The Christians daily sacrifice containing a daily direction for a setled course of sanctification : diuided into three bookes / by Th. Cooper.

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acceptable vnto him, Psalm. 51.18.

3 Hereby wee deny our selues, and daily take vp our Crosse, Math. 16.

4 We approue our right and estate in Christ Iesus, in that we confesse our selues to bee sin∣ners, and such as haue daily need of his mercie, and so daily fit our selues vnto the same, Math. 11.28.

5 We iustifie the truth of our Religion against all the imagina∣ry perfection of Popery, and se∣curity of Libertines, and Athe∣ists whomsoeuer, and so doe daily giue an account of our Faith 1. Pet. 3.15.

6 As also wee maintaine the peace of our Conscience, Psalm. 32.5. And so

8 Continue, and renue the as∣surance of our saluation, 1. Ioh. 3.10. And so

8 Proceede, and follow hard af∣ter the marke. Phil. 3.13.

This duty is conscionably performed,* 1.1

First, by knowledge of sinne, not onely by the law, but also by the Gospell, Psalm. 19.11. Ierem, 3.13.* 1.2 And that voluntarily, accor∣ding to the conuiction of con∣science.

Secondly,* 1.3 by mourning before the Lord in the sence of them, Psal. 6. & 38. And that,

1 Not for a spurt, but euen all our life long, Psalm. 51.5.6.

2 Neither with a few hypocri∣ticall teares from the eyes, but e∣uen with Deepe sorrow from the heart, expressed euen with plen∣ty of teares, and bitter lamentati∣on, 2. Sam. 7. Matth. 27. Esra. 1.9.

3 And that not so much for feare of the punishment, as that wee haue offended so good a God, Luk. 15.21.

4 And not so much, that wee are knowne sinners a∣mong men, which happily may

discredit vs, as that we feele not our sinnes pardoned with God.

5 This is accompanied with an astonishment for sinne, in respect of Gods infinite Maiesty. Esra. 9.4.

Thirdly, repentance is perfor∣med by Acknowledging and confes∣sing of sinne,* 1.4 Pro. 28.13.

And that first for the matter.

• 1 From the fountaine, which is,
  • * 1.51 Originall sinne, Psa. 51.5.
  • 2 Our corrupt hearts, Psalm. 19.12.
• 2 From the streames, both our
  • 1 Thoughts, so farre as we may, Esr. 9.
  • 2 Our Idle words, Iob. 42. And
  • 3 Prophane actions. Psalm. 19.12.

Secondly, for the manner.

1 Aggrauating them against our selues, Lam. 3.43.

2 Cleering others, as righteous in comparison of our selues, 1. Sam. 14.

3 Against our selues vnto the Lord, Psal. 32.5. Not

• 1 Excusing. Nor
• ...

• 2 Diminishing: Nor
• 3 Posting off to others.

And here, both

1 What Good wee haue omit∣ted.

2 What Euill we haue commit∣ted.

3 How wee haue sinned of Igno∣rance, Psa. 73.22.

4 How of Knowledge wee haue transgressed, 2. Sam. 24. Luk. 12.48.

Especially and more particularly, we must confesse,

1 The sinnes we haue beene sub∣iect vnto, Psa. 51.14.* 1.6

2 Those which for the present we grone vnder.

3 Those which wee feare most. Psalm. 19.13.

4 The sinnes of our Fathers, Ne∣hem. 9.

5 The sinnes of the Land, and state where wee liue. Dan. 9.

6 Those which accompany wel-doing. Math. 8.

7 Yea such as in particular we know not, wee are notwithstan∣ding to yeeld vp to bee searched by

the Lord: and by his mercie ei∣ther to be brought to our remem∣brance, or to be graciously passed ouer, Psa. 19.12.

* 1.7Fourthly, wee must proceede to iudgement against sinne: And that,

1 Remembring and producing the law that conuinceth our sin, Esr. 9.11.12.

2 Pleading guilty therto, Esr. 9.10

3 By abhorring of our selues, Iob. 42

4 Stripping our selues of all com∣forts.

5 Imposing volunatry afflictions vpon our selues. Ioel. 2.

6 Acknowledging our selues worthy to be cut off Eze. 20.

7 Yeelding to temporal cha∣sticements, 2. Sam. 16.

8 Iustifying Gods iustice in his former chasticements vpon our fathers for sin, Esr. 9.7.

9 Feeling our sinne a burthen which we are not able to beare, Act. 12.37. Psa. 38.4. Hereupon,

Fiftly, By faith we flye unto Christ.

* 1.81 Hungring after the least drop of mercy.

2 Preferring it before all earth∣ly comforts.

3 Begging it boldly and con∣stantly.

4 Waiting patiently till the Lord answere.

5 Meditating on Gods former mercies. Esr. 9.8.* 1.9

6 In Christ we gaine strength to forsake sin: And that

1 In heart, wee throughly pur∣pose neuer to commit the like a∣gaine. Esr. 10.3.

2 To this end we are Fearfull of the occasions, and wisely decline from them.

3 We bend our strength especi∣ally against our beloued sin.

4 We complaine of our Inabili∣ty, and labour to be strengthned by the Word, Conference, &c.

5 Hereupon we finde our loue encreased to all Gods Comma••••••••••••dements, and so more consciona∣bly intend the performance of ••••••hem.

6 Especially wee endeauour to bee found in CHRIST, and to

feele the power of his death, and resurrection in the subduing of sinne; and so exercise our meditati∣ons more often, and seriously there∣on.

7 And so wee endeuour, that the life of Christ may appeare in our mortall bodies: and that not wee, but Christ may liue wholly in vs, Galat. 2.19. &c.

8 To this end labour wee the practise of some one speciall vertue, to which we find our selues most auerse, and which we see, that we haue especiall need of.

9 And so by Gods mercy, we at∣taine such conquest ouer our most grieuous tentations, and former e∣uils, as hatred of the word, and the Saints, &c. as that wee neuer fall into them againe.

10 And though wee finde apt∣nesse to fall into some former sinnes, yet wee earnestly striue a∣gainst them, and grone vnder the burthen of our corruptions.

11 And so, do hunger and sigh for our dissolution. Rom. 7.

12 Submitting our selues to the power of the word, to haue cor∣ruption discouered and purged out.

13 Auoiding all occasions that entice to sin.

Now that wee may the bettter performe this duty of Repen∣tance; consider wee in the third place, these preparatiues and helpes thereto.* 1.10

1 That Repentance is the gift of God, and therefore if we want it, let vs aske it of him in faith, Iam. 1.6.

2 That by nature wee cannot re∣pent, and therefore wee had more need to renounce our selues, and flye vnto God.

3 That the time of repentance is this life: and therfore while we may, let vs set vpon it.

4 The longer we deferre it, the harder, and more doubtfull it will proue.

5 That the fittest time is imme∣diatly after sinne committed, Psal. 95.8.

6 To this end meditate we on the shortnesse of life, Psalm. 91.12.

And withall,

7 Weigh wee the greatnesse of our sinne, how infinite in number, how dangerous and deadly to our own soules, how offensiue to Gods children▪ &c.

8 And submit wee our selues wil∣lingly to such rebukes and chastice∣ments, as are laid vpon vs to the humbling of the flesh, Iam. 4.9.10. Iob. 33.17.18. Leuit. 26.41.

9 Yea, intreat we the Lord to cor∣rect vs, Psa. 61. and that the righ∣teous may smite vs, Psalm. 141.5. Psa. 6.1.

Hitherto serueth further,

1 The due contemplation of the Maiesty of God, whom we haue so highly offended, Psalm. 51.4. Gen. 39.9.

2 The vilenesse and abiectnesse of Man, that durst commit such wic∣kednesse against God.

3 How fearefull (by reason of sinne) our condition is vnder Sa∣than.

4 The dangers we haue incur∣red hereby, euen all the plagues that are written in Gods Booke, Deut. 29.27.

5 The riches of Gods mercy, in prouiding so excellent a remedy against sin, as the pretious blood of his onely and deerely beloued sonne, when nothing else in the world was available thereunto, 1. Pet. 1.12.

6 The effectualnesse of this Sacri∣fice, daily preuenting sinne, and furthering, yea sanctifying our repentance, and leading to per∣fection. 1. Ioh. 1.7. Eph. 5.22.23.

7 The excellency of our estate in Ie∣sus Christ, with the manifold bene∣fites and priuiledges thereof: and so meditate we on his Death, Re∣surrection, Ascention, &c.

8 Consider wee the end of our Creation, Redemption, Iustification, &c. All which doe call for repen∣tance.

9 And on the other side, im∣partially discerne wee our Vn∣thankfulnesse against the blood of

the Couenant, in not walking wor∣thy of the same. Ephes. 4.1. yea in as much as lieth in vs.

10 Making the same of none effect vnto vs. Heb. 10.

11 Adde we hereunto, How we haue grieued the spirit of God, E∣phes. 4.30.

1 And dulled, if not quenched the graces of God in vs, 1. Thess. 5.19.

13 Consider what dishonour we haue done vnto our God, all this while, that we haue liued in sinne.

14 And wonder at the patience of the Almighty, that hath spared so long, such notorious rebels, La∣ment. 3.23. Rom. 2.4.

15 Consider wee the small number of those that shall bee sa∣ued. And

16 That many shall striue to en∣ter in, and shall not be able, Luk. 13.23.

17 Treasure we vp the Word in our hearts, which daily prouokes to repentance, Matth. 3.

18 And meditate wee on Gods Iudgements inflicted on the world for sinne, Psal. 119.

19 Consider we how hardly, e∣uen the righteous, shall bee saued, 1. Pet. 4.13.14.

20 Sort wee with the Godly, that so wee may learne their waies.

21 Enter wee into the house of Mourning, and this will bring sin to remembrance.

22 And thinke wee often of our ends, and of the day of iudge∣ment, so shall sinne haue little rest with vs.

And that wee bee not decei∣ued in the iudgement of Re∣pentance, obserue wee wisely,* 1.11 these Markes, and true Tokens thereof.

1 Care, not to sinne againe, 2. Cor. 7.11. Luk. 9.

2 Clearing and approuing of our selues, to the Church of God.

3 In the euidence of the par∣don

of our sinne, being able to make our defence against sin and Satan. 2. Cor. 7.

And so

4 Giuing the Lord no rest, till by praier we haue obtained this as∣surance.

5 An holy indignation, and dis∣pleasure at our selues for offen∣ding so good and gratious a Fa∣ther. Psal. 73.22.

6 A feruent affection to Gods word, and spirituall things, Psal. 51. Psalm. 32.

7 Zeale of Gods glory; and in regard thereof, a iudging of our best graces, and mourning for our failings in them.

8 A spirituall execution, and ta∣king vengeance on our selues, by cleering of others in affli∣ction, and condemning our selues, Esay 30.21. 2. Sam. 16.17. Ier. 31.19. 2. Sam. 24.

9 Yea desirous to bee more vile, 1. Timoth. 1.13.14. and ex∣posing our selues to confusion for the same.

10 And because wee cannot bee so abased as wee should: Mourning and complaining of the hardnesse of our hearts, Esay. 63.17.

11 Prouoking deeper sorrow for our owne, by mourning for the sinnes of others, Psal. 119.136. Dan. 9. Eze. 9.

12 Trembling at the word, and yet louing the sharpest blowes thereof, Psalm. 119.120. And so melting at the sweet promi∣ses therein.

13 Submitting our selues wil∣lingly to Gods chastisements, Psal. 39.9. Mich. 7.9.

14 Labouring vnfaignedly the conuersion of others, Psalm. 51.17. And admonishing them to take heed by our example, Ezech. 18.30.

15 Shame of humane society, E∣zech. 16.61. Ier. 3.3.

16 Feare of the wrath of God. Psal 119.120.

17 Strong cryes for mercy, Io. 2.17.

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for sin, though we alwayes shed not teares for it.

4 And though we forsake not sinne wholly, yet out ende∣uour is accepted with God; so that wee finde the power of sinne weakned in vs, and relapse into former sinnes breed greater feare of our selues and humility.

5 Considering that our repen∣tance is not to purge out our sinne, or deferre pardon: but onely,

* 1.121 To testifie our thankfulnesse vnto God.

2 To assure vnto our selues the renued life of grace.

3 And to proceed and goe for∣ward therein.

6 As also, resoluing that in all these things, whosoeuer will lead a godly life in CHRIST, the power of God is to bee made perfect by their infirmities, 2. Cor. 12.9.

7 Comforting our selues, that if being in our wayes, wee bee kept from sinne,* 1.13 this is the mer∣cie of GOD; but if out of

our wayes, we seeme to maister sinne, this is in Iustice, and de∣ceiuable.

8 As also, beeing assured, that what we faile in at one time, will be supplied at another; and God will accept the measure of his worke in vs.

9 And lastly, accounting it a good measure of forsaking sinne, if wee see what wee can∣not do, and grone vnder the bur∣then, desirous to bee dissolued, Rom. 7 24.

And for our further tryall and resolution,* 1.14 obserue wee these things.

1 That our sorrow for sinne neither vnfits vs for our callings, nor excludes from such com∣forts as are tendered in Christ Iesus.

2 That wee so iudge our selues, that we iudge not either peremptorily of our owne estate, to preiudice Gods mercy, or cen∣sure our brethren vncharitably,

who stand or fall to their Mai∣ster.

3 Yet neglect wee not reproofe for sinne, seasonably and con¦scionably, that either others, or at least our selues, may bee kept from security, and kept in the tendernesse and true iudgement of the conscience.

4 That wee are more grieued, that wee haue not serued God longer time, then that we haue for the present dishonoured him by sin. And yet

5 Are more grieued by this, that the name of God is blasphe∣med, and his spirit grieued by our sin; then that any hurt hath, or for any that shall redound to vs hereby.

The benefite hereof is as before.

CHAP.. II. Of the raising vp of a sinner by a true and liuely faith.

THe soule beeing thus humbled, must bee raised vp againe by

a true and liuely Faith. And this is the second duty daily to be per∣formed.

Obiect. But cannot we bee truly humbled without faith? Is this a worke of nature, and so a prepa∣ration to grace? Or else ra∣ther a worke of Sanctificati∣on.

Answer. 1 Some kinde of hu∣miliation and sorrow for sinne,* 1.15 may be naturall, as being forced from the conscience accusing na∣turally,* 1.16 and furthered by the spi∣rit of illumination. So that

2 In the outward act, the Hypocrite may bee like the sound Professour: yea, in some measure, in regard of the power of conscience let loose, exceed him in outward humiliation; e∣specially if wil-worship sway for our owne credit.

3 But the truely humbled Soule, expressed in those Markes and Rules before, is so wrought by faith, apprehending the pardon of sinne in Christ 〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

our sinnes.

This is performed,

1 By a serious meditation on the promise of the Messiah. Iohn 3.16.

2 By exercising our selues more conscionably in the reading, and hearing of the word taught. Iohn 5.39.

Secondly, Faith is quickned by reuiuing our apprehension of the promise; and this is is done. 2. Chr. 17. vers 16.17.18.19. and to the end of the Chapter.

1 By earnest prayer vnto God for the renuing of his Spirit in vs. Psal. 51.12.

2 By an hearty acknowledge∣ment, that we haue iustly grieued the Spirit of God, and so are de∣seruedly depriued of the feeling thereof. Psalme 51.4. Lamentation. 3.22, 37.

3 Meditating of our former comfort and assurance herein. Ps. 77.

And this reuiuing hath many degrees.

First,* 1.17 A liuely sense what need I haue of Christ, and that without him I must certainly perish. Rom. 7.24, 25.

Secondly, Hope of pardon, whereby though we yet feele not our sinnes certainly pardoned yet we beleeue that they are pardo∣nable; not in respect of thēselues, as if they were lesse heinous, but in respect of God, whose mercies are aboue them. Esay 1.18.

Thirdly, An hungring and thir∣sting after grace offered in Iesus Christ. Ioh. 6.35.7.37. Reu. 21.6.

And this is discerned,

1 By our prizing and prefer∣ring it aboue all other comforts. Phil. 3.

2 By our fainting and langui∣shing after it. Psal. 42▪

3 By our strong cries and en∣deuours for the same. Psalme 51.12, 13. &c.

Fourthly, Wee approch to the throne of grace, and flying from the terrour of the law, wee take hold on Christ, and find fauour in

God. Heb. 4.16. Heb. 10.19.

And this is performed.

1 By an humble confession of thy sinne in particular, wherupon followeth a full remission of them Psalme 32.5.

2 Crauing pardon of some spe∣ciall sins, with vnspeakeable sighs and perseuerance. Luk. 15.21. Act. 8.21.

Fiftly, Hereupon followeth a particular perswasion imprinted in the heart by the holy Ghost, whereby euery faithful man doth particularly apply vnto himselfe those promises which are made in the Gospell. Mat. 9.2. Math. 15.28. Psal. 143.12.

This perswasion is discerned by these markes.* 1.18

1 It goes before experience, Mat. 15.23. and so our faith is su∣pernaturall and contrary to all reason. Heb. 11.1.

2 It holds beyond experience. Iob. 13.15. Heb. 11.1. and is aboue all feeling.

3 And neuer leaues vs till wee

haue obtained the ende thereof, which is the saluation of our soules. 1. Pet. 1.9.

This perswasion hath these degrees

First, it takes hold weakely,* 1.19 not without doubting, and yet sound∣ly and truely, so that it is accep∣ted of God. Luke 17.5. Mat 8.

And it is discerned.

1 By an earnest desire and en∣deauour to obtaine Gods fauour.* 1.20 Math. 5.6.

2 By a continuall complaining of our vnbeleefe, and mourning for it. Marc. 9.24. Yet

3 By an earnest striuing against it, in vsing all good helps, as pray∣er, the word, conference, &c. Mat. 8.25. Luke 17.5.

This weakenesse proceeds.

1 From want of knowledge in the mystery of saluation.* 1.21 Rom. 14.2. Math. 16.16. Ioh. 6.69.

2 For want of application to our selues of the particular pro∣mise. 2. Tim. 1.12.

3 By relying on sense, and sub∣mitting faith thereto. Ioh. 20.

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5 By resting vpon the power of God, and so building on his pro∣mises. Rom. 4.21. In

6 Consideration of our own vn∣worthinesse, and imperfection, which still sends vs to Christ in whom we are strengthned in faith

7 By long experience of Gods fauour and loue in many deliue∣rances. Psalm. 23.5.

8 By ripenesse and dexteritie in the meanes: as power in prayer, the word, &c. Ephes. 6.18.

9 Daily examining and trying our selues. Psalm. 4.34.

10 Renouncing the especiall sinne which hangeth so fast vpon vs. Heb. 12.1.

11 Renuing daily our couenant with God, and charging a fresh vpon our hearts to constancie.

CHAP. III. The preparing and furnishing the heart to the seruice of God.

AND this is the third duty daily we must performe, namely; to re∣nue

our vowes, and stirre vp our hearts to the seruice of God.

1 Because the hart is that which God principally delights in. Prou. 23.25.

2 The heart is the fountaine of euery action, if it be cleansed, the actions will be sutable. Luke 8.

3 The infirmity of the action shall not be imputed, if the heart be ordered aright. 2. Corinthians 8.12.

4 As the bodie sleepes, so the heart sleepes too, and therefore the one must bee awaked as the other. Esay. 29.10.* 1.22

Now the heart may be cast into a sleepe. 1. Thess. 5.6.

1 By ignorance of it selfe. Ephes. 5.14.

2 By selfe-loue, and ouerwee∣ning of it owne perfections.

3 By neglecting the meanes.

4 By corrupt meanes in stead of the pure fountaines.

5 By the ceasing of Gods Spi∣rit to worke.

6 By some grosse sinne commit∣ted.

2. Sam. 11.

7 By securitie in prosperitie and sinne.

8 By presumption of Gods mer∣cies or it owne merits. Matthew 26.33.

9 By stupiditie and sensles∣nesse.

10 By spirituall blindnesse and hardnesse of heart.

The preparing of the heart hath these degrees:

First, it must be awakened and roused vp,* 1.23 and that

1 By meditating.

1 What it was by nature. Ierem. 17.9. Math. 15.19.

2 What it is now by grace. Rom 6.2. Ephe. 4.23.

3 How vnsearchable and bot∣tomlesse a gulfe it is. 1. Cor. 4.4.

2 By yeelding it vp to God, and exposing it naked before him, & that

1 Both confessing its corrup∣tion, and deceitfulnesse.

2 And also submitting it whol∣ly to his gouernment.

3 Reforming the occasions whereby

it was laid a sleepe, as

1 Ignorance, by the glasse of the word. Iam. 1.25.

2 Selfe-loue, by viewing our selues in the glasse of the consci∣ence examined by the Law. Ro. 7.8, 9.

3 Vsing the meanes consciona∣bly.

4▪ Especially not closing with corrupt meanes.

5 Renue the Spirit by vnfained repentance. Psal. 51.10.

6 Forsake not onely grosse sins but euen all, yea all apparance of sinne. 1. Thess. 5.22.

7 Be we alwaies watchfull ouer our selues. Luk. 22.

8 Auoide wee presumption by meditation of Gods iustice. Iude 5.6.7.

9 Remedie wee stupidity by quicknesse in apprehension, and forwardnesse to iudge our selues 1. Cor. 11.31.

10 Breake wee our hard hearts with the hammer of Gods word. Iere. 23.29. 1. Cor. 9.27.

The heart being awakened, must be throughly sifted and exa∣mined, and that

* 1.24First, By a true rule.

1 Not by it selfe, but by the law of God. Heb. 4.12.

2 Neither by the world, but by the conscience informed by the word. Ierem. 6.14.

* 1.253 Not by opinion, but by the e∣uidence of the Spirt. Roman. 8.16. Rom. 14.5. Pro. 14.12.

4 Neither by the lawes of men, but by the rule of faith. Matth. 15 9. Act. 4 19.

5▪ Neither by the letter of Gods Law, but by the spiritual meaning thereof. Matth. 5.

6 Not by the outward conditi∣on, but by the inward experience Eccles. 9.1. Pro. 14.13.

7 Neither by outward actions, but by inward purposes. Ierem. 17.10. Ioel. 2.13.

8 Not by the examples of the most, but of the best. Luk. 18.1. Cor. 11.1.

Secondly, Wee must examine the

heart after a true and holy manner.* 1.26

Not once or seldome, but dayly Psal. 119.

Not slightly but seriously, euen from the bottome. Psal. 119.12.

