessing_n will_v be_v the_o sweet_a and_o more_o remarkable_a yea_o with_o great_a honour_n to_o god_n by_o such_o a_o actual_a exercise_n of_o reliance_n upon_o himself_o a_o twelve_o experience_n of_o god_n method_n to_o establish_v my_o dependence_n upon_o he_o have_v be_v by_o lay_v in_o my_o way_n outward_a vexation_n for_o the_o bring_n of_o i_o in_o to_o a_o serious_a spiritual_a frame_n of_o soul_n the_o experience_n whereof_o seem_v as_o it_o be_v natural_o to_o prevent_v murmur_v at_o disquiet_n and_o to_o keep_v i_o often_o upon_o my_o knee_n with_o heavenliness_n of_o thought_n and_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o trust_n to_o god_n who_o discover_v in_o afflict_a providence_n great_a love_n in_o their_o effect_n of_o change_v the_o soul_n posture_n and_o make_v they_o a_o mean_a of_o preserve_a dependence_n bring_v forth_o in_o the_o soul_n a_o thirteen_o experience_n of_o god_n method_n to_o continue_v and_o heighten_v dependence_n upon_o himself_o be_v by_o give_v great_a raisedness_n of_o frame_n of_o mind_n and_o high_a exercise_n thereof_o in_o prayer_n as_o a_o forerunner_n of_o some_o disquiet_n that_o from_o this_o experience_n anxiety_n and_o despondency_n under_o it_o may_v be_v prevent_v and_o i_o notwithstanding_o thereof_o keep_v on_o in_o reliance_n upon_o god_n who_o in_o condescend_v favour_n give_v such_o sweet_a strengthen_n allowance_n as_o may_v hold_v out_o in_o the_o ensue_a providence_n and_o that_o against_o the_o rise_n of_o sin_n within_o and_o the_o force_n of_o temptation_n without_o and_o here_o i_o subjoin_v a_o instance_n of_o the_o inefficacy_n of_o the_o latter_a when_o one_o day_n i_o in_o sweet_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n and_o at_o the_o time_n of_o enjoyment_n under_o the_o actual_a sense_n of_o some_o disquiet_n have_v observe_v in_o the_o method_n of_o god_n that_o a_o sense_n of_o disquiet_n and_o fellowship_n with_o god_n at_o the_o same_o time_n have_v meet_v together_o as_o a_o forerunner_n of_o some_o affliction_n that_o will_v happen_v so_o soon_o as_o i_o be_v off_o my_o knee_n to_o walk_v up_o and_o down_o in_o my_o chamber_n as_o soon_o like_a lightning_n satan_n throw_v this_o suggestion_n upon_o i_o that_o i_o have_v better_o be_v without_o these_o enjoyment_n than_o have_v the_o disquiet_n that_o follow_v they_o my_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n be_v too_o strong_a at_o that_o time_n to_o receive_v any_o impression_n of_o that_o kind_n and_o bless_a be_v his_o name_n the_o suggestion_n be_v so_o bare_a face_v and_o clear_o diabolical_a that_o i_o be_v immediate_o strengthen_v to_o repel_v it_o as_o a_o trifle_n the_o effect_n of_o which_o experience_n be_v first_o a_o further_a establishment_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o scripture_n all_o thing_n work_v together_o for_o good_a to_o they_o that_o love_n god_n second_o a_o continue_a hope_n in_o his_o mercy_n which_o since_o that_o time_n have_v be_v great_o establish_v by_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o psalmist_n word_n as_o certain_a truth_n the_o lord_n delight_v in_o they_o that_o fear_v he_o and_o in_o they_o that_o hope_v in_o his_o mercy_n that_o methinks_v all_o my_o argument_n with_o god_n be_v bind_v up_o in_o this_o one_o of_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o mercy_n in_o christ_n the_o observation_n of_o special_a favour_n in_o all_o smile_a and_o frown_a passage_n of_o providence_n the_o advancement_n of_o reliance_n upon_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n bring_v forth_o by_o god_n divine_a spirit_n in_o the_o use_n of_o that_o mean_a of_o observation_n have_v further_a establish_v and_o fix_v my_o hope_n upon_o his_o mercy_n in_o christ_n and_o that_o for_o other_o change_v within_o and_o future_a happiness_n hereafter_o a_o fourteen_o experience_n of_o god_n method_n of_o train_v i_o into_o dependence_n upon_o himself_o be_v from_o the_o observation_n of_o god_n way_n of_o free_v my_o thought_n from_o concern_v under_o disquiet_n and_o carry_v my_o concern_n off_o from_o the_o thing_n disquiet_v to_o a_o search_n and_o desire_v after_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n put_v up_o for_o the_o disquiet_n which_o be_v the_o alone_a gift_n of_o christ_n spirit_n the_o promise_n of_o divine_a scripture_n and_o my_o alone_a comfort_n under_o disquiet_n this_o be_v to_o i_o the_o evidence_n of_o my_o petition_n be_v accept_v and_o the_o token_n of_o special_a guidance_n from_o heaven_n throughout_o the_o disquiet_n in_o confirm_v the_o truth_n of_o which_o experience_n the_o scripture_n be_v plain_a charge_v we_o to_o be_v careful_a for_o nothing_o but_o by_o supplication_n to_o make_v our_o request_n to_o god_n and_o when_o by_o the_o intercession_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n we_o be_v enable_v to_o make_v our_o request_n the_o experience_a christian_a can_v true_o say_v that_o anxiety_n be_v take_v off_o and_o full_a exercise_n of_o reliance_n upon_o god_n be_v in_o its_o room_n both_o for_o conduct_v to_o the_o soul_n throughout_o the_o disquiet_n and_o for_o the_o remove_n of_o it_o in_o his_o own_o time_n and_o way_n if_o god_n method_n herein_o be_v more_o observe_v there_o will_v be_v less_o trust_n on_o outward_a help_n and_o more_o reliance_n upon_o god_n in_o prayer_n join_v with_o the_o due_a use_n of_o mean_n and_o will_v by_o a_o blessing_n attend_v they_o be_v convince_a to_o the_o man_n of_o this_o world_n who_o be_v lead_v by_o sense_n and_o disbelieve_v the_o prerogative-power_n of_o god_n providence_n in_o all_o thing_n a_o fifteen_o experience_n of_o god_n method_n of_o advance_v my_o reliance_n have_v be_v by_o fix_v my_o desire_n delight_n and_o longing_n after_o spirituality_n of_o frame_n with_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o the_o most_o comfort_v outward_a mercy_n of_o the_o present_a life_n in_o the_o desire_n of_o the_o best_a of_o outward_a blessing_n i_o find_v a_o unexpressible_a fixedness_n of_o thought_n upon_o these_o two_o thing_n one_o be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v convey_v by_o providence_n argue_v speciality_n of_o love_n another_o be_v that_o this_o conveyance_n may_v be_v a_o mean_n of_o heighten_v reliance_n upon_o god_n and_o raise_v i_o to_o more_o sweet_a and_o intimate_a communion_n with_o he_o and_o i_o hope_v i_o may_v with_o some_o humble_a awe_n say_v that_o my_o eye_n be_v so_o much_o upon_o god_n hand_n in_o bring_v about_o and_o upon_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o all_o thing_n on_o earth_n that_o the_o more_o i_o see_v and_o enjoy_v of_o the_o outward_a pleasure_n of_o this_o life_n the_o more_o they_o be_v undervalue_v by_o i_o and_o the_o more_o i_o be_o afraid_a of_o they_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o temptation_n attend_v they_o to_o the_o break_n off_o of_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n which_o be_v the_o true_a inward_a comfort_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o experience_a christian_a this_o very_a experience_n have_v make_v i_o sensible_a of_o the_o follow_a thing_n first_o that_o the_o best_a of_o they_o of_o which_o i_o have_v not_o want_v some_o taste_n afford_v not_o that_o solid_a abound_a sweet_a satisfaction_n as_o i_o do_v real_o experience_n in_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n and_o therefore_o do_v exercise_v great_a pity_n towards_o they_o who_o know_v nothing_o of_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o mind_n or_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n
become_v effectual_a and_o if_o you_o slight_a a_o weak_a preacher_n under_o who_o instruction_n you_o be_v by_o the_o designation_n of_o providence_n and_o choose_v to_o go_v to_o one_o more_o learned_a and_o please_a you_o have_v not_o so_o good_a a_o warrant_n to_o expect_v a_o blessing_n partly_o because_o of_o your_o neglect_v the_o appoint_a mean_n for_o your_o spiritual_a profit_n partly_o lest_o you_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o limit_n god_n to_o afford_v his_o blessing_n to_o the_o preach_v of_o one_o and_o not_o of_o another_o whereas_o his_o work_n be_v as_o glorious_a if_o not_o more_o with_o a_o weak_a instrument_n than_o by_o a_o strong_a and_o it_o be_v the_o plain_a serious_a sermon_n that_o i_o have_v many_o time_n find_v most_o please_v to_o myself_o however_o other_o sort_n have_v ravish_v my_o sense_n at_o the_o time_n the_o method_n i_o use_v that_o my_o hear_v the_o word_n preach_v may_v be_v profitable_a be_v and_o be_v to_o examine_v myself_o whether_o i_o can_v assent_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o hear_v from_o my_o own_o experience_n as_o well_o as_o the_o minister_n assertion_n by_o which_o i_o be_v establish_v and_o comfort_v when_o my_o private_a experience_n be_v consonant_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o a_o public_a preacher_n but_o when_o this_o be_v want_v if_o the_o doctrine_n be_v prove_v from_o scripture_n my_o petition_n