A treatise of the divine promises in five bookes : in the first, a generall description of their nature, kinds, excellency, right use, properties, and the persons to whom they belong : in the foure last, a declaration of the covenant it selfe .../ by Edvvard Legh ...

THE THIRD BOOK.* 1.1 (Book 3)

CHAP. 1. 2. SPIRITVALL PROMISES. 1. In regard of evill, from Temptations

• 1. Of Satan in ge∣nerall.
• 2. To uncleannesse.

Comforts against the temptati∣ons of Satan.

THE Faithfull have a promise to preserve them from such temp∣tations as are incident

to their lawfull callings, and which they cannot avoid unlesse they would forsake their calling, Psal. 91.11, 12. In all thy waies (seeme they never so dangerous and full of temptation) they shall beare thee up.* 1.2 The man whose heart is upright shall finde strength enough against every temptation, while he is in the LORDS way, Pro. 10.29. 2 Chron. 15.2.

There is much comfort to be drawne out of that one verse, 1 Cor. 10.13.

• * 1.31. It is the common con∣dition of all the godly, to be tempted. There hath no temp∣tation taken you but such as is common to man.
• 2. GOD will lay no more upon us, then wee shall be able to beare, GOD is faithfull who will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able.
• 3. GOD will give a happie issue out of tempta∣tion: Who will with the temp∣tation

• ... also make away to es∣cape, that yee may be able to beare it.

Another consolation against them, may be the short continu∣ance of our temptations, Wee shall suffer but a while, 1 Pet. 5.10. The GOD of pe••ce shall bruise Satan under your feete shortly, Rom. 16.20.

We should consider, 1 That CHRIST was tempted as we are, Heb. 4.15.

2. That he is our Captaine in this warfare, Rev. 12 7. The Cap∣taine of our salvation was made per∣fect through sufferings, Heb. 2.10.

3. That he overcame the Di∣vell for all his members; so it was promised to Adam and pro∣phesied of him, Gen. 3.15. so it was fulfilled by him, Mat. 4.1. And having spoiled principalities and powers (that is, the Divell and his Angels) He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them upon ••he Crosse, Coloss. 2.15. He led cap∣tivity

captive, Ephes. 4.8. By cap∣tivity is meant sinne and Satan, which did and doe leade men captive into perdition:* 1.4 ••. Death and the grave which held him captive for the space of three daies. He leads them all captive: 1. In himselfe, triumphing over them. 2. In his members, a 1.5 sub∣duing and weakening their power.

4. That CHRIST is tou∣ched with the feeling of our in∣firmities, Heb. 4.15.

5. That hee hath made inter∣cession and prayed for us, Luke 22.32. I have prayed that thy faith may not faile; that is generall for all beleevers as well as Peter, Ioh. 17.9, 10.

6. CHRIST succours and helpes those that are tempted, Heb. 2.18.

7. He assures them of b 1.6 strength and victory; Resist the Divell, and he will flie from you, Iam. 4.7. He is like the Crocodile, whose pro∣perty is, if one follow, it flieth

away; if one flie, it pursueth him; cowardise incourageth the Divell, courage daunts him. See 1 Iohn 5.18. Esa. 27.1. Iohn 12.21. The c 1.7 Divell is subtill, but GOD will teach wisdome to discerne and disappoint his stratagems, 2 Pet. 2.9. He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, Psal. 91.3 He is strong and powerfull; But GOD shall cover thee under his wings, thou shalt be d 1.8 safe under his feathers, his strength shall be thy Buckler. ver. 4. He dissolveth the workes of the Divell, 1 Iohn 3.8. He will tread Satan under our feet. Hee shall bruise his head, wherein lies all his subtilty and strength. e 1.9 The gates of Hell (that is, the power and pollicie of the Divell) shall not prevaile against the Church. For the gates were the places, where both their strength was and their counsell sate, Amos 5.15.

2. Promises against Temptati∣ons to uncleannesse.

He shall deliver thee from the strange woman, Prov. 2.16. Thy body shall be kept blamelesse untill the comming of CHRIST, 1 Thess. 5.24 Who so pleaseth GOD shall escape from her, Eccles. 7.26.

It is part of GODS Covenant to give us victory over all our enemies: this is the great pro∣mise that GOD hath made; That being delivered from the hands of all our enemies, we might serve him in Holinesse and Righ∣teousnesse all the d••ies of our life, Luke 1.74. When a child of GOD is to wrestle with Satan, or any temptation or lust, hee may chal∣lenge the Covenant at GODS hands, and say, LORD hast not thou said that Thou wilt deliver me out of the hands of all mine enemies? Is it not a part of thy Covenant?

CHAP. II. 2. Promises against opposition for truth and good∣nesse from per∣sons, which are either

• 1. Ill min∣ded and op∣pose truth.
• 2. Ill livers and oppose goodnesse.

1. Promises for those that suffer for the profession of the truth.

FOR I will give you a mouth and wisedome which all your adversa∣ries shall not bee able to gainesay nor resist,* 1.10 Luke 21.15.

When they deliver you up, take no thought how or what you shall speake, for it sh••ll be given you in that same houre what yee shall speake, Matt. 10.19.

Be not afraid (said GOD unto Paul) but speake,* 1.11 and hold not thy peace, for I am with thee,

and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee, Acts 18.9, 10.

Whosoever shall confesse me be∣fore men, him will I confesse also before my Father which is in Hea∣ven, Matth. 10.32.

2. Promises for those that suffer for the practise of good.

* 1.12Blessed are they which are per∣secuted for righteousnesse sake, for theirs is the kingdome of Heaven, Matth. 5.10. If yee suffer for righ∣teousnesse sake, happy are ye, 1 Pet. 3.14. Hereby they give their te∣stimony to CHRIST and the Gospell, when they partake of the afflictions of the Gospell, 2 Tim. 1.8.

And as there be promises for such as suffer either for truth or goodnesse, so there are for such who suffer for both together, and these either

Generall in regard of any kind of suffering, as these fol∣lowing.

For if they suffer with CHRIST, they shall raigne with him in ano∣ther world, 2 Tim. 2.11, l2. When CHRIST appeares in his glory, they shall be glad and reioyce, 1 Pet. 4.13. What shall separate us from the love of CHRIST? shall tribulation, distresse, or persecu∣tion, &c▪ nay in all these things we are more then conquerours, * 1.13 Rom. 8.35, 36, 37.

GOD may turne the hearts of the wicked,* 1.14 and make them of Lions and Tigers, to become Lambes, and no more to doe hurt in the mountaine of the LORD, Esay 11.6, 7, 8, 9. Esay 65.25.

GOD will subdue all their ene∣mies; I will blesse them that blesse thee, and curse them that curse thee, Gen. 12.3. See Deut. 30.7 Jer. 12.14. Psal. 37.14, 15, 17. Job 8.22. Esay 41.11, 12. & 54.15. & 59.19. Pro. 22.23. & 21.18.

Their troubles shall not be long, though violent, For the elects sake those daies shall be

shortened, Matth. 24.22.

• Or Speciall,
  • as Losse,
    • 1. Of name, in reproa∣ches.
    • 2. Of liberty, in im∣prisonment.
    • 3. Of goods, any or all.
    • 4. Of life it selfe.

Promises to those that suffer re∣proaches for both truth and goodnesse.

1. Reproaches and scornes from the world for thy professi∣on, should fill thy heart with abundance of glory, blessednesse and joy. If ye be reproached for the name of CHRIST, happy are ye (saith S. Peter) for the Spirit of glory and of GOD resteth upon you,* 1.15 1 Pet. 4.14. that is, such a Spirit shall rest on you, which shall make you glorious. Blessed are you (saith CHRIST himselfe) when men shall revile, and persecute

you, and shall say all manner of evill against you falsly for my sake,* 1.16 reioyce and be exceeding glad, Matth. 5.11, 12. Leape for joy, so it is, Luke 6.23. and the word here in Matth. signifieth excee∣ding joy, such as we use to ex∣presse by outward signes in the body, as skipping and dancing, 2 Sam. 6.14, 16. For great is your reward in Heaven.

Thou art honourable in GODS account, Esay 43.4. he takes no∣tice of all thy disgraces, Psal. 69.19. and will take care for thy clearing and comfort, Hee will bring forth thy righteousnesse as the light, and thy iudgements as the noone day, Psal. 37.6. As if hee should have said, howsoever thy innocency be at sometimes covered as it were with a thick and darke mist of slander and oppression, yet the LORD will in his good time scatter and dissolve the mist, and so make thy innocency apparent to the world; yea he shall make thy

righteous cause, as evident as the Sunne when it ariseth, nay as noone day when it is at highest, and shineth brightest. Thou shalt receive double for all thy shame, Esay 61.7. Though you have lien among the pots, yet shall yee be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold, Psal 68.13. that is, although ye have lived in great streights and basenesse, yet yee shall be freed from them,* 1.17 and obtaine il∣lustrious glory.

They shall be honoured in the day of CHRIST, 1 Pet. 1.7. Their reward shall be great in Hea∣ven, Mat. 5.12. and in the meane time there is with GOD a hiding place from the strife of tongues, Psal. 31.20. Iob 5.21. Psal. 13.18. How doth GOD cheare his people, Esay 41. Feare not, be not dismayed, ver. 10. I am with thee, I am thy GOD, I will strengthen thee, yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteous∣nesse. But GOD will bring the

wicked to shame for the con∣tempt with which they have di∣sho••oured his servants, as it fol∣loweth, ver. 11. All they that were incensed against thee, shall be ashamed and confounded. He still incourageth his people there, ver. 13. He saith againe: Feare not, for I the LORD thy GOD will helpe thee,* 1.18 and ver. 14. Feare not thou worme, (that is, were thy state never so weake and de∣spicable) I will helpe thee, saith the LORD and thy Redeemer. He begins the 43. Chap. with the same words; Feare not, viz. thine enemies, for I have called thee, and redeemed thee, thou art mine. Feare not little flocke (saith our Saviour) feare not men, feare not meanes, for it is your Fathers pleasure to give you a Kingdome.* 1.19 See Ier. 46.27, 28.

If thou wouldest be delivered from reproches and evill report, goe to the LORD and urge him upon Covenant; say, LORD thou hast said, Thou wilt blesse the

name of the righteous, thou will honour them that honour thee, that we shall not be ashamed when we have respect unto all thy Commande∣ments, Psal. 119.6. Sue out this promise upon all occasions, as David often doth, Psal. 31.1, 17 and 119.116.

2. Promises to those that are imprisoned for the Gospell.

The LORD heareth the poore and despiseth not his prisoners, Psal. 69.33. Hee heareth the groanings of the prisoner, Psal. 102.20. And bringeth out those that are bound with chaines, Psal. 68.6. as he did Peter, Acts 12.10. Feare non•• of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold the Divell shall cast some of you into prison that yee may be tryed, and yee shall have tribula∣tion ten daies: be thou faithfull unto the death,* 1.20 and I will give thee a crowne of life. Here was a bitter∣sweet message, Yee shall be cast into prison:* 1.21 This was bitter:

feare not, this was comfortable; but I will give thee a crowne of life, this was the comfort of com∣forts.

3. Promises to those that loose outward things for GODS cause.

In losses for GODS cause:

We should meditate of GODS gracious promises.

1. In the losse of outward things for thy love and service unto GOD, remember that place, 2 Chron. 25.9. The LORD is able to give thee much more then this.

2. In the losse of any earthly blessing for GODS cause, call to mind that promise three times set downe by the Evangelists: Every one that hath forsaken hou∣ses, or brethren, or sisters, or father,* 1.22 or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my names sake, shall re∣ceive an hundred * 1.23 fold, and shall inherit everlasting life, Mat. 19.29. Marke 10.29, 30. Hath it for my

sake and the Gospels, Luke 18.29, 30. For the kingdome of GODS sake.

3. In the losse of any earthly things in every kind, thinke of that speech, Hab. 3.17, 18. Al∣though the fig-tree shall not blossome, neither shall fruit be in the vines: the labour of the olive shall faile, and the fields shall yeeld no meate, the flocke shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no heard in the stalles: Yet I will reioyce in the LORD: I will ioy in the GOD of my salvation. Consider also Iobs patient blessing of GOD, upon the surprize and concurrence of an universall misery, Iob 1.22.

4. Promises to those that loose their life for GODS cause.

4. When thou art like to loose thy life, m••ditate on those places, Mat. 10 39. He that findeth his life shall loose it,* 1.24 and he that loo∣seth his life for my sake shall find it. Blessed is the man that endureth

temptation, (yea though it be the fiery triall) for he shall receive the crowne of life, Jam. 1.12.* 1.25 Blessed are the dead which die in LORD; and which die for the LORD: he speakes of such as suffered in the quarrell of CHRIST under Antichrist, they rest from their la∣bours, and their workes doe follow them. Every drop of blood spilt by a true professor of the Gos∣pell, for the constant and found profession of it, is precious in the sight of GOD, Psal. 116.15. Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his Saints.

CHAP. III Promises against evills in the world,

1. In generall.

WHosoever is borne of GOD overcommeth the world, and this is the victory

that overcommeth the world, even our faith, 1 Joh. 5.4. CHRIST prayed to his Father, To keepe his from the evill of the world, Joh. 17.15.* 1.26 Who gave himselfe for our sinnes that hee might deliver us from this present evill world, Gal. 1.4. Our Saviour, Iohn 16.33. tells his Disciples, That in the world they should have tribulation, but be of good cheere (saith hee) I have overcome the world.

2. A promise to those that dislike evill company.

I will dwell in them, and walke in them, and I will be their GOD, and they shall be my people. Where∣fore come out from among them, and be yee separate saith the LORD, and touch not the uncleane thing, and I will receive you, and I will be a Father unto you, and yee shal be my sonnes and daughters, saith the LORD Almighty, 2 Cor. 6.16, 17, 18.

3. Promises against worldly cares and covetousnesse.

To curbe our hearts from co∣vetousnesse, we should meditate upon these places, Heb. 13.5. * 1.27 I will never leave thee nor for∣sake thee. Hee that gave us his owne sonne, how shall hee not with him freely give us all things, Rom. 8.32. See Matth. 6.25. to the end. Phil. 4.6. 1 Tim. 4.8. 1 Pet. 5.7.

4. Promises against Scandales.

GOD will secure his peo∣ple and save them from being en∣snared by scandals, Psal. 119.165. and nothing shall offend them, or they shall have no stumbling block. Ier. 31.9.

CHAP. IIII. Infirmities are,

• 1. Generall, as sinfullnesse of nature, that remaines, though it raigne not.
• 2. Speciall.

• 1. IGnorance.
• 2. Spirituall deafe∣nesse.
• 3. Slips and frail∣ties. Here Promises
  • 1. To keepe them from fal∣ling.
  • 2. To comfort them being fallen, and restore them a∣gaine.
• 4. Spirituall lamenesse.
• 5. Doubts and feares of losing the love of GOD.
• 6. Forgetfullnesse.
• 7. Dullnesse and uncheerefull∣nesse.
• 8. Indisposition to good.
• 9. Distractions in good.
• ...

• 10. Evils of good done.
• 11. Feares of falling away from GOD.

Comforts to the godly, who likewise want the meanes of grace, either altogether, or in the power of them, or having them doe not profit by them.

1. Generall or daily Infirmi∣ties. Comforts to those that do fall though Infirmity.

The LORD, The LORD GOD, mercifull and gracious, long suffering, and abundant in goodnesse and truth, keeping mercy for thou∣sands, forgiving iniquity, trans∣gression and sinne, Exod. 34.6, 7.

Hee is JEHOVAH] Al∣waies the same, unchangeable, hee will not alter his love to thee, and for the more assurance he repeateth that title twice;

then followeth his power, GOD * 1.28] Though thou be weake, he is strong. Mercifull] or compassionate towards rep••n∣tant and beleeving sinners, and though they be unworthy, yet he is Gracious.] The Hebrew word signifieth to powre out abun∣dance of extraordinary bounty upon a most undeserving and ill deserving partie. (He will shew mercy, not because thou art good, but because he is Good; not be∣cause thou canst please him, but because mercy pleaseth him, Micah 7.18.) though thou offer∣dest daily, yet he is Long-suffe∣ring,] and Abundant in goodnesse and truth] 1. In Goodnesse] rea∣dy to bestow all benefits. 2. In Truth,] ready to fulfill all pro∣mises, * 1.29 keeping kindnesse for thou∣sands,] a certaine number for an uncertaine; forgiving iniquity, transgression and sinne] that is, sinnes of all sorts, kinds and de∣grees whatsoever. It is neither the foulenesse of sinne, nor the

multitude of sinnes, nor the long continuance in sinne that can prejudice his goodnesse.* 1.30

GOD upon our prayer will cure our infirmities, Esay 40.29. Psal. 103.3. hee pittieth his in their infirmities, as an Indulgent ••ather his little ones, Mal. 3.17. CHRIST himselfe is affected with the sence of our infirmi∣ties, Heb. 4.15, 16. Matth. 11.28. and Esay 42.3. he was a Pro∣••itiation for such sinnes, and com∣forts us concerning them before they be committed, 1 Iohn 2.12. Rom. 6.14. The Spirit helpes our ••nfirmities, * 1.31 Rom. 8.26. helpes ••ogether: the Greeke word is decompound, and there is a great force in it; as two that car∣ry a burden, one will carry over ••gainst another, and put to his ••and and helpe him; so when we begin to sinke, GODS Spi∣rit puts under his hand to support ••s, which is said in so many words, Psal. 37.24.