Not on the oneside, but on both as well what euill wee haue done, as what good. Esay. 1. Psal. 34.

Neither in generall, but in par∣ticular, concerning the chiefe good or euill. Psal. 51.

And that not partially but con∣scionably and indifferently, both concerning it weakenesse and al∣so it strength. Psal. 42. & 43.

Thirdly, We must herein aime at a right ende.* 1.27

1 Not vain glory, but the praise of God. 1. Cor. 10.3.

2 Neither for selfe-loue, but to denie our selues. Mat. 16.22.

3 Not for loue of the world, but to the renouncing thereof. Rom. 13.11.

4 Neither for feare of death, but to be prepared to it. 2. Cor. 5.9.

5 Not to remit of our sincerity, but to increase in holines. Ps. 119.

6 Not to preferre our selues before others, that are behinde vs but to be humbled in regard of those that haue out-stript vs. Heb. 12.1.

7 Not to bee approued of the world, but to the conuincing, or conuerting thereof. Gal. 1.9.

8 Not to make vs distrust God, but to increase our confidence in him.* 1.28

9 And so to hunger more con∣stantly after him. Phil. 3.13.

The heart being thus tryed and examined, must bee established and confirmed in the seruice of God. Psal. 51.12. Pro. 4.

And that by these meanes.

First, by resigning it vp to the guidance of the Almightie.* 1.29 Psal. 119.

This is performed, by

1 Acknowledging him to bee greater, then the heart, who kno∣weth all things. 1. Iohn 3.20.

2 Yeelding the heart to bee dayly searched by him. Psalm•••••• 19.12.

3 And submitting the priuie

corruptions of the heart not one∣ly which we know, but which are hidden from vs, to be iudged of him. Psal. 19.12. Iob. 9.

4 Doing al things as in the pre∣sence of his Maiestie. Genes. 17.

5 Confessing dayly vnto Him the inward rebellions and deceit∣fulnesse of the heart, and com∣plaining of it backewardnesse to the worship of God.

6 And so renouncing the best testimony of it sinceritie, as to be iustified thereby in his presence. 1. Cor. 4.4.3.

7 And yet comforting our selues in the testimony thereof, so farre, as thereby to haue boldnesse, and assurance before him in Christ. 1. Ioh. 3.20.

8 And yet submitting, contrary to all carnal wisedome, to his bles∣sed will. Galat. 2.

9 And so resting on his promi∣ses by faith aboue all sence and feeling whatsoeuer. Iob. 13.15 Ion 2.

10 Not tying the prouidence

of God simply to any meanes. And yet

11 Not despising the proui∣dence of God inhibited in the weakest, and most vnlikely means And yet

12 Depending on the mightie power of God, beyond and con∣trary to all meanes.

13 And so dayly labouring to discerne the true estate thereof, by the word.

14 Deny we our selues, and la∣bour to be found of him onely in Christ Iesus, and so

15 In Christ offer wee vp our hearts as a dayly sacrifice of obe∣dience vnto his maiestie.

16 Accounting all things as dung, in regard of his fauor. And

17 Being ready to forsake all, in comparison thereof.

18 And so hungring after his glorious fellowship, and commu∣nion in heauen.

19 Prepare we our selues daily to our ends, that we may for euer be with the Lord. Thus shall wee

resigne vp our selues to his holy gouernement.

Secondly, by renuing our vowes & binding vs to the performance of them. And that

1 By publicke protestation.

2 By subscribing with the hand Esay. 44.

3 By solemne and conscionable oaths. 2. Chron. 15.

4 By the curse of the law. Nehe. 10.31.

5 Calling others to witnesse, as the Church of God.

Thirdly, wee must continually feare our selues, and haue a holy iealousie of our best actions. Prou. 28.14.

And that in regard.

1 Of the maiestie and righteous∣nesse of God, able to censure, that which wee haue best testimony of. 1. Cor. 4.5.

2 Of the vnsearchablenesse of our hearts. Ierem. 17.9.

3 Of the priuie corruptions that do assault vs. Psal. 19.

4 In respect of the infirmities

that do accompany our best acti∣ons. Iob. 4.18.

5 In respect of the treachery of our flesh, ready to betray vs to e∣uery tentation. Rom. 7.

6 And the continuall readinesse of Satan to set vpon vs. 1. Pet. 5 8.

7 As also especially in regard of the presence of our gracious God, beholding, and approuing all our actions. Psalme 33.13.

And this feare is discerned,

1 By an earnest striuing against our corruptions.

2 By a desire to approue our selues to the Church of God.

3 By tendernesse of conscience in all our actions.

4 By lowlynesse in our carriage, euen towards our inferiors.

5 By an holy care to prepare our selues to spirituall duties.

6 Making conscience of the least sinnes.

7 Keeping our selues from the occasions, and appearance of sinne.

8 Restraining our selues in our Christian libertie.

9 By humilitie in the sence of great graces.

10 Charitable censuring of our brethren and couering their infirmities. And by

11 A dayly examination of our wayes.

12 Especially complaining of and striuing against our secret corruptions.

13 By choyce of our company and care therein.

14 Meditation of our ende and preparation to the day of iudge∣ment.

Fourthly, There must be a con∣stant watching ouer the outward man, auoyding both the occasions of euill, & the least appearance therof. Ps. 39.1. Iob. 31.1. of which herafter

Fiftly, We must moderate our selues in our Christian libertie. Galat. 5.13. and that by these rules:

1 Of our callings, that wee ex∣ceed not them. 1. Corinth. 7.20.

2 Of the times, that wee bring forth fruite in due season. Psa. 1.3.

3 Of the place, that in outward

things we cōfirm therto. 1. Co. 9.20

4 Of the persons, that wee giue no iust offence. 1. Cor. 10.33.

Here our guides must be.

Loue, which seeks not our own. 1. Cor. 13.

Wisedome, to become all vnto all. 1. Cor. 13. And our ends.

1 Expediencie, what may bee fitting. 1. Cor. 9.

2 Order that which may bee seemely. Col. 2.

3 Edification, that which may be∣nefit our selues and other. 1. Cor. 10.

4 And principally the glorie of Almighty God. 1. Cor. 10.31.

Sixtly, We must entertaine, and cherish the motions of the Spirit of God. 1. Thess. 5.19. 2. Tim. 1.6.

This is performed.

1 By a wise discerning of them. 1. Tim. 4.14.

2 By an high esteeme of them.

3 By reioycing in them, as if wee had found the greatest treasures. Mat. 13.44.

4 By putting them speedily in

execution. Psal. 45.1.

5 By offering vp an extraordinary sacrifice of praise for them, abasing our selues in regard of such excel∣lent graces, and acknowledge∣ing the free mercy of God in so gracious a fellowship. Psalme 116.7, 12.

Seuenthly, If the Spirit of God shall lie a sleepe in vs. Psal. 119.

This we shall discerne:

1 By great terrours in the con∣science.

2 A kind of loathing of holy du∣ties.

3 Great coldnes and deadnesse in the vse of them.

4 Little sensible comfort when we haue performed them. Psalme 77.2, 3.

5 Much discontentment in the minde, and blindnes in the same. Psalme 6.3.

6 Aptnesse to rush into the sinnes we haue heretofore conquered.

7 Vnwillingnesse to die, &c. Here then we must at no hand blesse our soules in this estate, but

First, rouse vp the Spirit, and labor to be quickned, and that by vsing the holy meanes: as

1 The powerfull Ministerie of the word. Psal. 6.6. that so our iudgements may be kept sound.

2 Priuate and strong crying vnto God. Psalm. 51. Psalm. 40 1.

3 Crauing the effectuall praiers of the Saints. Iames. 5 15.

4 Vsing more conscionably their fellowships, and opening our state vnto them.

5 Racking our hearts by a se∣rious and impartiall examination and committing our most speciall tentations to record.

6 Promising more faithfulnes for the time to come. Psal. 80.18.

7 And binding our selues more constantly to the conuersion of others. Psal. 116.18. Psal. 32.8.9. Ps. 34.3.8.11.

8 Exercising a dayly course of repentance. Psal. 51.4.

9 Not neglecting also to humble our selues in this behalfe in some priuate fast vnto God Psal. 35. in

our closets or families.

Eightly, make we some experi∣ment vpon some chiefe lust of the heart, to get the mastery ouer it: for by an experimentall conquest ouer one, we shall learne in time to conquer all the rest.

Here learne we:

How to know the master and most beloued sinne.* 1.30 As

1 That which before conuersion we were most subiect to, that will now hant vs, seeking to re-enter againe.

2 That we most feare, And

3 Feele our selues most weak in.

4 That which most interrupts vs, when we are about to do most good.

5 That which hath most excu∣ses, & pretences to defend it self.

6 And also that, which wee can cry most earnestly against in our selues.

7 And which we most discerne, and condemne in others.

8 That which we haue most foyled, and gloriously subdued.

9 That which our carnall affe∣ction will be yet most vnto, that so our soundnesse may be appro∣ued, especially in the conquest thereof.

And this must be done:

1 By obseruing the deepnesse of Satan in his varietie of baits,* 1.31 to draw vs into the snare.

2 Considering the deceitful∣nesse of the heart, how gladly it it would close with Satan.

3 Remembring our former tripping by the like tentation.

4 Thereupon confesse wee in humble prayer vnto God that we haue deserued to bee ouertaken with it.

5 Detest we our selues that sin hath got such ground of vs. Iob. 42.

6 Hereupon vow wee reuenge against our treacherous flesh. 2. Cor. 7.11.

7 And practise wee the same by the former rules of humiliati∣on, and such as hereafter shall bee laid downe.

8 And so being wise to feare our selues in regard of the said tenta∣tion we shal happily get the con∣quest of it, Pro. 14.

9 We must daily recount how wee haue profited in godlinesse. Psal. 119.

10 We must prepare our selues continually to afflictions, Luk. 9.23.

11 Wee must bee plentifull in good workes. 2. Pet. 1.9.

12 In all our actions, specially extraordinary, we must not trust to that soundnesse of heart which hath beene, but try them by that which is,* 1.32 that so from the sense of the purenesse of the fountaine the streames may flow more cer∣tainly and purely. Luk. 6.43. Mat∣thew. 13.

13 Though the heart may appeare to bee sound, yet the goodnesse of the action must not so much depend vpon the sound∣nesse of the heart appearing, as vpon the free mercies of God accepting the same.

14 Wee must prouide a com∣pleat Armour for the heart, be∣ing prepared to preserue it, E∣phes. 6.13.

CHAP. IIII. Of the spirituall Armour, and ar∣ming of the Heart.

ANd this is the fourth duty of ne∣cessity to bee performed daily by vs; Namely, to arme our hearts a∣gainst all tentations. And that

1 Because such an Armour is commended vnto vs in the word. Ephes. 6.

2 Our enemies are mighty prin∣ces, and armed wickednesses. E∣phes. 6.16.

3 The heart without it lies o∣pen to all tentations.

4 By it wee shall bee able to cast downe all strong holds, 2. Cor. 10.4. which stand in our way to happinesse, 1. Tim. 6.11.

5 And so shall lay hold on eter∣nall life, and finish our course with ioy, 2. Tim. 4.6.

Here consider these three poynts:

• 1 What this Armour is.
• 2 How it is to be put on.
• 3 How to be kept on.

Thus Armour hath many peeces.* 1.33

Fist, the Girdle of Truth & Sin∣cerity, Ephes. 6.14. And this consi∣steth of these parts:

The first is a rectified Iudgement, proceeding from an illightned and sanctified vnderstanding, wrought by a liuely Faith, through the Word of God,* 1.34 Eph. 4.13.

And it hath these properties.

1 Is is sound in what it knowes. Coloss. 1.6.9.

2 It retaineth safely what it knowes. Psa. 119.11.

3 It is wise to distinguish be∣tweene things that differ, Phil∣lip. 1. And so to try the Spirits, 1. Iohn. 4.1.

4 It discernes all things. 1. Cor. 2.15.

5 It comprehends the height, and bredth, and depth, and length Ephes. 3.

6 It knowes no man after the flesh. 2.5.16.

7 It knowes but in part, and so is subiect to errour. 1. Cor. 13.

8 It is not obstinate in errour, but willing to bee reformed in what it hath beene mis-infor∣med. 2. Tim. 2.16.

9 It is apt and desirous to re∣ceiue further illumination. Col. 1.10. 2. Tim. 3.7.

10 And daily increaseth in this sauing knowledge, Heb. 5.12.

11 It maintaines perfection of godlinesse, and resolues that we cannot be too righteous.

12 In our failings of practise, it remaines sound, and giues no warrant to any decay.

13 And cleaues to the word for it further establishing, how∣soeuer wee may bee humbled in our contrary practise.

14 Yea, it iustifies God, and the truth, though it bee to the temporall confusion of our pre∣sent practise.

15 It laboureth to enlighten

and informe others.

Helpes to put on this Armour are,

1 A discerning of our owne in∣ward blindnesse, Psal. 119.28.

2 A daily meditation in the word and workes of God. Psalm. 1.

3 A faithfull recording and comparing of things past with things present; and so colle∣cting for the time to come. Luke. 2.51.

And this part of the Girdle serueth* 1.35

1 To condemne the blinde∣nesse of nature, 1. Cor. 2.14. Matth. 16.17.

2 To discerne between the light of nature and grace, the illight∣ning and sanctifying Spirit. Col. 1.9. Eph. 5.8.

3 To direct all our actions: for as wee know, so wee doe. Rom. 14.5.23.

4 To make triall of them: for if they haue not the light, it is be∣cause there is no truth in them. Ioh. 3.21.

5 To informe and instruct o∣thers, Psal. 34.

The second part of this Girdle is a sanctified conscience: and it is discerned

1 By this, that it excuseth for all sinnes, as our persons are accep∣ted in Christ,* 1.36 1. Cor. 4.4.

2 It checkes for the least sinne, before actuall repentance be per∣formed. 1. Ioh. 5.17.

3 It feares falling in regard of the weaknesse of the flesh, though repentance be performed.

4 It endeuours in all things to please God. Act. 20. Heb. 13.18.

5 It is not suspicious, but iud∣geth charitably, where it knowes not the contrary.

6 It stands only bound by Gods word, and to his glory.

7 It so stands vpon it cleering, that it relies wholly on Christ.

8 It applies particular cha∣sticements, to particular and se∣cret sins.

9 It approues our vpright wal∣king in the whole course of our

life. Act 23.1. Psa. 26.1.

10 It procures vs peace with God, Rom. 5.1. and with men so farre as it is possible and expedi∣ent, Rom. 12.18.

11 It breedes contentment in the life, and all occasions. Phil. 4.12.

12 It procures cheerfulnesse in the countenance, and readinesse in all our businesse. Pro. 28.1.

13 It makes vs couragious for the truth, and willing by all meanes to defend the same. Act. 4.13. Act. 6.15. Act. 18.26.

14 It makes vs victorious in troubles; and

15 Ready to yeeld vp our liues to the hands of God, Act. 21.23.

And it is put on and preserued,* 1.37

1 By making conscience of all things commanded,, Psa. 119.6.

2 By keeping it tender and sensible of the least euill, Hebr. 13.18.

3 To this end view wee it dai∣ly in the glasse of the world; that so the iudgement may bee kept

cleere, to preuent security.

4 Examine we, and censure the daily errors thereof, by calling it before the Lord, to auoid spiritu∣all blindnesse.

5 Auoid wee, aboue all things, doubtfulnesse and distraction in our actions. Rom. 14.5.

6 Especially keepe wee our selues from wilfull fighting a∣gainst the light thereof, in com∣mitting grosse and presumptuous sinnes, Psa. 19.12.

7 Haue wee alwayes more re∣gard of it in the sight of God, then of our owne credit with men. 1. Cor. 4.4. Rom. 2.29.

8 Flye wee into the bosome thereof when outward things crosse vs Act. 23.1.

9 Rest we not so vpon the iusti∣fication thereof, but that we re∣ferre it ••••••o the mercie of God, 1. Cor. 4.4.

The measure of this sincerity is:

1 Because we know but in part, therefore either wee may not make conscience of some things

which others are bound to: and so not only dissent from them for a time, but euen afflict them. Or else,

2 We may, through ignorance, bee scrupulous, and suspicious in some things wherein others ha∣uing knowledge, are free, and so afflict our selues vnnecessarily in not taking our Christian liberty.

3 Or because wee know but in part, therefore make we account to be subiect to error, and so to distraction, and anguish of spirit.

4 As also, to curiousity, and sear∣ching after speculations.

5 And so to pride, and negli∣gence in well-doing.

6 And so to hardnesse of heart.

7 And so to fearfull terrors and soundings of spirit.

The benefite of this part of the Girdle is:* 1.38

1 It procures and maintaines true inward ioy. 2. Cor. 1.12.

2 Hereby wee haue alwayes boldnesse before God. 1. Iohn. 3.20. to obtaine good things at

his hands, Heb. 10.

3 And are enabled and furnish∣ed against all the reproches and euils of men, Pro. 18.

4 By this wee are alwayes cer∣taine of the things we do, and the acceptance of them in the sight of God. Psa. 51.6.

5 Hereby we are comforted in the greatest Buffetings of Satan, and our cowardly and vnbelee∣uing hearts, 1. Ioh. 3.21.

6 We attaine to extraordinary sweetnesse and ioy in the Holy Ghost. 1. Pet. 1.8. Rom. 5.1.2.

7 And led along in most cheer∣full manner throughout all diffi∣culties to the receiuing of the re∣ward. Heb. 11.26.

8 we encrease in sanctification and holinesse. 1. Tim. 1.18.19.

9 We put to confusion the pride and practises of our enemies. 1. Sam. 26.21.

10 we receiue hereby a pledge of eternall life, and haue our conuersation in heauen, Rom. 8.16. Phil. 3.20.

A third part of this sincerity con∣sists in the will,* 1.39 which discouers it selfe,

1 By cheerfulnesse in well-do∣ing, not by compulsion, but of a willing minde, 1. Cor. 9. 1. Pet. 5.

2 Subiecting it owne will to the will of God in all things.

3 And so yeelding it daily to the information of the word, and binding it thereto.

4 Aiming at the full accom∣plishment of Gods will in earth, as it is in heauen. Mat. 6.

5 Not consulting with flesh and blood in heauenly things.

6 Nor proposing our owne glo∣ry in the performance thereof.

7 Complaining daily of the re∣bellions thereof. And so

8 Resisting sin, and the occasi∣ons thereof, Psa. 119.104.

9 Yeelding to sinne with griefe. Rom. 7.15.

10 Rising by repentance out of the same. Prou. 28.14.

The state and measure hereof, is:* 1.40

1 That it is not free to good or

euill, but freed to doe good, Phil. 2.13.

2 And therefore of it selfe can will no good thing.

3 Yet so freed to good, as that it is in bondage to sinne, Rom. 7.18.

4 And therefore while we are about any good, euill is present with vs, and we are led captiue thereto.

Yet so in bondage, as that it striues against that slauery, and gets daily ground thereof. Rom. 7.25. Eph. 2.3.

The benefit hereof is:

* 1.411 To enable vs to doe good. Rom. 7.18.

2 To comfort vs in our outward failings, 2 Cor. 8.12. Rom. 7.19.

3 To discerne of our state in sanctification. Ephes. 2.3. 1. Cor. 12.2.

4 To keepe our iudgments sin∣cere and vpright. 1. Tim. 6.5.

5 To kindle and order our affe∣ctions in the seruice of God.

* 1.42And this is a fourth part of this

Girdle, euen the well ordering of our affections.* 1.43 1. Thess. 5.23. Rom. 7.24.

And this is discerned,

1 By a right mouing of them to their proper obiects. Rom. 7.22.25.

2 By their contentment in the same.

3 That what is in the iudgment we haue also in the affection.

4 In that wee can more ioy or grieue for spiritual causes, then for carnall. Psa. 4. Psa. 119.

5 That they tend to the crucify∣ing of the flesh, and building for∣ward of the New man. Coloss. 3.1.

6 That we labour more for af∣fection then for knowledge.

7 Make wee them as little knowne in company as may be, Genes. 45. especially if the compa∣ny and occasion be ordinary and ciuill.

8 Suspect wee our owne affe∣ction when the case concerneth vs.

9 And that our affections can send and encourage vs to spiritu∣all duties.

10 That indeed by them we are wholly emptied in our selues in respect of God, 2. Cor. 5.16. Gen. 5.22. Rom. 12.1.

Helpes hereunto are:

1 Knowledge of the right ob∣iect, Mark. 3.5. 2 Cor. 7.

2 Weaning and abating them from the false. 1. Ioh. 2.15.

3 Triall of our selues in the pra∣ctise of some one of our afflicti∣ons. Deut. 6.5.

4 Conscience to vse them in all their seuerall times and measure. Eccles. 3.1. Rom. 12.16.

* 1.44The benefit hereof is:

1 We shall attaine hereby a gra∣cious conquest ouer our most vn∣ruly thoughts. Eph. 4.25.

2 Wee shall finde much sweete peace and contentment in our Christian callings.

3 We shall be more ready prest to good actions, 2. Cor. 7.

4 And saued from many noy∣some

tentations, which otherwise would assault vs. 2. Ephes. 4.26. Ioh. 19.12.

5 We shall haue gracious fellow∣ship with God. Col. 3.1.

6 And be better enabled to the conuersion of our brethren. Ioh. 21.15.

A fift part of this girdle is the since∣rity of the Tongue:* 1.45 As

1 Being the sterne of the shippe, and the certaine Image of the minde. Iam. 3.5.

2 In the well-gouerning where∣of is the triall of sincerity, Psal. 34. & note of perfection, Iam. 1. Iam. 3

3 The misgouernment whereof is confusion to the owner, Prou. 18.7.21. and others.

4 By keeping the same, we a∣uoyd trouble, Pro. 21.23.

5 And make the world serue our turne.

And it is discerned:

• 1 In holy speech. Eccles. 3.7.
• 2 In wise and seasonable silence.

Concerning fit and warrantable speech, we are to obserue:

• 1 Preparation to speech.
• 2 The matter of it.
• 3 The manner thereof.
• 4 The end of the same.

We shall be prepared to speech,

1 By praier to God to guide our tongue; and that because

* 1.46First, the Lord is Ruler of it. Prou. 16.1.