to_o heaven_n have_v be_v spiritual_o carry_v forth_o that_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v seal_v to_o my_o soul_n by_o feel_v its_o efficacy_n and_o i_o have_v in_o a_o short_a time_n find_v my_o desire_n answer_v by_o the_o operation_n of_o divine_a providence_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o i_o the_o right_a hear_n of_o the_o word_n consist_v not_o in_o a_o grave_n outward_a gesture_n or_o give_v ear_n to_o a_o sermon_n either_o upon_o the_o fundamental_a principle_n of_o christianity_n to_o be_v believe_v or_o the_o practical_a duty_n to_o be_v perform_v but_o you_o must_v compare_v your_o faith_n and_o life_n with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o serious_o without_o the_o intermixture_n of_o wander_a thought_n and_o with_o fervent_a prayer_n for_o a_o divine_a blessing_n sometime_o god_n be_v please_v to_o give_v grace_n more_o rich_o by_o a_o weak_a than_o by_o a_o more_o able_a instrument_n this_o reprove_v many_o who_o content_n themselves_o with_o attendance_n upon_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o with_o a_o outward_a grave_a behaviour_n in_o hear_v but_o never_o seek_v after_o a_o inward_a frame_n of_o heart_n suitable_a to_o the_o word_n so_o that_o a_o serious_a frame_n of_o soul_n as_o well_o as_o a_o grave_a gesture_n of_o body_n a_o reflect_v upon_o and_o compare_v it_o with_o your_o own_o experience_n as_o well_o as_o a_o reflect_v upon_o and_o compare_v it_o to_o your_o own_o notion_n i_o recommend_v to_o all_o that_o will_v hear_v god_n word_n preach_v with_o profit_n thereby_o experience_n of_o god_n method_n in_o train_v i_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o right_n participate_v the_o lord_n supper_n previous_a to_o which_o let_v i_o premise_v my_o opinion_n thereof_o and_o practise_v then_o while_o only_o under_o the_o notional_a knowledge_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o power_n of_o education_n and_o that_o in_o the_o follow_a part_n first_o that_o by_o the_o strength_n of_o education_n i_o believe_v the_o sacrament_n a_o extraordinary_a ordinance_n solemn_o to_o be_v go_v about_o and_o extraordinary_o to_o be_v prepare_v for_o wonderful_a communion_n with_o god_n be_v there_o to_o be_v enjoy_v of_o which_o i_o never_o then_o have_v feel_v any_o experience_n though_o i_o have_v once_o partake_v of_o it_o with_o all_o seriousness_n by_o the_o instruction_n and_o example_n of_o other_o and_o my_o own_o thought_n of_o the_o solemnity_n of_o that_o ordinance_n but_o without_o any_o other_o seriousness_n than_o what_o be_v wrought_v by_o a_o minister_n affect_v discourse_n and_o delivery_n of_o a_o affect_a subject_n but_o spiritual_a communion_n with_o christ_n without_o which_o sacrament_n communion_n be_v unprofitable_a and_o the_o discovery_n of_o god_n love_n to_o the_o soul_n which_o holy_a minister_n have_v speak_v of_o as_o more_o valuable_a than_o all_o the_o world_n all_o this_o be_v mystery_n to_o i_o and_o not_o desire_v but_o now_o bless_a be_v his_o name_n have_v be_v reveal_v and_o experiment_v in_o my_o soul_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n second_o when_o i_o feel_v a_o inward_a change_n in_o my_o soul_n and_o i_o have_v clear_a knowledge_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o end_n of_o that_o ordinance_n my_o intention_n and_o manner_n of_o performance_n be_v spiritual_a and_o the_o benefit_n concomitant_a and_o consequent_a with_o that_o ordinance_n be_v enjoy_v it_o be_v true_a that_o prayer_n be_v the_o first_o duty_n wherein_o i_o feel_v a_o serious_a hearty_a delight_n and_o understand_v fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o gradual_o i_o advance_v to_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o same_o delight_n and_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n in_o other_o duty_n and_o among_o the_o rest_n in_o that_o duty_n of_o the_o sacrament_n but_o without_o that_o high_a flight_n of_o joy_n as_o sometime_o i_o have_v have_v in_o prayer_n but_o i_o still_o imagine_v that_o though_o i_o have_v not_o attain_v its_o experience_n so_o much_o in_o that_o duty_n yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v enjoy_v therein_o and_o that_o god_n will_v please_v in_o due_a time_n to_o give_v i_o the_o sense_n thereof_o three_o that_o no_o soon_o i_o have_v the_o sense_n of_o this_o inward_a change_n but_o as_o soon_o my_o judgement_n be_v clear_a as_o to_o the_o repetition_n of_o this_o duty_n of_o the_o sacrament_n for_o before_o neither_o the_o read_n of_o the_o institution_n nor_o minister_n preach_v thereupon_o be_v so_o powerful_a as_o to_o induce_v i_o to_o its_o often_o performance_n which_o frequency_n i_o once_o imagine_v sinful_a or_o at_o least_o the_o occasion_n of_o lead_v to_o a_o careless_a sinful_a performance_n thereof_o satan_n like_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n disturb_v my_o tender_a conscience_n with_o this_o argument_n against_o frequent_a communion_n that_o i_o be_v not_o to_o partake_v of_o the_o lord_n table_n without_o a_o week_n solemn_a preparation_n but_o i_o be_v more_o instruct_v concern_v my_o duty_n by_o my_o own_o call_v afterward_o for_o once_o be_v in_o great_a affliction_n both_o inward_a and_o outward_a i_o resolve_v to_o go_v to_o the_o lord_n supper_n imagine_v it_o a_o season_n in_o which_o i_o can_v best_o be_v serious_a and_o thereby_o better_o prepare_v than_o when_o the_o pressure_n of_o the_o affliction_n be_v over_o and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v experience_v as_o the_o great_a comfort_n the_o saint_n declare_v i_o may_v then_o probable_o feel_v they_o and_o according_o do_v partake_v with_o great_a gravity_n and_o inward_a thoughtfulness_n than_o otherwise_o i_o shall_v have_v be_v able_a to_o do_v but_o i_o do_v not_o feel_v those_o raise_a affection_n nor_o that_o inward_a fellowship_n with_o god_n or_o ravish_a joy_n that_o i_o do_v expect_v which_o disappointment_n great_o concern_v i_o satan_n force_v home_o upon_o i_o this_o suggestion_n of_o its_o be_v a_o evidence_n how_o unprepared_a i_o be_v and_o what_o a_o unacceptable_a sacrifice_n i_o offer_v to_o god_n which_o make_v i_o consult_v a_o spiritual_a friend_n who_o sincerity_n and_o judgement_n i_o have_v in_o very_o high_a value_n his_o answer_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v not_o to_o be_v limit_v god_n way_n of_o impart_v himself_o be_v not_o confine_v to_o the_o time_n of_o partake_v this_o ordinance_n but_o you_o may_v judge_v of_o your_o right_a performance_n by_o your_o frame_n before_o and_o after_o as_o well_o as_o in_o the_o duty_n this_o great_o revive_v i_o and_o be_v a_o mean_a of_o quiet_v i_o and_o of_o keep_v i_o in_o the_o frequent_a participation_n of_o the_o ordinance_n the_o truth_n of_o his_o word_n i_o have_v find_v by_o many_o experience_n four_o i_o have_v sometime_o find_v great_a heavenliness_n of_o frame_n before_o the_o partake_v of_o the_o ordinance_n and_o sometime_o after_o it_o even_o when_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o duty_n i_o have_v be_v cold_o affect_v and_o without_o sensible_a comfort_n upon_o hear_v my_o complaint_n my_o friend_n reply_v though_o god_n in_o train_v you_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o himself_o and_o his_o way_n have_v deal_v with_o you_o as_o a_o darling_n child_n with_o wonderful_a smile_a providence_n think_v it_o not_o strange_a if_o have_v obtain_v his_o end_n of_o work_a faith_n of_o reliance_n he_o change_v his_o method_n and_o try_v the_o grace_n he_o have_v wrought_v in_o your_o soul_n five_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n this_o bless_a saint_n be_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o i_o i_o often_o pray_v o_o that_o i_o have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n