O but I offend daily, I sinne

againe and againe, may some weake Christian say.

GOD promiseth likewise that he will multiply his pardons (so the word signifieth in the Origi∣nall) as thou hast multiplied thy sinnes,* 1.32 for (saith he there) My thoughts are not as your thoughts, nor my waies as your waies, but my thoughts goe beyond your thoughts, as much as the distance is betweene Heaven and earth: He is mercifull and and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy, hee will not reward us after our iniqui∣ties: for as the Heaven is high above the Earth, so great is his mercy toward them that feare him, Psal. 103.8, 10, 11. As there is a continuall spring of wicked∣nesse in you, so there is a continu∣all spring of mercy * 1.33 flowing from him, both to pardon, and wash away this iniquity.

Speciall Infirmities. 1. Ignorance or blindnesse. Comforts against ignorance.

It is a speciall promise of GOD in the new Covenant,* 1.34 that Hee will write his lawes in thy heart, and hee will make thee to know the LORD.

He hath promised to leade thee by a way that thou hast not knowne, Esay 42.16. wee have such an High Priest as knowes how to have compassion on the ig∣norant, Heb. 5.2, 3. The eyes of the blinde shall be opened, Esay 35.2. Hee shall open the eyes of the blind, Esay 42.2. Luke 4.18.

The annointing thou hast re∣ceived, shall teach thee all needfull things, and leade thee into all truth, 1 Ioh. 2.27.

GOD hath made many pro∣mises to teach them his way, that see their ignorance and mourne for it.

Hee will guide the meeke in iudgement and will teach the hum∣ble his way, Psal. 25.9. See 12. & 14. verses.

GOD will fill the hungry with good things, Luke 1.53.

To him that disposeth his way aright will I shew the salvation of the LORD, Psal. 50.23.

He that followeth mee shall not walke in darkenesse, but shall have the light of life, Joh. 8.12. I will manifest my selfe to him, John 14.21. The Spirit of truth will guide them into all truth, John 16.13. A high way shall be there, and fooles shall not erre therein, Esay 35.8.

2. Spirituall deafenesse. Comforts against spirituall deafenesse.

The cares of the deafe shall be unstopped, Esay 35.5. Other sheepe I have which are not of this fold, them also I must bring, and they shall heare my voice, Ioh. 10.16. that is, the Gentiles not yet cal∣led shall understand the voice of GOD.

3. Particular falls through frailty.

Comforts in regard of slips and frailties.

1. GOD will uphold his and keepe them from falling.

I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldst keepe them from the evill, Joh. 17.20. The LORD is faithfull, who shall stablish you and keepe you from evill, 2 Thess. 3.3. That your whole soule and body may be preserved blamelesse unto the comming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. Faith∣full is hee that calleth you, who ••lso will doe it, 1 Thess. 5.23, 24. GOD watcheth over his peo∣ple to defend them from sinne, 2 Tim. 4 17, 18. Rom. 7.24, 25. Psa. 73.23, 24. Ier. 32.39, 40. His mercy holdeth up the godly, when they say their foot slippeth, Psal. 94.18. He will be their confidence, and shall keepe their foot from being taken, Pro. 3.26. He will keepe the feete of his Saints, 1 Sam. 2.9. And guide their feete into the way of peace,

Luke 1.79. And thine eare shall heare a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walke yee in it, when yee turne to the right hand and when yee turne to the left, Esay 30.21.

The childe of GOD hath a promise of preservation from the sinne unpardonable, 1 Iohn 5.18.

2. Comforts to those that doe fall through infirmity.

But of this I have spoken al∣ready, when I treated of the dai∣ly and generall Infirmities of Christians, therefore I will (tan∣quam can••s ad Nilum) runne over it hastily.

GODS people after re∣lapse into some old, or fall into some new sinne, when their heart is smitten for it, may comfort themselves with such precious places as these, 1 Ioh. 2.1. Luke 17.4. 1 Sam. 12.20, 22. 1 Iohn 1.9.

From this last place, a reverend

Divine collects this comfort. If wee see our unworthinesse, and with broken hearts acknowledge it, GOD is faithfull and iust to forgive it, be it never so great.

Thou hast played the harlot with many lovers, yet returne againe to mee saith the LORD, Ier. 3.1.

3. The LORD will restore them, and raise them up againe by repentance.* 1.35 The LORD will heale thy backesliding, if thou take unto thee words to confesse thy falling away, Hosea 14.2, 3, 4. There is healing in the wings of the Sonne of righteousnesse, and you shall grow up as the calves of the stall, Mal. 4.2. The LORD up∣holdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that are bowed downe, Psal. 145.14. Behold I will bring it health and cure,* 1.36 and I will cure them, and will reveale unto them the abundance of peace and truth, Ier. 32.6.

Hee speakes Ezek. 34.16. of the time of the Gospell when

CHRIST should bee the Shepheard, and shewes the Co∣venant that he will make with those that are his, if any thing be lost (saith he) if a Sheepe lose it selfe, this is my Covenant, I will finde it. If it be driven away by any violence of temptation, I will bring it backe againe. If there be a breach made into their hearts by any occasion through sinne and lust, I will heale them and binde them up.

GODS Covenant is to make us faithfull in his Covenant: the actions of faith and repentance are ours; but the power of doing them, GODS.

4. Spirituall Lamenesse. Comforts against Spirituall Lamenesse, or weaknesses of graces.

Then shall the lame man leape as an Hart, Esay 35.6. And I will put my spirit within you,* 1.37 and

cause you to walke in my statutes, and yee shall keepe my iudgements and doe them, Ezek. 36.27.* 1.38 They shall runne and not be wearie, * 1.39 they shall walke and not be saint, Esay 40.31. See ver. 29. The LORD will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the chil∣dren of Israel, Joel 3 16.

In our Spirituall infancie we may comfort our selves by those cordi••ll refreshing promises.

I will give unto him that is a thirst of the fountaine of the water of life freely, Rev. 21.6.* 1.40 A bruised reede shall he not breake, and the smoaking flaxe shall he not quench, Esay 42.3. though grace be in us but like the heate in the weeke of the candle, when the light is out; yet GOD hath taken order, that it shall not be extinguished. Hee shall feede his flocke like a shepheard, he shall gather the lambes with his arme, and carry them in his bosome, and shall gently leade those that are with young, Esay 40.11. Hee will use all com∣passion

with a tender respect of our weakenesse. In love, in care, in pittie he will redeeme us, and carry us as in the daies of old, Esay 63.9. As he hath borne us from the wombe; so will he be the same still unto old age, even unto the gray haires, hee will carry us in the armes of his compassion, hee hath made us, hee will beare, even hee will carry and deliver us, Esay 46.3, 4. Since thou art a branch of his planting,* 1.41 he may glorifie himselfe in thee, so as thy little one may be as a thousand, and thy small one as a strong nation, GOD can performe it in his due time, Esay 60.21, 22.

CHRIST graciously recei∣veth and tenderly cherisheth weake Christians, Zach. 13.7. Matth. 18.5. Hee giveth charge against the contempt of them, verse 10. and will not have the day of small things despised, Zach. 4.10.

* 1.42The obedience o•• the faith∣full

is weake and imperfect, but pleasing and acceptable unto GOD. The Psalmist saith, Psal. 147.11 & 149.4.

The LORD taketh pleasure in his people, * 1.43 the prayers of the up∣right are his delight.

GOD will reckon of so much good done by us, as wee desired and endeavoured to doe; the preparations of our hearts are reckoned with GOD as great things, Esay 55.1.

This is a great comfort to GODS children,* 1.44 that doe their best indeavour to keepe all his Commandements, for though they faile in that obedience which they ought to performe, yet GOD promiseth to shew mer∣cy to them, Exod. 26.6. so long as their heart is true, he will beare with their infirmities.

Wee are not under the law (saith the Apostle) but under grace, Rom. 6.14. We are delivered from the rigour of the Law: GOD hath received us to the benefit of

that Covenant, in which per∣fection is onely required in CHRIST, uprightnesse in us. GOD accepts of the will for the deed,* 1.45 2 Cor. 8.12. and the will above the deed, as appea∣reth by the 10. verse, Who hath not onely begunne to doe, but also to be forward a yeare agoe; making it a greater grace to be willing and desirous to doe well, then it is to doe a good thing.

5. Doubts and Feares of losing the love of GOD. Comforts against doubts and feares of loosing the love of GOD.

In the affliction of thy minde and losse of the feeling of GODS favour,* 1.46 acquaint thy selfe with those promises, Iohn 13.1. Having loved his owne which were in the world, he loved them unto the end, and without end. The* 1.47 gifts and calling of GOD

are without repentance: that is, such gifts as accompany an effectuall calling, are such as GOD never repenteth of, or ta∣keth away, I will not forsake my people, 1 King. 6.13. Heb. 13.5. Behold GOD will not cast away a perfect man, Iob 8.20. The love of GOD unto his childe, in re∣spect of tendernesse, is infinitely dearer then that of a most loving mother to her little one, Esay 49.15. stronger then the stony mountaines and rockes of flint, Esay 54.10. as constant as the waters of Noah, ver. 9. as the ordinances of Heaven. Ier. 33.20 and ver. 25. nay as sure as GOD himselfe, Psal. 89.33, 34, 35.

6. Forgetfullnesse. A promise against forgetfull∣nesse.

But the Comforter which is the HOLY GHOST whom the Fa∣ther will send in my name, he shall

teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance what∣soever I have said unto you, Iohn 14.26.

7. Vncheerefullnesse. Comforts against dullnesse and uncheerefullnesse.

The wildernesse and solitary place shall be glad for them, and the de∣sart shall reioyce and blossome as the rose, it shall blossome abun∣dantly, and reioyce even with ioy and singing, Esay 35.1, 2. Then shall yee sucke, yee shall be borne upon her sides, and be dandled upon her knees. As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you, and yee shall be comforted in Ierusalem. And when yee see this, your heart shall reioyce and your bones shall flou∣rish like an herbe, Jer. 66.12, 13, 14. Thou shalt reioyce in the LORD, Esay 41.16. Thou shalt have thy delight in the Almighty, Iob 22.26.

The godly have a spring of joy within them, Iohn 4.14. In thy name shall they reioyce all the day, Psal. 89.16. See Psal. 33.21.

8. Indisposition. Comforts against it.

In the thoughts of our indis∣posi••ion to any thing that is good, let these places quicken us.

I can doe all things through CHRIST that strengthneth mee, Phil. 4.13. Yee shall be unto mee a kingdome of Priests, Exod. 19.6.

We shall be able to offer un∣to GOD the sacrifice of prayer or praise. In every place incense shall be offered to my name, and a pure offering, Mal. 1.11. which is spoken of the beleeving Gentiles.

9. Distractions. Comforts against them.

GOD promiseth in the Cove∣nant of grace, Ezek. 11.19. To give his people one heart. CHRIST prayed that we might have this one heart, Iohn 17.21, 23. and be one with GOD. When we are troubled with di∣stractions in prayer, hearing, or meditation, wee should pleade the Covenant, and pray with David, O LORD unite my heart to thee.

10. Evils of good done. Promises or comforts to the godly for evils of good done.

GOD not onely accepteth and taketh in good part the poo∣rest service we doe to him not∣withstanding our corruptions and frailties, but even deligh∣teth and taketh great pleasure in them, Cant. 2.14. as a Father de∣lights more in the stammering of his little childe, then in the eloquence of the best Orator.

CHRIST presenteth and perfu∣meth our prayers to his Father, Rev. 8.3. 1 Pet. 2.5. And it shall be upon Aarons fore-head, that Aaron may beare the iniquity of the holy things, and that they may be accepted before the LORD, Exod. 28.38.* 1.48 Aaron was a Type of CHRIST, who by his interces∣sion perfumes our prayers, and doth away the blemishes that cleave to our best actions. Loving Parents doe not take notice of many blemishes in their chil∣dren; so GOD seeth no iniquity in Iacob, nor any transgression in Israel, Num. 23.21. But passeth by the transgression of the rem∣nant of his heritage:* 1.49 which makes the Prophet in the be∣ginning of the verse, in admiration to cry, Who is a GOD like to thee!

11. Comforts against Feares of their falling from GOD, who labour to work out their salvation with feare and trembling.

1. In regard of GOD.

• * 1.501. His Counsell, on which mans salvation is foun∣ded, is sure and un∣changeable, and his calling without repen∣tance, Rom. 11.29.
• 2. His Love is everla∣sting and inviolable, Ier. 31.3. Rom. 8.35. ult.
• 3. His Mercy (like his Lov••) is ••verlasting, Psal. 103.17. Psal. 100.5.106.1. & 107.1. Luke 1.50. It is itera∣ted 26. times in 136. Psalme.
• 4. His Will is for such, Luke 12.32.* 1.51 Iohn 6.39. His Grace, and that is all-sufficient, 2 Cor. 12.9.
• 5. His Power is for such, and that is Almighty, Ioh 10.27, 28, 29. Iude 24.2 Tim. 1.12.
• ...

• 6. His faithfullnesse and truth make both for this, 2 Thess. 3.3.

2. In regard of CHRIST.

• 1. Because of our union with him:* 1.52 He is the Head, we the members. and he will not suffer any to perish that are ingraffed into him, Ioh. 6.39. Ioh. 17.22, 23, 26.
• 2. From the perpetuall efficacie of his inter∣cession, Rom. 8.34. Heb. 7.21. Hee is a Priest for ever, and alwaies intercedes for his. What he said to Peter,* 1.53 I have prayed that thy faith faile not, Luke 22.32. Hee perfor∣meth for all. He is the Author and finishe•• of our faith, Heb. 12.2.

3. In regard of the HOLY GHOST.

• 1. His continuall assi∣stance,* 1.54 Hee shall abide with us for ever, John 14.16. And hee which hath begun a good work, will finish it, Phil. 1.6.
• * 1.552. His Obsignation which is irrevocable: every one that beleeveth, is sealed by the holy Spi∣rit of promise, Ephes. 1.13, 14. sealed for ever, 4.30. 2 Cor. 1.22. an honest man will not break his bargaine, when there is earnest and evidence for it; therefore Chrysostome saith elegantly, if GOD having once given this earnest, should not also give the rest of the in∣heritance, He should undergo the losse of his earnest.

4. The lasting power of the Word once rooted in the good and honest heart, Luke 8.15. It is called immortall seed, 1 Pet. 1.23, 25. The engraffed Word, James 1.21. The seed remaining, 1 Joh. 3.9.

5. The certainty and sweetnesse of the promises to this purpose.* 1.56 GOD hath promised that his people shall not be mooved from the state of grace,* 1.57 Psal. 15.5. & 16.8. Psal. 37.24, 27, 28, 31. Psal. 55.22. & 102.28. Pro. 10.30. Psal. 125.1. Hee will not cast off his people nor forsake his inheri∣tance, Psal. 94.14. 1 Sam. 12.22. And hee will put his feare into their hearts, that they shall not de∣part from him. For this is his Covenant with his people. Ier. 32.39, 40, 41. Hosea 2.19, 20. Hee upholdeth them with his hand, that they shall not fall away. Hee will confirme them unto the end, that they may be blam••lesse in the day of our LORD JESUS CHRIST,* 1.58 1 Cor. 1.8, 9. the like

is, 1 Thess. 5.23, 24 GOD hath made more promises to hold up his children, then ever he made to hold up the pillars of the world.

6. The prayers of the whole Church of GOD which are ve∣ry prevalent and powerfull, Ioh. 16.23. the daily sacrifice of be∣leevers, is, ne inducas in tentatio∣nem.

7. The force and might of faith, 1 Pet. 1.2, 3, 4, 5.

8. The durable vigour of saving graces, John 4.14. our Saviour hath promised, Iohn 16.22. that he will give unto the faithfull such constant and permanent joy, as no man shall be able to take from them: He hath prayed that our faith may not faile, Luke 22.32. It is a stable grace, 1 Ioh. 5.4. 1 Pet. 2.6.

Comforts to the Godly, who are troubled with many and strong corruptions, and like∣wise

want the meanes of grace,

• either
  • 1. Altogether.
  • 2. In the power of them.
  • 3. Or having them so, yet profit not by them.