Secondly, by an holy conside∣ration of these things,

1 That we are to speake in his presence. Psal. 33.15.

2 That there is no liberty for idle talke. Math. 12.36.

3 That all speech must tend to edification. Ephes. 4.29.

4 What the matter is we meane to speake of.

5 That what is once out cannot be recalled.

6 That we must giue an account for euery idle word. And thus we shall be prepared to speake. Now The matter of our speech concernes either Persons,* 1.47 or Things. The persons

1 Almighty God and his workes.

2 Our neighbour, and what

concernes him.

3 Our owne persons and occa∣sions.

In our speech concerning our blessed God, wee are to obserue these Rules:

1 That we take not the names of Gods Maiesty in our mouthes,* 1.48 but vpon most serious and waigh∣ty occasions. Exod. 20.

2 That in the occasion we finde our hearts liuely affected with a true knowledge and holy reue∣rence of God, before whom wee speake, and before wee vse his great and fearfull name, least o∣therwise, though the cause be waighty, yet we take it in vaine.

3 That wee finde our selues comforted and established in our faith, by taking of this great and glorious name, as beeing hereby drawne neerer vnto God, and setled more constantly in our loue to his Maiesty. To this end vse not the name of God without some addition of his at∣tributes, as the Liuing Lord, the

Glorious God, My God, &c. E∣phes. 1.3.

4 Yea, that it may appeare that wee haue not onely know∣ledge of the Deity, but also expe∣rience of his nature and proper∣ties, we are to giue him such at∣tributes as concerne the occasion wherof we speake. Genes. 43. Rom. 16. 1. Cor. 16. &c.

5 Take we heed that the name of God become not ordinary, and for custome.

6 Publish we the works of God not onely for the present, but to posterity.* 1.49 Exod. 14.26.

Concerning our neighbour, our speech may be either good, or euill.

If wee are to speake good of our neighbour, then we must doe it:

1 Cheerfully, and vpon euery fit occasion. Luk. 5.29.

2 Wisely, rather in his absence then in his presence.

3 Indifferently, as well if he bee our foe as friend.

4 Constantly, maintaining the same testimony without any cor∣ruption

or gain-saying.

5 Truly, that wee giue him no more nor lesse then his due.

6 Charitably, if the matter bee doubtfull, rather with the better. 1. Cor. 13.7.

7 Preserue we his good name, by answering for him in a case of slander. 1. Sam. 20.32.* 1.50

8 If he be fallen, raise wee him vp with the spirit of meeknesse, Gal, 6.1

Here are to be auoided these extreames.

First, those that are in defect: As

1. Deprauing of the actions of our brethren from the intent. Iob. 1.9.11. as if we knew their hearts.

2 Extenuating of them in the measure.

3 Mistaking them in the quality, which is the common practise of the world, to call good euill, and euill good. Esa. 5.19.

4 Out-facing and bearing men downe in their sincerity, and if it were possible, to driue them from the same. Iob. 4.8.11 &c.

5 Mis-iudging of it, by the out∣ward

euent. Iob. 27.

6 Conuincing thereof by false witnesse and periury. 1. Reg. 20. &c.

7 Disgracing spirituall gifts for want of natures complement. 1. Sam. 1.14.

Secondly, We must here take heed of the other extreame in excesse: As

1 Commending them to their faces.

2 Ascribing that vnto them which is not theirs. Act. 12.

3 Yeelding more vnto them in∣deed then is theirs.

4 Daubing vp their sinnes with vntempered morter. Ezek. 13. as presumption of Gods mercie, or such like.

5 Crying peace, peace, and put∣ting farre off the euill day. Ier. 6.

6 Approuing them for the gifts of nature, though they bee not sanctified. Pro., 1.30,

7 Flattring them, as if what they had came by their owne industry.

8 Saying as they say, be it true or false. Mich. 2.11.

And thus is our speech to be ordered when we will speake good of our Neighbour.

If we haue occasion to speake the contrary of him, let vs consider these bounds:

First, wee must not speake what we certainly know not, but haue by reports, surmises, &c.

We may speake that to himselfe which we must not speake of him to another. Math. 18.15.

Secondly, wee must not speake all what wee know, vnlesse wee haue an especiall calling hereunto.

And that is,

1 When the Magistrate requires it.

2 When his case by admonish∣ment needs it.

3 When danger to others there∣by is preuented, as in case of mur∣ther, treason, &c. 2. King. 6.8. Gen. 37.2. Est. 2.

Hence it followeth,

First, that auricular confession is abominable, which bindeth to the concealement of such wickednes.

Secondly, that it is sinne to dis∣couer where wee are bound to conceale.

As in cases hereafter laid downe.

Thirdly, We must not speake that of our neighbour which we know, and is necessary to be knowne to all per∣sons; as neither,

To the weake, lest they stumble at it; nor to the wicked, lest they insult in the infirmities of others. Gen. 8. 2 Sam. 1.

Fourthly, Some may speake that e∣uill of their brethren which is not lawfull for others, As the Magi∣strate, or Minister in reprouing of sinne, may abase the persons with names sorting with their sins, Gal. 4.1. Matth. 3. which priuate men may not do.

5 If it be thought fit to mention the euil which we know by any mā: here

1 It must be done onely in a ge∣nerall manner, the person and all circumstances which will descrie the person concealed. 1. Cor. 6.11. 2. Sam. 12.1.

2 We must speake of his sinne

not with delight or contentment, but with griefe. Psalm. 119.

3 Vnlesse we perceiue obstina∣cy, and scorning of the meanes, then we are in an Ironicall man∣ner to leaue them to their owne lusts. 1. Reg. 22. Eccl. 11.7.

6 The party also in some cases may be discouered, but yet with a double respect:

First, if his sinne be of infirmity, here we may in some sort conceale the sinne: As

1 That it might bee mistaken, in regard of the person, Actes 3.17.

2 That the fact may bee mis∣reported, and falsely conceiued, &c.

If we see the party ashamed, and cast downe for his sin, here we are bound much more to couer it, And that

1 From God by hearty prayer, that it may be forgiuen, Actes 7. Math. 27.

Secondly, from our selues: and that

1 By not taking notice of it wil∣lingly.

2 Not beleeuing it.

3 Interpreting it to the best.

4 Forgiuing it, if it be apparent.

3 We must also bide the sinne from the sinner. And that

First, if we see him vnfit to bee reproued for the present, 1. Sam. 25.

Secondly, if wee see him suffici∣ently checked already by his cō∣science, then we must also hide his sinne from him. And that

1 By opposing his contrary in∣tent, Act. 3.17. Rom. 10.2.

2 Comforting him, with his for∣mer course of holinesse.

3 From the occasion, that it was in his heate, or prouoked thereto in his defence.

4 From the quality, that it was in ignorance, not wilfulnesse, in∣firmity, not presumption.

5 From Gods mercy, which is aboue all his sinne. Rom. 5.20.

6 Age, that it was done in his youth, Psal. 25.7.

7 The time of life, that yet there is hope to recouer. Psal, 95.2. Tim.

2.25. & that it was but the first in that kinde.

8 From the examples of the Saints, the best of whom haue had their slips. Iam. 3.2. Psal. 19.

9 From his person, opposing o∣ther good parts to counteruaile that euill. 1. King. 15.5.

Thus may we hide the sinne from the sinner, and thus also may we hide his sinne from the world.

If the sinne bee grieuous, and cannot bee excused, yet here wee must mode∣rate our speech.

1 And prepare mercy for the party.

2 Acknowledge wee it might haue been our case, if God should haue left vs, and so may be. Gal. 6.1.

3 Intimating his sorrow and de∣testation of the fact, as the truth shall be, 2. Cor. 2.6.7.

4 Recounting circumstances that induced thereunto, though not to excuse altogether, yet to diminish the same, or at lest to make known 〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

our selues. 1. Cor. 15.10.

5 Our speech must rather tend to the defect, then to the excesse.

6 Wee must do it soberly and sparingly, rather shewing that we are compelled thereunto then of our owne accord. 2. Cor. 11.

7 We must here especially re∣gard how we are made manifest to the conscience of the Saints. 2. Cor. 5.9.10.

8 And lastly wee must herein especially aime at Gods glory. 1. Cor. 10.31.

Thus may we speake good of our selues.

* 1.513 We are also bound to speake euill of our selues, in these cases,

1 We must confesse our sinne vnto man, in that hereby we may cleare others, and giue glory to God. Ios. 7.

2 Hereby also we ease our own soules. Psal. 32.45. Iam. 5.

3 Wee magnifie the mercies of God in recounting how vnworthy we are. 1. Tim. 1.

4 We stay vp others that haue

beene ouertaken with the same tentations, &c. 2. Cor. 1.4.

But here obserue these cautions.

1 We are not bound to accuse our selues to the betraying of our in∣nocency, or the truth of God, or his children. Math. 17.

2 Wee may not open our infir∣mitie to the disgrace of our cal∣ling, or offence of others.

3 Wee must take heede of hypo∣crisie, as if by acknowledging our vilenesse, wee would be counted conuerts, as Esebolius did:

4 That we labour to hide what we haue laid open, by casting our burthen vpon Iesus Christ. 1. Tim. 1.

Thus may we speake of the euill that is in vs. And thus much concerning the persons of whom we must speake.

Concerning things to be spoken, obserue,* 1.52

1 That we cannot speake of all, because we know but in part, and thereof it is vanitie to presume thus. 1. Cor. 13.

2 That we may not speake of al we know: Because,

1 Some things are knowne to vs which are neither fit to be done nor spoken, as the vaine thoughts of our owne hearts. 2. Cor. 12.

2 Some things are lawfull to bee done, which it is not lawfull to speake of, as the secrets and ne∣cessitie of nature. Iudg. 3.24.

3 Some things are lawfull, but not fit to be spoken: such as either exceed the capacities of those to whom we speake, or are not suta∣ble to them. 2. Cor. 12. Hebrew. 5.11. 1. Cor. 14.

3 We must speake what we know but with these conditions:

* 1.531 That wee keepe our selues within the compasse of our cal∣lings.

2 That we speake from the ho∣ly purpose of the heart.

3 That wee labour herein the glory of God. 1. Cor. 10.31.

4 And also the good of our neigh¦bour. Ephes. 4.29.

5 Yea our owne increase both

in knowledge and holines. 1. Cor. 14 26.40.

6 Obseruing the fitnes of time, place, persons, &c.

Thus may we speake of such things as do occurre. And thus farre concer∣ning the matter of our speech.

Touching the manner therof.

First,* 1.54 Our speech in generall must bee gratious, which is, when the graces of God imprinted in the heart, are truely pictured in the tongue. Col. 4.6.

Hence it followeth.

1 That all rotten and vngrati∣ous speech is disclaimed.

2 No vice must bee spoken of, but with dislike. Reuel. 2.

3 No gratious speech, but from a gratious heart.

Secondly, Speech is then grati∣ous, when it is seasoned with wisedome Act. 2.4

And this is when our speech is applyed:

1 Fitly to times, places, persons circumstances. Prou. 19.11. Pro. 10.31. Esay. 50.5.

20 When it profits most to the good of mens soules.

3 When it turns not to the hurt of the speaker. 2. Tim. 2.16.

4 When it proceeds from a wise and vnderstanding heart. Eccles. 12.11.

Hence is disclaimed,

1 All foolish talke, wanting rea∣son and conscience. Eph. 5.

2 All carnall counsell of world∣lings, whatsoeuer shew of wisdom it hath in it. 1. Sam. 17.

3 All vnseasonable and vndi∣screet communication.

4 All mysticall, or curious con∣ference, &c. 1. Tim. 6.20.

A second holy property of speech is:

* 1.551 Truth and fidelitie. Ephes. 4 25. And it is discerned;

1 When wee know what wee speake vpon a sure ground.

2 We speake as the thing is, the whole truth, and no more.

3 And as himselfe thinketh, plainly thereof, not out of others conceits.

4 And also to the minde and

purpose of him that asketh.

5 And that to haue the trueth boulted out, not obscured.

6 When wee stand to that wee haue spoken and promised, which that we may doe,

Here consider diuers euiden∣ces and bonds of truth,* 1.56 As

First, A simple assertion, which is either,

1 A simple affirmation, Yea, Yea. Math. 5.

2 Or, a bare negation, Nay, Nay

Here obserue

1 That in a doubtfull case wee must adde vnto our affirmations (these qualifications: (As I thinke,* 1.57 As I take it,) because wordes thus spoken, if they proue true, they shew the modesty of the speaker: If false, yet they saue his credite, as shewing that there is not a pur∣pose to deceiue, but onely that we were deceiued.

2 Another euidence of Truth, is, an asseueration, wereby we doe vehemently deny or affirme a 〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

* 1.583 Consider wee the matter of an oath.

1 It must not onely be true, but so knowne to vs. Ier. 4.2.

2 It must bee honest that wee sweare to.

3 It must bee a truth of great importance.

* 1.594 Obserue wee the manner of an oath, as

1 It must be made in the onely name of God.

1 By inuocation of his name, to witnesse the truth of what wee sweare.

2 And to blesse vs therein.

2 By imprecation against our selues, wherby we bind our selues if we deceiue, to the vengeance of God.

3 It must be done, not rashly, but with great aduisement.

4 And also with great reuerence and feeling, not without prayer vnto God to guide the heart. Ec∣cles. 9.2.

Fourthly, The true and lawfull swearer is, indeede

1 The regenerate man, who hath right in this seruice,* 1.60 and knowes how to vse it aright. Rom. 2. and none other.

2 And he must also haue a par∣ticular calling to this seruice.

3 Here learne, that though the party in regard of his generall calling might not sweare, yet his oath being made, is lawfull, if hee haue a ciuill calling thereto, and may be takē, hows••••••euer the swea∣rer herein be not iustified.

6 The right vse & end of an oath is:* 1.61

1 To end controuersies between man and man, and free those that are wrongfully accused.

2 To cleare our innocency be∣fore men. Heb. 6.16.

3 To prouide for the infirmities of men. 1. Sam. 12.5. Gen. 31.53.

4 To witnesse a truth vnto men And to

5 Binde our selues more con∣stantly to the seruice of God. Neh. 10.1. Chron. 15.23.* 1.62

Sixtly, Consider we the parties be∣fore whom we may sweare, which are;

1 The Magistrate, who may law∣fully exact an oath.

2 To a priuate man we may al∣so sweare to bind contracts.

3 The Master may require an oath of the seruant. Genesis 24· and so the father of the sonne, the husband of the wife, &c. one friend of another.

Seuenth, Obserue we the time of an oath,* 1.63 which is:

1 In a case of necessitie, when witnesse faile, or words will not be taken.

Hence it followeth:

* 1.641 That we need not sweare when the partie to whom we sweare, is not willing to accept it.

2 And neither also, if the mat∣ter may bee cleared by any other lawfull meanes.

Eightly, Learne we how an oath binds.

1 If it be imposed by him, that may lawfully giue it.

2 If it be made of things lawfull.

3 If it tend to our owne and neighbours good.

4 When Gods glory also is pre∣serued thereby.

9 Wisely consider we the abuses of an oath, which are:* 1.65

1 Vsurping such attributes as onely belong to God, as: As I liue &c.

2 Swearing by Images, trifles, Saints, nullities, &c. Zep. 1.5.

3 Swearing ordinarily, in com∣mon speech, or vpon heate in ga∣ming, &c. Ier. 5.7. Mat. 5.

4 Rash swearing, when we know not the cause, or haue no calling thereto, or aduise not wisely in the action.

5 Murthering of oathes, when wee say cods for God, fecke for faith, swounds for wounds, &c. where hoping to escape the im∣putation of swearing, we are more guiltie thereof.

6 Outragious and blasphemous swearing, the badge of ruffians, & rake-hels.

7 Cursed swearing, with feare∣full imprecations against our selues and others. Mat. 26. Peter.

8 Wicked swearing, when wee bind our selues by oathes to mis∣chiefe. Act. 23.

9 False swearing, when wee sweare to that ignorantly, which proues false.

10 Periurie when wee know a thing to be false, & yet wil sweare to it: of set purpose to do mischief Zach. 5.4.

11 Swearing for hire to any pur∣poses. Act. 6.

12 When we sweare to impossi∣bilities, as when the Priest is sworne by the Bishop to the vow of continencie, &c.

Consider wee the danger and punishment of vnlawful speaking as that hereby,

1 We lie open to Gods curse.

2 Expose our selues to periury.

3 Shall not be credited neither for word, nor oath.

4 Make the land mourne vnder this burthen. Ier 23.

5 Shall finde our selues disena∣bled, to take the name of God ho∣lily and conscionably.

Generally here is condemned:

First, al kind of lying, vpon what pretence soeuer: Now a lie is then made,

• 1 When welspeake falsly.
• 2 And are willing so to doe. 2. King. 5.* 1.66
• 3 Purpose to deceiue thereby, Act. 5.

Hence it followeth, that all

1 False speaking of ignorance, is no lie.

Secondly, Here is condemned all smoothing and dissembling of a matter, with purpose to deceiue. Eeither

1 By extenuating of it.

2 By excusing the fact.

3 By vsing pretexts and shifts to auoyd it.

4 By mentall reseruation & such like Iesuitical, & Atheistical tricks

Thirdly, Also, all concealing of truth, when we are bound to speak is here forbidden.

4 All ambiguous and doubtfull speeches.* 1.67

5 To speake vntruthes, though

not with purpose to deceiue.

6 All promise-breaking, when the promise is lawfully made.

A third bond of truth, is impre∣cation, that is a binding of our selues to the performance of ttuth by imposing on our selues, for de∣fault the curse of the Law. Neh. 10 29. 1. Sam. 25. This now is abroga∣ted because we are not vnder the curse, onely comparatiuely wee may rather wish our selues accur∣sed then God may be dishonored. Rom 9. Wee may confesse we haue deserued the curse that so we may flie to Christ: 3. In stead of the curse we should rather binde our selues by the sweete and sure pro∣mises and by our interest therein, as better fitting our condition vnder grace.

And thus farre concerning the second grace of speech, which is truth.

* 1.68A third grace of holy speech is Reuerence. And this is in regard, ei∣ther of

First God, of whose name and

titles wee must so speake that wee both,* 1.69

1 Shew reuerence our selues, and▪

2 Mooue reuerence in others Deut. 28.58.

And this we shall doe:

1 If we know God a right.

2 And feare him as our father: Malach. 1.

3 Behold him in his iudgments vpon the wicked. Psal. 119.120.

4 Thinke often and meditate vpon him.

Secondly, we must vse reuerence in speech in regard of man, and that either generally,* 1.70 as hee beares Gods image. So we must,

1 Giue holy names vnto our chil∣dren: But here with sobriety,* 1.71 not the names of God, as Iesuits, &c. but such as, Michael.

1 May shew our thankfulnesse to God Gen. 41.

2 May shew our true humiliati∣on vnder his corrections. Ruth. 1.

3 May put vs in mind of his pro∣mise. Israel. Ge. 32.

4 May remember vs, of our own frailty, and wretchednesse, Adam Gen. 33.

5 May intimate our true estate and condition in this life. Est. 2.5.

6 May encourage vs to the hope of the life to come.

7 May minister comfort in our troubles, and such like.

2 We must not name professors by the names of prophane men.

3 We may change names vpon iust occasion, as when any are conuerted frō Gentilism to Chri∣stianitie, and so baptized, &c. but

1 Not not to deceiue withall, neither

2 To deny Christ in the time of trouble.

2 We are to vse reuerence in more particular manner vnto man,* 1.72 as he is our superior either in calling or gifts 1. Cor. 12.13. prouided,

1 That we giue him not the ti∣tles of God, as Iehoua, &c.

2 Giue him the titles of his of∣fice, though he bee euill, Acts 26.25.

3 And yet here so carrie our selues, as that we may humble him in the performance thereof.

Therefore here is forbidden.* 1.73

1 All manner of blasphemy; which is either,* 1.74 First by detracting ought from God.

2 Or ascribing to him that which beseemeth him not.

3 Vsing his great and fearefull names in our fumes and rage.

4 Inuocating him also in slight and customary matters.

5 Vsing the names of God to sorcery, witch-craft.* 1.75

2 All abuse of Scripture: And this is either,

1 When we haue no calling to vse it. 1. Cor. 14.34.

2 We speak of the things of God in a prophane and carnall maner. 1. Cor. 2.

3 When wee make iests there∣of.

4 When wee keepe backe any of Gods counsell, and clip the word of God. Math. 4. Act. 20.

5 When we vse it to sorcery.

* 1.766 And when we reason and ca∣uill about the truth thereof.

3 All abuse of our selues or others:

Either,

1 By reuilings and barbarous speeches. 1. Sam. 16. dead dogge.

2 Cursing or banning. Colos. 3.8.

3 Scoffing and scorning each other. Psal. 1. 2. King. 2. especially for our profession and religion.

4 Not vsing titles of honour, &c. Gen. 39. He hath brought in

5 Not calling by their names, but rather by such attributes as may tend to disgrace. Gen. 39.14. Hebrew seruant. 1. Sa. 25.10. The sonne of Ishay, &c. as by country, base parentage, &c.

6 Currish & dogged speech, &c.

And thus farre of the third grace of speech, which is reuerence.

* 1.77A fourth grace of speech is sobrie∣tie, modesty, or meeknes. And this is seene.

1 In praising others, and that rather behind their backes then before their faces.

2 In praysing and dispraysing our selues, as before.* 1.78

3 In speakeing of things secret which may moue blushing, fairly Gen. 4.11. 1. Sam. 24.4.

4 Conferring with inferiors ten∣derly and humbly.

5 Saluting kindly and reuerent∣ly. And that,

1 By name. Rom. 16.

2 By profession. Rom. 16.3.* 1.79

3 Calling or office.

4 By the way of blessing. Rom. 16 24.

5 Praying for the blessing of God vpon them.

Here obserue,

1 That it is lawfull for children to inuocate the blessing of their paren••••••s Gen. 27. Gen. 48.

2 That wee may salute gene∣rally though the person bee euill, so farre as wee may conuerse with him, giuing the titles of his pro∣fession, calling, &c. Ge. 34. Act. 26.

3 That we auoide such blessing and charitable speeches (as we ac∣count them) when the cause is

not necessary, as in neesing, &c.

* 1.804 Whereas it is common with the Popish and ignorant to inuo∣cate the name of God ouer their cattle so often as they speak ther∣of, this is to bee moderated and re∣frained. And that

1 Because the ground thereof was sorcery.

2 They vse it more often for their cattle then themselues.

3 It maintaines that Popish customary abusing of such holy names.

4 It shewes our infidelity, for if we were perswaded that God hath receiued vs into grace, then sure∣ly also all ours; and therfore what neede such often inuocations?