rational_a comprehension_n than_o the_o other_o i_o do_v therefore_o much_o wonder_n at_o the_o profane_a or_o mere_a professor_n who_o have_v no_o other_o sense_n of_o divine_a thing_n than_o what_o be_v notional_o impart_v and_o comprehend_v by_o they_o my_o great_a admiration_n be_v that_o christian_n indeed_o who_o feel_v the_o certainty_n of_o what_o other_o have_v but_o hear_v of_o notional_o and_o much_o more_o than_o can_v be_v express_v by_o any_o shall_v not_o be_v more_o endeavour_v the_o witness_v for_o god_n truth_n in_o preach_v print_v and_o conversation_n and_o less_o for_o the_o set_n forth_o of_o their_o own_o part_n or_o notional_a controversy_n not_o so_o material_a in_o our_o day_n where_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n be_v so_o much_o expose_v and_o strike_v at_o a_o three_o motive_n to_o this_o duty_n of_o observation_n be_v that_o it_o be_v no_o hindrance_n to_o your_o worldly_a business_n or_o lawful_a pleasure_n but_o rather_o by_o fix_v your_o thought_n upon_o a_o adjutant_n to_o your_o ordinary_a mean_n even_o a_o divine_a hand_n and_o blessing_n you_o may_v conform_v to_o his_o will_n and_o receive_v the_o reward_n of_o such_o a_o duty_n the_o experience_n of_o christian_n discover_v that_o a_o lay_v aside_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n and_o hurry_v of_o body_n and_o a_o lay_v the_o matter_n before_o god_n with_o the_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n occur_v in_o their_o way_n obtain_v more_o business_n better_a success_n and_o great_a peace_n and_o comfort_n both_o in_o the_o way_n of_o obtain_v it_o and_o its_o after-enjoyment_n than_o when_o they_o eye_v nothing_o else_o beside_o natural_a contrivance_n which_o when_o mighty_o make_v use_v of_o be_v apt_a to_o lead_v a_o man_n beyond_o true_a sincere_a uprightness_n and_o their_o diligent_a lawful_a industry_n unless_o for_o some_o special_a end_n of_o cut_v down_o a_o corruption_n or_o for_o some_o difference_n of_o the_o temper_n of_o the_o mind_n god_n method_n differ_v with_o the_o soul_n but_o whatever_o difference_n be_v in_o his_o method_n it_o will_v end_v in_o the_o same_o delight_n easy_a endeavour_n and_o discovery_n of_o mystery_n i_o add_v nothing_o more_o to_o this_o motive_n be_v it_o belong_v also_o to_o the_o other_o mean_v to_o be_v mention_v which_o though_o common_o talk_v of_o yet_o not_o so_o experimental_o treat_v of_o nor_o practise_v in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o bring_v in_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o themselves_o or_o afford_v that_o inward_a comfort_n that_o may_v be_v attain_v thereby_o let_v therefore_o your_o observation_n be_v general_a as_o to_o all_o the_o step_n of_o god_n providence_n round_o your_o body_n and_o soul_n and_o you_o will_v see_v god_n in_o all_o and_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o rely_v upon_o he_o for_o all_o and_o have_v discover_v such_o a_o mysterious_a work_n as_o the_o implant_n and_o grow_v of_o grace_n in_o your_o soul_n yea_o you_o may_v be_v lead_v to_o more_o than_o ordinary_a fellowship_n with_o the_o godhead_n with_o the_o discovery_n of_o such_o step_n as_o even_o other_o christian_n have_v never_o be_v admit_v to_o or_o have_v let_v slip_v in_o their_o reflection_n and_o improvement_n of_o and_o thereby_o be_v make_v more_o capable_a of_o witness_v for_o god_n than_o other_o and_o better_a judge_n of_o meetness_n for_o heaven_n than_o otherwise_o you_o shall_v have_v be_v and_o all_o this_o without_o hinder_v your_o lawful_a business_n but_o rather_o with_o less_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n and_o hurry_v of_o body_n yea_o with_o great_a success_n and_o more_o inward_a comfort_n without_o confine_v you_o from_o pleasure_n unless_o it_o run_v to_o a_o extreme_a either_o of_o be_v sin_n itself_o or_o the_o occasion_n endanger_v you_o to_o sin_n the_o second_o mean_v you_o be_v desire_v to_o be_v in_o the_o use_n of_o to_o bring_v you_o into_o the_o knowledge_n of_o experimental_a religion_n and_o thereby_o the_o certainty_n of_o god_n word_n and_o of_o his_o way_n with_o the_o soul_n against_o error_n abroad_o and_o darkness_n within_o be_v that_o of_o prayer_n in_o this_o very_a duty_n do_v i_o first_o understand_v the_o meaning_n of_o fellowship_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n of_o divine_a influence_n spiritual_a emanation_n spirituality_n and_o heavenliness_n of_o frame_n which_o be_v word_n mock_v at_o by_o the_o profane_a in_o our_o day_n and_o be_v unintelligible_a to_o myself_o while_o only_o under_o the_o instruction_n and_o power_n of_o education_n and_o must_v be_v incomprehensible_a to_o all_o other_o under_o the_o mere_a profession_n of_o christianity_n let_v their_o outward_a behaviour_n be_v never_o so_o innocent_a and_o their_o duty_n never_o so_o grave_o perform_v to_o the_o obtain_v a_o name_n on_o earth_n while_o i_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o education_n i_o seldom_o miss_v my_o set_a time_n of_o prayer_n with_o as_o grave_a a_o gesture_n as_o now_o at_o this_o day_n and_o my_o concern_n use_v to_o be_v more_o for_o neglect_n of_o prayer_n than_o for_o not_o perform_v it_o aright_o but_o after_o the_o eye_v of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n by_o the_o mean_a of_o observation_n of_o outward_a providence_n i_o begin_v to_o think_v that_o if_o i_o will_v have_v god_n favour_n act_v and_o shine_v in_o any_o passage_n concern_v i_o i_o ought_v to_o ask_v it_o and_o in_o ask_v by_o prayer_n to_o do_v it_o with_o a_o real_a design_n and_o desire_v of_o obtain_v it_o first_o of_o all_o i_o find_v a_o seriousness_n therein_o like_a unto_o the_o sincerity_n and_o unwandering_n of_o one_o man_n speak_v to_o another_o to_o obtain_v any_o favour_n but_o soon_o after_o i_o be_v carry_v beyond_o this_o with_o a_o awful_a sense_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n who_o behove_v to_o be_v of_o great_a may_v to_o bring_v forth_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o act_v in_o all_o thing_n so_o visible_o as_o i_o have_v observe_v and_o with_o such_o height_n of_o sincerity_n and_o heavenliness_n of_o mind_n that_o my_o thought_n dart_v upward_o as_o with_o wing_n the_o same_o time_n my_o word_n be_v express_v and_o that_o with_o such_o pleasure_n of_o mind_n as_o i_o have_v never_o observe_v before_o in_o prayer_n all_o my_o delight_n former_o have_v be_v that_o i_o perform_v and_o not_o miss_v my_o time_n of_o prayer_n but_o according_a to_o my_o usual_a time_n and_o way_n have_v the_o satisfaction_n of_o do_v it_o and_o so_o from_o this_o go_v on_o as_o i_o have_v describe_v in_o the_o experience_n concern_v prayer_n i_o know_v there_o be_v many_o profane_a creature_n who_o education_n perhaps_o have_v not_o be_v religious_a and_o so_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n have_v never_o be_v enforce_v upon_o they_o they_o live_v without_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n in_o his_o common_a providence_n and_o therefore_o be_v the_o less_o move_v to_o call_v upon_o he_o by_o prayer_n for_o his_o favour_n in_o they_o unless_o in_o a_o pinch_n of_o extremity_n where_o by_o the_o very_a light_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o power_n of_o their_o conscience_n they_o be_v force_v to_o lift_v up_o a_o petition_n to_o he_o but_o perhaps_o without_o any_o apprehension_n of_o god_n at_o the_o time_n or_o concern_v of_o see_v their_o request_n bring_v forth_o in_o a_o discovery_n of_o he_o in_o passage_n of_o providence_n bring_v it_o about_o or_o in_o a_o way_n of_o return_n to_o that_o petition_n their_o concern_n chief_o run_v upon_o the_o deliverance_n whatever_o way_n it_o come_v but_o alas_o there_o be_v other_o among_o who_o i_o be_v and_o for_o who_o i_o be_o now_o under_o great_a concern_v and_o for_o who_o sake_n i_o have_v so_o particular_o express_v the_o step_n of_o go_v off_o from_o formality_n in_o prayer_n to_o its_o spiritual_a and_o right_a performance_n and_o from_o my_o soul_n i_o wish_v have_v and_o shall_v beg_v of_o god_n that_o what_o i_o be_o to_o say_v concern_v prayer_n may_v influence_n their_o mind_n with_o a_o sense_n of_o their_o state_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o be_v out_o of_o it_o in_o the_o right_a use_n of_o these_o few_o mean_n they_o be_v such_o who_o have_v have_v religious_a education_n who_o profess_v the_o christian_a religion_n even_o in_o a_o strict_a way_n than_o other_o who_o perform_v all_o outward_a act_n of_o worship_n with_o outward_a gravity_n who_o be_v free_a from_o know_a vice_n and_o still_o from_o no_o other_o principle_n than_o either_o that_o of_o parent_n instruction_n and_o example_n fear_v of_o offend_v they_o or_o of_o reproach_n from_o other_o but_o void_a of_o inward_a seriousness_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n yea_o in_o hear_v minister_n or_o christian_n express_v in_o duty_n or_o out_o of_o duty_n communion_n with_o god_n divine_a emanation_n and_o the_o like_a apprehend_v the_o word_n without_o any_o inward_a sense_n of_o their_o meaning_n and_o as_o little_a desire_n after_o it_o or_o