1. Comforts in case of dismay∣ednesse under many and strong corruptions.* 1.59

I will sprinkle cleane water up∣on you,* 1.60 and you shall be cleane ••rom all your filthinesse, and from all your idols will I cleanse you, Ezek. 36.25. Though thy sinnes were as great as Idolatry in the first Table, or Whoredome in the second, yet GOD will forgive and sanctifie thee.

He will cast all our sinnes into the depths of the sea, Micah. 7.19. The sea can drowne mountaines as well as mole-hills: Though they were as crimson and scarlet, which will take no other die, yet in CHRISTS bloud they shall bee made as white as wooll and snow, Esay 1.18. All manner of

sinnes and blasphemies shall be for∣given unto men, Matth. 12.31. CHRIST came to save sin∣ners, 1 Tim. 1.15. It matters not what the wound is, so CHRIST be the Physitian. Where sin, that is, the knowledge and feeling of sinne abounded, grace over-aboun∣ded, Rom. 5.20. have wee a mul∣titude and magnitude of sinnes? GOD hath a multitude and magnitude of mercies: Have mercy upon mee O GOD accor∣ding unto the multitude,* 1.61 so wee translate it, (the Hebrew word Rob,* 1.62 signifieth also magnitude) of thy tender mercies. Two things terrifie penitent sinners: 1. The multitude and exceeding great number of evils whereof they are guilty, he tels them in that 26. Ezek. that he would * 1.63 wash them from all their filthinesse, without exception, 1 Joh. 1.9. therefore let us not put in condi∣tions where GOD doth not, and as it were interline his Cove∣nant. 2. That their sinnes have

beene hainous and extraordina∣ry, Zach. 13.1. Hee promiseth to open a fountaine of grace to wash them from all sinnes; CHRIST hath discharged our pounds as well as our pence. He came to take away the sinnes of the world, this is spoken in∣definitely.

2. Comforts to such who are troubled for want of the meanes of grace, either Al∣together.

After GOD hath given you the bread of affliction,* 1.64 and the wa∣ter of adversity, hee will restore teachers and no more restraine in∣struction, Esay 30.20.

Though thou see no way of helpe, yet thou knowest not how GOD can provide, Hee can open rivers on the tops of mountaines, and he maketh the wil∣dernesse a standing poole, when his people thirst and cry unto him, Esay 41.17, 18.

If ordinary meanes faile, GOD will then ••••pply of his Spirit; I will be unto them as a little Sanctuary in the countries where they sha••l come, Ez••k. 11.16. I will take you one of a cittie, and two of a family, and I will ••r••ng you in Sion, Jer. 3.14. The LORD giveth the Word, great is the company of preachers, Psal. 68.11.

The rans••med of the LORD shall returne and come to Sion with songs, and everlasting ioy upon their heads, they shall obtaine ioy and gladnesse, and sorrow and sighing shall flie away. E••ay 35.10.

Or in the power of them.

I will give you Pastors accor∣ding to mine heart, which shall feede you with knowledge and un∣derstanding, Ier. 3.15.

Or having them so, and not pro∣fiting by them.* 1.65

I am the LORD thy GOD

which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way which thou shouldst goe, Esay 48.17.

For thy Maker is thine husband, &c. Esay 54.5, 6. Hosea 2.19.

In the wildernesse shall waters breake out,* 1.66 and streames in the de∣sert, and the parched ground shall become a poole, and the thirsty land-springs of water, Esay 35.6, 7. that is, the most barren heart shall abound with grace, accor∣ding to that promise, Out of their bellies shall flow rivers of living water, Iohn 7.38. streaming out for the good of others. The Kingdome of GOD shall be ta∣ken from you and given to a na∣tion bringing forth the fruits there∣of, Matth. 21.43. This is a pro∣mise, that the Gentiles shall bring forth the fruites of the Gospell, therefore every belee∣ving Gentile may apply it.

The use of Faith here is, to up∣hold us against our manifold de∣••ects, infirmities and imperfecti∣••ns. For first, it giveth evidence

to our soules, that the graces wee have are the gifts of GOD, because GOD promiseth them. Secondly, it maketh us rest on GOD for perfecting of that good worke which hee hath so graciously begun.

The Godly that know they feare GOD unfainedly, and yet are often perplexed, because all sensible tokens of GODS favour are taken from them, should 1. Acquaint themselves with the promises, and comfort themselves with these words, they will be as flagons of wine to all distres∣sed spirits. 2. Let them not con∣sider too much of, nor reason too much with their temptati∣ons, Rom. 4.19. 3. Though they feele nothing, yet let them say with David, Ps••l. 56.10. In GOD will I praise his Word, in the LORD will I praise his Word.

CHAP. V. 5. In regard of GOD, Desertions.

Comforts to GODS people in spirituall desertions.

1. LEt them Consider, that this hath be∣fallen the best of GODS servants. Job 6.4, 13.16.9. David,* 1.67 Psal. 6. & 77. and CHRIST himselfe, Mat. 27.46. CHRIST (saith Greenham) was forsaken for a few houres, David for a few moneths, and Iob for a few yeares.

2. GOD doth not forsake them, Heb. 13.5.* 1.68 Esay 49.15, 16. but seemes to forsake them.

3. Desertion is but short, com∣pared with the time of mercy, For a small moment have I forsa∣ken thee, but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee, for

a moment; but with everlasting kindnesse will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer,* 1.69 Esay 54.7, 8.

He will not alwaies chide, nei∣ther will hee keepe his anger for∣ever, Psal. 103.9. The LORD will not cast off for ever, but though he cause griefe, yet will he have com∣passion according to the multitude of his mercies, Lam. 3.31, 32.

4. GOD waites for a fit sea∣son of shewing his favour toward them, Esay 30.18.

We ought to live by faith, Hab. 2.4. waiting for GOD who hides his face,* 1.70 Esay 8.17. and to stirre up our selves to lay hold on our GOD, Esay 64.7. that is an ex∣cellent place, Esay 50.10.

CHAP. VI. SPIRITVALL PROMISES. 1. In regard of Good.

• 1. GODS
  • 1. Love of them, which hath three properties, it is
    • 1. Free.
    • 2. Infi∣nite.
    • 3. Eter∣nall.
  • 2. Presence with them:
    • 1. Each of the godly in par∣ticular.
    • 2. The whole Church in generall.
  • 3. Providence over them, keeping them
    • 1. Immediatly, by himselfe.
    • 2. Mediatly, by his Angels.

1. Promises of GODS Love.

* 1.71ANd he will love thee, and blesse thee, &c. Deut. 7.13. Hee crowneth his people with loving kind∣nesse, and tender mercies, Psal. 103.4.

There are three properties of GODS Love.

1. It is a free Love; he stands not upon desert, Hosea 14.4. Ex∣od. 33.19. 1 Ioh. 4.10, 19. The LORD did not set his Love upon you, nor choose you, because yee wore more in number then any other people, but because the LORD loved you. Lo he loved you, be∣cause he loved you,* 1.72 to shew the freedome and independancy of his love unto them.

2. It is an infinite & transcendent Love, Eph. 2.4.7, 18, 19. GOD * 1.73 so loved the world, &c. Iohn 3.16. that is, so infinitely, so transcendent∣ly, so incomprehensibly, 1 Ioh. 3.1.

* 1.743. It is an eternall and un∣changeable

Love, I have loved thee with an everlasting love, Jer. 31.3. Behold I will betroth thee unto mee for ever, Hosea 2.19. With everla∣sting kindnesse will I have mercy on thee, Esay 54.8.

2. Promises of GODS speciall and gracious presence.

This is the most sweete com∣fort, wherewith GOD anciently used to sustaine his children.

Each in particular.

Isaac, Gen. 26.3, 24. Moses,* 1.75 Exod. 3.12. & 4.12. Josh. 1.5, 9. & 3.7. Ezek. 3. Jer. 1.8, 19. David incouraged his sonne Salomon with this, 1 Chron. 28.20.

And the whole Church in ge∣nerall.* 1.76 Esay 41.10. & 43.2. Rev. 1.13. & 2.1. CHRIST left this comfort for his farewell to his Disciples and their Succes∣sors. Lo I am with you to the end of the world, Matth. 28.20. And [With you] Comprehends under

it not onely Pastors, but people also; For where two or three are gathered together in my name (saith CHRIST) there am I in the midst of them, Mat. 18.20.

3. Promises of GODS provi∣dence over his children.

They have an honourable guard.

1. GOD himselfe keepeth his Israel who neither slumbreth nor sleepeth. Psal. 121.4, 5. He keepeth his under the shadow of his wings, Psal. 91.14. The LORD compa∣reth himselfe to an Eagle which safely carrieth her young, Deut. 1.31. & 32.11. and to a care∣full Shepheard, Ezek. 34.12. Psal. 23.1, 2, 3. Iohn 16.12. Esay 30.21.* 1.77

The eyes of the LORD are up∣on the righteous, Psal. 34.15. a mans eye is upon one that hee loves, ubi amor, ibi oculus. The LORD hath a care of them, he loves, defends and protects them.

He saith, Psal. 32.8. I will guide thee with mine eye. Hee will guide his children by his speci∣all providence in all their waies, Psal. 121.8. Esay 46 4. He with∣draweth not his eyes from the righte∣ous, but with Kings are they on the throne, yea hee doth establish them for ever, and they are exal∣ted, Job 36.7. Hee keepeth all his bones, not one of them is broken, Psal. 34.20.

There shall not a haire of your head perish,* 1.78 Luke 21 18. Matth. 10.30. Acts 27.34. Hee that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye, Zach. 2.8. To expresse the tendernesse of his love, he named the tenderest part of the body, saith Salvian, that he might shew that hee is troubled with the least contamelie offered to his Saints, as we are with the least hurt of our eye. Nay hee saith not, hee that toucheth you toucheth his eye, but the apple of his eye, the tenderest piece of the tenderest part, the Chrystall

humour as the Philosophers call it,* 1.79 Ishon in Hebrew of Ish, pupilla in Latine of pupa, because therein appeareth the resemblance of a little man, or because as a man is to be prized above all other creatures, so GOD estee∣meth his people above all the world. David found by his owne experience, Psal. 17.8. Psal. 63.7. and 41.12. that GOD preserved him as the apple of his eye: and so may all Christians. What was said to Iacob, Gen. 28.15. and to Ioshua by Moses, Deut. 31.8. and by GOD himselfe, Iosh. 1.5. Paul applieth generally to all Christi∣ans, Heb. 13.5. I will never leave thee nor forsake thee. Hee guides them in all their waies. Hee that hath mercy on them (saith the Prophet) shall leade them, even by the springs * 1.80 of water shall hee guide them, Esay 49.16.

2. Christians have the guard of Angels.

He shall give his Angels charge

ov••r thee, to keepe thee in all thy waies, they shall beare thee up in their hands least thou dash thy foot against a stone. Psal. 91.11, 12. The Angels keepe us, and that universally, in all our waies: they keepe us, and that very charily and tenderly, they beare us in their hands, and they keepe us very safely and surely, so that we dash not our feete against a stone.

The Angell of the LORD en∣campeth about them that feare him, and delivereth them,* 1.81 Psal. 34.7.

CHAP. VII.

• 2. CHRIST himselfe, and many bles∣sings by him are promised to the God∣ly,
  • 1. Redemption.
  • 2. Vocation.
  • 3. Iustifica∣tion, which hath two parts,
    • 1. Not im∣puting sin.
    • 2 Imputing righteousnes
  • 4. Reconciliation
  • 5. Adoption.

* 1.821. CHRIST is promised to the godly.

THe first promise made to man and the foundation of all other was th••t, Gen. 3.15. It shall bruise thy head, It or

He, that is, CHRIST, shall bruise thy head, that is, breake the power and dominion of Satan. The first Promise was made concer∣ning CHRIST, because GOD intended to make good every pro∣mise in CHRIST.

In all ages the LORD re∣newed this promise of sending CHRIST the promised seed, as immediately after the floud, Noah by prophesie blessing his two sonnes, said, GOD shall enlarge Iaphet, and hee shall dwell in the tents of Shem, Gen. 9.27. He mea∣neth that we the Gentiles should be called to be one body with the Jewes in CHRIST. The same was afterwards oft re∣newed to Abraham: In thy Seed (that is, CHRIST) thou thy selfe, and all the nations of the earth (that is, the faithfull in all nations) shall be blessed, Gen. 12.3. Gen. 13.14. & 15.4, 18. Gen. 17.4. & 22.

The like was after promised to Isaac, Gen. 26.4. and Iacob, Gen.

28.14. and Gen. 49.10. it is said, The Scepter shall not depart from Iuda untill Shiloh come,* 1.83 that is, the Messias come, for Shiloh signifieth the tunicle or skinne that lappeth the Infant in the Mothers wombe; called by Phy∣sitians the secundine, (because it grieves the woman that is with child the second time, as it were a second birth) in French arriere fais, in English the after-birth or after-burden: and by a kind of figure is put for the Sonne of GOD in the wombe of the Vir∣gin, made man; to note him to be of the flesh of Mary, and his birth to be like the birth of other children, sinne onely ex∣cepted. There shall come a Starre out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel, Numb. 24.17.

In all succeeding ages, Moses and all the Prophets in their times foretold of CHRIST,* 1.84 Acts 3.24. & 10.43. The LORD thy GOD will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee,

of thy brethren like unto mee, un∣to him shall yee hearken,* 1.85 Deut. 18.15. like unto mee] both in the participation of nature and office, saith Iunius: a true man, and a true Mediator, CHRIST is there meant, Acts 3.22. & 7.37. That evangelicall Prophet Esay spake of him then as already come. For unto us a childe * 1.86 is borne, unto us a Sonne is given, and the Governement shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called, Wonderfull, Counsellor, the mighty GOD, the everlasting Fa∣ther, the Prince of Peace, Esay 9.6. See Esay 11.1.32.1, 2. & 53.2, 3, 4. Ezek 37.24. & 34.24. Ier. 33.15, 16. Ier. 23.5, 6. Micah 5.2. Zach. 3.8. & 6.12, 13. & 9.9, 10. He is called the messenger of the Covenant, Mal. 3.1. For in him GOD reconciled the world to himselfe, 2 Cor. 5.19.

There are multitudes of pro∣mises also concerning CHRIST,* 1.87 and the generall benefits by him in the New Testament.

1. That he shall save us: The Evangelist Matthew gives this reason of his name JESUS,* 1.88 For hee shall save his people from their sinnes, from the guiltinesse, power, and punishment of them. The Sonne of man is come to seeke and save that which was lost, Luke 19.10. GOD sent his Sonne into the world, that the world through him might be saved,* 1.89 Iohn 3.17. The Apostle with a vehe∣ment asseveration affirmeth this. This is a faithfull saying, and wor∣thy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came in∣to the world to save sinners, 1 Tim. 1.15. Hence CHRIST is often called our Saviour, Esay 49.26. Esay 60.16. Luke 2.11. 1 Tim. 1.1. 1 Tim. 2.3.

* 1.902. CHRIST is said to be A light to the Gentiles, Matth. 4.16. The light of the world, John 8.13. & 9.5. under this compari∣son of Light, all benefits which CHRIST brings us are contai∣ned,

light of knowledge, grace, and glory.

Hitherto belong all such Scrip∣tures as shew CHRIST to be our Life,* 1.91 Col. 3.4. Iohn 6.33. Ioh. 14.6. CHRIST also cals him∣selfe The bread of life, Ioh. 6.35, 51.* 1.92 Compares himselfe to a Vine, Iohn 15.1. to teach, that as the branch hath his whole life from the stock, so we have all our life from him.

3. GOD is well pleased in CHRIST, Mat. 3.17. In whom, not with, by, or through whom, but a larger preposition then them all, which signifieth two things: 1. That GOD is well pleased with CHRIST: 2. In and through him with others; there∣fore it is said, Ephes. 1.3. GOD hath blessed us,* 1.93 with all spirituall blessings in CHRIST, verse 4. GOD hath chosen us in him, ver. 6. accepted us in the beloved, ver. 7.* 1.94 In him wee have redemption through his blood, the forgivenesse of sinnes, according to the riches of

his grace. It is said, Acts 13.34. I will give you the sure mer∣cies of David, that is, all those good things which were promi∣sed in CHRIST, who was of the seed of David.

2. Blessings by CHRIST to the Godly.

1. Redemption.

Who gave himselfe for us, that hee might redeeme us from all ini∣quity, Tit. 2.14. We have redemp∣tion through his blood.* 1.95 Ephes. 1.7. And he shall redeeme Israel from all his iniquitie, Psal. 130.8. He hath redeemed them from the curse of the law, by being made a curse for them, Gal. 3.13. CHRIST JESUS by his owne bloud entred into the holy place, having obtained eter∣nall redemption for us, Heb. 9.12.