This meeknes of speech is seen in soft answering.* 1.81 Prouerbes 15.25. And that,

Secondly, not a foole accor∣ding to his foolishnesse. Prouerbes 26.3.

Thirdly, in a iust defence of our selues. 1. Sam. 1.15. Anna.

Fourthly, commending our cause

to God. Psal. 26.* 1.82

Secondly, this grace of speech is especially seene in reprouing of sin. Here obserue these Rules.

1 We must try all other gentle meanes before we reproue.

1 We must performe it general∣ly, that so the party may willing∣ly acknowledge the particular. 2. Sam. 12.

3 Wee must doe it in a parable.

4 By way of exhortation, insi∣nuating an oblique reproofe. 1. Tim. 5.1.

5 Wrapping vp the reproofe in some sweet protestations of loue and griefe. Gal. 5.9. Rom. 9.

6 Yeelding vnto them their due, that so they may acknowledge their wants, Act. 25. reprouing in the person of another.

6 Ioyning our selues with them, and in our own person reprouing their sinne. 1. Corinth. 4.6. Genes. 43.

7 By preuention; as, Though Is∣rael play the Harlot, yet let not Iudah sinne, Hos. 4.15.

8 Wishing that such things bee not found among them. 2. Cor. 12.20.

9 Speaking to them as conside∣ring our selues. Gal. 6.1. That we are in danger of the same tenta∣tions.

10 Framing the reproofe out of the word, that the party may see himselfe rather reproued of God then of vs.

11 Adioyning to our reproofe holy example of our conscience in the thing which we reproue in another. And

12 Commending the reproofe to the blessing of God.

* 1.83And thus farre of the fourth grace of speech, which is meeknes & modesty.

A fifth grace of speech is cheerfulnes and ioy, when we vse delightfull speech for recreation. Eccles. 3.4.

Here is to be obserued:

1 That it must be seasoned with Gods feare. Eccles. 2.2.

2 It must bee with compassion for those that are in affliction. A∣mos. 6.6.

3 It must be sparing and mode∣rate. 2. Tim. 3.

4 It most not be mixt with sin. Heb. 11.25.

5 It must tend to edification. 1. Cor. 10.

6 It must bee sutable to the time.

7 It must also bee fitted to the place, which is either the boord or bed.

For the boord obserue,* 1.84

1 The intent, the which is to hin∣der other idle and prophane talke.

2 To season the company with better.

3 To preuent gluttony.

4 A desire to catch spiritually.

5 To sanctifie the creatures.

2 Consider the matter of Table-talke. Which,

1 Especially must bee of religi∣on. Luk. 11.35.

2 That which is incident here∣vnto, As

1 Of our vnion with God: As the meate is made one substance

with vs; so we after an vnspeake∣able manner are made one with God.

2 Of our liberty in Christ, that all is ours, and that we may safe∣ly and freely partake there∣of.

3 Of our miserable condition; for were wee not sinfull, we need not eate, nor finde such loath∣somnesse, or want of content thereby.

4 Of our estate in glory, where this Manna shall cease.

3 Of sobriety, and such ex∣amples.

4 Gods speciall prouidence and bounty in making a dead crea∣ture meanes to preserue life. Ioel. 2.26. Haggai. 1.6.

5 Contentation in our estate, with praier for other that haue fulnesse or want. 1▪ Tim. 6.

6 Death, how that we shall be wormes meate.

7 Of the heauenly food, Ioh. 4.

8 Misery of the poore, which want in our fulnesse.

9 Of our life by faith, because both these vnlikely doe nourish, and we weake, vnthankfull, rio∣tous, are nourished.

10 Change of things and states, but within our bounds. Iob. 1.

11 The punishment of sin, the case of Diues. &c. Luk. 16.

For the bed; let these bee the rules of holy mirth.

1 Wee must conferre of the graue. Act. 7.* 1.85

2 Of the occasions passed in the day. Cant. 3.1.

3 Of the security of the Church. 2. Cant.

4 And watchfulnesse in the night. 3. Cant.

5 Of the ignorance of the land. And

6 The continuall night in hell.

7 Of the Resurrection.

8 Of worldly occasions, so farre as to humble vs.

9 In our comforts of our sweete fellowship with Christ.

10 Generally, not to prouoke, but

to mortifie the flesh. Gal. 5.13.

* 1.86Here is to be auoided generally,

• 1 All offence to the weake.
• 2 All occasion to the wicked.

As in

First, Iesting, which is a quipping of some to delight others,* 1.87 where∣in a man had rather loose his friend, then his iest: offend God, rather then not please man.

This is vtterly vnlawfull, vnlesse,

1 The matter be indifferent.

2 The measure modest.

3 The season conuenient.

4 Offence remoued.

5 Our selues and others bene∣fited.

6 We thereby, when other re∣proofes will not preuaile, in an holy maner do deride and scorne sinners. 1. Reg. 19. Eccles. 11. gi∣uing them vp to their own coun∣cels.

Secondly, laughter, which though in it selfe it be not simply vnlawfull,* 1.88 yet it is moderately to be be vsed, and seldome; but sor∣row

more often, and more plen∣tifully. Eccles. 7.4.5.

The sixth grace of speech is,* 1.89 Care of our neighbours good name. Pro. 22.

This is performed as before, and farther,

1 By being not suspicious in vnlikely, or vncertaine occasions. Ier. 40.

2 By priuate reprouing him.

4 Publiquely answering for him if he be slandered.

Here is to be auoided,

1 Secret whispering abrode of what we suspect or know, behind his backe. Psal. 50.20.

2 Adding to, or changing the thing said or done. Mat. 26.60.61.

3 Open traducing and reuiling to his face. 2. Sam. 16.

4 Telling that was neuer done. Ier. 37.13.

5 Colouring their reports with pretences of griefe or necessity, or publicke profit, inioyning se∣cresie by the party to whom hee telles it, &c.

6 Rash censuring, before eui∣dent knowledge.

Therefore here we are,

• 1 To interrupt such talke.
• 2 To giue no heed to it.
• 3 Not to beleeue it.
• 4 To reproue it.

* 1.90The seuenth and last grace of speech is Slownesse and Briefenesse.

Slownesse is seene either in

First, prouoking; or

Secondly, answering.

Herein obserue:

1 That it is better to bee pro∣uoked to speech, then prouoke; especially if wee bee inferiour.

2 Not to take a Tale out of ones mouth; but to heare it throughly.

3 To consider whether it be to be answered, or no.

4 To ponder on it before wee answere, what answere is to bee made thereto.

5 To answere to the poynts, o∣mitting partiall respects.

6 To cut off idle interruptions, and vaine cauils.

7 Not to powre out all our mindes at once, but to keepe some what till afterwards, Prou. 29.

Here is to bee auoyded.

1 Pride to heare a mans selfe speake.

2 The fruit thereof, namely:

First, Obscurity.

Secondly, Affectation.

2 We must auoid tempting spee∣ches, whereby wee may si•••••••••••• and vndermine others.

4 As also, that spirit of contra∣diction, whereby thwarting o∣others and contradicting euery man, Heresie and Atheisme is bred and maintained.

5 We must also refraine bitter∣nesse, and captious taking vp of our brother, a fault incident to briefenesse of speech.

6 As also, wee must beware of sottishnes and inconsequence of speech, while happily we thinke to shewe our skill in breuity.

Hitherto appertaine,

1 Restraining of our passion, by

interrupting our selues, if by course of speech wee grow in∣to an heate.

2 Correcting our selues by si∣lence wherein we haue mis-said.

3 Contracting our matter into the briefest forme of words.

4 Disposing it methodically to the best capacity of the hearer.

An eighth grace of speech is Wisedome.

1 That we minister a word in due season, Isa. 50. As, comfort to whom comfort belongs, and when he is fit for comfort, being throughly humbled; and so reproofe.

2 That we submit subordination to the best ends.

3 That we affect not words, but labour to expresse our matter in the fewest and plainest.

4 And also neglect not to as∣cribe what in ciuility belongs to each. And

5 In charity ascribe for religion what is outwardly apparent, lea∣uing the heart to God.

6 Not iudging peremptorily of

any, though his estate bee out∣wardly desperate.

7 Neither discouering our owne good or euill, but when, as be∣fore, we heare a calling

Generall Rules to be obserued herein.

1 That what is here spoken of Speech,* 1.91 is to be vnderstood also of Writing, in which all these gra∣ces are to be practised, and vices to be auoyded.

2 That in all kinde of speech, as well Latine as English, &c. ex∣emplary, as wherein though the phrases of other tongues may leade vs to prophanesses, yet we must auoyd them. As in Gram∣mer, Would God I did, &c.

Hitherto of speech.

Now because wee cannot speake well, vnlesse wee know also how to hold our peace, wee are therefore, in the second place, to consider of silence.* 1.92

Here obserue,

1 That the Rule of silence must be Gods word.

2 Matter of silence, concernes

God, our Neighbour, our Selues.

3 Persons, before whom.

* 1.934 The end, wich is,

Gods glory, ours & others good.

Things concerning God, are:

1 His secrets which wee know not, and therefore are to admire them in silence. Deut. 29.29.

* 1.942 His strange and extraordi∣nary workes, which wee may not speake boldly of, but rather in silence wonder at. Iob. 36.37. Leuit. 10.3.

3 We are to conceale the mercy of from God obstinate sinners.

4 We are to conceale his iudge∣ments from humbled sinners.

5 We are to be silent at his cor∣rections. Psal. 39. hereby shewing our submission to his will.

6 Wee are to yeeld to the knowne truth, and in silence to glorifie God. Act. 11.18.

* 1.95Touching our Neighbour, obserue

1 That we may conceale some truth from him, not being deman∣ded; yea, being question••••••d we may conceale either the whole, or part:

Prouided that it do not.

1 Hinder Gods glory.

2 Or my neighbours good.

Truth in the whole is to be concealed:

1 When the speaking of the least word is hurtfull: as for example, the father and sonne lieth sicke at once, the sonne dieth first, the fa∣ther asketh whether the sonne be dead or no; if it bee said, No, an vntruth is told; if yea, the fathers life is endangered: therefore si∣lence is best. 2. Sam. 12.

2 When the reuealing thereof indangers the life of the innocēt;* 1.96 and therefore I am not to reueale my brethren in affliction, nor to be compelled thereto by oath:

Prouided, first, that the authori∣ty requiring this bee vnlawfull.

2 The thing I conceale, bee not in it selfe euill; but so mistaken.

3 That in the concealing of it, I preferre not a priuate before a publicke good.

Truth in part is to be concealed; when I speake a part of the truth, but not the whole. 1. Sam. 16.1.

23. Ier. 38.24. Exod. 5. Act. 23.6.

Q. When I am demanded, may I answere in part?

Yea so,

1 I purpose not to deceiue.

2 Content the minde of the answerer.

Secondly, I am to conceale the infirmities of my Neighbour, vn∣lesse (as before) we be called of God to speake, Prou. 17.14. Prou. 19.11.

3 All vnseemely matters,

4 Such as concerne vs not,

5 And such as are aboue our reach, are to be buried in silence.

3 Ministers must conceale the infirmities of their people, vnlesse they be otherwise vnreclaimable.

4 Magistrates secrets of state, least the enemy know them.

Concerning my selfe. I am,

1 To conceale mine owne se∣crets. Iud. 14. or else, if need be, tell those that are faithfull of si∣lence concerning my selfe.

2 That which thou wouldst haue no man know, tell no man.

As for the persons before whom wee must keepe silence:* 1.97 they are

1 The malicious enemies of re∣ligion, Mat. 7.6. Mat. 27.14. Ps. 39.2.

2 Before Magistrates in open Courts, Act. 24, 10. till we be bid∣den.

3 In the presence of our elders and betters. Iob. 32.8.

4 Fooles and pratlers are to bee humbled and conuinced with si∣lence. Pro. 26.

Thus farre concerning the gui∣dance of the tongue.

The sixth and last part of this Girdle of truth containes the fitting and conforming our outward actions to the will of God, which is performed

1 When they proceed from a true ground

2 And are to be performed true meanes, and a holy manner.* 1.98

3 When they aime, at a right end. The ground of all good actions is faith in Iesus Christ. Rom. 14. Heb. 11.6.

1 Assuring vs, that our persons are accepted of God, and so our 〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

Gods meere mercy in Iesus Christ. Phil. 3.

12 That we bee that we seeme to bee.

13 That wee make conscience of the least as well as the grea∣test.

14 That we prouide things ho∣nest before men, as well as in the sight of God.

15 Distrust the goodnes of that worke in w••••••ich thou hast not a contrary tentation.

16 Especially if thou beest not rowsed with an imputation of hypocrisie.

17 That we measure not the sub∣stance of wel-doing by particular actions.

18 That the rule for approbati∣ons of our actions be the accep∣tance of our persons in Christ, not any perfection that is in thē.

19 That in all well-doing wee discerne a kind of foolishnesse in regard of the wisedome of the world, and of the flesh.

1 To be abased in our selues.

2 To giue God the glory.

3 To try the sincerity thereof in regard of the opposition of the world. 1. Cor. 3.18.

The end of our actions is,

1 That whatsoeuer we do,* 1.99 it be done to Gods glory. 1. Cor. 10.31. and this is performed:* 1.100

1 In sanctifying and auspica∣ting them by prayer & inuocati∣on of the name of God. 1. Tim. 4.

2 In returning the strength of them to the worship of God, in causing our light to shine before men. Math. 5.20. Prou. 5.10.

3 In all things, and in euery issue of them, giuing thankes to God the father, through Iesus Christ.

4 Being abased before the Lord in regard of our vnworthinesse to doe him any seruice, as also of the vnworthinesse of the seruice we doe performe.

5 Acknowledging that nothing is due vnto vs but shame and confusion of our faces. Dan, 9.

6 Desiring to be found in Christ, not hauing our owne righteous∣nesse,

which is of the Law, but that which is by the faith of Christ. Phil. 3.9.

* 1.101Secondly, we must do all things to edification both of our selues and others. Here obserue:

1 That the lesse benefite must giue place to the greater.

2 That in all things next to Gods glory, our chiefe aime must be the saluation of the soule. 1. Cor. 16.

3 That more regard be had of those which are within, thē which are without, Gal. 6.10. 1. Cor. 6. & yet the good of none neglected.

4 That of those which are with∣in, we haue more respect to the weake in cases of indifferencie. Rom. 14. Rom. 15.1.

5 That our conuersation be an∣swerable to our profession. Ephes. 4.1.

6 That we haue as well strong meat for men, as milke for babes; not sticking alwayes in the infan∣cie of our profession, but grow∣ing vp in Iesus Christ, Hebr. 6.1. Hebr. 13.

7 That we abound in weldoing, and make sure our Election by good workes. 2. Pet. 1.8.9.

8 That wee as well cast out the hypocrite and stumbling-blocke, as hold on the sound Christian. Ier. 1.

9 We must bring forth fruit in due season, obseruing the comeli∣nesse of time, place, persons, &c. Psa. 1.3.

10 That in actions either doubt∣full or deceitful, as we haue cause to suspect them.

1 If they grieue the godly.

2 If they giue occasion of the wicked to reioyce: so wee may haue comfort if the conscience approue, and the Saints allow, though the wicked condemne. &c

This Girdle is put on.

1 By continuall setting of our hearts before God,* 1.102 for the sear∣ching thereof.

2 Trying all our thoughts, words, and actions, by the word.

3 By continuall watching ouer our wayes.

4 By earnest prayer to God.

And it is kept on,

1 By not straining the con∣science in the least euill, Hebr. 13.18.

2 By cleauing to the testimony thereof, and reioyi••••••ng especially therein. 2. Cor. 1.12.

3 By obeying the checkes of conscience.

4 Conuincing the hollownesse and hypocrisie of the world.

5 Labouring and aprouing sin∣cerity in others.

6 Daily fearing our selues, and renuing our couenant with God.

7 Renouncing daily our selues, and flying to Christ. Phil. 3.12.13.

* 1.103The vse of this Girdle is:

1 Wee are ready prest to doe Gods will. Reu. 1.

2 Wee are cleered from hypo∣crisie, which is the moth of well-doing. Mat. 6. Mat. 23.

3 Wee auoyd vncertatnty, and dulnesse in good things.

4 We are preserued from cor∣ruption in iudgement, and A∣postasie

in life.

5 All other gifts of God are a∣dorned and approued thereby.

6 We are enabled to hold out to the end, and so obtaine the Crowne.

7 As by this rule of our actions, discerning the vnworthinesse thereof.

8 In the vnworthinesse of the action, discerning the worthines of our persons in Christ, and growing vp in him by faith to perfection.

9 The other parts of the spiritu∣all Armour are compact in them∣selues, and fastned to vs by it: The next whereof is the Brest-plate of righteousnes, or Innocency. And this is, 1 An inclination and resolu∣tion of the heart to all good.* 1.104

This is necessary,

1 To iustifie and beautifie our profession, and make sure our ele∣ction. 2. Pet 1.10.

2 That we may be freed from many inward pangs, and outward troubles.

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3 By abstaining from the occa∣sions and appearance of euill. 1. Thess. 5.

4 By iustifying and maintaining the same, with the losse of al in re∣spect thereof. Act. 21. Iob. 2.

5 By walking conscionably in the duties of our callings.

6 By trying our faith which is the life thereof. 2. Cor. 13.

7 Vndergoing continuall trou∣bles for the same.

And to this end serues the third part of this Armour.

This is, that our feete be shod with the preparation of the Gospel, that is:

* 1.105In the assurance of our accepta∣tion into the fauour of God, through Iesus Christ, we are ar∣med and prepared:

First, to Deny our selues.

Secondly, to take vp the crosse of Christ and to follow him. Luke 9.23.

And this must be done.

1 That troubles find vs not vn∣prepared.* 1.106 Iob. 3 25.

2 That the feare of them may

not dismay vs.

3 That we be not ouerwhelmed with the waight of them. 2. Corin. 4.8.9.

4 That our minds may be quie∣ted in the midst of them. Rom 5.2.

5 That we may bee more then conqueror in them. Romans 8.24.

6 That we may comforts others which grone vnder the like bur∣then 2. Cor. 1.4.5.

7 And so finish our course and obtaine the crowne. 2. Tim. 4.

This armour is put on, and so kept:

1 By dayly reading and medi∣tating on the passion of Christ.* 1.107 Heb. 12.2.

2 Giuing all diligence to the word preached.

3 Preferring the fauor of God in Christ aboue all things. Ps. 4.6.

4 Not depending vpon things seene, but contemplating things inuisible. Heb. 11.1.

5 Hauing our eye fixed on the recompence of the reward, and comparing the momentany trou∣ble,

with the surpassing weight of glory Heb. 11.26.

And here the shield of faith, is of speciall vse, which is the fourth part of this Armour:

* 1.108And it is a full and strong per∣swasion of the loue of God in Christ Iesus, Rom. 8.38. whereby

1 We beate backe all the fierie darts of the diuell, as carnal con∣fidence, presumption, security, in∣fidelitie, distrust, credulitie, &c.

2 Prize all things at their true worth and prosecute them accor∣dingly:

3 Wee preserue the graces of God, and increase them vnto vs.

4 Wee follow hard to the marke, and attaine perfection. Phil. 3.13.

This is requisite:

* 1.1091 To giue approbation to all our actions.

2 To giue comfort in regard of their imperfections.

3 To enable vs in our suffrings Iob. 1.5.

4 To finish our course and pro∣cure

vs the crowne. Hebrew 11.13 2. Tim. 4·

5 To ouercome tentations, as despaire, & presumption of Gods mercie, &c.

6 To obtaine a comfortable life

7 To be prepared vnto death.

This is obtained and preserued as before. Cap. 7,* 1.110

A fift part of this Armour is the hel∣met of hope. This is

1 A constant desire of the pro∣mised happinesse. Mat. 5.6. Phil. 1.23. 2. Tim. 4.8.

2 A chearefull expectation and wayting after the same.

3 A resigning our selues into the hands of God. Psal. 5.12.

And it differs from faith:

1 In the maner of apprehending faith apprehends things to come, as if they were present.

Hope discerneth them as they are in time to bee performed and so waiteth the accomplishment of them.

2 In the vse, Faith giues a be∣ing to things that are not, calling 〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

Lord when meanes faile. ibid. 5. & resting in him. Prou. 14.32 Rom. 4.

5 Reuerent obseruing of the workes of God. Psalme 40.4. Psalm 115.11.

6 Depending on the trueth of Gods promises, though we see thē not accomplished. Psal. 46.5. Psal. 130.9. Prou. 16.20.

7 Expecting the Lords leasure, contrary to sense and reason▪ Psal. 69.4. Esay 26.8

8 Abasing and renouncing our selues before the Lord. Psal. 131.3 Zeph. 3.12.

9 Submitting our selues to the ministery of the Gospel. Es. 50.10.

10 Waiting further vpon God, then this life can counteruaile. 1. Cor. 15.19.

The last part of this spirituall ar∣mour, is the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.* 1.111 Hebrew 4 Psalme 149. &c

And this must be had,

First, To discerne:

* 1.1121 The deceitfulnesse of sinne. Heb. 3.13.

2 The poyson of error and here∣sie. 1. Tim. 6.3.

3 The corruption of our owne hearts. Heb. 12.

4 The manifold subtilties and deepenesse of Satan. Apoc. 2.24. 2. Pet. 1.19.

5 The riches of Gods mercie. Eph. 3.18. Ephes. 1.18.

Secondly, to confirme & maintain

1 Faith against infidelity and dis∣contentment.

2 Hope against despaire. Ro. 15.4

3 Truth against error and hu∣mane wisedome. Iames 1.18.

Christ against Antichrist.

4 God against man.

Thirdly, To captiuate and subdue:

1 Euery imagination that exalts it selfe against God. 2. Cor. 10.4.

2 To cut off the power and cords of sinne. Hos. 6.

3 To repell the impudencie and importunitie of Satan. Mat. 4.

Fourthly, To purge:

• 1 Zeale, of ignorance & selfeloue
• 2 Religion, of hypocrisie.
• 3 Profession, of vaine glory.
• ...

• 4 Weldoing, of wearisomnesse
• 5 Faith of carnalnesse.
• 6 Afflictions, of impatiency, &c.