mock_v at_o such_o word_n as_o too_o familiar_a and_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o greatness_n of_o that_o majesty_n we_o approach_v unto_o in_o prayer_n not_o know_v experimental_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n as_o well_o as_o his_o power_n the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o express_v his_o own_o mysterious_a truth_n by_o word_n inferior_a to_o the_o mystery_n but_o proportion_v to_o our_o weakness_n as_o well_o as_o the_o condescend_v step_n of_o god_n with_o a_o poor_a guilty_a creature_n in_o first_o plant_v grace_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o i_o be_o confident_a not_o know_v experimental_o what_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n in_o prayer_n be_v for_o then_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o ravish_a spiritual_a posture_n word_n of_o this_o kind_n be_v force_v to_o drop_v from_o their_o mouth_n and_o there_o be_v more_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o great_a acceptance_n with_o god_n from_o a_o familiar_a style_n to_o he_o influence_v by_o his_o divine_a spirit_n than_o from_o a_o whole_a prayer_n of_o another_o where_o distance_n appear_v either_o from_o the_o word_n fine_a style_n therein_o or_o length_n of_o prayer_n but_o unspiritual_o perform_v yea_o from_o this_o very_a principle_n of_o education_n there_o be_v some_o who_o have_v a_o outward_a sincerity_n and_o from_o thence_o a_o inward_a satisfaction_n in_o their_o profession_n with_o a_o rest_n in_o their_o knowledge_n and_o practice_n as_o all_o the_o religion_n to_o be_v obtain_v with_o good_a hope_n of_o their_o state_n for_o heaven_n without_o ever_o doubt_v either_o their_o profession_n or_o security_n for_o heaven_n there_o be_v other_o under_o the_o power_n of_o education_n alone_o who_o though_o unspiritual_a in_o their_o mind_n in_o prayer_n yet_o upon_o any_o failure_n of_o their_o set_a time_n be_v real_o uneasy_a and_o dissatisfy_v especial_o the_o breach_n of_o their_o continue_a custom_n and_o as_o it_o be_v for_o these_o my_o concern_n be_v great_o put_v forth_o so_o it_o be_v with_o those_o that_o many_o time_n great_a difficulty_n be_v to_o reclaim_v it_o be_v well_o know_v how_o deep_o be_v fix_v the_o impression_n of_o education_n and_o that_o nothing_o but_o a_o spiritual_a work_n of_o christ_n spirit_n be_v able_a to_o blot_v they_o out_o or_o to_o impress_v they_o anew_o upon_o which_o very_a account_n child_n education_n with_o true_a notion_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n can_v never_o enough_o pay_v their_o obligation_n to_o such_o instructor_n it_o be_v a_o excellent_a preparation_n for_o renew_v the_o practical_a impression_n of_o the_o same_o notion_n upon_o their_o heart_n as_o well_o as_o upon_o their_o brain_n in_o a_o word_n religion_n be_v between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n and_o according_a to_o the_o heavenliness_n or_o un-heavenliness_n of_o the_o temper_n and_o frame_v of_o the_o soul_n so_o a_o thought_n word_n or_o action_n in_o duty_n or_o out_o of_o duty_n be_v either_o acceptable_a or_o unacceptable_a to_o god_n before_o therefore_o you_o leave_v off_o the_o error_n of_o education_n to_o a_o right_a notion_n and_o performance_n of_o prayer_n you_o be_v first_o of_o all_o to_o be_v convince_v of_o what_o be_v erroneous_a and_o then_o of_o what_o be_v true_a and_o right_a first_o therefore_o a_o lay_v too_o great_a a_o weight_n upon_o a_o particular_a place_n for_o the_o performance_n of_o prayer_n be_v a_o error_n of_o education_n i_o know_v there_o be_v some_o so_o strict_o addict_v to_o prayer_n in_o a_o church_n that_o neither_o earliness_n nor_o lateness_n will_v obstruct_v their_o custom_n herein_o as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o circumstance_n material_a in_o god_n account_n it_o be_v not_o against_o prayer_n in_o a_o church_n that_o i_o set_v myself_o to_o oppose_v but_o the_o great_a stress_n some_o from_o education_n be_v please_v to_o lay_v upon_o it_o i_o do_v believe_v that_o if_o other_o be_v as_o painful_a to_o bring_v their_o mind_n into_o a_o serious_a posture_n as_o these_o be_v by_o retrench_v their_o natural_a rest_n in_o a_o morning_n retire_v themselves_o from_o diversion_n through_o a_o day_n or_o at_o a_o evening_n to_o have_v their_o body_n in_o the_o church_n at_o the_o time_n prayer_n will_v be_v better_o know_v and_o much_o more_o pursue_v in_o its_o right_a performance_n than_o at_o this_o day_n for_o my_o own_o part_n if_o my_o soul_n be_v right_a with_o god_n it_o be_v neither_o to_o house_n or_o church_n i_o affix_v myself_o but_o the_o place_n i_o can_v be_v most_o private_a in_o either_o from_o the_o divert_v sight_n of_o other_o or_o their_o discompose_v noise_n and_o if_o i_o have_v opportunity_n of_o choice_n no_o place_n be_v more_o grateful_a to_o i_o than_o that_o in_o which_o i_o have_v have_v great_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n privacy_n i_o great_o value_v from_o a_o unwillingness_n to_o expose_v myself_o to_o the_o censure_n of_o show_n and_o applause_n or_o a_o prayer_n acceptable_o perform_v to_o the_o mock_n of_o some_o find_v it_o impossible_a to_o restrain_v myself_o from_o more_o than_o ordinary_a flood_n of_o word_n and_o from_o a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a audible_a voice_n when_o the_o lord_n be_v please_v to_o raise_v my_o affection_n above_o my_o ordinary_a frame_n the_o reason_n of_o choose_v a_o place_n favour_v with_o god_n presence_n to_o my_o soul_n be_v that_o the_o memorial_n thereof_o may_v excite_v the_o great_a endeavour_n after_o it_o and_o former_a experience_n may_v be_v one_o of_o my_o plead_a argument_n for_o it_o this_o be_v abundant_o suitable_a to_o the_o example_n of_o david_n who_o will_v often_o say_v psal_n 42.6_o that_o he_o remember_v the_o hill_n hermon-missar_a and_o other_o place_n which_o be_v remarkable_a to_o he_o from_o the_o rich_a entertainment_n of_o god_n presence_n in_o they_o from_o all_o which_o i_o drive_v only_o thither_o to_o make_v you_o know_v how_o little_a the_o consideration_n of_o place_n prayer_n be_v perform_v in_o avail_v in_o god_n account_n or_o comfort_v the_o christian_n soul_n within_o whatever_o customary_a performance_n or_o outward_a applause_n afford_v privacy_n be_v recommend_v from_o christ_n own_o example_n who_o will_v retire_v to_o the_o field_n on_o that_o very_a account_n yea_o part_v then_o from_o his_o own_o disciple_n and_o constant_a companion_n and_o true_o the_o more_o serious_a a_o soul_n be_v the_o more_o willing_a to_o be_v from_o all_o and_o to_o centre_n all_o his_o thought_n upon_o his_o dear_a god_n if_o therefore_o any_o labour_n under_o this_o failure_n of_o education_n let_v i_o advise_v against_o it_o unless_o on_o the_o account_n of_o better_a performance_n of_o prayer_n and_o because_o i_o hope_v there_o be_v some_o who_o on_o this_o very_a account_n give_v strict_a example_n thereof_o let_v i_o advise_v all_o from_o censure_v such_o a_o action_n the_o do_v of_o it_o for_o a_o great_a meetness_n for_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n make_v it_o a_o circumstance_n congruous_a to_o a_o well-performed_a duty_n but_o the_o circumstance_n of_o plead_v for_o it_o in_o conversation_n and_o fix_v it_o upon_o other_o from_o a_o like_n of_o the_o way_n argue_v it_o rather_o a_o error_n of_o education_n than_o a_o circumstance_n experience_v in_o themselves_o help_v forward_o their_o seriousness_n with_o god_n for_o though_o to_o some_o it_o may_v have_v this_o advantage_n yet_o to_o myself_o it_o can_v not_o have_v the_o see_v of_o any_o before_o or_o with_o i_o in_o any_o performance_n of_o private_a prayer_n prove_v many_o time_n visible_a hindrance_n second_o a_o lay_v too_o great_a weight_n upon_o punctual_a keep_n of_o set-time_n to_o pray_v be_v a_o error_n of_o education_n there_o be_v many_o in_o no_o other_o state_n of_o christianity_n than_o that_o of_o its_o mere_a profession_n and_o outward_a act_n of_o worship_n who_o with_o marvellous_a strictness_n perform_v the_o set-time_n of_o morning_n and_o evening-prayer_n pure_o from_o the_o rule_n of_o education_n but_o still_o at_o a_o loss_n what_o communion_n and_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o prayer_n mean_n i_o accuse_v not_o their_o pray_v at_o set-time_n but_o professor_n confidence_n therein_o as_o evidence_n of_o their_o religious_a state_n or_o their_o prayer_n right_a performance_n david_n set-time_n of_o prayer_n be_v instance_a in_o his_o book_n of_o psalm_n and_o i_o hope_v there_o be_v not_o any_o experience_a christian_a on_o earth_n at_o this_o day_n who_o slight_v their_o appoint_a season_n of_o private_a prayer_n to_o supplicate_v the_o lord_n conduct_n from_o morning_n till_o night_n and_o from_o evening_n to_o morning_n yea_o by_o observation_n of_o continue_a mercy_n through_o the_o day_n be_v keep_v in_o a_o posture_n of_o soul_n fit_v to_o ejaculate_a praise_n and_o by_o observation_n of_o continual_a want_n fit_v to_o ejaculate_a supplication_n throughout_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o the_o day_n and_o so_o keep_v in_o obedience_n to_o that_o divine_a