CHRIST is made unto us Re∣demption, 1 Cor. 1.30.

2. Effectuall Calling; our par∣ticular

calling doth interest us in the promises of GOD, Acts 2.39. For the promise is unto you, and to your children,* 1.96 and to all that are a farre of, even to as many as the LORD our GOD shall call, there is the condition.

3. Justification.

By his knowledge, shall my righ∣teous servant iustifie many, Esay 53.11.

By him all that beleeve, are iu∣stified, Acts 13.39.

In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be iustified, Esay 45.25. Who shall lay any thing to the charge of GODS Elect? it is GOD that iustifieth, Rom. 8.33.

He iustifieth the ungodly, Rom. 4.5. that is, saith Beza, he makes him righteous in CHRIST, who is unrighteous in himselfe.

• 1. Justification consists of two parts,
  • 1. Not impu∣ting sinne, 2 Cor. 5.19.
  • 2. Imputing righteousnes, Gal. 3.6.

Promises of forgivenesse of sinnes.

This great benefit of forgive∣nesse of sinne by CHRIST, is plentifully proclaimed unto us miserable sinners.

* 1.97Behold the Lambe of GOD which taketh away the sinnes of the world, John 1.29. Hee shall beare their iniquities, Esay 53.11. Once in the end of the world hath hee appeared to put away sinne by the sacrifice of himselfe, Heb. 9.26. He was manifested to take away our sinnes, 1 Joh. 3.5. The blood of JESUS CHRIST cleanseth us from all sinne, 1 Joh. 1.7. He hath by himselfe purged our sins, Heb. 1.3. He bare our sinnes on the tree, 1 Pet. 2.24. He loved us and wa∣shed

us from our sinnes in his owne blood, Rev. 1.5. He is the propi∣tiation for our sinnes, 1 John 2.2.

Hereunto agreeth that invi∣tation of our Saviour: Come un∣to mee all yee,* 1.98 that are weary and heavie laden, and I will ease you, Mat. 11.28.

GOD of his rich grace and mercy in JESUS CHRIST doth make offer of free and full forgivenesse of sinnes, to every burdened, thirstie, and penitent soule.

Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him returne unto the LORD, and hee will have mercy upon him, and to our GOD, for hee will abundantly pardon, Esay 55.7. Returne thou backesliding Israel, saith the LORD, and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you, for I am mercifull, saith the LORD, and I will not keepe mine anger for ever, Jer. 3.22. I will cleanse

them from all their iniquity, where∣by they have sinned against me, and I will pardon all their iniquities whereby they have sinned, and whereby they have transgressed a∣gainst mee, Jer. 33.8.

GOD when he forgiveth us, so fully acquitteth us of our sins, as if we had committed no sinne at all.

This appeareth by many Me∣taphors used in the Scrip∣ture.

I am hee that blotteth out thy transgressions, saith the LORD, Esay 43.25. It is a Metaphore taken from Creditors, who when they purpose never to exact a debt, will blot it out of their bookes:* 1.99 I have put away thy transgressions as a cloud, and thy sinnes as a mist, saith the same LORD, Esay 44.22. The clouds which are driven away by the windes appeare no more, nor the mist which is dried up by the Sunne; so the sinnes which GOD forgiveth, returne not

againe: thou hast cast all my sins behind thy backe, saith Hezekiah to GOD, Esay 38.17. that which a man would not look on or regard, that he casteth behind his backe.

Thou wilt cast all their sinnes into the depths of the Sea,* 1.100 saith Micah to the LORD. When a man would have a thing utterly forgotten, hee will cast it into the bottome of the Sea, from whence there is no fetching it againe.

The Psalmist pronounceth him blessed, whose sinne is covered, Psal. 32.1. A thing covered is not seene, hee hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, nor seene perversenesse in Israel, Numb. 23.21.

The same Psalmist pronoun∣ceth him blessed, to whom the LORD imputeth not sinne,* 1.101 Psal. 32.2. a sinne not imputed, is as not committed: as Merchants when they will forgive a debt, put it not into the reckoning, and so do not impute it.

GOD himselfe saith, I will forgive their iniquities,* 1.102 and I will remember * 1.103 their sinne no more, Ier. 31.34. the latter clause ex∣pounds the former; to forgive is to remember no more, that is, ne∣ver to call that to account, which was once remitted.

Thus GOD blotteth out our sinnes, that they condemne us not. Putteth them away, that they hurt us not. Casteth them behind his backe, as though he regarded them not. And into the Sea, that they drowne us not. Covers them, that they appeare not. Doth not impute them, as though they were not. Forgetteth them, so that he punisheth them not.

All the blessings in the new Covenant are given with remissi∣on of sinnes. When GOD for∣gives a mans sinnes, then hee gives him all other things, San∣ctification, and whatsoever else, as we see at large. Ezek. 36.26. The LORD there, after he had promised to forgive all their sins,

hee saith, hee will give them a new heart, hee will cause them to walke in his waies; and then hee comes with outward mer∣cies too, hee promiseth them deliverance from their ene∣mies, and other good things in the rest of the Chapter, but all other things come in with remission of sinnes, Acts 10.43. To him give all the Prophets witnesse, that through his name, we have re∣mission of sinnes. The Pro∣phets gave witnesse concerning CHRIST of many other things besides remiss••on of sins, that we have in his name, which wee have by him, but all other things come with this. GOD was in CHRIST reconciling the world to himselfe, 2 Cor. 5.19. a marvellous great mercy, it consists in this, that their sinnes were not imputed. The priviledges of the new Covenant are chained toge∣ther: Whom hee hath predestina∣ted, them also hee called, and whom he called, them also he iustified, and

whom hee iustified, them also hee glorified, Rom. 8.30.

2. Promises to make us righ∣teous.

As by one mans disobedience, many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one, shall many bee made righteous, Rom. 5.19. there∣fore we are said, to be the righ∣teousnesse of GOD in him, 2 Cor. 5.21. For this cause CHRIST is called The LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESSE, Ier. 23.6. & 33.16. CHRIST is made un∣to us righteousnesse, 1 Cor. 1.30. He is said to be the end of the law for righteousnesse, to every one that beleeveth, Rom. 10.4. and the Sa∣craments are said to be the Seales of the righteousnesse of faith. Rom. 4.11.

* 1.104He hath covered mee with a robe of righteousnesse, Abraham belee∣ved GOD, and it was imputed to him for righteousnesse, Gal. 3.6.

This imputed righteousnesse the Papists scoffe at,* 1.105 and call it a pu∣tative righteousnesse; and yet the phrase is used tenne times in one Chapter.

4. Reconciliation.

By CHRIST wee are re∣conciled to GOD.

GOD hath reconciled us to himselfe by JESUS CHRIST. GOD was in CHRIST, reconci∣ling the * 1.106 world unto himselfe, 2 Cor. 5.18, 19. CHRIST is our peace, who hath made both one, that he might reconcile both unto GOD, Ephes. 2.14, 16.* 1.107 You that were some∣time alienated, yet now hath he recon∣ciled, Col. 1.21.

5. Adoption. Promises 1. of it.

Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us,* 1.108 that we should be called the sonnes of

GOD, 1 Joh. 3.1, 2. But to as ma∣ny as received him, to them gave he power to become the sonnes of GOD, even to them that beleeve in his name, Iohn 1.12. That is a gra∣cious promise which the Apostle citeth out of the Prophet Hosea, Rom. 9.26. And it shall be in the place, where it was said unto them, yee are not my people, that there they shall be called the children of the living GOD. So the LORD promiseth to such as shall sepa∣rate themselves from the wicked, 2 Cor. 6.18. Hee that overcom∣meth shall inherit all things, and I will be his GOD, and hee shall be my sonne, Rev. 21.7. Blessed are the peace-makers, for they shall be called the sonnes of GOD, Mat. 5.9.

It was GODS promise to David concerning Salomon, 2 Sam. 7.14. I will be his father, and hee shall be my sonne. Where∣upon David much affected and ravished, saith, verse 18. O LORD GOD, what am I, or my

fathers house, that thou shouldst vouchsafe me so great honour and happinesse, as to finde my childe, yea to take him for thine owne, and to become his Father?

See that excellent place, Gal. 4.4, 5, 6, 7. & Rom. 8.17.

2. To it, paternity promiseth all blessings, Mat. 7.11. and all forbearance, Psal. 103.13. Heb. 12.5, 6.

CHAP. VIII. PROMISES

1. Of the Spirit.

THe giving of the Spirit is a part of GODS Covenant,* 1.109 I will powre out my Spirit upon all flesh in those daies, and your young men shall see visions, &c. Ioel 2.28, 29. which is repeated, Acts 2.17, 18. The great Promise that

our Saviour CHRIST made to them, before he departed in the flesh, was this, I will baptize you with the HOLY GHOST; which was fulfilled after when he powred forth his Spirit. So Esay 44.3. I will powre water upon him that is thirsty, and flouds upon the drie ground, I will powre my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thy off-spring, the latter end of the verse interprets it. So Ezek. 36.25, 26, 27. I will put my spirit within you, &c. I will powre upon the house of David the spirit of grace and supplications, Zach. 12.10. How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Spirit to them that aske him, Luke 11.13. I will powre out my spirit unto you, Prov. 1.23. This is meant in that place, Ioh. 4.10. Where our Saviour saith to the woman of Samaria, thou wouldest have asked of him, and hee would have given thee living water: that is, the Spi∣rit, as appeares by comparing it with Iohn 7.38, 39. I will pray the

Father, and hee shall give you ano∣ther Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever, even the Spirit of truth, Iohn 14.16, 17. It is said, Ephes. 1.13. They were sealed with the Spirit of promise, that is, which was promised to all Beleevers, and Gal. 3.14. we are said, by faith to receive the promise of the Spirit, that is, the Spirit of promise, or that had beene promised.

CHRIST had the Spirit in the fullnesse of it,* 1.110 It pleased the Father, that in him should all full∣nesse dwell, Col. 1.19. all full∣nesse both in respect of the number of graces, Esay 11.2. and in re∣spect of the measure of them, Iohn 3.34. Col. 2.3. Of his full∣nesse we shall all receive, and grace for grace, Ioh. 1.16. grace freely, and grace upon grace, Zach. 14.8.

A Promise to those that have the Spirit.

As many as are led by the Spi∣rit of GOD, they are the sonnes of GOD, Rom. 8.14.

CHAP. IX. The operation of the Spirit.

• 1. In Generall.
  • Sanctification.
• 2. In Spe∣ciall.
  • 1. Spirituall graces.
  • 2. Spi∣rituall duties.
    • 1. The kinds of them.
    • 2. The de∣grees of them.

1. The Promises of Sanctifica∣tion.

* 1.111••OD promiseth in the Co∣venant of grace which hee hath made with his people, to take away their hearts of stone, and give them hearts of flesh: to put his law in their in∣ward parts, and write it in their hearts, to put his feare in their

hearts, that they shall not depart from him, and to give them a new heart, and to put his Spirit within them.

The substance of which Co∣venant is this, that all their sins shall be forgiven, and both the guilt and punishment there∣of wholly remooved. Their persons shall be justified, and their natures sanctified; the lawes of GOD and his promi∣ses shall be written in their mindes, so that they shall have the knowledge of them; and in their hearts, so that they shall have the comfort, feeling and fruition of them: they shall not onely have interest in all GODS graces and blessings, but accor∣ding to their neede, shall have the use and enjoyment there∣of.

The LORD often promiseth to Sanctifie and make holy his people,* 1.112 as Exod 19.6. & 31.13. Levit. 22.32. Esay 4.3, 4, 35.8. Ioel 3.17.

Sanctifie them through thy truth, John 17.17. and ver. 19. For their sakes I sanctifie my selfe,* 1.113 that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

The LORD hath sworne that his children shall serve him in ho∣linesse and righteousnesse all the daies of their life, Luke 1.73, 74, 75. The GOD of peace sancti∣fie you wholly. Faithfull is hee that hath called you, who also will doe it, 1 Thess. 5.23, 24. CHRIST is made unto us Sanctification, 1 Cor. 1.30. The LORD hath said,* 1.114 that his children shall not want any needfull Grace, for the leading of a godly life, Psal. 84.11.* 1.115 There shall be a fountaine ope∣ned for sinne, and for uncleane∣nesse, Zach. 13.1. it is GODS Covenant to sprinkle cleane water upon us, that we may be cleane, and to cleanse us from all our fil∣thinesse, and all our Idols, Ezek. 36.25. I will turne to the people a pure language, Zeph. 3.9. See ver. 13. The mouth of the righteous spea∣keth

wisedome, and his tongue tal∣keth of iudgement. The Law of GOD is in his heart, Psal. 37.30, 31. CHRIST gave him∣selfe for us that hee might redeeme us from all iniquity, and purifie un∣to himselfe a peculiar people, zea∣lous of good workes:* 1.116 the LORD will guide the meeke in iudgement, and teach the humble his way, Psal. 25.8. & 12.

In the daies of the Gospell (saith the Prophet Zacharie) shall there be upon the bels of the hor∣ses,* 1.117 HOLINESSE VNTO THE LORD.

Those Promises before quo∣ted in the Chapter of Justi∣fication, Mat. 1.21. Ioh. 1.29. 1 Iohn 2.2. 1 Ioh. 1.7. Rev. 1.5. may be referred to this head also, for they are to be under∣stood not onely of pardoning our sinnes, but, delivering us from the power of them.

Promises. 2. To Sanctification.

In keeping of them there is great reward,* 1.118 Psal. 19.11. Blessed and, happy is he that hath part in the first resurrection, on such the se∣cond death hath no power, Rev. 20.6. Depart from evill and doe good, and dwell for evermore, Psal. 37.27. To give you an inheri∣tance among all them which are sanctified, Act. 20.32. See the like Act. 26.18.

See Rom. 8.1, 13. 1 Iohn 1.7. Esay 1.16, 17, 18.

CHAP. X Promises of Spirituall Graces. 1. The kinds of them.

• 1. Knowledge and wisdome.
• 2. Faith.
• 3. Confidence.
• 4. Hope.
• 5. Joy.
• 6. Love, of
  • 1. GOD.
  • 2. CHRIST.
  • 3. Our Brethren.
  • 4. Our Enemies.
• 7. Feare.
• 8. Obedience.
• 9. Repentance, in which are handled
  • 1. Confession of sin
  • 2. Mourning for sin
  • 3. Killing of it.
  • 4. Turning from it.
• 10. Humility.
• 11. Meekenesse.
• 12. Patience.
• 13. Righteousnesse.
• 14. Vprightnesse.
• 15. Peace.
• 16. Zeale.
• 17. Perseverance.

* 1.119Spirituall Graces promised. 1. Knowledge, and Wisdome. Promises. 1. Of Knowledge.

IT is part of the Cove∣nant, Heb. 8.11. You shall know me from the least to the greatest,* 1.120 and I will teach you, and you shall no more teach one another his neigh∣bour, you shall have my law written in your hearts. The Prophet spea∣king of the daies of CHRIST, saith. The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea, Esay 11.9. the like we have, Hab. 2.14.

* 1.121In the time of the Old Testa∣ment, there was a vaile that co∣vered their hearts and their eyes, that they were not able to see the truth clearely, but now That vaile is taken away and wee see the truth

with open face, as wee see an image in a glasse.* 1.122 We know much more then they in the Old Testament, and in another manner, more di∣stinctly, more particularly. It is oft said, that The LORD will teach his people. As in that fa∣mous prophesie of the daies of the Gospell, that GOD would teach them his waies, and they would walke in his paths, Esay 2.3. Micah 4.2. So Psal. 25.8, 9. Hee will teach sinners in the way, and the meeke hee will teach his way. The Elect shall be all taught of GOD,* 1.123 Iohn 6.45. so much as is necessary for their salvation,* 1.124 yea The least as well as the grea∣test.

They shall know of the Scripture to be GODS Word, Esay 52.6. They shall know in that day that I am hee, that doth speake, behold it is I.

They shall know of that doctrine which is taught them, whether it be of GOD, or whether their tea∣cher speake of himselfe, Iohn 7.17.

CHRISTS Sheepe know his voice, and will follow him, John 10.4.* 1.125 The secret of the LORD is revealed to them that feare him, and hee will shew them his Cove∣nant, Psal. 25.14. See ver 12. When the Spirit of truth is come, hee will guide you into all truth, Iohn 16.13. The faithfull have an unction from the holy one, and know all things. 1 Iohn 2.20. and ver. 27. The HOLY GHOST abideth in them, and they need not that any man teach them.

See Pro. 1.23. Hos. 14.9. Psal. 107.43. Iohn 8.32. Psal. 32.8. Marke 4.11. Esay 30.21. Prov. 2.3, 4, 5, 6. Prov. 3.6. & 14.6.