Fiftly, To confound:

• 1 Satans kingdome. Mat. 4.
• 2 The fleshes tyranny. Tit. 2.11.
• 3 The worlds deceitfulnesse. Ps. 119.95

Our hearts doubtfulnesse. Psal. 73.17.

* 1.1135 Mans inuentions. Psal. 119.113

This armour is obtained and put on,

1 By prayer.

2 Studie and meditation. 1. Tim 4.13.

3 Submitting our selues to the word preached.* 1.114 Iam. 1.21.

These meanes how wrought effe∣ctually:

1 When our vnderstanding is illightened, and delighted with the sauing knowledge thereof.

2 Our iudgements confirmed, & established in the same. Ep. 1.9▪

3 Our consciences conuinced, and quieted therein. Romans 5.1.

4 Our wil and affections subdu∣ed & captiuated thereto. Ps. 40.6.

5 Our desire enflamed and vn∣satiable thereof. Mat. 5.6.

6 Our minde satisfied and con∣tented therewith, aboue all trea∣sures. Psal. 119.97. Psalme 19.10.

7 Our liues reformed & amen∣ded thereby. Psal. 119.9.

8 Our faith quickened, & daily nourished by the same. 2. Pet. 1.

9 And we enabled to ouercome tentations, & to finish our course with ioy. Psal. 119.7.9.

And this armour is kept on:

1 By recording and rehearsing the same vnto other:* 1.115 so to labour their conuersion. Lu 22.23.

2 By spiritual experience of the power therof in putting our know¦ledge into continuall practise.

3 By cleauing constantly to an effectuall ministery. Iohn. 10.5.

4 By suffring afflictions for the Gospel. Heb. 10. Act. 21.

5 By labouring to haue it to dwell plentifully among vs, & to haue the power thereof more and more abound in the mortifying of our affections and speciall sins.

Col. 3.16. Tit. 2.11.

Thus farre of the parts of the Chri∣stian armour.

Now the necessitie in generall of it, is that without it,

* 1.116First, In respect of our selues,

1 Our whole life must needs be subiect to many feareful breaches and distractions, 2. Pet. 1.

2 We shall passe it very ildy and vnprofitably.

3 Wee shall bee deceiued with many false shadowes, and appa∣rances of good, and bee much to seeke in that good which wee doe desire, either in the knowledge of it, or desire to the same.

4 Our course at the best will be most vncertaine. Iohn 11.10. In re∣gard of others.

5 Wee shall not so shine before them, as lights by our good ex∣amples. Mat, 5.16.

6 Nay, wee shall necessarily in re∣spect of our euil example be stum∣bling blockes vnto them.

7 We shall cause our profession to be euill spoken of. Ephes. 5.4.3

8 And our God, and his Religion and word blasphemed. Timothie 6.1.

But with this Armour, we shall be,

1 Certaine of what we do. Iohn 11.9.

2 Enabled in some measure to do it. Psal. 119.104.

3 Strong to encounter all op∣positions, and victorious therein. Psal. 119.6.

4 Assured of the acceptance of what we doe Phil. 1.21, 20.

5 Ready for all occasions what∣soeuer. Phil. 4.12.

6 And willing to yeelde vp ••••••his due vnto God, when hee shall re∣quire it. Acts 7.1. Cor. 7.

And thus much concerning the spirituall Armour.

CHAP. V. Of the pursuit of God, and the auoyding of euill.

Now being thus armed, we are pre∣pared to encoūter such occasions as

occurre in the day, which are gene∣rally and necessary:

• 1 To auoyde euill, Esay 1.16, 17.
• 2 To prosecute that which is good.

Concerning the auoyding of euill.

First, we must labor to haue our iudgement rectified.

Concerning.

1 The euil it selfe.

2 Our owne estate in respect of it·

3 God, who hates it and yet or∣ders it.

That which wee are to be informed concerning euil,* 1.117 is, that there is euil.

1 By nature, and such is whatso∣euer is against or besides the law of God, and this is properly cal∣led sinne.

2 By accident, so a good thing may be made euill. Psal. 69.22. Ma∣lach. 2.2.

3 Opinion, so afflictions are coun∣ted euils; yea, the trueth and po∣wer of good in the censure of the world, vsually is counted euill. E∣say 5.20.

The vse hereof is:

1 That we may discerne things that differ, not stumbling vpon e∣uill in stead of good, nor auoy∣ding good in stead of euill, not fearing afflictions whē they come for good, nor distrusting our good¦nesse, though it bee accounted e∣uill. Phil. 1.10.

2 We must vnderstand the true authour of euil, which is not God, but our selues, that so wee may blame none, but our selues. Iames 1.13

3 That euill is not only a meere priuati••••••n of good,* 1.118 but a qualitie inherent and defiling the soule. 1. Iohn 3.4.

4 That it is not only committed in act, but in thought; though con∣sent come not thereto. Exod. 20.

5 That it is as well committed in omitting what we should do, as in doing what we should not.

6 That sinne is seene in the least that is forbidden, as well as in the greatest. 1. Iohn 3.4.

That the least sin breaketh the

law of God, and maketh vs guilty of the whole. Iam. 2.12. Ephes. 5.11.12. Rom. 6.21.

8 That sinne is filthie and loth∣some euen in the greatest pleasure and act thereof.

9 That the end thereof is bitter and the inward parts most abomi∣nable Rom. 6.

* 1.119And this knowledge serueth.

1 To conclude all vnder sinne. Rom. 3.9.

2 To lay the fault iustly where it is.

3 To preuent diminishing and encreasing of sinne.

4 To auoyde the custome, and punishment thereof.

Concerning our owne estate in respect of sinne, we are to learne.

1 That if we neuer committed sin, yet we are not free from it, as being guilta of the sinne of ano∣ther, & deriuing it from the loines of our parents. Rom. 5.14. Psal. 51.5. Ephes. 2.3.

2 That hereby our nature is

wholly tainted with corruption, and vncleanenesse. Iob. 14. Psalme 51.

3 That wee are depriued of all originall, and actual righteousnes.* 1.120 Ephes. 2. Rom. 6.

4 And prone, yea desparately set to commit all sinne with gree∣dinesse. Gen. 6.

5 That we delight in sinne, and repose our chiefe contentment therein. Pro. 2.

6 That naturally we hate to be reformed and pluckt out of sinne. Rom. 10.21.

7 That we cannot but necessa∣rily, and yet willingly sinne. 1. Cor. 12.2.

8 That our best actions are beau∣tifull sinnes. Esay. 64.6.

9 That in our nature, sinne yet remaineth. Rom. 7.1. Iohn 1.7. And that. Reason

How farre sinne remaineth in the Regenerate, and why

1 That we might haue dayly ex∣perience of the vertue of Christs sacrifice.

2 As also discerne the worke of sanctification by the contrary tentations.

3 That by renued repentance we might maintain the assurance of the forgiuenesse of sinne.

4 That we might be dayly hum∣bled vnder the hand of God.

5 That we might giue God the glory of his freee mercy, in wor∣king wholly our saluation.* 1.121

And this knowledge serueth:

1 To iustifie God in his iudge∣ments. Rom. 3.5.

2 To confound the goodnesse of nature. Rom. 3.19.

3 To magnifie the riches of Gods mercy. Ephes. 2.3.7.

4 To send vs to Christ. Romans 3.22.

5 To prouoke vs to hunger af∣ter heauen.

Concerning God, we are thus to con∣ceiue of si••••••n••••••.* 1.122

1 That hee hateth all euill as a righteous God. Psal. 5. and no vn∣cleane thing shall dwell with him. Reuel. 21.

2 That he permitteth and orde∣reth euill in speciall wisedome to his glory. Act. 5. As

1 In that hee presustaineth the subiect of sinne.

2 Hee denieth or withdraweth his assistance by which necessarily we fall.

3 He turneth all euill to good.

3 That he knoweth and search∣eth the most inmost closet of sin. Ierem. 17.10.

4 That he is able to punish, and to take vengeance of the same. Isa 40.

5 That he punisheth sinne with sinne, and yet most righteously. 2. Thess. 2.11.

6 That though hee haue laide the chastisement of our peace vp∣on on his Sonne: yet he will correct vs as his children for sinne. Isa. 53 Psal. 88.89.

7 That he leaueth to grosse and open sinnes to preuent and purge out spirituall wickednesse in his children.

8 That he giueth vp the wicked

to spirituall wickednesse, of selfe-loue, pride, hardnesse of heart, se∣curity, to preuent hereby for a time grosse euils, which might be a means to bring to repentance, whereby they are detained in a false conceit of their estates, & so are ripened to eternal vengeance

* 1.123And this knowledge serueth:

1 To iustifie the perfect holines of God. Psal. 18.30. Psal. 145.17.

2 To magnifie his wisedome in disposing of euill. Rom. 11.33.

3 To giue him his prerogatiue, that he is 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, the searcher of the heart. Ier. 17.10.

4 To ascribe vnto him the glo∣ry of his power and super excel∣lent greatnesse, that we might be humbled before him. Psa. 86.9, 10.

5 To worke in vs an hatred of euill, & loue of righteousnes. Gen. 17.1. because god hates him. Ps. 139

6 To preuent presumption, and cause vs to worke out our saluati∣on with feare & trembling 2. Co. 5.

7 To trust perfitly in him, that so gratiously orders euil, and turnes

hem about to our good.* 1.124

Secondly, Our iudgment being thus rectified, we must proceed to the pra∣ctise of auoyding euill.

And this is seene, either in

• 1 Preuenting sinne, or
• 2 Recouering out of it by vnfained repentance.* 1.125

Sinne is preuented either:

• 1 Generally, or
• 2 Particularly: Generally: by

1 A continuall watchfulnesse o∣uer our heart, and outward man.

2 A feare and suspecting of our selues, as at all times, so when wee haue most experience of Gods mercy. Prou. 28.14. Iob. 1.

3 A continuall resigning of our selues into the hands of God.

4 Walking as alwayes in his presence. Gen. 5.22. Gen. 17.1.

5 To haue a continuall eye to Gods commandements. Psalme 119.

6 To meditate on Gods iudgements, inflicted on his dee∣rest children for sinne. 2. Sam. 12.11, 14.

* 1.1267 Consider the inestimable loue and mercy of God towards vs. Exod. 34 6.

Eightly, Imploying our selues in some honest calling 2. Thess. 3.11.12. And that

1 In faith and without distrust of Gods prouidence, with a good conscience. Mat. 6.25. Heb. 13.18.

2 With cheerefulnesse and con∣tentment, without murmuring & couetousnesse. Heb. 13.5.

3 Committing the successe to God, and waiting for his blessing, without making haste to be rich, or indenting with God for these outward things. 1. Tim. 6. Gen. 30. 1. Ha. 1.16.

4 In humilitie, and lowlines, not sacrificing to our net, but giuing God the glory. Gen. 32.10.

5 In holines sanctifying the same by the word and prayer, and laying a good foundation therby towards heauen. 1. Tim. 6. 1. Tim. 4.

6 In faithfulnes and diligence, re∣deeming the time, & accounting for it. Eph. 5▪16 Psal. 90.

Ninthly,* 1.127 learning to vse our Chri∣stian libertie a right.

1 Herein not so much to stand on lawfulnesse, as expedience. 1. Cor. 10.

2 That all things be done to e∣dification, not offence. 1. Cor. 14.

3 That as wee remit of our li∣berty in regard of such as are weak of ignorance, so we vse it in re∣spect of the obstinately ignorant, lest we harden them in their sin. Mat. 15.14.

4 That we vse the things of this life within the compasse of our callings. 1. Cor. 7. 1. Cor. 10.

5 For our recreation that it be in things indifferent. Phil. 4.8

2 Very spare and sober.

3 Tending to a spirituall end, not the satisfying of the flesh. Ga. 5.13

6 That all things be done to the glory of God. 1, Cor. 16.

Tenthly; By auoyding the occasions of sinne, which are

1 Euill company. Ephes. 5.11.

2 Excesse in the vse of the crea∣tures. Luk. 21.34.

3 Giuing the bridle to the out¦ward

man. Gen. 31.1.

4 Opportunitie and seasonable∣nesse. Eccles. 3.1.

5 Appearance and shew of e∣uill, &c. Thess. 5.22.

And thus sinne generally may be pre∣uented, particularly, thus, when wee are assaulted by any tentation.

* 1.1281 To mourne at the priuy mo∣tions of sinne, and at no hand to set light by it.

2 To know that I beare a tray∣tor in my bosom, & therfore here here at no hand consult with flesh nor giue away to the temptation. Iames. 1.14.

3 To choake it by strong cryes and groanes to God. Mat. 6.13.

4 To put it off by exercising the mind with contrary meditations and affecting the contrary vertue Psalme 1.

5 Examine thy heart why it is thus, & thou shalt find some cause of this tentation, Psalme 4.

6 The cause found either,

1 Want of found repentance for some former sinne.

2 Security.

3 Some greater euill like to follow, whereof this tentation is a messenger, or such like negli∣gence, dispose thy selfe accor∣dingly.

4 Forget not hartily to mourne for thy former yeelding to the like tentations, and so renue thy repentance for former sins. And strengthen thy selfe especially by the meditation of the sufficiencie of thy Sauiour, who now suffers with thee, and in whom thou shalt bee more then a conque∣rour.

5 Intend thy calling more care∣fully and conscionably, Eph. 5.15.

6 Renue thy repentance and vowes to God more effectually. Psa. 116. for the present motions and prouocations to euill.

7 Dispute not with Sathan, nei∣ther play with the flame; but flye away with Ioseph, though thou leaue thy coat behind thee, Iam. 4.7. Gen▪ 39.12.

8 Labour not so much to auoyd the outward act, as to haue thy

heart purged from the euill thought. Psal. 51.2.10.

9 Esteeme it thy greatest hap∣pinesse in this life, to be free from the rage and slauery of sin. And,

10 Magnifie in thy iudgement their condition who are constant∣ly maisters of their owne cor∣ruptions.

11 Submitting thy selfe rather to any punishment (if it so please God) then to yeeld to the tenta∣tion. Mat. 5.29.

12 Remembring often with feare and trembling, what thou mightst bee brought to by this ••••••enta••••••ion, if God should leaue thee. And looke for one tempta∣tion in the necke of another.

13 Yet faint not in thy resi∣stance: but perseuer constantly, and by Gods mercy Sathan shall flye away. Iam. 4.7. Mat. 4

14 Faile not to be thankfull vn∣to God for euery little occasion of auoyding the tentation, or conquering the same.

Here at no hand giue way to corruption, or deferre repen∣tance,

1 Because thou hast no cer∣tainty of thy life.

2 Nor assurance of the renuing and returne of Gods mercy, if once thou refuse it, Pro. 1.24.25.

3 The sooner thou returnest, the surer will be thy acceptance, and the more sweete and beau∣tifull thy after conuersation.

4 Yea thou shalt more encrease Gods kingdome, and so gaining God more glory, prepare thy selfe to greater glory.

If Satan preuaile, and thou are foy∣led, and therefore now thou must speedily rise againe by repentance.

To this end consider:

1 Thy estate in grace,* 1.129 which must be renued by repentance. Psal. 51.

2 Gods mercies, which are a∣boue all thy sinnes. Psalm. 103.8. Exod. 24.16.

3 The effectualnesse of Christs

sacrifice; daily cleansing thee from sinne. 1. Iohn. 1.7.

4 And that still thou liuest by faith, aboue the sence of thine owne present state, Rom. 1. yet stil refreshing thy selfe with

5 Thy former experience how thou hast recouered, Psa. 77.5.

And so practise thy raising vp in this manner:

* 1.130First, view thine iniquity in the glasse of the Law, to bruise thine heart, and there thou shalt finde what an euil and bitter thing sin is. Ier. 2.19.

2 Secondly hereupon apply that knowledge vnto thine own soule by the power of Conscience, as∣sisted by the Spirit of Bondage: and proceed to iudge thy selfe, con∣cluding that thou art guiltie of eternall death. And hence will follow compunction, and woun∣ding of the heart, Act. 2.37

3 The heart being thus woun∣ded, that thou maist bee kept from despaire,* 1.131 view thy selfe, secondly, in the glasse of the

Gospell, that the bruised Reede may not be broken; by conside∣ring what a bitter, and yet preti∣ous ransome was paid for thy sin. Mat. 20.28.

4 Hereupon make applica∣tion vnto thine heart, by the worke of Conscience, renued by the Spirit of Adoption, & raise vp thy selfe with this assurance, that though thou art a sinner; yet Christ is thine, and thou hast pardon of thy sinne, and shalt haue life eternall in him. Mat. 11.28. Math. 5.3.4. Luk. 15.2. Cor. 7.

This application worketh two contrary effects:

1 Thou shalt reioyce that thy sinnes are forgiuen thee in Christ Iesus.

2 Thou shalt be sorrowfull t••••••at thou hast displeased so good and gratious a Father.

And this sorrow is expressed:* 1.132

First, by iudging thy sinne be∣fore God in the Court of thy Conscience.

And this iudgement consisteth:

1 In conceiuing the foolishnesse of thy sinne, to crosse the wise∣dome of the flesh, and condemne the same. 2. Sam. 24.

2 In examining thy sinne, and taking a more particular notice thereof, Psa. 51.4.

2 Confessing it, Psalm. 32.5. And that,

1 With griefe and detestation. Esay 37.

2 Particularly, not generally, not onely so farre as thou know∣est, confessing herein thy know∣ledge to be short, and yeelding vp thy vnsearchable heart vnto God, Lord clense me from my secret sinnes. Psa. 19.

3 Against thy selfe, not excu∣sing or diminishing: not laying the fault vpon God, the creatures &c. but blaming especially that corrupt fountaine of thy heart herein, Psa. 32.5. Psa. 51.

4 Vnto God, not vnto Angels, or Men, &c. who only is able and ready to forgiue. Psal. 103.

Thirdly, thou must condemne

sinnne, and this is done;

1 By acknowleging what is d••••••e vnto thee for it, namely shame and confusion of face for euer. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 9.6. Da••••••.

2 Professing thine owne vile∣nesse and vnworthinesse of the least of Gods mercies. Iob. 39.16.

3 Iustifying God in what hee might do, and submitting thy self vnder his mighty hand Ely 2. Sam 2. Dauid, 2. Sam. 16.

4 Execute vengeance on thy selfe for thy sinne, 2. Corinth. 7. in this manner:

1 Lie downe in thy confusion, and couer thy face with shame. Ier. 3. Luk 18.

2 Abhorre and detest thy selfe in sackcloth and ashes, Iob. 42.6.

3 Haue indignation and zeale against thy selfe for offending so good a God: 2. Cor, 7. Peter wept bitterly. Psal, 73.22. So foo∣lish, &c.

4 Grone vnder the burthen of thy flesh, and desire to bee rid

of it, Rom. 7.21.

5 Possesse a broken heart for thy sinne, all thy life long, Psalm. 51.17.

6 Refraine thy selfe from law∣full comforts. Ioel. 2.

7 Impose all meanes of mortifi∣ing thy rebellious flesh, as feare of thy selfe, lest thou fall againe. Pro. 28.14.

8 Mingle thy drinke with thy teares, and in thy greatest secu∣rity let the remembrance of thy sinne awake and rouse thee vp. Psa. 51.

9 Desire euer after more care∣fully to please God. 2. Cor 7.

10 To this end preserue a record of thy sin, and retaine some mo∣nument thereof with thee.

11 Consider often what punish∣ments thou hast felt for sin.

12 And let the day of thy death, and appearing before the iudge∣ment seate of Christ, bee alwayes in thy minde, make thou sure ac∣count of it, and daily make ready for it, 2. Pet. 3.

13 Cease not crying out against thy corruptions, and complaining vnto God of thy rebellions, that he may strengthen thee against them. Psa. 119.49.

14 Binde thy selfe by the oath, and by the curse to forsake all sin, and to continue constant in the seruice of thy God, Ezra. 10.3. 2. Chro. 15.

15 Reproue sinne boldly in o∣thers, and plucke them out of the fire: Iude 23. though thou beest scorcht for thy labour.

16 Suffer affliction as a good Souldier of Iesus Christ, and pre∣pare thy soule vnto tentations. 2. Tim. 2.

Thus shalt thou cut off sin, and hap∣pily preserue thy selfe in a constant course of godlinesse.

For thy better instruction herein:

1 Call to minde what before is deliuered in the sixth part of the Girdle of Truth, concerning Holy Actions; which may helpe thee both in the true knowledge of God, to informe thy iudgement,

as also in the right and holy pra∣ctise of good things, which must be part of thy Daily Sacrifice.

CHAP. VI. Of growing in grace.

BEing thus instructed in generall to auoyd euill, and doe good, the next duty that thou must performe, is to grow in grace.

And this duty is necessary: because,

* 1.1331 We doe approue our right in Gods blessing we haue receiued. 1. Tim. 4.

2 Wee make them profitable, and durable, Mat. 14.19.20.

3 Hereby we imitate our Saui∣our Christ Iesus, who grew in fa∣uour and grace with God and Men. Mat. 13.

4 Hereby we weaken daily the old man. 2. Cor. 4.

5 And draw neerer to the life of glory.

6 By growing, we haue com∣fortable experience more and

more of our corruption, that so wee may bee more humbled in our selues, and hunger after Christ.

7 Hereby we are weaned from the loue of the world, and more eased and freed from distrustfull cares for worldly things, because the more heauenly riches we en∣ioy, the lesse minde haue we, the lesse need do we see our selues to haue of earthly things; yea the experience of Gods mercy en∣creasing vs in spirituall riches, con••••••••••••mes our faith more in the prouidence of God for outward things.

8 And so wee obtaine also by this encrease, more confidence and boldnesse in the presence of God.

9 Yea wee shall finde our life and power miraculously quick∣ned in holy duties, especially prayer, and zeale of Gods glory, humility, patience, &c.

10 And whereas before, the least afflictions were Irksome,

now by this increase, wee shall thinke nothing strange, no not the fiery triall. 1. Pet. 4 11. wee shall be more ready to vndergoe them, and haue more comfort in them. As

11 Hauing by this encrease of grace, more liuely experience of the power of Christ raigning in our mortall bodies; by whom we shall haue strength to perseuere vnto the end.

12 And this is also the benefite of this growing, euen to assure vs that we shall hold out, and con∣tinue vnto the end.

Thus shall wee bee conuinced, and prouoked to grow in grace.