god_n and_o man_n in_o one_o person_n when_o such_o a_o view_n of_o he_o will_v force_v their_o remembrance_n of_o deny_v he_o in_o their_o mind_n and_o heart_n the_o adoration_n due_a to_o he_o as_o god_n equal_a with_o the_o father_n though_o he_o humble_v himself_o that_o we_o may_v be_v exalt_v and_o may_v in_o heaven_n see_v his_o glory_n and_o be_v transform_v into_o his_o glorious_a likeness_n it_o will_v be_v righteous_a that_o those_o who_o vilify_v the_o redeemer_n shall_v not_o reign_v with_o he_o and_o since_o they_o deny_v that_o he_o wash_v away_o the_o guilt_n of_o their_o sin_n with_o his_o blood_n it_o be_v righteous_a that_o their_o guilt_n shall_v remain_v on_o they_o for_o ever_o he_o that_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o christ_n strengthen_v he_o will_v notwithstanding_o the_o subtle_a cavil_n of_o other_o glorify_v he_o as_o the_o incarnate_a son_n of_o god_n who_o purchase_v grace_n and_o glory_n for_o he_o by_o his_o humiliation_n and_o confer_v it_o in_o his_o exaltation_n as_o for_o deist_n who_o deny_v all_o reveal_v religion_n their_o error_n be_v bring_v for_o the_o support_n of_o socinianism_n for_o in_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v so_o full_a a_o proof_n of_o the_o eternal_a deity_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n which_o be_v a_o doctrine_n supernatural_a and_o incomprehensible_a by_o our_o narrow_a mind_n that_o they_o will_v rather_o return_v to_o heathenism_n than_o receive_v the_o gospel_n beside_o the_o purity_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o its_o command_n they_o will_v not_o obey_v and_o therefore_o will_v only_o follow_v the_o dim_a light_n of_o nature_n that_o discover_v not_o many_o sin_n which_o they_o love_v nor_o some_o duty_n from_o which_o they_o be_v averse_a you_o therefore_o under_o this_o character_n let_v i_o invite_v you_o to_o the_o trial_n of_o god_n word_n and_o if_o you_o find_v in_o your_o experience_n any_o one_o thing_n that_o be_v incomprehensible_a to_o natural_a reason_n but_o sensible_o feel_v in_o your_o soul_n it_o will_v lead_v you_o to_o the_o desire_n and_o endeavour_v of_o experience_v more_o if_o in_o prayer_n you_o come_v to_o understand_v a_o strength_n above_o your_o own_o even_o that_o of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n according_a to_o scripture_n revelation_n thereof_o you_o will_v desire_v to_o comprehend_v many_o other_o christian_a privilege_n and_o change_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o grace_n of_o which_o you_o never_o former_o have_v any_o true_a idea_n if_o once_o you_o come_v in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o believe_v and_o trust_v thing_n unseen_a which_o to_o a_o faithless_a creature_n be_v a_o mysterious_a doctrine_n but_o of_o scripture_n revelation_n and_o certain_o experience_v as_o truth_n by_o holy_a soul_n to_o what_o purpose_n o_o deist_n shall_v i_o trouble_v myself_o to_o argue_v the_o case_n of_o there_o be_v a_o spiritual_a heavenly_a frame_n in_o prayer_n of_o there_o be_v a_o trust_n to_o a_o thing_n unseen_a more_o strong_a and_o durable_a than_o a_o trust_n to_o a_o object_n before_o the_o eye_n the_o one_o be_v support_v by_o the_o divine_a truth_n and_o power_n the_o other_o by_o a_o weak_a mutable_a creature_n all_o the_o argumentation_n and_o oratory_n on_o earth_n can_v make_v a_o sincere_a christian_a doubt_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o he_o have_v feel_v to_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o save_v he_o from_o sin_n and_o hell_n a_o superficial_a assent_n to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n may_v be_v easy_o change_v but_o when_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o be_v fix_v in_o the_o soul_n by_o deep_a experience_n a_o christian_n be_v as_o stable_a as_o the_o centre_n against_o the_o strong_a storm_n of_o opposition_n you_o may_v as_o well_o suppose_v a_o rational_a soul_n to_o be_v without_o think_v as_o when_o it_o be_v convince_v by_o overpower_v light_n and_o a_o inward_a real_a sense_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n reveal_v from_o heaven_n he_o shall_v be_v apt_a to_o change_v his_o faith_n and_o like_o a_o drunken_a man_n reel_v from_o one_o opinion_n to_o another_o i_o therefore_o earnest_o recommend_v the_o endeavour_n after_o a_o experimental_a sense_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o use_n of_o all_o ordinance_n as_o the_o best_a preservative_n from_o unbelief_n but_o now_o i_o come_v to_o the_o three_o and_o last_o mean_v of_o bring_v creature_n into_o the_o certainty_n of_o god_n word_n and_o inward_a religion_n and_o that_o be_v a_o right_a read_n of_o the_o scripture_n not_o a_o superficial_a read_n of_o they_o in_o obedience_n to_o parent_n or_o out_o of_o custom_n a_o chapter_n morning_n and_o evening_n without_o ever_o one_o thought_n reflective_a upon_o what_o be_v read_v but_o such_o a_o read_v as_o may_v lay_v you_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o influence_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n who_o communicate_v light_n unto_o we_o in_o this_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o in_o that_o of_o spiritual_a observation_n and_o prayer_n we_o must_v fix_v it_o in_o our_o thought_n as_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o life_n and_o particular_o observe_v what_o may_v be_v directive_n in_o those_o duty_n that_o belong_v to_o we_o and_o may_v serve_v for_o comfort_n in_o disquiet_v affliction_n to_o which_o we_o may_v be_v expose_v mr._n pool_n annotation_n be_v useful_a in_o our_o read_n this_o method_n be_v marvellous_o bless_v to_o i_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o with_o observation_n and_o prayer_n i_o soon_o see_v the_o worth_n of_o god_n word_n the_o benefit_n of_o use_v it_o in_o this_o manner_n and_o my_o soul_n be_v ardent_o and_o constant_o desirous_a of_o divine_a grace_n to_o conform_v i_o entire_o to_o the_o precept_n and_o example_n of_o holiness_n set_v down_o in_o it_o the_o method_n i_o use_v at_o first_o be_v to_o read_v a_o chapter_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n a_o psalm_n and_o a_o chapter_n of_o the_o new_a with_o pool_n annotation_n upon_o each_o and_o this_o sincere_a endeavour_n after_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n in_o his_o precept_n be_v soon_o accompany_v with_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n influence_v i_o with_o a_o desire_n after_o and_o in_o some_o measure_n conformity_n thereto_o psal_n 119._o how_o shall_v a_o young_a man_n cleanse_v his_o way_n it_o be_v by_o take_v heed_n thereto_o according_a to_o god_n word_n those_o that_o read_v not_o his_o word_n or_o read_v it_o in_o a_o customary_a way_n obtain_v no_o knowledge_n thereof_o or_o at_o lest_o what_o be_v only_o notional_a to_o discourse_v of_o how_o can_v a_o christian_n cleanse_v his_o heart_n and_o way_n or_o be_v in_o the_o mean_n of_o obtain_v christ_n spirit_n help_v forward_o this_o work_n but_o by_o compare_v considerate_o his_o way_n and_o thought_n to_o god_n divine_a truth_n as_o he_o go_v on_o in_o the_o read_n of_o they_o and_o nothing_o more_o fix_v the_o thought_n to_o this_o than_o a_o read_n with_o annotation_n and_o many_o time_n in_o compare_v scripture_n to_o annotation_n a_o comparison_n of_o one_o self_n to_o scripture_n either_o for_o instruction_n or_o comfort_n occur_v read_v with_o thoughtfulness_n be_v a_o mean_a god_n many_o time_n bless_v with_o sweet_a success_n that_o way_n read_v with_o reflect_v the_o light_n of_o the_o word_n upon_o the_o soul_n warm_v it_o meet_v the_o affection_n and_o make_v they_o receptive_a of_o heavenly_a impression_n the_o mere_a professor_n religious_a only_o from_o education_n i_o great_o compassionate_a for_o this_o neglect_n it_o be_v for_o the_o serious_a a_o probable_a mean_n of_o afford_v establishment_n in_o their_o right_a notional_a knowledge_n wherewith_o they_o have_v be_v impress_v through_o the_o instruction_n of_o education_n and_o applicative_a read_v the_o scripture_n be_v the_o mean_n with_o the_o spirit_n be_v blessing_n of_o establish_v we_o on_o that_o divine_a foundation_n of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n this_o advice_n of_o read_v the_o scripture_n with_o pool_n annotation_n be_v not_o to_o be_v limit_v to_o those_o only_o in_o young_a year_n but_o necessary_o to_o be_v extend_v to_o person_n of_o more_o mature_a age._n first_o i_o advise_v the_o young_a that_o they_o will_v not_o rest_v satisfy_v to_o answer_v their_o parent_n instruction_n or_o in_o the_o customary_a method_n of_o read_v so_o many_o chapter_n a_o day_n and_o that_o at_o their_o usual_a time_n but_o to_o consider_v what_o degree_n of_o knowledge_n of_o the_o word_n and_o conformity_n to_o it_o they_o be_v advance_v to_o by_o it_o that_o by_o right_a conception_n of_o god_n and_o his_o holy_a will_n they_o be_v preserve_v from_o youthful_a lust_n from_o the_o erroneous_a opinion_n and_o vicious_a and_o contagious_a example_n of_o other_o let_v the_o first_o principle_n of_o religion_n in_o this_o way_n be_v deep_o set_v in_o they_o before_o they_o read_v controversy_n in_o