Promises. 2. To Knowledge and wise∣dome.

* 1.126It is rewarded 1. with Tem∣porall blessings, GOD will exalt such as know him. I will set him on high, because he hath knowne

my name, Psal. 91.14. Length of daies is in her right hand,* 1.127 and in her left hand riches and honour, Prov. 3.14.

2. With spirituall blessings, as grace * 1.128 and peace. 2 Pet. 1.2. Grace and peace be multiplied un∣to you, through the knowledge of GOD.

3. With eternall blessings, Prov. 3.13, 18. Shee is a tree of life to them that lay hold on her, and happy is every one that retaineth her.

2. Faith, which is thus defi∣ned, Faith is a supernaturall gift of GOD in the mind, appre∣hending the saving promise with all the promises that de∣pend upon it, Phil. 1.29. Gal. 3.14.

Promises. 1. Of Faith.

GOD promiseth to give Faith to whom hee meanes to

save. The Apostle saith, It is the gift of GOD,* 1.129 Ephes. 2.8. and Iude 3. That it was once given to the Saints. Heb. 12.2. CHRIST is said to be the Author and fini∣sher of our Faith. And Rom. 12.3. That GOD hath dealt to every man the measure of Faith. All that the Father giveth mee, that is, by election; shall come to mee, that is, by Faith, Iohn 6.37. See verse 35.

Promises. 2. To Faith. Many Promises are made to Beleevers.

1. Beleefe in GOD brings good successe. Beleeve in the LORD your GOD, so shall yee be established; beleeve his Prophets, so shall yee prosper, 2 Chron. 20.20.

2. Forgivenesse of sinnes: righteousnesse and justification

are promised to Beleevers, Acts 10.43. Rom. 10.4. & 4.5. & 5.1. Acts 13.39.

3. Wee are made the sonnes of GOD by adoption, when wee beleeve in CHRIST, Ioh. 1.12. Gal. 3.26, 29.

4. GOD will give his Spi∣rit to them that beleeve: Hee that beleeveth in mee, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living wa∣ter, Ioh. 7.38.

5. GOD hath promised to heare the prayers of such as be∣leeve, What things soever yee de∣sire when yee pray, beleeve that yee receive them, and yee shall have them, Mark. 11.24. Whatsoever yee shall aske in prayer, if yee beleeve yee shall receive it. Matth. 21.22.

6. Eternall life is promised to Beleevers, Iohn 3.16.* 1.130 Whosoever beleeveth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. It is not onely said hee shall have eter∣nall life, but already he hath it, often in Iohn, Chap. 3.36. Chap. 5.

24. Chap. 6.47, 54. 1. In regard of right, because hee is instated into it in the Covenant of grace, Mat. 5.3. 2. CHRIST in his Ascention hath taken full posses∣sion for us, Ephes. 2.6. 3. In re∣gard of initiall fruition in this life, the life of grace is an im∣perfect life of glory.

Beleevers are said to be blessed, John 20.29.* 1.131 Every man that be∣leeves shall be saved, Mar. 16.16. There is the gracious promise: now the Faithfull man assumes the Minor, but I beleeve, and out of these two premises, in∣ferreth this saving Conclusion, therefore I shall be saved. Bellar∣mine saith, this particular propo∣sition, such or such a man is tru∣ly justified, hath eternall life, is not contained in the Word of GOD, either immediatly or by consequence. Some Divines

say, that such places as these, Psal. 103.3. Rom. 10.9. Gal. 2.20. intimate and imply such a parti∣cular proposition immediatly, but this is deduced by evident consequence out of the word, from such generall promises and propositions as these: Whosoe∣ver beleeveth in him, shall receive remission of sinnes, Acts 10.43. And by him all that beleeve, are iustified from all things, &c. Acts 13.39. He that beleeveth on the Sonne, hath everlasting life, Iohn 3.36. follow by good conse∣quence these particulars, Paul, Peter, Calvin, Bradford, or any other particular man beleeving in him, receives remission of sinnes, is justified and hath eter∣nall life; as it followes directly and infallibly, every man is a rea∣sonable creature, therefore Iohn, Thomas, &c. is endued with reason.

For all Generalls comprehend and include their particulars; otherwise how shall it be proved,

that GOD made Hens and Ducks, &c. but by this, that hee made all the world, and gave being to every creature.

One meanes to get Assurance is a serious meditation on the Promises of GOD, and an hum∣ble and sound application of them to thy selfe, Heb. 10.22, 23.

When the LORD acquaints us with his Word and Promises, and causeth us by his Spirit to put our trust in them, this is a sound and true Assurance, Iob 33.26.

* 1.132 The smallest measure of Faith that can be, is when a man not being able to apply the promises to himselfe, and to say, I am perswaded my sinnes are forgiven, yet out of a troubled heart doth unfainedly desire the favour of GOD above all the world.* 1.133

To this thirsting the Promises are made, Mat. 5.6. Psal. 107.9. The LORD will fulfill the

desires of them that feare him, Psal. 145.19.

See Esay 55.1, 2. Esay 44.3, 4. Rev. 21.6. & 22.17. Iohn 7.37. Psal. 10.17. Luke 1 53.

Promises of Assurance, Psal. 50.23. that is, I will cause him to see and know that hee shall be saved, Mal. 4.2. Psal. 85.9. & 97.11. GOD hath first com∣manded the faithfull to make their calling and election sure, 2 Pet. 1.1. and to beleeve his pro∣mises, Mar. 1.15. 1 Iohn 3.23. Se∣condly, promised that hee will certifie and assure his people of his favour, Ezek. 34.30. Thirdly, GOD hath given his people in all ages experience of the truth of this his promise in themselves, Rom. 8.15, 16. Gal. 4.6.

3. Confidence. Promises. 1. Of Confidence.

It is said of GODS people, That they shall stay upon the LORD the holy one of Israel Esay 10.20. At that day shall a man looke to his Maker, and his eye shall have respect to the holy one of Israel, Esay 17.7. Thou shalt call mee my father, and shalt not turne away from mee, Jer. 3.19. They shall trust in the name of the LORD, Zeph. 3.12. Ma∣ny shall see it and feare, and shall trust in the name of the LORD, Psal. 40.3. Vnder his wings shalt thou trust, Psal. 91.4. Hee is the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are a farre off upon the Sea, Psal 65.5. They that know thy name will put their trust in thee, Psal. 9.10. In his name shall the Gentiles trust, Mat. 12.21.* 1.134 The Iles shall waite upon mee, and on mine arme shall they trust, Esay 51.5. The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and shall trust in him, Psal. 64.10.

Promises. 2. To Confidence.

1. Safety:* 1.135 GOD is a shield to them that put their trust in him, Pro. 30.5. who so putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe, Pro. 29.25. They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion which cannot be removed, Psal. 125.1. Thy life shall be for a prey unto thee, because thou hast put thy trust in mee, saith the LORD, Jer. 39.18. None of them that trust in him shall be desolate, Psal. 34.22. The LORD shall save them be∣cause they trust in him, Psal. 37.40. The faithfull have promised themselves helpe, because they trusted in the LORD, Psal. 57.11. & 143.8, 9. Numb. 14.9. 1 King. 6.16. Psal. 3.6. & 23.4. & 27.1, 3. Psal. 46.1, 2. & 49.4. & 46. Psal. 4.11. & 118.6. Esay 12.2.

2. Peace; Thou wilt keepe him

in perfect peace whose minde is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee, Esay 26.3.

3. Mercy, Hee that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compasse him about, Psal. 32.10.

4. Blessednesse; Blessed is the man that trusteth in thee, Psal. 84.12.* 1.136 Blessed is the man that maketh the LORD his trust, Psal. 40.4. Who so trusteth in the LORD, hap∣py is he, Pro. 16.20.

4. Hope.

Calvin calleth Hope an expe∣ctation of those things which Faith beleeveth to be truly pro∣mised of GOD.* 1.137

M. Perkins defineth Hope thus Hope (saith he) is the grace o•• GOD whereby with patienc•• we waite the LORDS leisure for the performance of his pro∣mises, especially touching re¦demption and life eternall.

Hope is an expectation o•• such good things to come 〈◊〉〈◊〉

GOD hath promised, and Faith beleeved.

Faith is the foundation of Hope, Hope is the nourishment of Faith. Faith apprehendeth the promises of things to come, Hope expecteth the things pro∣mised. Simeon having a promise, that before he died, he should see CHRIST with his bodily eyes, beleeved the same, and looked for the performance of it, Luke 2.26, 29, 30.

Promises. 1. Of Hope.

David often professeth, that GOD was his hope,* 1.138 and his trust even from his youth, and GOD made him hope even from his mo∣thers wombe, Psal. 71.5. & 22.9. And that GOD is the hope of all the ends of the earth, Psal. 65.5. CHRIST is in you the hope of glo∣ry, Col. 1.27.

The righteous hath hope in

his death, Proverbs 14.32.

* 1.139Promises. 2. To Hope.

The LORD promiseth, Psal. 91. both temporall blessings and eternall salvation to those that hope in him.

They are pronounced Blessed that have true hope, Psal. 40.4. We are saved by hope, Rom. 8.24.

The hope of the righteous shal•• be gladnesse Pro. 10.28.

Hope maketh us not ashamed Rom. 5.5. Psal. 25.3.

To Hope in GOD, and to have GOD for our Helpe, ar•• linked together in Scripture Happy is he, that hath the GO•• of Jacob for his helpe, whose hop•• is in the LORD his GOD Psal. 146.5.

See Heb. 10.35. Lam. 3.24, 2•• 26. Psal. 14.7, 11.

Hope is preserved by a 〈◊〉〈◊〉

consideration and full perswasi∣on of GODS properties, which make us patiently abide for the accomplishment of his promises: foure speciall pro∣perties for this purpose are to be observed.

1. His free grace,* 1.140 that makes us waite on him, being perswa∣ded in our hearts by faith, that the same grace which moved GOD to make any gracious promise, will further moove him to accomplish it.

2. His infinite power,* 1.141 being perswaded that hee is able to do it.

3. His infallible truth:* 1.142 so faithfull is GOD, that not a word which he hath said, shall fall to the ground.

4. His unsearchable wise∣dome: he is most wise in ap∣pointing the fittest times and seasons for all things, so as may most make for his owne glory, and his childrens good.

Let us therefore imitate David,

Iob, and Simeon, spoken of be∣fore, in waiting for the ac∣complishment of GODS pro∣mises,* 1.143 and hoping in him even against hope, as Abraham did: though * 1.144 sence, reason, and ex∣perience should be against us, yet let us cleave to the Promises, and waite upon GOD, who never faileth those that trust in him, 1 Pet. 1.13.

5. Joy. Promises of it.

This is notably set out unto us in the booke of Psalmes, Psal. 19.8. The Statutes of the LORD are right, reioycing the heart. Psal. 23.4. Thy rod and thy staffe they comfort mee. Psal. 36.8, 9. Thou shalt make them drinke of the river of thy pleasures; for with thee is the fountaine of life, and in thy light shall we see light. Psal. 89.15, 16. Blessed is the peo∣ple that know the ioyfull sound, they

shall walke O LORD in the light of thy countenance. In thy name shall they reioyce all the day, and in thy righteousnesse shall they be exalted. Psal. 45.15.* 1.145 With glad∣nesse and reioycing shall they be brought. Psal. 64.10. The righte∣ous shall be glad in the LORD. Psal. 68.3. Let the righteous be glad, let them reioyce before GOD, yea let them exceedingly reioyce. Psal. 97.11, 12. * 1.146 Light is sowen for the righteous, and gladnesse for the upright in heart. Reioyce in the LORD yee righ∣teous, Psal. 118.15. The voice of reioycing and salvation, is in the tabernacles of the righteous. Psal. 132.16. Her Saints shall shout aloud for ioy.

The bookes of the Prophets are full of these Promises. No∣table is that sweet song of Esay,* 1.147 GOD is my Salvation, I will trust, and not be afraid; for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song, hee also is become my salvation. Therefore

with ioy shall yee draw water out of the wells of Salvation or Con∣solation. The whole 35. Chap∣ter of Esay is full of heavenly consolation to as Gentiles, verse 1.* 1.148 The wildernesse and th•• solitary place shall be glad for th••m, and the desert shall reioyce and blossome as the rose. See ver. 10. Esay 56.7. I will make them ioyfull in my house of prayer. In the 66. of Es••y are many sweet consolati∣ons, v••rse 10. to 14. our Saviour likewise said to his Disciples, that their hearts should reioyce, and their ioy should no man take away from them, Joh. 16.22. Paul saith, The kingdome of GOD is in righteousnesse, peace, and ioy in the HOLY GHOST, Rom. 14.17. The HOLY GHOST workes it in the heart, one of his fruites is joy, Gal. 5.22.

The LORD makes so many promises of this one thing, to make us see, 1. That there can be no holding out in a Christi∣an

course without this joy: 2. By reason of the many evills that befall us in this life, it is very hard to get, much more to keepe this joy.

6. Love, of

• 1. GOD.
• 2. CHRIST.
• 3. Our Brethren.
• 4. Our Enemies.

A Promise. 1. Of the Love of GOD.

And the LORD thy GOD will circumcise thine heart and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy GOD with all thy heart and with all thy soule, that thou maist live, Deut. 30.6. As if the LORD had said, I will ingraft the true love of my selfe in your hearts, which you will increase in, and constantly proceed in the same;* 1.149 and then I will account and ac∣cept of it, for the full measure of love that my law requireth.

Promises. 2. To the Love of GOD.

Many things are promised to those that love GOD.

1. Preservation, The LORD preserveth all them that love him, Psal. 145.20.

2. Plenty, GOD will cause them to inherit substance, and will fill their treasures, Proverbs 8.21.

3. Deliverance, Because hee hath set his love upon mee, there∣fore will I deliver him, Psal. 91.14.

4. Joy, unspeakeable and glo∣rious, 1 Cor. 2.9, 10. That Text is chiefly meant of the Gospels joy, of the wine and fatlings, re∣vealed to the Beleever by the Spirit.

5. GOD knowes them, loves them, will keepe his Covenant with them, sheweth mercy to them and their posterity, and

hath promised them a crowne of life.

If any man love GOD, the same is knowne of him, 1 Cor. 8.3. I love them that love mee, Pro. 8.17. Hee is the faithfull GOD which keepeth Covenant, and mer∣cy with them that love him, Deut. 7.9.* 1.150 Which sentence is repea∣ted twice in the very same words, Nehem. 1.5. Dan. 9.4. He sheweth mercy to them, and thou∣sands of their generations that love him, Exod. 20.6. Hee shall receive the crowne of life, which the LORD hath promised to them that love him, James 1.12. & 2.5.

6. All things shall worke toge∣ther for their good, Rom. 8.28.

Promises. To the Love of CHRIST.

If any man serve mee, him will my Father honour, John 12.26.

He that loveth mee shall be lo∣ved of my Father, and I will love him and will manifest my selfe unto him, Iohn 14.21, 23.

Promises to the love of our Brethren.

It is the cognizance of a Disciple, and a signe of spirituall life.

* 1.151By this shall all men know that ye are my Disciples, if yee love one another, John 13.35. He that lo∣veth his brother, abideth in the light, 1 John 2.10. And is translated from death to life, 1 John 3.14. If we love one another, GOD dwelleth in us, 1 Iohn 4.12.

* 1.152Promises to the love of our Enemies.

It is a matter of great credit to forgive, for thereby we are de∣clared to be The children of our heavenly Father, Matth. 5.44, 45. Love your enemies, and doe good,

and your reward shall be great, Luke 6.35. If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eate, and if he be thirsty, give him water to drinke: For thou shalt heape coales of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee, Pro. 25.21, 22. Thine enemy] that is, hee that hates thee, not hee whom thou hatest, for thou must hate none: give him bread] that is,* 1.153 all things necessary in time of his neede, if occasion bee offered; for by thy beneficence thou shalt overcome his evill, and pro∣voke him to love; or if not, GOD will certainely reward thee.

It is also matter of Comfort for us; for if wee forgive, so shall we also be forgiven, If yee forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, Matth. 6.14. the same is Marke 11.25. and Luke 6.37.

7. Feare. Promises, of Feare. GOD promiseth to make us feare him.

Hee saith in his New Cove∣nant, that he will put his feare into our hearts, as Ier. 32.39, 40. and that wee shall feare him for ever. The LORD doth oft repeate this promise, as Deut 4.10. where one speciall meanes whereby this feare is wrought, is set downe.* 1.154 Gather mee the people together, and I will make them heare my words, that they may learne to feare mee all the daies that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their chil∣dren. So Pro. 2.5. They who seeke for wisedome, shall understand the feare of GOD. David, Psal. 40.3. shewes another meanes, where∣by GOD doth stirre up this grace in his people, viz. the be∣holding

of GODS mercy on others, saying. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our GOD: many shall see it and feare, and shall trust in the LORD. They shall feare thee as long as the Sunne and Moone endure, throughout all generations, Psal. 72.5. They shall feare the GOD of Israel, Esay 29.23.* 1.155 They shall feare the LORD, and his good∣nesse in the latter daies, Hos. 3.5.