Secondly, consider we now in the next place,

• 1 The meanes whereby wee must grow. And
• 2 The manner. And
• 3 The measure. And
• 4 Triall of our growth.

For the meanes, these are:

* 1.1341 The powerfull preaching of the word, as being Gods Instru∣ment

to lead forward as well as to begin the worke. 1. Pet. 2.1.

2 The daily viewing of the heart therein: for as we discerne corruption, so we desire to grow. Psal. 4.5.

3 The quickning of our desires and purposes for well-doing: for as we desire and loue, so we shall practise.

Now our desires are quickned and enlarged thus:* 1.135

1 By retaining soundnesse of iudgement so farre as we know.

2 Reiecting carnall rules for holinesse, which may coole,

1 As that we may bee too ho∣lie.

2 That it is enough to be holy as others are.* 1.136

3 Flesh and blood cannot doe this.

4 That God is mercifull, and if wee doe our best, what can you haue more?

5 That we must not presume to bee so holy as Peter and Paul were. 1. Cor. 11.1.

6 That our fore-fathers were sa∣ued with lesse adoe, and lesse meanes; and what need we stand so much vpon it?

7 That we must liue, and there∣fore cannot stand vpon heauenly thrift.

8 Nay, we must be obedient, and therefore doe as the times will beare; go no further then those that are wiser then we.

Thirdly, labour we to be rooted and grounded in knowledge, that so our desires may be truly enli∣ued. And this is effected:

1 By receiuing the power of the word,* 1.137 vnto the roote and fountaine of corruption, euen our hearts, not so much beeing humbled with our outward fai∣lings, as our inward corrupti∣ons, and vnreasonable lusts; la∣bouring more and more to dis∣cerne the deceitfulnesse of the heart, and vnsearchablenesse thereof, that so wee may bee more inflamed to redresse the same.

2 Attempt we no action with∣out particular knowledge both of the thing to done.

1 With the circumstances of time, person, and place belong∣ing thereto.

2 As also of our right therein, that so from the certainty of re∣solution, especially from the com∣fort of our acceptance, our de∣sires may be quickned.

3 And so receiuing strength from Christ, our endeuours shall bee quickned and confirmed in wel-doing.

Fourthly, that our desires may be enlarged, we must be enlarged in knowledge, that so as we know we may affect. Phil 1.9.

5 And seeing that variety of obiects may stumble and distract vs, therefore we also must labour to grow in spirituall wisedome, discerning betweene things that differ, that so we may know what chiefly is to be followed, what is the time, and meanes, and maner thereof: so shall we be more pro∣uoked 〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

yet gone before, that wee may neither thinke our case to bee singular, as if wee alone were put to this hard taske; neither thinke wee haue done enough, seeing those that receiued lesse meanes, yet haue gone beyond vs in obedience, and shall finde the way now much more easie, seeing it hath been so troden and traced to our hands.

8 And seeing the world will not sticke to hinder our growth by pressing vs downe euen with our owne weight: Therefore though wee haue attained a glo∣rious liberty in Christ to take comfort in things lawfull and ne∣cessary, yet let vs take heede that we vse not this liberty as an occasion to the flesh, and so it proue a burthen to presse vs downe. Gal. 5.

* 1.138To this end moderate we our selues in Christian liberty, by these rules:

1 That all tend to Gods glory, emptying our selues thereof.

2 That wee keepe our selues within the bounds of our calling, not onely Ciuil, doing what may stand with the ability and conue∣niencie, yea decorum thereof, but Christian principally,

1 What may bee warranted thereby.

2 What may further the same.

3 Subordinating the ciuill cal∣ling to the iudgement and mea∣sure thereof.

3 That in the vse of our liberty, we containe within the bounds of charity, and that

1 Towards God, doing all things rather in loue to his Ma∣iesty, and zeale to his glory, then our owne saluation.

2 And yet so, as that beleeuing his promises, and applying them to our selues, wee make our selues fitter to loue God, by being made conformable to him, and so follow hard after the ac∣complishment of the promise, by obedience to the Comman∣dement, that so we may expresse

yet more and more our loue vnto God.

2 That wee may prepare our selues hereby to the full enioy∣ing of his loue.

3 That wee may attaine at length that perfection, when wee shall wholly and fully loue and glorifie our God.

3 And yet seeing without others we shall not be profited,* 1.139 therfore in the vse of our Christian liber∣ty we must also shew our loue to∣wards others: And that both first superiours: as

• 1 Magistrates,
• 2 Ministers.

1 Acknowledging the authori∣ty of the Magistrate to be of God; howsoeuer the person be.

2 Obeying that Authority in the Lord: As

1 To bee restrained thereby in the vse of things indifferent.

2 To bee ordered thereby for the vse thereof.

3 To be punished for the abuse.

4 Yea to bee ordered for the outward circumstances of time, place, decency concerning the worship of God.

5 And to bee censured for de∣fault therein, both in our goods and bodies, enduring patiently, and amending thereby.

Secondly, in our Christian li∣berty we must haue regard to the Ministers: As

1 Being wise to try the Spirits, and so to affect accordingly.

2 Reuerencing their persons.

3 Receiuing them as Gods Em∣bassadours, yea as Iesus Christ. Gal. 4. 2 Cor. 5.

4 Embracing their message as the counsell of God,* 1.140 whatsoeuer the vessell may be.

5 Yeelding them maintenance cheerefully, and bountifully, 1. Tim. 5. 1 Cor. 9.

6 And submitting to the censure of the Church with all humility and good conscience, as to bee reformed by the same. 1. Cor. 5.

Secondly, in our Christian li∣berty wee must haue respect to our equals, and that to such are equall either in the

• Ciuill or calling.
• Christian calling.

Towards our equal in the Ci∣uill calling, wee are to order our selues thus:

1 To deale truly and iustly with them in our commerce, that so they may either iustifie and loue religion, or else haue their mouthes stopt, and bee made in∣excusable.

2 We are to communicate vn∣to them by occasion of worldly commerce, some heauenly riches, labouring to bring them to Christ, Ioh. 4.1. Ioh.

3 To this end faile wee not to conuince and represse knowne corruptions by the word: and to bring forth secret, by searching and launcing, resoluing rather to loose our gaine, then to be par∣takers of his sin.

4 And here we must euen re∣fraine in our liberty in diet, ap∣parel being an example of mode∣sty, &c. that so we may weane him the rather from the loue therof, and by our example may iustifie our profession. 1. Cor. 9.

5 And so with all meeknesse of wisdome and long suffering, wait vpon him if at any time God may giue him repentance, that hee may bee saued. 2. Timoth. 2.24.25.

6 Choosing to this end what may most edifie, what least giue offence, and exasperate; ta∣king opportunity from his natu∣rall inclination, from his present afflictions and temptations to worke vpon him.

7 And labouring to roote out Distrust and Couetousnesse, that so setting bounds to his earthly de∣sires, by true cōtentation, he may haue more scope for heauenly.

Thus are we to order our li∣berty towards our equall, in his ciuill calling.

〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉 him to sence of inward corrupti∣on, and purge wee out hypocrisie and spirituall pride.

9 Preparing him to this purpose to endure the crosse.

10 Informing him to discerne the raigning sinnes of the time.

11 Especially the corruption that most hangs vpon him, the sin that hee hath or is most subiect vnto.

12 And so prouoke we him stil to perfection, not to liue by ex∣amples, nor to stint himselfe in religion, but to follow hard after the marke for the high price of his calling in Iesus Christ.

Thus are we to carry our selues in our liberty towards our equals in their generall callings.

We are also herein to respect our inferiours: As

1 Labouring to be equall with them in affection,* 1.141 though superi∣ors in gifts.

2 Not to despise or disgrace or discourage, or separate from thē: but rather to take vnto vs him

that is weake, and wee which are strong to support him that is weake.

3 Not contemning or measu¦ring his inward estate by the out∣ward condition, but rather hel∣ping the outward estate, that it may further the inward.

4 Not being aduanced in our selues because we haue more, but rather fearing, because, we haue a greater burthen, a greater account to make, & so easing our selues by communicating vnto o∣others, yet correcting our selues by scattring our ouer-plus. Prou. 11.

5 Yea submitting our selues for the Lords sake vnto meanest con∣ditiō in al lawful things, to bring them vnto Iesus Christ, 1. Cor. 9.21 2. Cor. 11.29.

6 And as a tender Nurse cheri∣shing and dandling of them, not to pamper them in their weaknes but to leade them on to perfe∣ction. 1. Thess. 2. Heb. 6.1.2.

7 And yet not alwaies enduring

their weaknes, but by seueritie to compell to what lenitie could not perswade vnto, at least to pre∣uent obstinacie, and infection of others.

Thus are we to vse our Christian libertie, toward inferiors:

8 And thus behauing our selues in the conuerting of others, wee shall by this meanes encrease Gods graces in our selues.

9 If we neglect not withal con∣scionable walking in our ciuill cal∣lings. And

10 Labour to maintaine the fellowship by exhorting & prouo∣king to loue and good works. Heb. 10.

11 Not neglecting to take no∣tice of, and offer vp vnto our bles∣sed God, euery mercy vouchsafed vnto vs in a dayly sacrifice of o∣bedience and so renuing our re∣pentance for our failing therein. And

12 So considering the short∣nesse of our liues and sodainnesse of Christ Iesus comming: vse we

all diligence to make our electi∣on sure, and redeeme wee the time, because the dayes are e∣uill.

These are the meanes whereby we may grow in grace.

Now that wee bee not deceiued nor discouraged herein: obserue we in the next place, the manner of this encrease, which is,

1 A comming forward in euerie part together,* 1.142 as when the first wheele of a clocke moues, it car∣rieth about all the rest: so the heart being enlarged, the con∣science and wil, and affections, yea the members of the body, in some measure are enli∣ued. As

2 Yea so, as that this growing is not alwayes sensible, by reason of the different working of the Spirit.

1 Sustaining and cherishing some∣times inwardly, sometimes put∣ting forth the sap into the branch and bud.

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4 Seeing the power of God must bee made manifest in weak∣nesse, therefore resolue wee, that the manner of this growth at the best must be in great weakenesse. Yet so

5 That wee shall by Gods mer∣cie dayly weaken corruption, more clearely discerning it, loa∣thing it more hartily, more meek∣ly groane vnder it, more sighes to be deliuered from it.

6 And therefore though the grace of God shall not be in vaine in vs for the subduing of corrup∣tion: Yet shall our encrease in grace, rather appeare in discer∣ning the greatnesse of corrup∣tion, and deceitfulnesse of sin, then in any manifest conquest o∣uer the same.

7 And seeing the best wee can∣can doe, is subiect to much mix∣ture of corruption; therefore shall wee best discerne the manner of our growth by the right vse of grace: yea herein shall wee haue best euidence thereof, because

we finde aboue the worke of wel∣doing our persons accepted of our gratious Father in Iesus Christ.

Thus are wee to conceiue of the maner of our growth.

Now for the measure.

1 Wee are dayly growing vn∣till the moment of our death.* 1.143

2 In holinesse howsoeuer wee may come short of many of the e∣lect, yet we shal exceed our selues yea the most vaine glorious Pha∣risees in the power and conscience of well doing, though happily not in the shew. Mat. 3.

4 Wee purpose the most abso∣lute patterne, and not onely for the truth of holinesse, but for such a measure as we are capable of, we follow hard thereafter. 1. Cor. 11. 1. Pet. 1.18.

5 Though wee faile in practise yet wee stand firme in iudgement what should be done, and iudge our selues, especially for failing herein.

6 And are so farre from excu∣sing our selues in any such stinted measure as the world approueth: either that wee may not presume to be as such haue beene, or else that it is needlesse, because we haue not the like imployment, or vn∣reasonable, because wee haue not the like gifts, or it will be suffici∣ent if wee attaine to such a mea∣sure, as the time, multitude, exam∣ples of leaders do prescribe.

These leaden rules I say, and carnal pretences, are so far from preuailing with the saints in their measure proposed: that they are bold so farre to endeauour as the meanes are supplyed, though in their practise they are short of their endeauour: and howsoeuer the world shall be contēted with such a measure as may serue to commit sinne more greedily, and hide it more dangerously.

Yet doth the vpright heart still cleaue to the word, for the scant∣ling of his sincerity, he submits to the word; for his failing therein;

he encreaseth in knowledge, that he may still grow in grace, and so by a further sight of his corrupti∣on, is dayly sent out of himselfe, that so hee may obtaine new strength in Christ to goe forward in weldoing.

And so the child of God growes strong in the grace of God. 2. Tim 2.1.

1 And that by being dayly bro∣ken by the power of the law,* 1.144 see∣ing his damnable estate, and so driuen out of himselfe vpon the meere mercy of God.

2 By enduring afflictions pati∣ently, that in the experience of the changings in himselfe he may haue more experience of the vn∣changeable loue of God.

3 To this end he must dayly di∣scerne his inabilitie to any good that so hee may interest himselfe in the merit of Christ.

4 And he must renounce all o∣ther strength of wisedome, riches, and that he may finde more com∣fortably the power of God. Ier. 9.

And to this end he hath many gra∣tious helpes.* 1.145 As especially

The vertue and power of his head and Captaine Iesus Christ who grew in grace, and is now perfected in glory to make vs perfect. Ioh. 17. Heb. 12.2.

2 The example and furthe∣rance of the Saints which haue gone before, and do accompany him therein. Heb. 12.1.

3 The continuall light of the word and spirit, both informing in the present estate, truth of our as also discouering what wee should, and shall be.

4 The experience of former grace, quickning faith and so sen∣ding to Christ.

5 As also experience of former failings, spurring forward throgh an holy shame and indignation, to recouer and redeeme the time

6 The time lost before, and therefore now much more to bee redeemed. The time to come not in our power, vncertaine.

7 The encrease of glory an∣swering

the encrease of grace.

The triall of our increase of grace is▪* 1.146

1 If we haue fully subdued some sinnes, so that wee neuer fall into the purpose or act of them again, as harted of God, expressed by ha¦tred of his word, and Saints, re∣iecting of Christ, and his merite, and the effects thereof.

2 If wee finde such sinnes most weakened, vnto which hereto∣fore we haue bene most addicted.

3 The more we grow, wee shall be sure to haue more tentations, more oppositions of the world.

4 The more wee discerne and are humbled in the sence of cor∣ruption the more wee grow in faith, and so in grace.

5 The more we are enlaged for the good of others soules, the more is the loue of God shed a∣broad in our hearts.

6 The more lowly, and meeke, and patient we are, the more hath the spirit of grace and compassion preuailed in our hearts.

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4 That for the vse thereof, wee haue deserued to be vtterly strip∣ped of the blessing. Yea

To be cut off finally from euer enioying any further mercy of our God. Yea

To haue deserued all contrary plagues to encrease our damna∣tion.

Yet still ascribing vnto Iesus Christ the glory of his sacrifice.

That through him we haue ob∣tained right in all Gods blessings.

And grace so to vse them, as that in Christ they are accepted.

That our persons are accepted a∣boue the worth of our obedience

That in Christ wee shall grow, and so attaine to perfection.

This is thankefulnesse. And it is necessarie:* 1.147

1 To testifie and renue our right in each blessing.

2 To gaine thereby assurance of heauen:

3 We condemne the wisedome of the world which thinks it base∣nes to be thankful, or some impu∣tation

of ill desert & vnworthines

4 We encrease them, and make them pledges of heauen. Psal. 67.6

5 We do ease our selues of much begging, and so approch to the life of glory.

6 We acknowledge God to bee the giuer, and blesser of them.

7 We do answer the ende, why God bestowed them on vs. Deu. 8.

8 And do by this duty performe a most principall part of worship & glory to our God, Psal. 50.23.

9 Security and hardnesse of heart is hereby preuented.

10 Our faith in God is confir∣med and encreased.

11 Spirituall pride and hypo∣crisie is ouer-mastered.

12 The certaintie of our salua∣tion hereby pledged and confir∣med.

13 Wee haue our conuersa∣tion in a most speciall manner in heauen.

14 Our account made readie, and so we prepared to meete the Lord.

15 It is hardest to be performed and therefore most excellent.

16 We are hereby humbled, & so fitted for further blessings.

17 This is the end to which all other exercises of religion are di∣rected.

18 Hereby wee glorifie God as God. Rom. 1.22.

19 And so being dayly abased in our selues we are prepared vn∣to glory.

And it is to be performed dayly.

1 Because we dayly receiue good at the hands of God. Lam. 3.23.

2 And by this means shal preuent many euils which daily do assault vs And this duty is performed on this manner.* 1.148

First, The heart must be prepared: And that

1 We must be rauished with the greatnes & goodnes of the Lord.

2 With sound notice of the bles∣sing, both concerning the truth thereof, as also the woorth of the same, conceiuing more excellent∣ly of God then we possible can see

him by his blessings. Ps. 47.7.

3 True humility for the same, by serious meditation, both of the Maiesty, power and goodnesse of God, and also of it owne vnwor∣thinesse. Gen. 32

4 As also it must be purged by a setled purpose of not offending so bountifull a God.

5 And with an holy perswasion, that we haue receiued the benefit in the fauour of God, through Ie∣sus Christ.

6 And lastly with an holy desire to set forth the glory of God.

7 As also it must so bee filled with the present blessing, as that still it hunger after greater graces

2 The mouth must speake of the mercies of God:* 1.149 And that

1 Reuerently and holily, not lightly or loosely.

2 Particularly, as neere as wee may recounting the same. Gene. 32.10. And as dayly and howerly occasions are offered, 1. as by deli∣uerance from euils. 2. Preserua∣tion in good, 3. acceptance of

vnperfect seruice, 4. and renuing encrease of spirituall and tempo∣rall blessings, as also 5. preuention of sin, and so suiting, and renuing our thanksgiuing accordingly.

3 Publikely, euen in the great congregations vnto the Church of God, yea to the generations to come. Psal. 66. and 102. Psal. 34.

4 Priuately betweene God and our owne soules to auoyde hypo∣crisie. Mat. 6.

5 Wisely and orderly for spiri∣tuall blessings, and then for tem∣porall. Eph. 1.3.

6 Faithfully, aswell for blessings promised & to come, as for those we haue receiued. 2. Chron. 6.

7 Constantly, aswell when God takes, as when he giues. Iob. 1.21.

8 Humbly, acknowledging our selues to be vnworthy of the least of them. Iacob. Gen. 32. Aswel con∣fessing our wants & desiring sup∣ply, as acknowledging Gods gra∣ces in vs. Luke 18.

9 Speedily, if it bee possible to preuent the Lord. Ge. 24. Ps. 59.16.

10 Continually, euen all our life long. Psal. 75.9. Psal. 79.13.

11 Charitably prouoking others to the like duty. Ps. 34.3. Ps. 92.18.

12 Acknowledging Gods graces in others, & without enuy or de∣tractiō aduancing the same Nu. 11

13 Yea, wishing that all may be partakers of the same graces with vs. Num. 11.

14 Impartially, aswell for the least, as for the greatest:

15 Spiritually, referring all pre∣sent blessings, to the Fountain, our redemption by Christ, and confir∣ming our right, & vse from thence yea from thence, building assu∣rance of perfection.

16 Sensibly, apprehending Gods goodnes more to vs then to any other. De. 17. receiuing euery pre∣sent blessing as in our right to he∣uen. Frequently, remēbring often what God hath done for vs, & by many and diuers words couenan∣ting with our God, to pay this ob∣lation, 1 both to preuent the vnto∣wardlines of our nature, which is so vnwilling.

2 To this, as also to shame our selues the more, if happily wee grow negligent herein. Psal. 107. Psal. 146. &c.

3 Wee must praise God in our life and actions.* 1.150 Here obserue these prin∣cipall actions of thankefulnesse. Psal. 3.1. Psal. 50.23.

1 To renue our obedience, and encrease our seruice of God. Psal 116.

2 Continuall mortification of the old man. Psalme 106.3. Ezra. 10. Rom. 12.1.

3 Casting out the speciall and beloued sinne. Mat. 5.29.

4 Making much of the meanes wherby Gods blessings are sancti∣fied, and so continued vnto vs, namely, the preaching of the Go∣spell, &c. Rom. 10.15.

5 Labouring heattily the con∣uersion of others. Psal. 51 Psal. 34.4.5.

6 Releeuing, and forgiuing, & praying one for another. Eph. 4.

7 Beleeuing Gods promises, & waiting patiently the full accom∣plishment

of them. Psal. 40.1. Heb. 11. Psal. 64.10.

8 Erecting monuments and trophes of Gods benefites to po∣steritie. Gen. 22.15. &c.

9 Writing and registring the noble acts of the Lord. Psal 102. Psal 45.

10 Imposing fit names unto our childrē, in remembrance of Gods mercies. Gen. 41.

11 Paying our vowes vnto God and men. Psal. 65.1. Ion. 2.9. Ps. 50.

12 Being content with whatso∣euer God bestoweth vpon vs. Phi. 4. Giuing thanks in al things at al times to God the Father, in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ Ephes. 5.20.

13 To imploy the blessing wee receiue to the best behoofe of our Maister and our owne com∣fort. Math. 25.26.27.

14 Confessing the name of God constantly. Psal. 44.

15 Hatience in waiting the accō∣plishment of Gods promise.

16 Seeing by faith into the ful∣nesse

of happinesse, yea

17 Apprehending light in dark∣nesse and seeing that to bee good which the world esteemes euill,

18 And reioycing in a litle good though there be matter of mour∣ning for much more euill.

19 So honouring the instrument as not to make an Idol thereof.

Thus are wee to performe thanke∣fulnesse vnto God.

Which that wee may performe more happily:* 1.151

First, Let vs beware of these euils which are maine enemies to this duty As,

1 To imagine, that we deserue any thing. Luke 17.10.

2 That wee haue any thing meerely, by our owne labour and industry. Psal. 127.

3 That wee harpe more vpon our troubles, then Gods fauors & benefits.

4 Take we heed that we grieue not immoderatly for euils present for this will steale from vs all re∣membrance of former blessings.

5 That we be alwayes begging, but neuer recounting what wee haue receiued.

6 That we consider what others haue, rather then what we haue need of.

7 That we be not secure in the blessings of God, but rather feare our estate most when wee haue most fauours. Iob. 1.

8 That we tie God vnto these outward things, or to the conti∣nuance of any particular.

9 That wee dote and rest vpon these, not rather forget them in regard of the things of the life to come. Phil. 3.

10 That we conceiue basely & meanly of Gods mercies, and do not see and worship God in the least of them.

11 Auoid we slauish feare, and desperate pride, as if because we are vnworthy of any, therfore we will acknowledge none.

12 Nay, lest wee bee accounted hypocrites, wee will not declare what God hath done for vs.

13 Take wee heede here also of Spirituall pride, that while wee should acknowledge our thanke∣fulnesse for what we haue recie∣ued, we rather repine at our own condition, that wee had neede thereof.

