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CHAP. VII.
The Plowman guides his Plow with care and skill. So doth the Spirit, in sound conviction still.OBSERVATION.
IT requires not only strength, but much skill and judg∣ment, to manage and guide the plow. The Hebrew word which we translate to plow, signifies to be intent, as an Ar∣tificer is about some curious piece of work. The plow must neither go too shallow nor too deep in the earth; it must not indent the ground by making crooked furrows, nor leap and make baulks in good ground; but be guided as to a just depth of earth, so to cast the furrow in a straight line, that the floor or surface of the field may be made plain. As it is Isa. 28. 25. And hence that expression, Luke 9. 62. He that puts his hand to the plow, and looks back, is not fit for the King∣dom of Heaven. The meaning is, that as he that plows, must have his eyes alwayes forward, to guide and direct his hand in casting the furrows straight and even; (for his hand will be quickly out when his eye is off). So he that heartily resolves for heaven, must addict himself wholly and intently to the business of Religion, and not have his mind intangled with the things of this world, which he hath left behind him; whereby it appears, that the right management of the plow, requires as much skill as strength.
APPLICATION.
THis Observation in nature, serves exc••llently to sha∣dow forth this proposition in Divi••ity. That the work of the Spirit in convincing and humbling the heart of a sin∣ner, is a work wherein much of the wisdom, as well as power of God is discovered. The work of repentance and saving