GOD hath made promises to free his people from servile feares, Iob 11.15. Psal. 112.7, 8. Prov. 1.33.

Promises to Feare.

1. Great and everlasting mer∣cy is promised to those that feare GOD.* 1.156

As the heaven is high above the earth: so great is his mercy toward them that feare him, Psal. 103.11. The mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everla∣sting, upon them that feare him, verse 17.

O how great is thy goodnesse, which thou hast laid up for them that feare thee, Psal. 31.19.

2. Such as feare GOD, are ac∣cepted of him,* 1.157 Act. 10.35. He ta∣keth pleasure in them, Psal. 147.11. Mal, 3.16, 17. The Sunne of righteousnesse shall rise up to such. Mal. 4.2. GOD will teach them in the way that they should choose, Psal. 25.12, 13, 14. Hee will fulfill their desire, Psal. 145.19.

3. They shall not want, There is no want to them that feare the LORD, Psal. 34 9 Psal. 111.5.

4. The Angell of the LORD enc••mpeth round about them, and delivereth them,* 1.158 Psal. 34.7.

5. Their daies shall be prolon∣ged, Pro. 10.27. Pro. 19.23. Pro. 22.4. and they shall be rewar∣ded,* 1.159 Pro. 13.13.

6. Those that feare the LORD are pronounced bles∣sed.

Blessed is the man that feareth GOD, Psal. 112.1, 2. Hee will

blesse them that feare the LORD, both small and great, Psal. 115.13. Happy is the man that feareth al∣way, Pro. 28.14. He that feareth the LORD is, and shall be every way blessed, Psal. 128.1, 4. The reward of eternall life shall be given them, Rev. 11.18.

8. Obedience. Promises. 1. Of Obedience.

GOD will make us able to obey.

GOD doth promise in the New Covenant to enable us to walke in his statutes, and keepe his Ordinances and doe them, Ezek. 11.19, 20. the like is repeated, Ezek. 36.27. & 37.24. And thou shalt returne and obey the voice of the LORD, and doe all his Comman∣dements which I command thee this day, Deut. 30.8. The like promise is, Hos. 14.9. The waies of the

LORD are right, and the iust shall walk•• in them.* 1.160

GOD hath sworne, that wee shall serve him, Luke 1.72, 74.

Promises. 2. To Obedience.

* 1.161The Scriptures are full of pro∣mises to Obedience.

* 1.162True and faithfull obedience bringeth all manner of blessings for body and soule,* 1.163 for name and estate, yea, and for seede and po∣sterity also.

All these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy GOD, Deut. 28.1, 2. to 14. 1. All in generall, all these blessings shall overtake thee. 2. Every one in particular, as is shewed in the verses fol∣lowing.

Particular promises made to Obedience.

1. a 1.164 Holy and Christian secu∣rity, Levit. 25.18, 19. & 26.3, 5, 6. Pro. 1.33. Iob 11.13, 15, 19. 1 Chron. 28.7.

2. b 1.165 Sufficiencie of outward things, nay plenty, Deut. 28. Le∣vit. 25.18, 19, 21. & 26.3, 4, 5, 10. GODS blessing on the crea∣tures, Exod. 23.25.

3. Prosperity and a blessing al∣so on their seed, Iob 36.11. Esay 48.17. Deut. 6.17, 18, 24. This is often iterated almost in every Chapter in Deuteronomie, and in divers verses of some one: Take heede and doe according to all that I command you, that it may be well with you and with your chil∣dren for ever, Deut. 4.40. Deut. 5.29, 33. Deut. 6.2, 3, 18, 24. Deut. 12.28. GOD will shew mercy un∣to thousands of them that love him and keepe his Commandements, Deut. 5.10. Exod. 20.6.

4. Freedome from diseases, Exod. 15.26. and deliverance out of trouble, Deut. 4.30, 31.

5. GODS love, and presence.

If yee will obey my voice in∣deed and keepe my Covenant, then yee shall be a peculiar treasure un∣to mee above all people, Exod. 19.5. And I will set my Tabernacle amongst you, and I will walke among you, Levit. 26.11, 12.

6. Victory over enemies, Deut. 6.19.* 1.166 Deut. 11.22, 23. Deut. 28.7. Levit. 26.7, 8.

7. Audience of their suites, and acceptance of their per∣sons.

* 1.167If my words abide in you, yee shall aske what yee will, and it shall be done unto you, Iohn 15.7. Our obedience is an acceptable sacri∣fice to GOD, offered up in CHRIST,* 1.168 Gen. 4.7. Levit. 26.9. Acts 10.35.

8. Perseverance.

If you keepe my Commande∣ments, yee shall abide in my love, Iohn 15.10.

9. Blessednesse, and eternall sal∣vation.* 1.169

Blessed are they that keepe iudgement; and hee that doth

righteousnesse at all times, Psal. 106.3.

See Pro. 8.32. & 29.18. Luke 11.28. Iohn 13.17. Rom. 2.10.* 1.170 Iames 1.25. Rev. 22.14.

He became the Author of eternall salvation unto all them that obey him, Heb. 5.9.

A promise. 1. To willing obedience.

If yee be willing and obedient, yee shall eate the good of the Land, Esay 1.19.

2. Promis••s to generall obe∣dience.

Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy Commandements, Psal. 119.6.

Yee are my Friends, if yee doe whatsoever I command you, Iohn 15.14.

9. Repentance; Promises 1 of it, Acts 5.31.2 to it, Acts 2.31.

2 Cor. 3.16. Ier. 4.1. Ezek. 33.15, 16.

• In it are handled
  • 1. Confession of sin.
  • 2. Mourning for it.
  • 3. Killing of it.
  • 4. Turning from it.

1. Confession of sinne. To true Confession of sinne are promised. Remitting of it, purging from it, and mercy.

* 1.171If wee confesse our sinnes, hee is faithfull and iust (see the cer∣tainty of this promise) to for∣give us our sinnes, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousnesse, See the extent and largenesse of this promise, 1 Ioh. 1.9. Cum homo agnoscit. Deus ignoscit, saith Au∣stin. Hee that confesseth and for∣saketh his sinnes shall have mercy, Pro. 28.13.

If we would iudge our selves, we should not be iudged, 1 Cor. 11.31. Jer. 3.12, 13.

Hee looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned, and per∣verted that which was right and it profited mee not; He will deliver his soule from going downe into the pit, and his life shall see the light, Iob 33.27, 28.

2. Mourning for sinne. Promises. 1. Of godly sorrow.

GOD promiseth in the New Covenant,* 1.172 to take away the stony heart out of their flesh (that is, the stony hardnesse which was in their heart before) and to give them a heart of flesh, that is, a soft and tender heart, to tremble at GODS judgements, beleeve his promises, and obey his Com∣mandements.

You shall looke on him, whom you have pierced, and you shall mourne for him, as one mourneth for his onely Sonne, and be in bit∣ternesse

for him, as one that is in bitternesse for his first-borne, Zach. 12.10.

See Ezek. 20.43. & 36.31.

If thou complainest of a hard heart, challenge GOD with his promise, and in a holy reve∣rence and humble boldnesse, charge him with that Covenant mentioned in Ezekiel.

* 1.173Promises. 2. To Godly sorrow.

* 1.1741. Comfort.

Blessed are they that mourne, for they shall be comforted, Mat 5.4. The words import an ex∣ceeding measure of griefe, such as is expressed by crying and wee∣ping; therefore Luke saith, Blessed are yee that now weepe,* 1.175 * 1.176 Piscator, and others expound it of sorrow for sinne. They that so mourne are already blessed, and shall be comforted. You

shall be sorrowfull, but your sorrow shall be turned into ioy, Iohn 16.20. See verse 24. Psal. 126.5.6. They that sow in teares shall reape in ioy.* 1.177 Hee that goeth forth and wee∣peth, shall come againe with reioy∣cing bringing his sheaves with him. GOD hath undertaken to com∣fort them: In the prophesie of Esay every where almost wee finde it promised. The ransomed of the LORD shall returne and come to Zion with songs, and ever∣lasting ioy upon their heads; they shall obtaine ioy and gladnesse, and sorrow and sighing shall fly away, Esay 35.10. They shall have both outward and inward com∣fo••t, for so some distinguish be∣tweene ioy and gladnesse; that ••oy is outward of the body, and gladnesse inward of the soule, Psal. 118.24. arise (saith GOD, ••alling on his Church) and shine, ••nd put on brightnesse and glory: ••he LORD shall be a light unto ••hee in darkenesse. CHRIST was ••ent for this very end, to com∣fort

such as mourne for their sinnes. The LORD hath sent mee to binde up the broken hear∣ted,* 1.178 to give unto them that mourne in Zion, beauty for ashes, the oyle of ioy, for mourning, the garment of praise, for the spirit of heavi∣nesse, Esay 61.1, 3. Luke 4.18. I am not sent but unto the lost sheepe of the house of Israel,* 1.179 Mat. 15.24. that is, (saith M. Per∣kins) to those which in their owne sence and feeling are lost in themselves. The fruit of the Spirit is ioy, Gal. 5.22. The LORD who is the Father of mercies, and GOD of all consola∣tion,* 1.180 is cald a GOD that Com∣forteth all those that are cast downe, 2 Cor. 7.6. Comfort yee, comfort yee my people, saith our GOD. Speake yee comfortably to Hierusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned, Esay 40.1, 2. Behold how freely and how fully the LORD speakes, how he doubles his comforts: Comfort

yee, comfort yee, and iterates his words, speake comfortably, cry unto her: The LORD will com∣fort Zion and her mourners, Esay 57.18. All Sion, the Church of GOD shall be comforted, and all the friends of the Church, that mourne in her mourning, and that take to heart her sor∣rowes and desolation, shall be comforted too. GOD shall wipe away all teares from their eyes, Rev. 7.17.* 1.181 Thus saith the High and lofty one that inhabiteth eter∣nity, whose name is holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones, Esay 57.15. The day of humiliati∣on, when GODS people afflict their soules before him, is called a day of a••tonement, Le∣vit. 23.27. For so is GODS promise, In that day there ••hall be a Fountaine opened for sinne, Zach. 13.1.* 1.182

2. Grace.

* 1.183This benefit is pressed as a motive unto godly sorrow. 1 Pet. 5.5, 6. GOD giveth grace to the humble. Humble your selves therefore (saith the Apostle) under the mighty hand of GOD. Iam. 4.6, 7, 9. GOD giveth grace to the humble. Submit your selves therefore to GOD, Be af∣flicted and mourne and weepe.

• 1. Knowledge, The humble he will teach his way, Psal. 25.9.
• 2. Repentance, Godly sorrow bringeth repentance to sal∣vation, 2 Cor. 7.10.

3. Speciall protection, assi∣stance, and mercy in the evill day.

Those that mourne for the sinnes of other men, have a great promise of speciall protection in the daies of common calamity.

Goe through the midst of the Ci∣ty,* 1.184 through the midst of Ierusa∣lem, and set a marke upon the foreheads of the men that sigh, and that cry for all the abhomina∣tions that be done in the midst thereof, Ezek. 9.4.

GOD marked them for his owne, signo salutari saith Iunius, with a saving marke, such as that, Exod. 12.

Thou wilt save the afflicted peo∣ple, Psal. 18.27 Hee saveth such as be of a contrite spirit, Psal. 34.18. When men are cast downe, then thou shalt say, there is a lifting up, he shall save the humble person, Iob 22.29.

4. Audience in prayer.

The LORD hath promised, that the prayers of such shall prevaile mightily with him both for themselves and others.* 1.185 It is said of Iacob, Hosea 12.4. Hee had power over the Angell and prevailed, hee wept, and made sup∣plications

unto him. And of He∣zekiah, Esay 38.5. I have heard thy prayers I have seene thy teares: behold, I will add unto thy daies fifteene yeares. LORD thou hast heard the desire of the humble, thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine eare to heare, Psal. 10.17. When the Prophet had said, Psal. 34.17. The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth them, he giveth this reason, verse 18. The LORD is nigh to them that are of a broken heart. 2 Chron. 7.14. If my people that are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, then will I heare from Hea∣ven.

Yea GOD will heare them also for others. Iob 42.8. My servant Job shall pray for you, for him will I accept.

3. Mortification or killing of sinne. Promises. 1. Of Mortification.

A Child of GOD shall be able to mortifie his corrupti∣ons, and overcome his speciall sinnes which most prevaile over him.

For sinne shall not have domi∣nion over you, Rom. 6 14. that is, shall never any more reigne as in times past it did, and so have the full victory over you. For yee are not under the Law, but under grace, that is, Yee are not still under the condemnation and ty∣ranny of the Law; but by true receiving of CHRIST by faith are now delivered from that bondage, and so brought into the liberty of GODS children. See ver. 18, 22. and Rom. 7.24, 25. He will subdue our iniquities, Micah 7.19. Hee will tread them under our feete, as it were.

This grace of Mortification is expressely promised, Gal. 5.16. Walke in the spirit, and yee shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh, Tit. 2.11, 14.

The members of CHRIST shall be cleansed from the guil∣tinesse of sinne, it shall not be imputed; and from the filthinesse of sinne, it shall not prevaile over them, 1 Iohn 17.9. Mat. 1.21. Iohn 1.29. Rev. 1.5. Acts 3.26. Psal. 103.3. The Prophets foretold in their time, That GOD would purge and cleanse his Church.* 1.186 Esay 1.25. That GOD will purely purge their drosse, and take away all their tinne: that is, their sinnes. I will cleanse you or wash you, that is, with the imputati∣on or sprinkling of the blood of CHRIST from all your Idols, that is, from all the sinnes that you have commit∣ted.

* 1.187When wee feele our hearts discouraged by the little strength we finde to master our speciall corruptions, then we may ap∣ply to our selves any of these promises, wherein the LORD himselfe doth undertake this

worke which is too hard for us:* 1.188 That he will subdue our ini∣quities, cleanse us from all unrigh∣teousnesse. Though a strong and importunate lust hang upon us, an hereditary disease, a lust that is naturall to us, which we think wee shall never be able to con∣quer, yet GOD hath promi∣sed to breake the dominion of every sinne; That hee will cruci∣fie the flesh with the affections thereof. Hee can heale the stron∣gest lusts, CHRIST could cure those that were borne blinde and lame; therefore when we grap∣ple with a strong lust we should goe to the LORD, and pleade the Covenant, and say to him, LORD I feele this temptation is too strong for mee, such a lust I cannot overcome, thou hast said, Thou wilt circumcise my heart, that thou wilt dissolve these lusts, I beseech thee to doe it. If we truly hate and detest sinne, (though it doe sometimes stirre in us) we should not be discou∣raged;

for our Sanctification here is but in fieri, it is but in doing yet,* 1.189 Rev. 6.2. CHRIST rides about conquering, and will yet goe on to conquer sinne in us. He will not subdue our cor∣rupt lusts unto us at once, but as he did the Cananites to his people Israel, by little and little, Exod. 23.30. Deut. 7.22.

That promise which GOD made to Paul in the stirrings and conflicts of his concupiscence is made unto all of his temper,* 1.190 my grace is sufficient for thee, 2 Cor. 12.9. There are two things in that promise; grace to make it, and sufficiency to fulfill it.

The LORD doth sometimes descend to particulars, as that, Hee will cleanse them from their Idols, and that hee will take away the stony heart out of them. But wee may apply the former ge∣nerall promises to our particu∣lar occasions, and they will be as comfortable, as if the LORD

had said in particular, hee will kill our pride, our unbeleefe, our hypocrisie.

Promises. 2. To Mortification.

The benefits the LORD will bestow upon us, if in obe∣dience and love to him, wee can be content to cast away our sin∣full lusts.

He that forsaketh any profit, credit or comfort for CHRISTS sake, shall be rewarded an hun∣dred fold, Mar. 10.29, 30. Mat. 19.28. Hee shall re∣ceive not ten in the hundred, but a hundred for ten, If yee mortifie the deeds of the flesh by the Spirit, yee shall live, Rom. 8.13. Without it there is no li∣ving, it is a necessary condition required to the attainement of salvation.

4. Turning from sinne.

Promises. 1. Of Turning from sinne.