best_a preparation_n for_o preach_v and_o that_o according_a to_o his_o frame_n in_o prayer_n in_o the_o lord's-day_n morning_n such_o be_v the_o frame_n of_o his_o heart_n in_o preach_v i_o have_v myself_o find_v that_o according_a to_o the_o holy_a exercise_n of_o my_o affection_n in_o my_o closet-prayer_n such_o have_v be_v my_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o public_a ordinance_n and_o especial_o in_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n the_o professor_n of_o serious_a religion_n but_o especial_o minister_n be_v more_o in_o the_o view_n of_o the_o world_n and_o more_o obvious_a to_o censure_n therefore_o they_o shall_v be_v very_o regular_a in_o their_o conversation_n and_o watchful_a to_o prevent_v reproach_n upon_o religion_n if_o a_o divine_a spirit_n once_o meet_v you_o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o three_o mean_n you_o will_v find_v that_o whereas_o you_o have_v former_o enjoy_v the_o good_a thing_n of_o this_o world_n without_o thankful_a thought_n of_o the_o bestower_n of_o they_o and_o of_o his_o rich_a mercy_n distinguish_v you_o from_o other_o in_o a_o low_a condition_n and_o without_o serious_a consideration_n that_o they_o be_v talent_n commit_v to_o your_o trust_n to_o be_v improve_v for_o his_o honour_n and_o for_o which_o a_o strict_a account_n must_v be_v give_v you_o will_v by_o the_o observation_n of_o god_n general_n and_o special_a providence_n acknowledge_v he_o to_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o your_o blessing_n and_o depend_v upon_o his_o condescend_v care_n of_o you_o in_o the_o use_n of_o due_a mean_n and_o employ_v his_o benefit_n for_o his_o glory_n a_o sweet_a effect_n of_o observation_n you_o that_o pray_v because_o by_o parent_n you_o be_v instruct_v command_v and_o have_v their_o example_n to_o move_v you_o to_o it_o will_v find_v that_o now_o you_o pray_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n command_n as_o the_o bless_a mean_n of_o acquaintance_n and_o fellowship_n with_o he_o and_o that_o if_o you_o express_v yourself_o with_o never_o so_o free_a and_o learned_a utterance_n you_o be_v uneasy_a unless_o the_o frame_n of_o your_o mind_n have_v be_v serious_a and_o your_o affection_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a and_o you_o have_v some_o hope_n that_o he_o be_v please_v with_o your_o performance_n and_o have_v evidence_v his_o acceptance_n there_o be_v not_o only_o many_o who_o be_v not_o at_o the_o pain_n to_o use_v mean_n to_o come_v to_o such_o a_o comfortable_a knowledge_n but_o who_o will_v hardly_o observe_v whether_o ever_o they_o enjoy_v the_o return_n of_o such_o a_o prayer_n unless_o the_o return_n have_v come_v in_o soon_o after_o or_o in_o such_o a_o remarkable_a way_n that_o they_o can_v not_o but_o see_v it_o be_v a_o return_n to_o that_o prayer_n by_o reason_n of_o which_o negligence_n god_n be_v sometime_o please_v to_o defer_v a_o desire_a return_n but_o at_o last_o in_o compassion_n to_o his_o child_n give_v a_o remarkable_a answer_n that_o deep_o affect_v they_o and_o be_v for_o their_o great_a advantage_n you_o that_o read_v the_o scripture_n because_o your_o parent_n lead_v you_o into_o the_o road_n of_o a_o chapter_n morning_n or_o evening_n or_o for_o the_o historical_a part_n thereof_o or_o to_o be_v know_v in_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o for_o conversation_n now_o find_v that_o your_o use_n of_o it_o be_v a_o mean_a for_o the_o right_a knowledge_n of_o god_n the_o comprehension_n of_o his_o divine_a truth_n and_o as_o a_o directory_n to_o your_o life_n and_o as_o a_o help_n to_o your_o evidence_n in_o compare_v your_o life_n to_o it_o and_o as_o a_o preservative_n from_o infectious_a error_n you_o that_o hear_v sermon_n and_o appear_v serious_a all_o the_o while_n for_o fear_n of_o reproach_n or_o to_o obtain_v a_o good_a name_n without_o any_o thoughtfulness_n of_o the_o matter_n discourse_v unless_o to_o pass_v a_o judgement_n of_o the_o ingeniousness_n or_o dulness_n of_o the_o preacher_n and_o to_o entertain_v company_n with_o reflection_n upon_o the_o matter_n or_o manner_n of_o his_o preach_v find_v now_o such_o a_o inward_a change_n that_o every_o sermon_n be_v transmit_v to_o your_o heart_n through_o your_o ear_n produce_v a_o reflection_n upon_o it_o and_o a_o compare_v it_o with_o your_o own_o experience_n i_o think_v nothing_o can_v be_v more_o please_a than_o in_o hear_v a_o minister_n or_o in_o read_v a_o chapter_n to_o be_v able_a to_o seal_v the_o truth_n of_o either_o from_o our_o experience_n instead_o of_o examine_v the_o word_n of_o a_o sermon_n as_o to_o the_o rhetoric_n you_o now_o mind_v the_o matter_n itself_o not_o so_o much_o if_o learned_o manage_v as_o to_o consider_v whether_o you_o have_v experience_v its_o truth_n which_o will_v he_o a_o comfortable_a evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n or_o if_o you_o have_v not_o feel_v its_o efficacy_n it_o will_v excite_v earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v make_v the_o instruction_n powerful_a in_o you_o o_o how_o reprove_v be_v this_o of_o the_o profane_a who_o slight_a the_o constant_a attend_v to_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n it_o be_v unknown_a to_o they_o when_o and_o how_o god_n may_v work_v by_o it_o upon_o their_o heart_n the_o neglect_n of_o a_o sermon_n may_v be_v the_o loss_n of_o a_o eternal_a blessing_n you_o that_o before_o converse_v about_o religion_n in_o the_o letter_n and_o notion_n speak_v now_o your_o own_o experience_n you_o that_o aim_v at_o reputation_n for_o your_o knowledge_n in_o divine_a thing_n now_o design_n honour_n to_o god_n and_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o reality_n of_o reveal_v religion_n you_o that_o aim_v at_o worldly_a interest_n now_o you_o aim_v at_o the_o enlarge_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n where_o great_a sincerity_n reign_v self_n applause_n be_v least_o value_v and_o great_a privacy_n seek_v for_o unless_o where_o god_n may_v be_v public_o honour_v the_o great_a and_o solemn_a judgement_n at_o the_o last_o day_n will_v pass_v sentence_n of_o condemnation_n upon_o many_o who_o character_n on_o earth_n be_v not_o dispute_v and_o be_v repute_v holy_a and_o will_v acquit_v those_o who_o fellowship_n on_o earth_n be_v with_o god_n and_o yet_o traduce_v as_o hypocrite_n you_o that_o before_o rip_v open_v the_o fault_n of_o other_o either_o from_o a_o corrupt_a principle_n of_o reproach_v inherent_a in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o some_o more_o than_o other_o or_o from_o a_o desire_n of_o raise_v your_o reputation_n by_o the_o depress_v other_o you_o will_v compassionate_o bear_v with_o the_o infirmity_n of_o other_o know_v your_o own_o frailty_n you_o who_o before_o affect_v only_o such_o professor_n as_o be_v of_o your_o own_o opinion_n will_v now_o extend_v your_o charity_n to_o all_o who_o believe_v the_o great_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o live_v according_o can_v the_o world_n imagine_v otherwise_o but_o that_o those_o who_o press_v hard_o after_o strictness_n of_o conversation_n by_o avoid_v all_o liberty_n that_o may_v be_v a_o occasion_n to_o sin_n have_v not_o the_o same_o natural_a corrupt_a inclination_n and_o principle_n as_o other_o but_o they_o be_v cleanse_v and_o change_v by_o power_n from_o above_o a_o rational_a principle_n produce_v a_o rational_a action_n a_o sensitive_a principle_n produce_v a_o sensitive_a action_n a_o corrupt_a principle_n produce_v a_o corrupt_a action_n a_o gracious_a principle_n produce_v a_o gracious_a action_n according_a therefore_o to_o the_o dominion_n of_o the_o inward_a principle_n so_o the_o outward_a action_n be_v or_o at_o least_o the_o inclination_n towards_o it_o the_o soul_n former_o under_o a_o principle_n of_o sin_n be_v incline_v to_o sin_n and_o upon_o the_o occurrence_n of_o any_o object_n to_o set_v this_o a_o move_a the_o soul_n be_v act_v but_o now_o under_o the_o dominion_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o grace_n upon_o the_o occurrence_n of_o any_o good_a object_n the_o gracious_a inclination_n be_v active_a and_o with_o great_a pleasure_n than_o under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o carnal_a principle_n profane_a person_n and_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n of_o god_n be_v utter_o mistake_v to_o think_v that_o the_o action_n of_o the_o spiritual_a life_n be_v not_o mix_v with_o the_o sweet_a and_o most_o satisfy_a delight_n the_o outward_a act_n of_o religion_n if_o they_o be_v not_o produce_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o life_n be_v without_o relish_n and_o toilsome_a to_o the_o carnal_a nature_n but_o â—lowing_v from_o a_o inward_a and_o real_a principle_n they_o be_v productive_a of_o the_o most_o solid_a and_o pure_a pleasure_n in_o the_o present_a exercise_n and_o in_o the_o joyful_a reflection_n and_o be_v the_o beginning_n of_o heavenly_a fruition_n i_o have_v think_v that_o to_o represent_v this_o with_o the_o great_a illustration_n be_v of_o no_o force_n without_o a_o method_n propose_v to_o bring_v it_o to_o man_n experience_n that_o proverb_n reign_v among_o profane_a and_o mere_a professor_n that_o see_v be_v believe_v let_v therefore_o