Secondly, Let vs vse these helpes to thankfulnesse: As

1 Rest we vpon God, as the gi∣uer of all good blessings.

* 1.1522 Vse wee all holy meanes for the obtaining of them.

3 Leaue wee the successe to GOD, depending on his proui∣dence.

4 Thinke we not what God can giue, but what is fit for vs to re∣ceiue.

5 And thinke we not so much on what wee want, as what wee haue, aboue many of t••••••e deere children of God.

6 Yea, consider we not so much what we haue, as how we haue v∣sed it.

7 And further, remember wee not so much what wee haue, as

what we may haue, if we doe be∣leeue, and offer the sacrifice of praise.

8 Yea, let vs wisely lay to our hearts what we haue lost by our former vnthankfulnesse.

9 Consider we how small a tri∣bute the Lord requires for all his blessings. Psa. 116.12.

10 What a prerogatiue wee at∣taine by thankesgiuing, that God is the receiuer, and wee the gi∣uers vnto God, and how much better it is to giue, then to re∣ceiue.

11 Let the creatures prouoke vs hereto, lest otherwise they con∣demne vs. Heb. 6.

12 Let our commodity per∣swade vs, either if we will haue, or vse, or hold Gods fauours com∣fortably.

13 And lastly, consider we the account to be made in the life to come, which is made vp by thankfulnesse vnto God in this life, Ioh. 3.

14 Labour we in each particu∣lar

blessing to see a pledge of hea∣uen, and a step thereto.

15 And that all the sence and sight of present and future bles∣sings, be swallowed vp in our de∣sire to glorifie God.

And thus farre concerning thankfulnesse.

The chiefe vse and benefite thereof, is, to keepe vs in a con∣stant course of obedience vnto God in the enioying of his bles∣sings.* 1.153

And this is the next duty daily to be performed of vs.

CHAP. VIII. Of Constancie and Perseuerance.

NAmely, to labour constancy, and perseuerance vnto the end.

* 1.154And that because:

First, hereby wee approue the soundnesse of our calling and gifts, which otherwise if we faile, were but temporary, giuen rather for others then for our owne good.

2 We doe vphold and confirme others.

3 Wee doe also iustifie the power of our profession, and aduance it before all other cal∣lings.

4 We obtaine the promise and the crowne that is set before vs. Heb. 11. which otherwise by fal∣ling away we shall lose. Reu. 3.6.

5 Wee approue the truth of God, and giue him the glory of his faithfulnesse, 1. Thess. 5.24.

6 We ouercome Satan and all our enemies, Eph. 6.13.

Grounds hereunto are:

First, The establishing of our faith,* 1.155 that the children of God shall continue to the end; and that because,

1 Our God is faithfull and Al∣mighty, Rom. 11. and his gifts are without repentance who hath promised it.

2 Iesus Christ makes conti∣nuall intercession for vs. Luk. 22.33.

3 The Holy Ghost shall abide with vs to the end of the world. Iohn 16. to preserue vs. Iohn 14.

4 We are the beloued of God: and therefore,

1 Whom he loues once, he will loue to the end. Iohn. 13.

2 Whatsoeuer wee aske in his name, the father will giue vs, if it bee agreeable to his will. 1. Iohn. 5.14.

3 All things shall turne vnto our good. Rom. 8.29.

4 Wee are married to him for euer in holinesse and righteous∣nesse. Ose. 2.

5 Gods Couenant with vs is euerlasting Ier. 30. Eze. 11. Psa. 89 & Ose 2.

6 Wee are vnited vnto Christ our head, Col. 2. and giuen to him of the Father: and therfore none shall take vs out of his hands. Ioh. 10. Ioh. 17.17.

7 Wee haue the Word and Sa∣craments, which shall continue with vs to the worlds end, to vp∣hold

vs in our righteousnesse, Mat. 28. Eph. 4, 8.

8 Wee haue strengthning grace to continue vs in wel-doing. Eph. 3.16.

9 Our slippes and fallings are meanes to perseuerance.

Here consider:* 1.156

1 That the childe of God be∣ing regenerated, may, and doth fall; and that because,

1 God leaues him often to him∣selfe, Ose. 5. Ps. 30. and that* 1.157

1 To let him see his owne strength to be humbled thereby. Hos. 14.4.

2 To driue from that hold, to relye onely vpon God, Cantic. 3.4. Luk. 22.32.

3 To make him more compas∣sionate and helpfull to others in their infirmities.

2 Sathan is continually sifting of him. Luk. 22.

3 He carries about him a Trai∣tor ready to betray him hourely. 1. Pet. 2.11.

4 His falles may well stand with

his estate in grace, yea do much make for the triall and encrease thereof, 1. Pet. 1.7.

As in his fall,

* 1.1581 He discernes his imperfection, and so is prouoked to take stron∣ger hold. Canti. 3.4.

2 In his, recouerie hee feeles the vndouted grace of God, Psa. 32.

3 In both hee hath experience of the combats between the flesh and the spirit, all which are vn∣doubted signes of regeneration. Luk. 11.21.

4 He is made more acquainted with the deceitfulnesse of sin, and so more skilfull to preuent the same. Heb. 3.13.

5 He is shamed by his fall, and driuen from the hold of the world, and such like baits of sin, Hos. 14.4.

6 He is prouoked more eagerly to follow after the marke, by how much he hath been cast behinde. 2. Cor. 11.

7 He becomes more fearfull of

himselfe, and will not be so ven∣turous vpon the occasions of sin. Math. 26 75. Consider therefore,

2 How farre a regenerate man may fall.

First, In his Faith, by doubting of Gods fauour and the assurance of his saluation,* 1.159 Psal. 22. Psal. 51. Psal. 77. Hence procedes,

1 Proud and foolish reasonings against God, Ier. 12.1.

2 Vaine and vncharitable spee∣ches & wishes against our selues. Iob. 3.

3 Rash and hard censuring of others.

4 Distasting of the means, and furtherances to saluation.

5 The graces of God may bee lessened in them. Psal. 51.

6 They may be couered.

7 Losse of some graces of God all his life long, as the measure of the comfortable euidence of saluation.

2 Erring through ignorance in some maine point of saluation, so the Apostles, Act. 1.6.

3 He may dwel in his ignorance for a time, and maintaine the same. Gal. 2. Peter.

Secondly, in his life. And that,

1 By falling into some grosse sins. 2. Sam. 11.2. Sam. 24.

2 To lie a sleepe in them till he be roused vp.

3 To fall into them againe after repentance, and so may commit rebellion against God. Lament. 3.45.

Hence will follow:

1 That the light of Gods coun∣tenance shall bee taken away.* 1.160 Psa. 51.

2 The horrours of hell shall as∣sault and buffet him, and so hee may despaire both in himselfe, and also concerning any present feeling of Gods mercy. Psa. 77.11.

3 Some grieuous outward af∣flictions shall follow him to the graue. Dauid.

4 His life shall bee a burthen and irksome to him. Iacob. and he shall bee impatient vnder the crosse. Iob. 3.7.

5 Yea through violence of ten∣ration he may happily offer vio∣lence to himselfe. And so

6 Hee shall cause the name of God to bee blasphemed by the wicked, 2. Sam 12.

7 His first loue shall be cooled, and zeale in godlinesse abated. Apoc. 2.4.

8 The weake shall be offended at him.

9 Gods Spirit shall be grieued. Eph. 4.

10 He shall feele a weaknesse in him, in regard of such sinnes as haue got strong hold often ouer him. Psa. 6. Ier. 13.23.

Thus farre may a regenerate man fall, and yet remaine in the state of grace, and differ from a reprobate, or hypocrite, As thus:

1 The Reprobates temporary faith is the chiefe cause of his falling, and prophanesse of life;* 1.161 but the elects erro••••••r in life is the occasion of the decay of his faith.

2 The hypocrite is vsually

sencelesse in his fall, and so conti∣nues, 1. Tim. 4.2. but the regene∣rate at length hath the true sight of it. 2. Sam. 24.10.

3 The hypocrite if he fret and grieue, it is for feare of punish∣ment, or losse of the temporall blessing, not for the losse of Gods fauour, &c. Psalm. 51. Gen. 27. But the sorrow of Gods seruant is for the offence against God princi∣pally.

4 They both fall into the same sins againe, but yet the hypocrits after sinnes are committed, with more strength and securitie, those of the regenerate with more resistance, feare, griefe, and in great weaknesse. Psa. 19.

5 They both are impatient, and speake foolishly against God, but the hypocrite speakes as he thin∣keth, and wisheth in the aduised∣nesse and purpose of his heart: the regenerate speakes in folly, rashnesse, not as he thinketh or wisheth; but as his corruption and tentation ouer-ruling him,

doth mislead: and comming to himselfe, condemnes himselfe for it, and cleares the Lord, Psal. 7.3. Iob. 42.

6 They both decay, and loose their first loue, but yet the hypo∣crite counts this to be his wise∣dome, and the true measure of holinesse, esteeming his former zeale to be rashnesse, &c. where∣as the regenerate acknowledgeth it was better before then now, and mourning vnder his estate, la∣bours the recouery, and in some measure obtaines it. 2. Sam. 12. Mat. 26.2. Hos 7

7 They both may refuse the means also, but yet the hypocrite in pride and obstinacie, falles at length, from loose meanes, to none, and so to a despising and persecu∣ting the same: the elect, though he leaue in his heart, yet he returnes with shame, and cleaues more conscionably to the meanes, and is profited thereby.

8 They both may be loosers by their fall, and not recouer all

their life long: But with these dif∣ferences,

1 The reprobate looses all gra∣ces, and becomes a very beast, Psa. 49. without knowledge, ciui∣lity, &c. The regenerate recouers necessary graces, as faith in some measure of vse and feeling: but that full perswasion, ioy in the Spirit, &c. hee happily recouers not a∣gaine, all his life long.

2 The reprobates losse is with∣out feeling, causing him to set vp his rest more securely in this life, and so prepares him to suddaine destruction: that of the elect, humbles him in all things, causes him to worke out his saluation with feare and trembling; to goe downe with sorrow to his graue, and to bee weary of the world, and to desire to bee with Christ, Phil. 2.12.

This may wee discerne betweene the falles of Gods children, and the wicked. And this serueth,

* 1.1621 To preuent wrong iudge∣ment concerning the falles of

our brethren. And so

2 To labour with all meeke∣nesse their recouery. Gal. 6.1.

3 To condemne the world that makes no difference herein betweene the Saints and the wicked.

4 To prouoke the Saints to re∣pentance.

5 To preuent repining, and murmuring at Gods wisedome, leauing corruption in vs. As also,

6 To esteeme more highly of Christ our Sacrifice.

7 To try vs in our decayes, and to comfort vs in the same. Prou. 24.16.

8 To iustifie Gods faithfulnesse who neuer forsakes his children. 1. Cor. 10.13.

9 To stop the mouthes of the wicked, who reioyce at our falles. Mich. 7.8.

10 To assure vs of constancie and perseuerance to the end. 2. Tim. 4.18

11 And to hunger after heauen.

Helpes hereunto are,

1 The keeping of the light of iudgment,* 1.163 cleare and sound, Phi. 2.8

And that because,

1 Hereby the exorbitant pra∣ctise is eft-soones reformed.

2 The true state and mea∣sure of sanctification is dis∣cerned, and so finding our short∣nesse, we are prouoked to go for∣ward, Phil. 2.9.

3 The conscience hereby is as∣sertained of the truth of it well-doing, and so faith is confirmed, and sanctification therby renued.

4 Repentance also is hereby re∣nued, in that the conscience, by the light of iudgement, discer∣ning it daily failings, is thereby conuinced, and so prepared to repentance.

* 1.164And this is obtained and preserued,

1 By submitting the iudgement in all things to the rule of the word. Esay. 8.

2 Hearkning to the voyce of conscience checking for sin, and approuing for wel-doing.

3 Labouring a daily encrease of knowledge, Philip. 1.9.10. E∣phes. 3.

4 Yet auoyding curiosity, and vnnecessary speculations. 1. Tim. 4.

5 Submitting to reproofe, and continuall afflictions.

6 Resoluing that sin is foolish∣nesse to God, and holinesse foo∣lishnesse to the world.

A second helpe to perseuerance, is,

The wel-ordering & guiding of the heart (of which heretofore) And

Thankfulnesse for what wee haue receiued. Col. 1.12.

A third is, the daily maistering and subiection of our affections. Of which also before.

A fourth is the continuall re∣membrance of Gods mercies to∣wards vs. Ios. 24.1.2.3.

A fift is a continuall feare of our selues, Rom. 11.

6 We must also labour the esta∣blishing & confirming of others.

7 Meditation of the shortnesse of our life, and vncertainty of the

comming of Iesus Christ.

8 As also waiting patiently the accomplishment of the promises. Col. ••••••.

9 Spirituall wisedome in auoy∣ding troubles, and disposing af∣faires, Col. 1.9.

10 consid••••••r we the Saints, who haue finished their course, and yet without vs shall not be perfe∣cted, Heb. 11.

11 Look we vnto Iesus the Au∣thor and finisher of our faith; who hath finished his course, and wee shall follow him. Hebr. 12.1.2.3.

12 Comfort wee our selues in our former experience; and if we haue ouercome the Lyon and the Beare, we shal also ouercome the Philistim. 1. Sam. 17. 2. Cor. 1.10. 2 Tim. 4.17.18.

13 Looke we by faith vnto the recompence of the reward, so shall wee swallow vp and ouer∣come all difficulties and tedious∣nesse whatsoeuer. Hebr. 11.25.26.

CHAP. IX. Of Watchfulnesse.

A Notable helpe to Perseue∣rance,* 1.165 is Watchfulnesse ouer our hearts, and wayes, that they may continually be acceptable to God. Eph. 6.15.

And that because,

1 Hereby wee are prepared to tentations. Luk. 21.34. Mat. 13.25.

2 Enabled to vnder-goe them. Eph. 6.11.12.

3 And also to haue a good issue out of them, Luk. 21.36.

4 Without this, our whole life and best actions are either rash∣nesse, vncertainties, or security, Prou. 28.14.

5 By it we attaine certainety and resolution in well-doing, E∣phes. 6.13.

6 We preuent some euil which may make all other comforts vn∣sauoury, which wee are sure to looke for in well-doing, Math. 26.41.

7 Hereby the other graces of God are much beautified and in∣creased in vs.

8 And our infirmitie very hap∣pily auoided, or couered, Ps. 119.9

9 The best without it, haue been deceiued, as Adam, Dauid, Gen. 3.6. 2. Sam. 12.

10 Hypocrisie in well-doing, and spirituall pride is preuented, or maistered.

11 Dulnesse and wearisomnesse also in good things, is much hol∣pen and preuented.

12 Especially hereby we are en∣abled to powerfull prayer, Math. 26.41.

13 As also kept sober and hum∣ble in well-doing. 1. Pet. 5.7.

14 The whole body of sinne is hereby daily weakned.

15 The Spirit of God is kept liuely in operation.

16 And so we prepared happily to perfection.

Now this Watchfulnesse is performed,* 1.166

First and principally by obser∣uing

the heart, and yoaking it.

2 Keeping vnder also the out∣ward man.

3 And this not for a spurt, but all our life long, Psal 101. Psal. 119.73. most fearing our abuse of Christian liberty, and so boun∣ding the same within it true com∣passe, Gal. 5. especially that wee be not brought in subiection to a∣ny thing.

4 And that obseruing and suspe∣cting our greatest strength, 1. Cor. 10.12.

5 Aiming especially at the sins which we haue most delighted in. Psal. 19. Psal. 25.

6 Looking especially to the sins that do most annoy vs.

7 Examining the best graces of God in vs, left some dead flye bee in them. Prou. 28.9. Mat. 6.

8 Behauing our selues in all things as weaned childrē, Ps. 131.3.

9 More depēding on the watch∣fulnesse of our God ouer vs, then in any thing we can do.

10 And therfore continually re∣nouncing

our selues, and resigne∣ing our selues into the protecti∣on of the Almighty.

11 In performance of holy du∣ties, suspecting especially the shew and colour, watching ouer our naturall corruption, and the sinnes of our Calling.

12 Also labouring to discouer and conquer the contrary tenta∣tion: as in affliction, impatiency, and distrust.

Helpes hereunto are:

* 1.1671 Consider wee, that the best doe faile in watching as they should.

2 That it is no bondage, but a blessed liberty thus to looke to our selues.

3 Looke we our selues d••••••ily in the glasse of the word, Psalm. 119. Heb. 11 6.

4 Suspect wee also our selues, and feare we alwayes. Pro. 28.14.

5 Let the feare of God be con∣tinually before our eies, 1. Cor. 7.1

6 Vse we sobriety in our know∣ledge and vse of outward things.

1. Pet. 4. Rom. 12.3.

7 Prouoke we each other cheer∣fully to holy duties, Psal. 122.

8 Consider wee, how watchfull worldlings are to obey the pre∣cepts of men.

9 If we haue slipped, let vs re∣turne againe in feare and trem∣bling.

10 Obserue we the checkes of conscience for euery action.

11 And let not the motions of the spirit be vnrespected.

12 Extraordinary and speciall mercies of God be we catefull to record.

13 And tremble we at his iudg∣ments, wisely laying them to our heart.

14 Let the day of our death be alwayes in our eye.

15 And make we full account to come to iudgement. 2. Cor. 5.

CHAP. X. Of Prayer.

A Further helpe to Constancy, is, Earnest and constant Prayer vnto GOD, to vphold vs by his mighty hand, Ephes. 6.14 15.

And that,

1 Publicke in the Congregati∣on, Psa. 92. Psa. 122. Mat 6.

2 In priuate, as well with our families, as in our closets and se∣cret recourse, Mat. 6. Psa. 4.6.

And this is necessary,

1 Because the Lord hath com∣manded it,* 1.168 Psalm. 50.15. Matth. 6. Luk. 11. to oppose against our vnworthinesse.

2 Hereby wee approue our selues to bee louing membes of Christs body; and the truely a∣dopted sonnes of God, Rom. 8.13. Psa. 14.22.

3 We performe a speciall part of worship vnto the Almighty, Psa. 50.15.23.

4 We vse the especiall meanes,

whereby all Gods blessings are enioyed, and sanctified. Luke 11.13 1. Tim. 4.5.

5 And, though the Lord know what we haue need of before wee aske, yet hereby wee acknowledge and discerne the same. Isa. 65.24.

6 Hereby we are also humbled vnder the mighty hand of God.

7 Wee do also performe thanke∣fulnesse vnto God for al his mercies.

8 As also we giue vnto God this prerogatiue, that he is the searcher of our hearts, and also

9 We acknowledg his speciall proui∣dence, that he careth for vs. Psal. 34

10 Heerby our faith and patience is gratiously exercised and confir∣med.

Now that we may pray aright:

1 Our prayer must bee in faith without doubting.* 1.169 Iam. 1.6. to God not to Saints or Angels. Rom. 10.

2 In loue forgiuing one another, and praying for each other Luk. 1. Math. 6. yea for our enemies.

3 In wisdome, praying first for the fauor of God, whē we would haue

blessing,* 1.170 and when we would haue any euill remoued, praying for the forgiuenesse of sinne, which is the cause thereof. As also 2. di∣uiding the times wisely, for pray∣er, and our callings.

4 In zeale, and feruency, 1. from the heart, and affections, princi¦pally aiming at Gods glory, &c. 1. Cor. 14. Iacob. 5.16.

5 In constancie and patience, wai∣ting the Lords good leasure. Psa. 40.1. Psal. 135. Psal. 147.

6 In sinceritie, from our right in Christ Iesus; and out of the holy purpose of our heart denying our selues.

7 In an holy order, 1. for those that concerne Gods glory: 2. such as concerne saluation: 3. such as respect this life. And so on the con∣trary, we are to pray against such as crosse these things in their or∣der.

8 Our minds must be free from all worldly and carnal respects.

9 In humilitie, abasing our selues before the Lord, Dan. 9. Gen. 32.

10 With thankesgiuing vnto God for all his mercies. Psal. 116.12.

11 As also, with true repentance renuing our vowes to the Lord. Psal. 26.6. Isa. 1.15. 1. Ioh. 3.22.

Thus must our prayers bee made vnto the Lord, and by them we shall be,

First, Much strengthened in the grace of perseuerance. Luke 22.32. as also.* 1.171

2 Kept in the vigor and power of our Christian life. Ephes. 6.

3 Experienced in our sweet fel∣lowshippe with God. Rom. 8.15.

4 Our spirituall armour always fitted and exercised. Eph 6.

5 Our dayly wants supplyed or recompensed. Iames 1.5, 2. Cor. 12.

6 Tentations conquered; and happily diminished. Mat. 4.

7 All our occasions well seaso∣ned, and turned to our good. 1. Tim. 4.

8 Our whole life sanctified, and wee prepared comfortably to a better. Phil. 1.19.

To this end also serueth ano∣ther

〈2 pages missing〉〈2 pages missing〉

omitted or sleightly performed a∣ny of these.

6 Be sure so to performe these as that thou doest not neglect thy calling. 2. Thess. 3.12.

7 If thou hast performed them in some poore measure, yet rest not in it, but labor more earnest∣ly with God for a further grace. Phil. 3.13.

8 And yet bee thankefull vnto God for these small grapes and fruits, acknowledging that it is his great mercie, that thou canst doe any thing, and giuing him all the glory thereof. 1. Corinth. 15.10. And thus shalt thou be sure to obtaine this peace of God.

And hauing obtained it, thou must lie downe therewith, and ca∣rie it with thee to thy bed.

1 Because thou knowest not whether thy bed shalbe thy graue 1. Pet. 1.24.

2 Thy sleepe hereby shall bee much sweeter, and dreames more comfortable. Psal. 4.8.

3 Thou shalt auoyd nocturnall

pollutions and vncleanesses.

4 Thy reines shall teach thee in the night season, and the dark∣nesse shall bee as the noone day. Psal. 16.7.

And this is performed.