Then thou shalt remember thy waies and be ashamed, Ezek. 16.61. Yee shall remember your waies and all your doings wherein yee have beene defiled, and you shall lothe your selves in your owne sight, for all your evills that yee have committed. Ezek. 20.43. the like is repeated 36.31. Vnto you hath GOD raised up his Sonne JESUS, and sent him to blesse you in turning away every one of you from his iniquities, Acts 3.26. GOD promiseth to the Gentiles in their conversion, Then will I change in the people their lip, that it may be pure (so Iunius reads it) with the which all may call up∣on the name of the LORD,* 1.191 that is, I will call them to repen∣tance: and then followes a pro∣mise of taking away the staine of sinne, In that day shalt thou not be ashamed for all thy workes.

The remnant of Israel shall stay up∣on the LORD the holy one of Is∣rael in truth.* 1.192 The remnant shall returne, &c.

Then shall shee say, I will goe and returne to my first husband, for then was it better with mee then now, Hos. 2.7. They shall returne unto mee with their whole heart, Ier. 24 7.

Promises. 2. To turning from sinne.

Turning unto GOD by re∣pentance procureth his mercies upon us.

1. Temporall, Returne unto mee,* 1.193 and I will returne unto you saith the LORD of hostes, Ma∣lac. 3.7. See Deut. 30.1, 2, Nehem. 1.9. Iob 22.23, 24, 25—28. Ier. 7.3, 5, 7, 14, 15. & 18.8.

2. Spirituall: the promises of remission to repentance are ve∣ry frequent in Scripture.* 1.194 So the Prophet Esay promiseth pardon to the penitent; Wash you, make you cleane, put away the evill of your workes from you, that is, repent: and then followes, Though your sinnes were as crimson, they shall be made as white as snow, that is, yee shall be pardoned. If wee acknowledge our sinnes,* 1.195 (that is, if wee repent) hee is faithfull and iust to forgive us our sinnes. Hence repentance and remissi∣on of sinnes are joyned together by our Saviour,* 1.196 Luke 24.47. Acts 2.38 Repent and be converted, that your sinnes may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come, Acts 3.19. Let the wicked forsake his way, and returne unto the LORD, and hee will have mer∣cy on him, Esay 55.7.

3. Eternall: O Hierusalem wash thy heart from wickednesse, that thou maist be saved, Ier. 4.14.

10. Humility. Promises. To Humility.

The LORD inricheth the humble with all his gifts, both Temporall, Spirituall, and Eter∣nall.

1. He will reward them with temporall benefits.

By humility and the feare of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life, Pro. 22.4.

2. GOD promiseth delive∣rance to the humble, 2 Chron. 12.7. Iob 22.29.

3. Honour, Before honour is humility, Pro. 15.33. & 18.12. Iob 5.11. Iam. 4.6, 10. Luke 18.14. Matth. 23, 12.* 1.197

2. Spirituall graces;* 1.198 GOD giveth grace unto the humble, Iam. 4.6. 1 Pet. 5.5. Pro. 3.24.

• 1. Pardon of sinne, 2 Chron. 7.14.
• 2. GOD teacheth them his

• waies, Psal. 25.9. Mat. 11.25. He revealeth to them the secrets of his Kingdome, making them thereby wise unto their salva∣tion, Pro 11.2.
• 3. GOD blesseth them with his presence, taking delight to dwell with them, Esay 57.15.

3. GOD will crowne the humble in the life to come with eternall glory.* 1.199 Blessed are the poore in spirit, for theirs is the kingdome of heaven, Mat. 5.3. Au∣sten and Chrysostome expound it of inward humility.

11. Meekenesse. Promises. 1. Of Meekenesse.

The Wolfe shall dwell with the Lambe, and the Leopard shall lie downe with the Kid: and the Calfe, and the young Lyon, and the fal∣ling together, and a little child shall leade them. And the Cow and

the Beare shall feed, their young ones shall lie downe together, &c. Esay 11.6, 7, 8. whereby is signi∣fied, that men once converted, shall be so changed and altered, that if they were never so fierce and cruell against the Church, and one against another before, yet they shall be framed to a peace∣able and meeke disposition to∣wards all men.

Promises. 2. To Meekenesse.* 1.200

1. Protection, The meeke are under GODS protection, in a speciall manner, Psal. 76.9.

He will beautifie the meeke with salvation, Psal. 149.4. They shall be hid in the day of the LORDS wrath, Zeph. 2.3. Hee will rebuke aright for all the meeke of the earth, Esay 11.4.

2. Advancement, The LORD lifteth up the meeke, Psal. 147.6.

3. Instruction, The meeke will hee guide in iudgement, and the meeke will he teach his way, Psal. 25.9.

4. The inheritance of the whole earth: this appeares both in the Old and New Testament, Psal. 37.11. Mat 5.5. Such a man shall have the earth as an heyre, he shall hold it by right of adoption, as the word in the Ori∣ginall signifieth.

5. Blessednesse, Mat. 5.5. Blessed are the meeke.

12. Patience. Promise. 1. Of it.

Patience is a gift which GOD hath promised freely and liberally without grudging or upbraiding Iam. 1.5. If any of you lacke wise∣dome, (that is, to beare the crosse) let him aske it of GOD that gi∣veth to all men liberally, and up

braideth not, and it shal be given him.

Promises. 2. To it.

The patient abiding of the righ∣teous shall be gladnesse, Prov. 10.28.

Humble your selves under the mighty hand of GOD, (that is,* 1.201 bow and buckle under it with meekenesse and silence) that hee may exalt you in due time, 1 Pet. 5.6.

Yee have need of patience, that after yee have done the will of GOD,* 1.202 yee might receive the pro∣mise, Heb. 10.36. Behold we count them happy which endure, Jam. 5.11. To them who by patient conti∣nuance in well-doing, seeke for glory, and honour, and immortality, eternall life, Rom. 2.7.

13. Righteousnesse. Promises To Righteousnesse.

• 1. Generally, Psal. 11.7. Pro. 11.3, 4, 5 6, 18, 19.
• 2. Particularly, for the righ∣teous person.
  • 1. Himselfe.* 1.203
  • 2. His posterity, Psal. 37.25. Psal. 112.2. Prov. 11.21.
  • Himselfe.
    • 1. In this life, He shall have,
      • 1. Peace, and pro∣tection in time of danger, Esay 32.17. Psal. 5.12. Prov. 12.21. deli∣verance out of danger, Psal. 34.19. Psal. 125.3. Pro. 11.8.
      • 2. Provision in time of want,* 1.204 Psal. 34.15. 1 Pet. 3.12. Psal. 37.25, 29.
      • 3. Joy, Psal. 68.3. Let the righteous be glad, let them rejoyce before

• ...
  • ...
    • ...
      • GOD, yea let them exceeding∣ly rejoyce.
    • 2. For his death; the righteous hath hope in his death,* 1.205 Pro. 14.32.
    • 3. After death; the memory of the just is blessed, Pro. 10.7. the righteous shall be in everlasting re∣membrance, Psal. 112.6.
    • 4. At the resurrecti∣on; the righteous shall goe into life eternall, Mat. 25.46. See 14. Chap. 43.

14. Vprightnesse. Promises. 1. Of Vprightnesse.

Hee shall put his law in thy

minde, and write it in thine heart, Jer. 31.33.

The truth dwelleth in us and shall be with us for ever, 2 Epist. of Iohn 2.

Promises. 2. To Vprightnesse.

GOD rewards it with the blessines of this life and that which is to come, hee will give them grace in this life, and glory in the life to come, Psal. 84.11. No good thing will bee withho••d from them. In this life GOD multiplieth his favours upon those who s••rve him in sincerity, Psal. 73.1. Psal. 125.4. GOD hath promised to be good to them;

1. In their habitations and fa∣milies, Pro. 14.11.

2. In their children and poste∣rity, Psal. 112.2.

3. In all the comforts of this life, Psal. 84.11.

4. In times of common cala∣mity

and combustion, Psal. 37.19. Prov. 2.7. Psal. 112.4, 11.

5. Peace, joy, and security are promised to it,* 1.206 Hee that walketh uprightly walketh surely, Pro. 10.9. 2 Chron. 16.9. Psal. 97.11. Prov. 11.28. GOD performeth all his gracious promises upon this con∣dition onely: so hee promiseth unto the Kings of Israel and Iudah, 1 King. 2.4. & 9.4.5. that hee will confirme their King∣dome unto them and their po∣sterity after them. If they would walke before him in truth with all their heart and with all their soule:* 1.207 therefore Hezekiah intreateth GOD to performe his promise unto him and his posterity, grounding his faith on this, see∣ing hee had walked, &c. Esay 38. 3. Psal. 145.18. He will save and deliver them from all perils, and out of the hands of all their enemies, Psal. 7.10. Prov. 11.6. which makes them bold and con∣fident as Lions in pe••illous times, Pro. 28.1.

6. Promotion, Pro. 22.11. Hee that loveth purenesse of heart,* 1.208 for the grace of his lips the King shall be his friend.

7. GOD is delighted with it, 1 Chron. 29.17. Pro. 12.22. Psal. 51.6. Psal. 11.7. By sincerity and truth wee come to be in league with GOD, hee smites a covenant with us, Gen. 17.1, 2.

8. A peaceable end: marke the perfect man, and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace, Psal. 37.37.

Three speciall blessings are pro∣mised them: 1. Such shall ne∣ver fall away nor loose GODS favour and grace, Psal. 36.10. a Propheticall prayer hath the na∣ture of a promise, Psal. 112.6.2. Such shall have strength gi∣ven them of GOD to endure any triall hee shall be pleased to bring them unto, 2 Chron. 16.9.3. Such shall be sure to have a comforta∣ble issue and a joyfull deliverance ••ut of all their tentations, Psal. 37.

37. Psal. 97.11. Psal. 126.5.

In the life to come, GOD also crowneth the sincere and upright services of the faithfull with joy and happinesse. Salomon saith, Hee who walketh uprightly shall be saved, Pro. 28.18. and David affirmeth that the upright is bl••ssed and shall dwell in GODS presence, Psal. 32.2. & 119.1. Psal. 15.2. our Saviour affirmeth that he shall be blessed in the vision and fruition of GOD, Mat. 5.8.

15. Peace. Promises. Of Peace of conscience.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you, Iohn 14.27. Our Saviour 1. Chal∣lengeth peace to be his owne, ha∣ving dearely purchased it: 2. His owne to give, men may wish

the peace of GOD or CHRIST, but hee gives it as his owne: 3. He sheweth that this peace cannot be else-where had;* 1.209 (not as the world giveth) plainely distinguishing his peace from the worlds, both in the gift and manner of giving.

* 1.210The peace of GOD which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and mindes through CHRIST JESUS, Phil. 4.7. It is called the Peace of GOD] 1. Because it hath GOD for its Object, it is a peace with GOD. 2. Because GOD by his Spirit is the Author of it; it is peace from GOD, and therefore said to be a fruit of the Spirit, Gal. 5.22. It is said to passe all understanding] because 1. The understanding of ma•• cannot sufficiently conceive it 2. Mans understanding canno•• sufficiently esteeme or prize 〈◊〉〈◊〉 according to its worth, shall kee•• your hearts] keepe] as with guard or strong garrison: th••

same greeke word is used, 2 Cor. 11.32. your hearts] that is, your will and affections, and minds] your intellectuall faculties, your whole soules shall be kept in the knowledge and faith of CHRIST JESUS.

As many as walke according to this rule, peace shall be upon them and mercy, Gal. 6.16. By peace we are to understand outward peace, as prosperity and good successe in all things wee goe about, and peace with the crea∣tures: but the peace which is principally meant in this place, is peace of conscience, which is peace with GOD, and our selves.

16. Zeale.

The care of being Zealous, 1. Hath a singular promise of the presence and communion of GOD in CHRIST, Rev. 3.19, 20.

2. Zeale makes all our services acceptable to GOD, Iam. 5.16.

Romanes 12.11.

3. It is the way to happinesse, Matth. 11.12.

17. Perseverance. Promises to strengthen our faith as touching Perseve∣rance.

For this marke the first Pro∣mise which GOD made, The seede of the woman shall breake the serpents head, Gen. 3.15. there Sa∣tan is stinted to the heele of CHRIST, and that promise made to Abraham, Gen. 17.7. and to David concerning Salo∣mon, 2 Sam. 7.14, 15. the which promise is applied to all GODS Elect, Psal. 89.23, 28, 29. GOD hath promised to his Elect, That they shall enjoy the worke of their hands, and shall not labour in vaine, Esay 65.22, 23. Not one of them shall be lacking in the whole flocke, Jer. 23.4. Hee will build them and not plucke them

downe, hee will plant them and not pull them up, Ier. 24.6.

See Esay 33.20.* 1.211 Deut. 31.8. 2 Sam. 7.10. Amos 9.15. Psal. 92.13, 14. Pro. 10.30. & 12.3. Judg. 5.31. Job 11.15, 17. Esay 42.3. & 46.4. Esay 55.3. Ezek. 37.26. Heb. 13.5. & 20. Esay 54.9, 10.

Promises. 2. To Perseverance.

The Promises of reward, are limited and restrained unto those who persevere unto the end, Hee that endureth unto the end shall bee saved,* 1.212 Matth. 10.22. which is often repeated, Matth. 24.13. Marke 13.13. CHRIST promiseth a reward to those se∣ven Churches of Asia, but with a proviso of overcomming. To him that overcommeth will I give to eate of the tree of life which is in the paradise of GOD,* 1.213 Rev. 2.7. Hee that overcommeth shall not be hurt of the second death,

verse 11. To him that overcom∣meth will I give to eate of the hidden Manna,* 1.214 verse 17. To him that overcommeth and keepeth my workes unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations, verse 26. See 28. verse.

Holding fast and going on hath a crowne attending it, Heb. 10.23. Luke 22.28, 29, 30. Be thou faithfull unto death,* 1.215 and I will give thee a crowne of life, Rev. 2.10.

If yee abide in mee and my words abide in you, yee shall aske what yee will, and it shall be done unto you, Iohn 15.7.

See Iames 1.25. Heb. 3.14. Gal. 6.9.

CHAP. XI. 2. The Degrees of Graces.

Promises. Of growth and increase in Grace.

GOD hath promised to give grace abundantly, not onely to drop it, but to powre it.

I will powre water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the drie ground: I will powre my Spi∣rit upon thy seed, &c. Esay 44.3, 4.

Their soule shall be as a wate∣red garden, Esay 58.11. and Jer. 31.12.

GOD promiseth to make his people fruitfull; He is compared to a Husbandman, the Church to an Orchard, the faithfull to young plants, whose nature is to spread, and shoot out their branches

and bring forth fruit, Iohn 15.2.

The godly man shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of wa∣ter, that bringeth forth fruit in his season, Psal. 1.3. Jer. 17.8.

* 1.216Those that be planted in the house of the LORD, shall flourish in the courts of our GOD. They shall bring forth fruit in old age: they shall be fat and flourishing, Psal. 92.13, 14. An old man be∣ing once asked if hee grew in goodnesse, said, yea doubtlesse, I beleeve it to be so, for GOD hath said it.

The righteous shall flourish as the branch, Pro. 11.28. Yee shall goe forth and grow up as the calves of the stall, Mal. 4.2.

The LORD likewise as a good Shepheard saith, Hee will feede his people, that they may be fat, that is, abounding in grace, as Psal. 23. Ezek. 34.13, 14, 15. Psal. 36.8. Pro. 13.4.

He saith, Hee will give strength

to his people, to walke in the waies of the LORD, Esay 45.24. Esay 40.29, 31. Psal. 29.11. Esay 26.4, 12. Esay 41.10. Zach. 10.12. Phil. 4.13.

They go from strength to strength, Psal. 84.7.

The righteous shall hold on his way, and he that hath cleane hands shall be stronger and stronger,* 1.217 Job 17.9.

But the path of the iust is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day, Pro. 4.18.

Whosoever hath (that is, useth well what he hath received) to him shall be given, and he shall have abundance, Matth. 13.12. Luke 19.26. Mar. 4 24.* 1.218

Nathaniel beleeved at the first, yet he is promised that hee shall see greater things.

See Hos 14.5, 6, 7.

Promises to severall degrees of true grace or growth in grace. 2 Pet. 1.5, 6, 8, 10, 11.

Growth in grace will procure growth in glory; the more ho∣linesse we have here,* 1.219 the more happinesse wee shall have hereaf∣ter. If we be rich in the worke of the LORD, our labour shall not be in vaine in the LORD, 1 Cor. 15.58. Hee that sowes li∣berally, shall reape liberally, wee shall receive a full reward, Iohn Epist. 2.8.

CHAP. XII. 2. Spirituall Duties.

THe LORD hath promi∣sed to assist us in them by his Spirit, and they being done by the operation and assistance of the Spirit shall be ac∣cepted and rewarded of the Fa∣ther.

1. GOD hath promised to helpe us by his Spirit in holy du∣ties.

Therefore wee must not onely looke to the Commandement injoyning duty, but to the pro∣mise shewing GODS mercy in helping us.