attainable_a can_v you_o have_v easy_a mean_n inward_a religion_n afford_v no_o lesson_n for_o emaciate_a your_o body_n with_o outward_a fast_n but_o command_v a_o rational_a and_o moderate_a support_n of_o our_o body_n sit_v they_o the_o more_o for_o serve_v god_n we_o be_v not_o enjoin_v to_o be_v pilgrim_n and_o to_o take_v wearisome_a journey_n as_o a_o penance_n for_o sin_n christian_a society_n and_o communion_n will_v make_v we_o more_o watchful_a against_o sin_n the_o gospel_n do_v not_o enjoin_v severity_n and_o nicety_n in_o outward_a conversation_n which_o rather_o discourage_v than_o invite_v those_o who_o be_v without_o but_o allow_v a_o civil_a sweetness_n to_o all_o but_o there_o be_v season_n of_o retirement_n and_o recollection_n from_o the_o business_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n which_o a_o christian_a ought_v to_o improve_v for_o more_o immediate_a fellowship_n with_o god_n there_o be_v choose_v hour_n wherein_o the_o soul_n ascend_v to_o god_n by_o solemn_a thought_n and_o ardent_a desire_n and_o god_n descend_v into_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o excitation_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o the_o influence_n of_o joy_n and_o it_o be_v most_o unreasonable_a to_o think_v religion_n to_o be_v sour_a and_o unpleasant_a because_o wise_a and_o holy_a christian_n prefer_v god_n before_o the_o creature_n and_o heaven_n before_o the_o earth_n begin_v therefore_o and_o go_v on_o in_o the_o right_a way_n with_o steady_a resolution_n not_o to_o stand_v still_o or_o draw_v back_o and_o you_o will_v have_v renew_v strength_n and_o comfort_n afford_v you_o will_v be_v advance_v every_o day_n in_o your_o journey_n till_o you_o arrive_v at_o the_o celestial_a canaan_n five_o reflect_v not_o only_o upon_o the_o easiness_n of_o your_o mean_n but_o also_o upon_o the_o certainty_n and_o comfort_n of_o obtain_v your_o end_n of_o holiness_n here_o and_o happiness_n hereafter_o by_o they_o how_o be_v you_o able_a to_o spend_v your_o spirit_n upon_o notion_n that_o have_v no_o other_o foundation_n than_o deprave_a reason_n and_o little_a other_o design_n than_o self-applause_n and_o the_o character_n of_o learned_a or_o leader_n of_o such_o a_o party_n let_v it_o be_v the_o great_a work_n of_o minister_n to_o preach_v those_o truth_n whereby_o we_o may_v have_v communion_n with_o the_o lord_n crucify_v here_o and_o with_o he_o glorify_a hereafter_o and_o thereby_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o people_n will_v be_v confirm_v in_o the_o bless_a hope_n god_n have_v give_v a_o account_n of_o his_o truth_n to_o be_v believe_v and_o obey_v yea_o to_o be_v try_v and_o the_o more_o strict_a and_o particular_a the_o enquiry_n be_v the_o more_o certain_a of_o our_o profession_n here_o and_o of_o our_o privilege_n hereafter_o it_o be_v superficial_a knowledge_n of_o religion_n that_o occasion_n uncertainty_n in_o ourselves_o but_o a_o inward_a serious_a sense_n of_o its_o power_n will_v fortify_v we_o against_o all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n be_v at_o certainty_n therefore_o of_o your_o persuasion_n here_o and_o as_o to_o your_o inheritance_n hereafter_o i_o shall_v add_v this_o who_o that_o sincere_o and_o with_o perseverance_n pray_v for_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n that_o read_v and_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o attention_n and_o application_n yet_o have_v remain_v in_o darkness_n and_o distract_n doubt_v about_o eternal_a thing_n god_n will_v make_v good_a his_o promise_n those_o that_o seek_v he_o shall_v praise_v he_o for_o the_o revelation_n of_o his_o goodness_n to_o they_o six_o let_v this_o be_v the_o reflection_n of_o the_o reader_n of_o these_o paper_n what_o excuse_v at_o christ_n tribunal_n can_v i_o make_v either_o for_o the_o ignorance_n of_o my_o mind_n as_o to_o the_o truth_n of_o christianity_n or_o the_o looseness_n of_o conversation_n from_o god_n divine_a rule_n after_o read_v the_o great_a thing_n in_o the_o change_n of_o this_o author_n soul_n the_o few_o and_o easy_a mean_n that_o lead_v he_o to_o it_o can_v you_o think_v any_o thing_n else_o but_o as_o it_o witness_n for_o god_n on_o earth_n so_o it_o will_v witness_v against_o you_o above_o and_o aggravate_v your_o sin_n and_o punishment_n light_o come_v into_o the_o world_n other_o comprehend_v it_o walk_v in_o it_o the_o light_n that_o true_o may_v obtain_v the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n but_o you_o choose_v rather_o to_o walk_v in_o darkness_n if_o you_o now_o think_v it_o not_o worth_a your_o while_n to_o endeavour_v the_o mean_n of_o obtain_v such_o a_o pearl_n of_o price_n as_o the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o christianity_n and_o its_o practice_n on_o earth_n and_o perfect_a holiness_n and_o happiness_n above_o the_o reward_n of_o it_o you_o may_v walk_v on_o under_o a_o cloud_n of_o delusion_n but_o you_o will_v find_v that_o inward_a darkness_n will_v bring_v you_o to_o outer_a darkness_n in_o a_o everlasting_a hell_n seven_o let_v therefore_o your_o meditation_n issue_v here_o i_o will_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o god_n begin_v the_o use_n of_o these_o three_o mean_n according_a to_o the_o prescription_n of_o this_o witness_n for_o god_n and_o i_o will_v try_v whether_o i_o find_v the_o same_o experience_n or_o other_o as_o marvellous_a or_o more_o suit_v to_o my_o case_n it_o be_v possible_a for_o i_o to_o use_v these_o three_o mean_n when_o hear_v the_o word_n take_v the_o sacrament_n and_o communion_n with_o saint_n be_v deny_v i_o yea_o easy_a and_o pleasant_a to_o admix_v they_o in_o all_o my_o business_n and_o pleasure_n to_o encourage_v which_o resolution_n i_o shall_v subjoin_v the_o follow_a directory_n as_o a_o mean_n of_o keep_v up_o constant_a fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o yourselves_o and_o as_o a_o bulwark_n against_o the_o profanity_n and_o error_n of_o the_o age._n let_v i_o previous_o bring_v to_o your_o thought_n what_o have_v be_v already_o treat_v of_o to_o wit_n three_o method_n of_o god_n conduct_v his_o child_n through_o this_o low_a life_n the_o conduct_n of_o his_o reveal_v will_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o his_o divine_a providence_n without_o and_o of_o his_o divine_a spirit_n by_o his_o work_n in_o the_o soul_n answerable_a to_o which_o three_o method_n of_o condescend_v power_n and_o love_n three_o duty_n have_v be_v propose_v as_o mean_n to_o be_v interest_v in_o this_o threefold_a divine_a blessing_n observation_n of_o outward_a providence_n as_o a_o help_n to_o know_v and_o to_o believe_v in_o his_o general_n and_o special_a providence_n round_o the_o create_a and_o adopt_a son_n of_o god_n serious_a prayer_n as_o a_o help_n to_o know_v to_o experience_n the_o certainty_n of_o the_o spiritual_a operation_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n in_o the_o soul_n read_v the_o scripture_n with_o pool_n annotation_n a_o help_n to_o know_v notional_o god_n will_n and_o experimental_o to_o know_v it_o as_o truth_n make_v out_o in_o his_o way_n of_o providence_n and_o inward_a work_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o necessary_a therefore_o to_o guide_v you_o to_o the_o right_n and_o continue_a use_n of_o these_o three_o easy_a duty_n intere_v the_o soul_n in_o these_o three_o marvellous_a blessing_n for_o which_o the_o godhead_n will_v be_v admire_v love_a and_o praise_v in_o our_o eternal_a state_n i_o give_v you_o my_o own_o course_n through_o a_o day_n as_o what_o have_v keep_v myself_o in_o constant_a heavenliness_n of_o frame_n and_o afford_v i_o the_o astonish_a enjoyment_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o with_o so_o great_a ease_n to_o lawful_a business_n and_o diversion_n your_o know_v my_o hurry_v affair_n and_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o grace_n i_o have_v experieneed_a and_o give_v forth_o now_o to_o the_o world_n will_v be_v sufficient_o convince_a how_v easy_a and_o how_o comfortable_a no_o way_v detract_n from_o diligence_n in_o business_n or_o lawful_a recreation_n this_o bless_a life_n of_o religion_n be_v and_o since_o i_o be_o not_o to_o be_v know_v i_o desire_v to_o impart_v the_o way_n i_o walk_v in_o for_o your_o imitation_n and_o soon_o you_o will_v be_v convince_v of_o the_o reality_n and_o sweetness_n of_o inward_a christianity_n however_o the_o mere_a profession_n thereof_o expose_v it_o to_o the_o censure_n of_o other_o as_o burden_n melancholy_a and_o the_o like_a the_o day_n be_v to_o be_v divide_v in_o three_o part_n the_o morning_n the_o course_n of_o the_o day_n and_o the_o evening_n the_o evening_n i_o appropriate_v principal_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o that_o noble_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n even-reflection_n the_o two_o former_a part_n principal_o to_o apprehension_n and_o observation_n first_o therefore_o after_o awake_v or_o in_o the_o time_n of_o dress_v observe_v the_o frame_n of_o your_o soul_n whether_o serious_a or_o not_o whether_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o bent_n of_o your_o mind_n to_o think_v upon_o god_n and_o your_o duty_n to_o he_o or_o whether_o there_o want_v a_o force_n upon_o your_o soul_n thereto_o second_o after_o dress_v