1 By resigning vp our selues into the hands of God.* 1.172

2 Ascribing vnto him the glory of all the good wee haue perfor∣med. Psal. 115.1. Esay 26.12.

3 Acknowledging our selues to bee vnprofitable seruants, if God should enter into iudgement with vs Luke 17.10.

4 Crauing earnest pardon of our imperfections in Iesus Christ, and laying our selues a sleepe in his bosome. 1. Iohn 1.9.

5 Comforting our selues if sense of faith bee not present, yet with former experience and inward habit thereof. Psal. 22.10.

6 Yeelding vp our selues in a willingnesse to death, in ful expe∣ctation of the life to come. Phil. 1.20.23. And thus guiding our selues by these former rules, we shall lie

downe in peace, and so shall wee comfortably performe the dayly sacrifice.

And thus farre concerning such ne∣cessarie duties, as wee are bound in some measure dayly to performe.

CHAP. XII. How to profit in this direction.

FOR our better encouragement and furtherance heerein; obserue these rules:

1 That being conuinced in con∣science with the necessity of these dueties, we purpose and solemnly vow vnto the Lord the attempting and prosecuting thereof. Psal. 119.206. Psal. 119.7.

2 That God principally respects the purpose of the heart, & if there be a willing minde, accepts ac∣cording to what wee haue, and re∣quires not what wee haue not. 2. Cor. 8.12.

3 That wee giue not eare to the flesh pleading noueltie, impossi∣bilitie,

&c. Gal. 1.16.

4 That we trie the Lord, who is wonderfull in blessing the vnfai∣ned endeauours of his children. Hag. 2. Malach. 3.10.

5 Then let vs make trial at first in one of these, and grow readie therein, so shall wee with more willingnesse and skilfulnesse pro∣ceed in the rest. Iames 2.10. Iames 3.2.

6 Let vs not faile to meete the Lord with vnfained thankefulnes, when we see him comming effe∣ctually in the weake performance thereof. Psal. 81.

7 And so condemne and pro∣uoke thy selfe, as before, and thou shalt see (by Gods mercy) a good encrease.

Yea, thou shalt not only be able to performe these dueties with comfort, but also thou shalt be a∣ble to entertaine each seueral oc∣casions of the day, to Gods glory thy exceeding profite and benefit of others.

Motiues and Helpes hereunto thou shalt find,

* 1.1731 A dayly discerning of thine owne inabilitie. And

2 So renouncing of thy selfe to be found in Iesus Christ.

3 When thou hast found thy selfe in Christ, yet still to deny thy best righteousnesse, that thou maist wholly liue by and in the life of thy Sauiour: in whom thy person shalbe accepted, aboue all worth of thy seruice.

4 And meditate often, not so much on the ioy the Saints haue in heauen, as in the matter there, of their constant and free glorifying of God.

2 Cheering vp thy heart, that thou hast so far communion with them, in that heauenly worship, as that now thou performest that in truth, which they doe in perfe∣ction: and so hast thy conuersation also in heauen: yea thou art haste∣ning to that perfection, by dayly denying of thy selfe, and growing in Christ thy head, and hast both their examples to encourage, and prayers to further thee thereto:

yea seeing without thee they shall not be perfected. Therefore thou shalt also aspire to perfection, that so the body of thy Sauiour may be fully compleate. 1. Cor. 1.24. Neb. 11.40·

6 And seeing all lets shall by Gods mercie proue furtherances hereunto, thy very sins shall pro∣uoke thee, much lesse then affli∣ction shall hinder: therefore learn to liue by faith in the discerning of thy estate, and wrastling with these oppositions; that so not yeelding to tentation, or not ly∣ing vnder the burthen thereof, thou maist still goe forward more humbly with thy God, and bee more then conquerour through Christ that hath loued thee. Rom. 8.

7 Adde hereunto a dayly medi∣tation of the time vnprofitably spent heretofore, and hence wee shalbe prouoked to redeeme it in this constant manner for the time to come. Romanes 6.22. 1. Pet. 4.4.5.

8 Especially if we weigh withal the wonderfull mercy of our God that hath not yet called vs to an account for our former abuse and vnprofitablenesse, surely if wee make a right vse hereof, wee can∣not choose but resolue to answer this loue of God in our more ear∣nest and constant endeauors, for the time to come. Rom. 2.4.

9 And if we shal now withal wise∣ly lay to heart, what litle assurance we haue of any time to come: how that there is not any howre, nay moment, wherin we shall promise security to our selues, and put the euill day farre from vs, that wee may approach to the seat of ini∣quitie: whereas we may say to our soule, Now soule cast care away, be bold a litle with God, remit off thy sinceritie, &c. But that, euen in that moment, it may bee said vnto thee, Thou foole, thy soule shall bee taken from thee, surely this would moue vs rather to this dayly and continuall seruing of God, to adde somewhat vpon e∣uery

occasion, to the making sure of our election. Luke 12.21.

11 Especially, if we consider that our aduersary the diuell goeth a∣bout continually to entrap & de∣uoure vs, 12. and our owne wic∣ked and trecherous hearts are ne∣uer a sleepe to sinne to entertain Satan: ought wee not continually to stand vpon our guard, that so we may resist the diuel, & preserue our soules frō bondage. 1. Pet. 5.8.

13 Surely if we did but consider that while wee do not serue our blessed God in this holy & constāt maner, we in that meane time are seruants vnto sin: & so both break the peace of our consciences, in∣terrupt & hinder our sweet felow∣ship with our God, grieue his bles∣sed Spirit, & so expose our selues not onely to many secret wounds of conscience, but also to many outward blowes, and reproach∣full buffetings, not onely tending to bring some heauie affliction vpon our selues, but especial∣ly to lay reproach vppon our

profession, & to cause the name of our glorious God to bee blas∣phemed. This, if either wee loue our selues, or haue any zeale to the glory of our God, must cer∣tainly constrain vs to the conscio∣nable performance of this duty, e∣uen daily to endeauour somewhat to maintain our peace with God.

14 And had we no other respect but this: how wee might lay our selues downe in peace, how wee should sleep sweetly, how to lay al our cares vnder our pillow, & pre∣uent filthy & fearfull dreams, how to auoide feares of worldly casu∣alties as fire, theeues, &c. Surely we would settle our hearts by this course in the day, that they might not be vnsetled in the night.

15 Nay must we not be guilty of despising the blood of the coue∣nant, and esteeming of the Son of God as a prophane thing: If, see∣ing the Lord Iesus makes conti∣nuall intercession for vs at the throne of grace, that wee might dayly offer vp our soules and bo∣dies

as a liuing sacrifice in obedi∣ence vnto our God, wee shall not∣withstanding neglect this holy dutie, & either not serue our God at all, or serue him at our pleasure.

16 Will not this proue euen plaine wil-worship, and so abomi∣nable to God!

17 And shal we not be condem∣ned of horrible in gratitude, that when our God bestowes such bles∣sings on vs, and renues his mercies euery morning vnto vs: especially reuiues our liues to make vs capa∣ble thereof, wee shall yet despise this bountie of our God, and riote out his blessings to the dishonour of the giuer.

18 See that thou praise God for these, that walke thus constantly, not enuying their strictnesse, but imitating the same, delighting in their company, &c.

So the Lord giue vs vnderstan∣ding in these things.

And this shall be thy triall that thou hast profited by this direction.* 1.174

1 If thy conceit and iudgement

concerning the excellencie and benefit of a christian life, be more confirmed, and comfortable.

2 If thou findest more ease and delight in the practise thereof.

3 And yet by this practise attai∣nest to a greater sense of thy cor∣ruption & shortnes of perfection:

4 And canst go with more bold∣nesse and assurance vnto thy God to begge mercie and strength a∣gainst thy corruptions.

5 If thou canst now more de∣ny thine owne righteousnes, that so still thou maist bee found in Christ Iesus, feeling in him more comfortably, the acceptance of thy person.

6 And dayly drawing new ver∣tue from him to walke more con∣stantly with thy God.

7 If thou art desirous to prouoke thy brethren to vndertake this holy taske.

8 And art weaned more grati∣ously from the loue of the world, growing more contented with thine outward estate. And

10 Still hungring more ear∣nestly after the reuealing of the Sonnes of God.

11 If thou art more faithfull & conscionable in thy ciuill calling.

12 And art more thankfull vnto thy God for this his gratious assi∣stance:

13 If now thou canst more re∣ioyce in heauenly dueties and lesse, in such meanes which con∣cerne onely this life.

14 Yea canst more triumph that thou art growne a master of thy former incōstancie, that thou hast now attained a constāt measure of seruing thy blessed God, then for any recompence that may re∣dound vnto thee hereby.

15 If yet thou canst be more hum∣bled in the sense of thy wants thē any whit puffed vp with whatsoe∣uer thou hast already attained.

16 And so shalt still follow hard after the mark for the hie price of thy calling in Iesus Christ▪ Phil. 3.

17 If thou shalt grow more spiri∣tuall in the vse of outward com¦forts. And

18 Shalt also grow more wise to discerne between things that dif∣fer, being able

19 To trie the spirites whether they be of God or no, and yet

20 To maintaine the fellowship not iudging any before the time,

21 And yet reprouing sharpely that they may be sound, and

22 Yet reioycing in such as are be∣yond thee in this glorious course.

23 If thou canst more moderate thy selfe in thy Christian libertie doing not what thou maist do, but what is expedient, not what may respect thy priuate, but the pub∣licke good. And

24 Aiming at the chiefest good euen the glory of thy blessed God

25 Preferring the same, euen a∣boue thine owne saluation.

26 Comforting thy selfe in the acceptance of the purpose of thy heart.

27 As that thou neglectedst no good opportunity to expresse thy conscionable endeauours in some one or more of these holy duties,

as occasion is offered.

28 Examining thy selfe in priuat concerning the performance of them.

29 And so offering vp each duty in a sacrifice of obedience in thy priuate reckoning, & dayly casting vp of thy account, not enioying,

30 But esteeming highly of such that haue attained to some con∣stancie herein. And

31 So following the examples of the best in this holy course.

By these rules maist thou trie thy selfe, whether thou hast profi∣ted by this dayly direction.

And the benefit hereof will be ex∣ceeding great.* 1.175

As hath bin partly obserued here¦tofore; and further may be discer∣ned in these particulars.

As first, We shall preuent hereby that secret hypocrisie which accō∣panies holy duties, & shall attaine to more sinceritie, & plainnes, not onely in all actions towards God, but in our outward dealings to∣wards men: & so shal preuent much

reproach to our profession, and gaine much glory thereto. Yea

2 We shal be a means, hereby to shine as light in a froward gene∣ration, to the encrease of Christs kingdome, and so of our glory.

3 We shall also by this constant performance of these set and ne∣cessary duties, preuent all vnne∣cessary care & infidelity the roote therof, by keeping our selues with in the bounds of Gods protection, & quickning our faith in this liue∣ly expressing of the fruit thereof.

4 And so shall be better fitted to performe any extraordinary duty of visiting of thy distressed neigh∣bor; or resisting any violent tenta∣tion, or entertaining of some ex∣traordinary comfort of the spirit. Or expressing thy inward wants vnto thy God in prayer, or offring vp thy self, as a sacrifice of thanks∣giuing vnto thy God, &c. To these I say, & such like thou shalt be bet∣ter fitted by this daily sacrifice.

5 And shall not the mouth of i∣niquity be stopped by this cōstant

worship, that they shalbe conuin∣ced with the power of godlinesse, they shall iustifie God, and so ei∣ther brought to embrace him with vs, else fret away at our holy courses, and thereby do lesse hurt to vs, and hasten their owne dam∣nation. Shall not

6 The comming of Christ be ha∣stened, the means of religion held vp, the estates and kingdomes of Princes preserued hereby. Eccl. 9.

Conclusion.

The Lord giue vs vnderstan∣ding in these things.

7 Shall not this constant wor∣ship of God, though it be but in few, yea but in some one, keepe out the iudgement from the rest, else bee a means to saue our owne soules from a common deso∣lation Gen. 18.

8 Shall not the wiseman see the plague and hide himselfe. Prouer. 22.3. Though the foole runne on still and be taken in the trap.

9 Shall not the Lord thus pre∣serue one in a cittie, and two in a

Tribe, that they may be repairers of the breach, and the restorers of the paths to dwel in, that they may build vp the olde wast places, and raise vp the foundations for many generations. Ier. 3. Isay 58.12.

10 That so the face of the church may be renued and continued till the comming of Christ. Euen so Lord Iesus allure vs to this holy dutie, and hasten thy kingdome of Grace, that thy will may be done in our perfe∣ction to glory.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Sect. 2. Repentance how per∣formed.
• * 1.2

  1 By know∣ledge.
• * 1.3

  2 Sorrow.
• * 1.4

  3 By confes∣sion
• * 1.5

  In generall.
• * 1.6

  In particu∣lar.
• * 1.7

  4 By iud∣ging
• * 1.8

  5 By flying to Christ.
• * 1.9

  5 Forsaking sin, & how.
• * 1.10

  Section 3. Helpes to repentance.
• * 1.11

  Sect. 4. Markes of Repentance
• * 1.12

  Vse of Re∣pentance.
• * 1.13

  Note.
• * 1.14

  Sect. 7. Trial hereof
• * 1.15

  Ahab.
• * 1.16

  Rom. 2.
• * 1.17

  Sect. 2. The degrees of this worke.
• * 1.18

  Sect. 3. The markes of particu∣lar assu∣rance.
• * 1.19

  Sect. 4. The degrees thereof. Weakenesse of Faith.
• * 1.20

  How knowne.
• * 1.21

  The grounds hereof.
• * 1.22

  Sect. 1. The heart a sleepe, and by what meanes.
• * 1.23

  Sect. 2· The heart to be awa∣kened, and how.
• * 1.24

  Sect. 3. The heart a∣wakened, must be exa∣mined. And how.
• * 1.25

  1 By a true rule.
• * 1.26

  2. An holy manner.
• * 1.27

  3. To a right end.
• * 1.28

  Sect. 4. The heart examined must be e∣stablished in the wor∣ship of God.
• * 1.29

  And how.
• * 1.30

  How to know the beloued sin.
• * 1.31

  How to con∣quer it.
• * 1.32

  Sect. 7. Trial hereof
• * 1.33

  Sect. 1. The parts of the spiritu∣all armour; and first of the girdle of Truth. Its parts are:
• * 1.34

  Sect. 2. 1 A rectifi∣ed Iudge∣ment.
• * 1.35

  The benefit thereof.
• * 1.36

  Sect. 3. The sancti∣fied consci∣ence, and how discer∣ned.
• * 1.37

  How put on
• * 1.38

  The benefit thereof.
• * 1.39

  Sect. 4. The sinceri-of the will. It markes.
• * 1.40

  It measure.
• * 1.41

  The benefit hereof.
• * 1.42

  Sect. 5.
• * 1.43

  The well ordering of the affecti∣ons, & how discerned.
• * 1.44

  The benefit thereof.
• * 1.45

  Sect. 6. The sinceri∣tie of the Tongue: Wherein it is seene.
• * 1.46

  Sect. 7. Of speech, and,

  • 1 Of the preparation to it.
  • 2 And bee hath pro∣mised to blesse this meanes to this end.
  • 3 And the Saints haue practised this duty profitably.
• * 1.47

  Sect. 8. The matter of speech.
• * 1.48

  Sect. 9. How to speake of God.
• * 1.49

  Sect. 4. How to speake of our neigh∣bour.
• * 1.50

  Sect. 15. What heere to be auoy∣ded.
• * 1.51

  How to speake in dispraise of our selues.
• * 1.52

  Sect. 14 Of things to be spoken
• * 1.53

  How to speake of what wee know.
• * 1.54

  Sect. 15. The maner of speech, & 1 It must be gratious.
• * 1.55

  Sect. 16.2 Our speech must be true.
• * 1.56

  Sect. 17. Of the bonds of truth. 1 Euidences
• * 1.57

  How to af∣firme in doubtfull cases.
• * 1.58

  3 The mat∣ter.
• * 1.59

  4 The manner.
• * 1.60

  5 He that may sweare
• * 1.61

  6 The ende and causes of an oath.
• * 1.62

  6 Before whom we must sweare
• * 1.63

  7 When
• * 1.64

  8 How an oath binds.
• * 1.65

  9 The abu∣ses of an oth
• * 1.66

  Sect. 21. Of flattery.
• * 1.67

  Sest. 22. Concealing of truth.
• * 1.68

  Sect. 23. The third grace of speech.
• * 1.69

  Reuerence, and that 1. In respect of God.
• * 1.70

  2. Of man.
• * 1.71

  Sect. 24. To giue ho∣ly names to to our chil∣dren.
• * 1.72

  Sect. 25. Reuerence to our supe∣riour.
• * 1.73

  Here for∣bidden.
• * 1.74

  1. Blasphe∣mie.
• * 1.75

  2. All abuse of scripture
• * 1.76

  2. Abuse of our selues.
• * 1.77

  Sect. 26. A fourth grace of speech So∣brietie, and Modestie.
• * 1.78

  And where in.
• * 1.79

  Sect. 27. Of saluatiōs
• * 1.80

  Popish bles∣sing to bee moderated.
• * 1.81

  Sect. 28. Of soft an∣answering.
• * 1.82

  Sect. 28. Of reproofe of sinne.
• * 1.83

  Sect. 30. A fit grace of speech is cheerfulnes and ioy. It conditi∣ons.
• * 1.84

  How fitted to the boord
• * 1.85

  How for bed.
• * 1.86

  Here to bee auoyded.
• * 1.87

  1 Iesting with it bounds.
• * 1.88

  2 Laughter
• * 1.89

  Sect. 31. A sixt grace of speech, care of our neighbours good name. 1 How per∣formed. 2 What a∣uoyded.
• * 1.90

  Sect. 32. The seuenth grace of speech: slownesse & briefnes.
• * 1.91

  Rules here∣in.
• * 1.92

  Sect. 33 Of silence, and the right vse thereof.
• * 1.93

  Things to be conceald And first, wherein si∣lence is to be vsed.
• * 1.94

  1 Concer∣ning God.
• * 1.95

  2 Concer∣ning our selues.
• * 1.96

  3 What to be conceald Aug. lib. ad conser.
• * 1.97

  4 Before whom we must keepe silence.
• * 1.98

  Sect.34. Last part of the Girdle: Conformi••••••ie of outward actions.
• * 1.99

  The end what,
• * 1.100

  1 Gods glo∣ry.
• * 1.101

  2 Edificati∣on how ac∣complished.
• * 1.102

  How appli∣ed.
• * 1.103

  Benefite of this part of the Girdle.
• * 1.104

  Sect. 35. The Breast-plate of righteous∣nesse
• * 1.105

  1. What it is
• * 1.106

  2. The vse of this part.
• * 1.107

  How to bee attained, and preser∣ued.
• * 1.108

  Sect. 37. A fourth part of the Armour, the shield of faith.
• * 1.109

  It vse.
• * 1.110

  Sect. 38. The fifth part the hel∣met of hope.
• * 1.111

  Sect. 39. The last part the sword of the Spirit.
• * 1.112

  1. It vse.
• * 1.113

  2 How obtained.
• * 1.114

  3 Triall ••••••ereof.
• * 1.115

  4. How kept on.
• * 1.116

  Sect. 40. The general benefit of the whole armie.
• * 1.117

  Sest. 1. Difference of euill.
• * 1.118

  Sect. 2. What the e∣uill of sin is.
• * 1.119

  Sect. 3. The vse of this know∣ledge.
• * 1.120

  Sect. 4 How farre sinne hath taken hold on man.
• * 1.121

  The benefit of this knowledge.
• * 1.122

  Sect. 4. Gods orde∣ring sinnes
• * 1.123

  And the vse
• * 1.124

  Sect. 5. How sinne to be auoy∣ded.
• * 1.125

  And first how preuēted 1. gene∣rally.
• * 1.126

  How to bee imployed in our callings generally.
• * 1.127

  How to vse Christian li∣berty aright
• * 1.128

  2 How in particular we may re∣sist sinne.
• * 1.129

  Sect. 6 How to re∣couer out of sinne.
• * 1.130

  1 By view∣ing sin, and that first in the Law.
• * 1.131

  2 In the Gospel.
• * 1.132

  2 By iudge∣ing.
• * 1.133

  Resons and motiues hereto.
• * 1.134

  Meanes of growing.
• * 1.135

  Desire how quickned.
• * 1.136

  Carnall and false rules.
• * 1.137

  Knowledge how to bee rooted.
• * 1.138

  How to mo∣••••••erate in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Christi∣••••••n liberty.
• * 1.139

  Heb. 11.
• * 1.140

  1 Thess. 2.
• * 1.141

  To inferiors
• * 1.142

  Manner of spirituall groweh.
• * 1.143

  Measure of growth.
• * 1.144

  Meanes.
• * 1.145

  Helpes to grow.
• * 1.146

  Triall of growth.
• * 1.147

  Sect. 2. It vse and benefit.
• * 1.148

  Sect. 3.
• * 1.149

  How to speake of Gods mer∣cies.
• * 1.150

  3 Thanke∣fulnes must be perfor∣med in life.
• * 1.151

  Sect. 3. What euils to be auoi∣ded.
• * 1.152

  Sect. 6. Helpes to thankfulnes
• * 1.153

  Sect. 7. Benefit thereof.
• * 1.154

  Sect. 1. It is most necessary.
• * 1.155

  Sect. 2. Grounds of perseuerāce
• * 1.156

  Sect. 3. Remouing the hinde∣rances here,
• * 1.157

  1 of the fall of Gods chil¦dren and the cause thereof.
• * 1.158

  2 The bene∣fite thereof.
• * 1.159

  3 How far the regene∣rate fall.
• * 1.160

  4 Danger of the falles of the Elect.
• * 1.161

  Sect. 5. Of the dif∣ference be∣tweene thē and the wicked in their falles.
• * 1.162

  Sect. 5. Vse hereof.
• * 1.163

  Sect. 6. Helpes to perseuerāce
• * 1.164

  And how
• * 1.165

  1. It vse.
• * 1.166

  2 How per∣formed.
• * 1.167

  3 Helpes to it.
• * 1.168

  1 It vse.
• * 1.169

  How per∣formed.
• * 1.170

  Note.
• * 1.171

  3 The bene∣fit of prayer
• * 1.172

  3 How per∣formed.
• * 1.173

  Helpes thereto.
• * 1.174

  Triall hereof.
• * 1.175

  Benefit here¦of.