begin_v your_o morning_n duty_n with_o read_v a_o psalm_n or_o a_o chapter_n by_o pool_n annotation_n observe_v the_o word_n and_o sentence_n thereof_o that_o impress_v your_o mind_n most_o with_o serious_a advertency_n to_o they_o observe_v the_o thought_n that_o thence_o arise_v at_o the_o time_n if_o tend_v to_o explain_v what_o former_o you_o be_v ignorant_a of_o if_o tend_v to_o establish_v you_o in_o what_o former_o you_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o if_o tend_v to_o make_v you_o resolve_v you_o will_v conform_v to_o it_o or_o if_o tend_v to_o comfort_v you_o as_o have_v walk_v conform_v to_o it_o and_o thereby_o discover_v yourself_o in_o the_o read_n such_o a_o portion_n of_o scripture_n three_o enter_v upon_o private_a prayer_n with_o a_o serious_a acknowledgement_n of_o god_n favour_n in_o conduct_v you_o through_o the_o night_n and_o with_o a_o sincere_a supplication_n to_o he_o for_o his_o conduct_n through_o the_o day_n by_o his_o special_a providence_n and_o spirit_n that_o from_o the_o evidence_n of_o both_o through_o the_o day_n you_o may_v discover_v his_o special_a favour_n to_o your_o soul_n as_o a_o comfortable_a evening_n cordial_a and_o that_o by_o his_o supply_n of_o grace_n throughout_o the_o day_n you_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o bless_a improvement_n of_o both_o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o trust_n in_o and_o love_n to_o the_o godhead_n for_o life_n and_o salvation_n observe_v your_o frame_n of_o soul_n throughout_o this_o prayer_n observe_v if_o it_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o seriousness_n throughout_o the_o whole_a or_o vary_v according_a to_o the_o various_a petition_n put_v up_o observe_v and_o record_v the_o different_a frames_n and_o different_a petition_n four_o go_v forth_o thus_o prepare_v to_o your_o lawful_a business_n and_o conversation_n in_o your_o business_n through_o the_o day_n observe_v first_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n that_o seem_v to_o bring_v undertake_n to_o your_o hand_n second_o observe_v your_o own_o endeavour_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n and_o three_o the_o event_n of_o each_o undertake_n in_o your_o conversation_n through_o the_o day_n observe_v 1._o the_o occasion_n of_o your_o entrance_n into_o it_o whether_o idleness_n lust_n within_o necessity_n or_o recreation_n 2._o the_o frame_n of_o your_o mind_n while_n in_o it_o whether_o on_o your_o watch_n against_o the_o evil_n thereof_o and_o 3._o the_o issue_n of_o it_o whether_o freedom_n from_o or_o commission_n of_o sin_n but_o now_o in_o the_o evening_n of_o the_o day_n reflection_n according_a to_o the_o observation_n and_o record_n of_o the_o day_n be_v the_o duty_n precede_v your_o last_o closet_n prayer_n and_o to_o be_v recommend_v to_o your_o practice_n perform_v it_o in_o the_o follow_a part_n first_o reflect_v upon_o the_o frame_n of_o your_o soul_n that_o you_o observe_v in_o the_o morning_n whether_o by_o the_o duty_n of_o read_v and_o prayer_n it_o be_v not_o bring_v to_o a_o seriousness_n if_o observe_v to_o be_v unserious_a or_o to_o a_o great_a seriousness_n than_o the_o degree_n of_o seriousness_n at_o first_o observe_v yea_o perhaps_o to_o great_a heavenliness_n the_o improvement_n whereof_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o it_o be_v good_a to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n in_o the_o duty_n he_o have_v prescribe_v and_o a_o fix_a resolution_n to_o walk_v therein_o and_o perhaps_o daily_a continuance_n may_v bring_v in_o daily_a addition_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o grace_n and_o preserve_v the_o christian_a in_o daily_a heavenliness_n of_o soul_n as_o bulwark_n against_o all_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o day_n with_o honour_n to_o god_n and_o great_a inward_a peace_n second_o reflect_v upon_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n round_o you_o through_o the_o day_n and_o first_o of_o all_o compare_v they_o to_o the_o part_n of_o the_o scripture_n you_o read_v in_o the_o morning_n and_o to_o the_o thought_n that_o then_o most_o impress_v your_o mind_n to_o see_v whether_o or_o not_o these_o passage_n of_o divine_a providence_n afford_v you_o some_o discovery_n of_o the_o reality_n of_o that_o part_n of_o the_o scripture_n thus_o observe_v establish_v your_o faith_n in_o it_o the_o improvement_n whereof_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o resolution_n to_o go_v on_o in_o the_o same_o duty_n of_o read_v the_o scripture_n in_o the_o morning_n before_o the_o enter_v upon_o the_o business_n of_o the_o day_n and_o perhaps_o there_o will_v arise_v to_o your_o sensible_a experience_n great_a knowledge_n of_o god_n word_n than_o ever_o yet_o have_v be_v observe_v by_o you_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o outward_a instruction_n yea_o such_o establishment_n to_o its_o truth_n and_o reality_n as_o can_v not_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o the_o strong_a arguing_n of_o the_o most_o learned_a and_o into_o which_o the_o strong_a dart_n of_o erroneous_a sophistry_n can_v never_o pierce_v enable_v your_o soul_n not_o only_o to_o see_v the_o reality_n but_o even_o harmony_n of_o god_n word_n to_o his_o providence_n and_o spirit_n second_o compare_v the_o providence_n of_o the_o day_n to_o your_o morning-duty_n of_o closet-prayer_n to_o the_o petition_n therein_o put_v up_o and_o to_o the_o frame_n of_o soul_n you_o be_v then_o under_o that_o you_o may_v discover_v what_o passage_n of_o providence_n seem_v to_o be_v afford_v you_o in_o return_n to_o prayer_n and_o what_o frame_n your_o soul_n be_v in_o and_o what_o be_v your_o utterance_n in_o that_o prayer_n or_o part_v thereof_o that_o be_v return_v the_o improvement_n whereof_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o access_n to_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o be_v always_o in_o that_o frame_n wherein_o you_o be_v when_o you_o pray_v that_o prayer_n that_o be_v so_o visible_o return_v it_o will_v help_v you_o to_o see_v a_o difference_n between_o one_o kind_n of_o prayer_n and_o another_o between_o a_o prayer_n with_o our_o own_o spirit_n and_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n between_o a_o prayer_n with_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n enable_v to_o ask_v sincere_o and_o a_o prayer_n with_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n give_v the_o soul_n the_o comfortable_a sense_n of_o it_o as_o such_o and_o discover_v the_o reality_n of_o a_o divine_a strength_n above_o ourselves_o both_o bring_v the_o providence_n of_o the_o day_n to_o we_o and_o bring_v forth_o the_o improvement_n thereof_o in_o we_o by_o a_o gradual_a advancement_n of_o reliance_n upon_o and_o love_n to_o the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n by_o who_o satisfaction_n this_o once-sealed_a fountain_n be_v open_v and_o by_o who_o spirit_n its_o water_n of_o spiritual_a life_n continual_o flow_v upon_o we_o and_o in_o the_o use_n of_o duty_n apply_v to_o we_o three_o reflect_v upon_o your_o own_o way_n of_o manage_v business_n and_o conversation_n with_o other_o that_o so_o you_o may_v not_o only_o discover_v a_o special_a providence_n round_o you_o but_o the_o act_n of_o a_o divine_a spirit_n within_o you_o and_o that_o by_o compare_v first_o your_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o the_o passage_n of_o providence_n lay_v undertake_n in_o your_o way_n through_o the_o day_n reflect_v whether_o god_n be_v observe_v in_o bring_v they_o about_o as_o a_o discovery_n of_o divine_a strength_n in_o you_o carry_v your_o observation_n beyond_o the_o enjoyment_n even_o to_o god_n himself_o second_o by_o compare_v your_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o your_o method_n of_o use_v mean_n and_o manage_v endeavour_n thus_o providential_o lay_v in_o your_o way_n not_o only_o whether_o god_n be_v regard_v therein_o lay_v providence_n in_o your_o way_n or_o help_v you_o to_o observe_v he_o but_o whether_o your_o concern_n run_v out_o chief_o upon_o do_v duty_n neither_o design_v ill_a end_n nor_o endeavour_v to_o bring_v about_o any_o purpose_n in_o the_o use_n of_o ill_a mean_n but_o regard_v duty_n to_o he_o in_o all_o three_o compare_v your_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o the_o event_n of_o such_o undertake_n thus_o providential_o lay_v in_o your_o way_n and_o thus_o faithful_o manage_v by_o you_o if_o they_o be_v according_a to_o expectation_n or_o better_a than_o expectation_n reflect_v whether_o exercise_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o love_n and_o faith_n be_v not_o and_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o such_o a_o discovery_n and_o a_o fix_a resolution_n to_o keep_v on_o in_o the_o same_o lawful_a use_n of_o mean_n with_o a_o trust_n to_o divine_a supply_n for_o event_n as_o full_a evidence_n of_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o your_o soul_n and_o of_o your_o be_v under_o his_o spiritual_a conduct_n in_o conversation_n with_o other_o 1._o reflect_v upon_o your_o entrance_n to_o it_o whether_o its_o occasion_n be_v necessity_n and_o innocent_a recreation_n with_o a_o previous_a address_n for_o divine_a conduct_n in_o it_o 2._o reflect_v upon_o your_o carriage_n in_o it_o thus_o prepare_v the_o temptation_n