For GOD in the New Cove∣nant gives what he requires.

In one place the LORD commandeth,* 1.220 Cast away from you all your transgressions, and make you a new heart, and a new Spi∣rit. In another place hee promi∣seth,* 1.221 I will sprinkle cleane water upon you, and you shall be cleane from all your filthinesse; A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you. So GOD commandeth them to cir∣cumcise the foreskinne of their hearts, Deut. 10.16. and after he saith, hee will circumcise their hearts, &c. Deut. 30.6. He com∣mands us to keepe his Commande∣ments, Eccles. 12.13. and promi∣seth to cause us to walke in his statutes, Ezek. 36, 27. Hee com∣mandeth us to feare Him, Eccles. 12.13. and promiseth to put

his feare into our hearts, Ier. 32.40. Hee commandeth us to have a new soft heart, and pro∣miseth to make it so, Ezek. 36.26. Hee commands us to pray and make knowne our wants to him, and promiseth to powre upon us the Spirit of grace and Supplica∣tion, Zach. 12.10.

GODS promises are the foundation of all our performan∣ces; For we by working doe not cause him to fulfill his promises, but he by promising doth enable us to performe our workes.

2. GOD promiseth to accept the services of his children.

All our sacrifices shall be ac∣cepted.

The LORD by Moses did of∣ten tell his people,* 1.222 that their sa∣crifices should be accepted, Le∣vit. 1.3, 4. & 22.21. & 23.11. Exod. 28.36, 38. See Esay 60.7. Ezek. 43.27. & 20.40, 41. Mal. 3, 4.

If thou doest well, shalt not thou be accepted, Gen. 4.7.* 1.223 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousnesse, Psal. 51.19. Yee are a holy Priesthood, to offer up spiri∣tuall sacrifices acceptable to GOD by JESUS CHRIST, 1 Pet. 2.5.

If there be first a willing minde, it is ••c••epted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not, 2 Cor. 8.12.

I will make them ioyfull in mine house of prayer; their burnt offe∣rings, and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine Altar, Esay 56.7.

3. GOD will reward the ser∣vices of his children.* 1.224

To him that soweth righteous∣nesse, shall be a sure reward, Pro. 11.18.

Every man shall receive his owne reward according to his labour, 1 Cor. 3.8.

Whatsoever good thing any man

doth, the same shall hee receive of the LORD, whether he be bond or free, Ephes. 6.8.

Behold his reward is with him, Esay 40.10.

Verily there is a reward for the Righteous, Psal. 58.11.

I the LORD search the heart, I trie the reines,* 1.225 even to give eve∣ry man according to his waies, and according to the fruit of his doings, Jer. 17.10.

Let us not be weary of well-doing, for in due season wee shall reape if wee faint not, Galat. 6.9.

* 1.226He shall reward every man ac∣cording to his workes, Mat. 16.27.

CHAP. XIII. The ordinances of GOD.

• 1. In generall.
• 2. Particular Duties.
  • 1. Prayer.
  • 2. Preaching.
  • 3. Reading.

Promises. 1. To the ordinances of GOD generally.

THere is a promise to the use of GODS or∣dinances. James 4.8. Draw nigh to GOD, and he will draw nigh to you.

With ioy shall yee draw water out of the wels of salvation, Esay 12.3. We may apply this promise when we pray, heare, conferre or fast, in every dutie.

Promises. 2. To particular Duties.

1. Prayer. 1. GOD will give his chil∣dren hearts to seeke him by Prayer.

* 1.227He shall call upon mee, and I will answer hi••, Psal. 91.15.

Then shall yee call upon mee, and yee shall goe and pray unto mee, and I will hearken unto you, Ier. 29.12. He will prepare their hearts, Psal. 10.17.

For this cause shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou maist be found, Psal. 32.6.

See Ier. 31.9. and Hosea 3.5.

2. GOD promiseth to helpe us to pray.

His Spirit shall indite our prayers, and helpe us to draw our petitions.

The Spirit helpeth our infirmi∣ties, and maketh intercession for us with groanings that cannot be utte∣red, Rom. 8.26, 27.* 1.228

I will powre upon the house of David, and upon the Inhabitants of Ierusalem the Spirit of grace and supplications, Zach. 12.10. So soone as the Spirit of Grace entreth into the heart; it makes one plentifull, and abundant in supplicating and suing unto GOD for grace and mercy.

3. GOD hath bound him∣selfe by promise to heare his servants, when they call upon him.* 1.229

The LORD made a promise to Salomon after his prayer, say∣ing, Mine eyes shall be open and mine eares attentive to the prayer in ••his place, 2 Chron. 7.15.

The LORD is rich unto all that call upon him, Rom. 10.••2

Be carefull for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and suppli∣cation with thankesgiving,* 1.230 let your request bee made knowne unto GOD. And the peace of GOD which passeth all understanding, shall keepe your hearts and mindes through CHRIST JESUS, Philip. 4.6, 7.

The prayers of the upright are his delight, Pro. 15.8. Hee heareth the prayer of the righteous, verse 29.

GOD will not onely heare our prayers in generall, but our voice, Psal. 5.3. our very desires, Psal. 10.17. Pro. 10.24. which are effectuall prayers with GOD. He will not despise our prayers, Psal. 102.17. He will not reproch us, nor upbraid us with what is past, or our present frailties, Iam. 1.5. It is agreeable to his nature and disposition to heare prayers, Psal. 65.12. The thing that hath en∣couraged GODS children, and given them heart in prayer, hath beene this hope and assurance that

they should finde audience and respect with GOD, O thou that hearest prayer, or because thou hearest prayer, all flesh shall resort unto thee, Psal. 65.2.

GOD excepts no man, all shall be heard.

For thou LORD art good and ready to forgive, and plente∣ous in mercy to all them that call upon thee, Ps. 86.5.* 1.231 The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth, Psal. 145.18. It shall come to passe, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be delivered, Ioel 2.32. which is repeated, Acts 2.21. and Rom. 10.13. Though our prayers be weake, yet let us re∣member, that the promise is made to all. We may see the proofe of this in a prayer made in much in∣firmity, Psal. 31.22. GOD is more ready to heare, then we to aske, to give, then we to re∣ceive, 1 Pet. 3.12. His eares are open, as a kinde mother or nurse which useth to be so wakefull,

that shee will heare the child so soone as ever it begins to cry, Dan. 10.11. Feare not Daniel, for from the first day, that thou didst set thy heart to understand, and to humble thy selfe before GOD, thy words were heard, yea before they call, I will answer, and while they speake, I will heare, Esay 65.24. that is, in our purpose of Prayer. This the faithfull have gloried in, Psal. 4.3.17.6. and 38.15.

GOD hath specially bound himselfe to heare his children in those prayers, that they make unto him in their afflictions; the time of trouble is the very set houre of Audience.* 1.232

The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his eares are open to their cry, Psal. 34.15. The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth and delivereth them out of all their troubles, verse 17. Which is repeated foure times in the 107. Psalme, 6, 13, 19. and 28. ver∣ses.

The LORD saith, Psal. 50.15. Call upon mee in the day of trou∣ble; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorifie mee. Hee will re∣gard the prayer of the destitute, a••d not despise their prayer, Psal. 102.17. to 21. their teares, s••ghes, and groanings are not hid from him, Psal. 39.12. He will heare in the morning, Psal. 5.3. in the very season, the due time, when we are in trouble. Yea so as hee will in our affliction in a speciall manner, let us know, that hee is our GOD, and that he will deliver us, Zach. 13.9. The LORD, heareth the pray∣ers of his people, when they thinke they are cast out of his sight, Psal. 31.22.

GODS people have found comfort in all their afflictions, by powring out their hearts to GOD in prayer, Psal. 109.3, 4.

In the day of my trouble, I will call upon thee, for thou hearest mee, Psal. 86.7.* 1.233

The LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping, the LORD hath heard my supplication, the Lord will receive my prayer, Psal. 6.8, 9.

A Noble man in this King∣dome, had a ring given him by the Queene Elizabeth, with this promise; that if hee sent that ring to her at any time when he was in distresse, shee would re∣member him and deliver him. This was a great priviledge from a Prince, and yet that ring though sent, might not be de∣livered. GOD hath given his children prayer as that ring, and tells them whatsoever di∣stresse they are in, let them but send this up to him, and he will be sure to relieve them, and when they doe send up this, it is sure to be conveyed, wheresoe∣ver they are.

Prayer is profitable to obtaine every thing, as is evident by the promise of CHRIST, Iohn 16.23. Verily,* 1.234 verily I say unto you, what∣soever yee shall aske the Father i••

my name hee will give it you. Note the certainty of the pro∣mise, in CHRISTS vehement asseveration; note the generality of it [whatsoever.] Our Savi∣our oft repeated such pro∣mises in those heavenly and last speeches which he uttered to his Disciples, Iohn 14.13. Ioh. 15.7, 16

See Mar. 11.24. Iohn 9.31. 1 Iohn 3.22. & 5.14, 15.

I may say of prayer, as the Apostle saith of Godlinesse; it hath the promises of this life and that which is to come.

1. For this life.

Temporall and Spirituall things are promised to prayer.

1. Temporall.

1. The prayer of faith shall save the sicke, and the LORD shall raise him up, Iam. 5.15.

2. Spirituall.

1. It obtaineth remission of sins,

and if hee have committed sinnes, they shall be forgiven him, the same verse of 5. of I••mes.

2. The Spirit, How much more shall your heavenly Father give good things to them that aske him, Matth. 7.11. Give the holy Spirit to them that aske him, So it is Luke 11 13.

2. For the life to come.

Prayer obtaineth eternall life and salvation.

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved, Rom. 10.13.

That Promise that is made to our prayers runs thus, If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands towards him, &c. Iob 11.13. The stretching out of our hands (or of our voice either) is to little purpose, if our heart be not prepared first.

Promises

To fervent prayer.

Then yee shall call upon me, and ye shall goe and pray unto me,* 1.235 and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seeke me and find me,* 1.236 when ye shall search for me with all your heart, that is, truly and fervent∣ly, saith Greenham.

The effectuall prayer of a righ∣teous man availeth much (both for the helping of the body,* 1.237 and healing of the soule) but with this proviso, if it be fervent: o∣pen thy mouth wide, that is,* 1.238 ear∣nestly, confidently, call upon me, and I will fill it, that is, I will satisfie thy desire to the full.

Aske and it shall be given you; seeke, and yee shall find; knocke and it shall be opened unto you, Matth. 7.7. Aske, seeke, knocke. It is not a simple repetition of the same thing, but a gradati∣on. It shews instantissimam ne∣••essitatem, saith Austen. Aske ••s a begger, seeke as with a can∣dle, knocke as one that hath pow∣••r with importunity. * 1.239 One

thus descants upon the place; Aske with the mouth,* 1.240 seek with the heart, knock with the hand: and it shall be given you, that is, for Temporall things; and yee shall find, that is, for Spirituall things; and it shall be opened unto you, that is, for Eternall things.

Promises.

1. To Secret Prayer.

When thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy dore, pray to thy Father which is in secret, and thy Father which seeth in secret, shall reward thee o∣penly.

2. To Private or Family prayer.

Where two or three are gathe∣red together in my name, there a•• I in the midst of them, Matth 18.20.

3. To publike prayer.

• Publike for
  • 1. Mat∣ter.
  • 2. Place.

1. A promise to those, that pray for the Church.

Remember Sion, they shall prosper that love thee, Psalme 122.6, 7.

2. Promises to the prayers of the Congregation made in the Church.* 1.241

Hierusalem had singular pro∣mises made unto it, such as had no particular Church in the world besides, Psalm. 132.14.

There is a speciall promise made to the prayers made in the Temple, 2 Chron. 7.15. Mine eyes shall be open, and mine eares attent unto the prayer t••at is made in this place, 1 Kings 9.3.

The LORD hath promised, that he will cause his servants to rejoyce in the granting of

their suites which they shall make unto him in his owne house, Esay 56.7. upon the like promise made by GOD, Salo∣mon at the consecration of the Temple, 1 King. 8.30, 33. groun∣deth his Prayer, that the LORD would in speciall manner, heare the suites and supplications of his servants, publikely assembled in his Temple to call upon him. See the 5. Book, cap 1.

* 1.242A promise.

To Preaching.

GOD hath made a speciall promise to this, that he will be with it, to assist and blesse it, Matth. 28.20. I am with you alwaies, even unto the end of the world.

Promises.

To Reading.

* 1.243In Reading of the Word, if

we understand not, we should apply these Promises.

Prov. 1.23. I will powre out my Spirit unto you, I will make knowne my Words unto you.

Prov. 1.4. It gives subtilty to th•• simple, to the young men know∣ledge and discretion.

The Commandement of the LORD is pure, inlightning•• the eyes, Ps. 19.8.

GOD hath promised to teach and instruct such by his Spirit, that bring good and honest hearts to the reading and hearing of the Word.

Psal. 25.12. What man is he that fearth the LORD, him will he teach in the way that he shall choose.

The promise of finding is made to those who seeke as for gold and search as for treasure, Pro. 2.3, 4, 5.

Promises, to s••ch as love the Word of GOD.

Great peace have they which love

thy Law, and nothing shall offend them, Ps. 119.165.

Blessed is the man that delight∣eth greatly in his commandements, Ps. 112.1.

A promise to those that waite for the Word.

There is a blessing promised to such hearers as wait for the Word.

* 1.244Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doores. For who so findeth me, findeth life and obtaineth favour of the LORD.

Promises, that GODS chil∣dren shall hearken to the Word.

The eares of them that heare shall hearken, Psa. 32 3.

See Esaias 50.4. Acts 16.14.

Promises to such as consciona∣bly hearken to the Word.

Hoe, every one that thirsteth come yee to the water, and he that hath no mony: come yee,* 1.245 buy and eat, yea, come, buy wine, and milke without mony, and without price. Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soule delight it selfe in fatnesse. Encline your eare, and come unto me: heare, and your soule shall live, &c. There the LORD freely offereth saving grace to such as have none, and nothing, whereby they might purchase it. 2. He setteth out a way wherby they might in∣joy it, viz. a diligent hearing and beleiving GODS Word. 3. He makes most sweet pro∣mises, that their soule shall live, that is, they shall be quickned in CHRIST, and in him the seed of David, be made parta∣kers of those mercies which shall

never decay, If thou warne the righteous man that the righteous sinne not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is war∣ned, Ezek. 3.21. The conscio∣nable hearing of GODS Word, quickens the soule, and makes it to live both the life of grace and of glory;* 1.246 He that heareth my word and beleeveth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life: the houre is comming and now is when the dead shall heare the voyce of the Sonne of GOD, and they that heare shall live, John 5.24, 25. not such a voyce as shall call them out of their graves, as in the 28. verse; for he saith, now is, but the meaning of the place is, that those which were dead in sinne should be quick∣ned either by CHRIST in his own person, or by his Word in his Ministers.

The titles given to the Word ex∣presse this.

It is called, the Word of life, Acts 5.20. Phil. 2.16. John 6 68.

The Word of grace, Acts 20.32. The word of Salvation, Acts 13.••6. Salvation it selfe, and life e••erlasting, Heb. 2.3. Acts 28.28. John 12.50. The word is able to save our soules, Jam. 1.21. 1 Tim. 4.16. 1 Cor. 1.21. To this purpose there are so many commendations of the Word, specially in the Ps••lmes and Pro••erbes, Psal. 19.••. The l••w of the LORD is perfect; &c. the whole 119. Psalm was writ∣ten, to set out the excellency of the Word. The nine first Chap∣ters of the Proverbes; Take f••••st hold of instruction, let her not goe, keepe her, for she is thy life, Pro. 4.13. Instruction is our life, ther∣by we attain all things pertai∣ning to the comfort of this life and of that to come. See Pro. 1.9, 23. Pro. 2. from 1. to 13. Prov. 3.3. to 4. & 13. ver. to 24. Prov. 4.5. to 14. & 20. to 23. Prov. 6.20. to 24. Pro. 7.1 to 5. and the whole eighth Chapter. Sanctifie them through

thy truth, thy word is truth, John 17.17. Doe not my words doe good to him that walketh upright∣ly? Micah 2.7. As new born babes desire the sincere milke of the word, that yee may grow thereby, 1 Pet. 2.2. The comparisons which are used to set forth the profit of the Word, confirme this: it is resembled to The light, Esay 9.2. Raine, Deut. 32.2. Dea••, there also, living water, Zach. 14.8. Wine and milke, Esay 55.1, 2.

It is able, 1. To inlighten with saving knowledge the sim∣plest that shall heare and read it with an honest heart, Psalme 119.130. 2. To reform the heart and life of him that hath the strongest corruptions, Psal. 119.9. 3. To comfort and revive the heart that is most cast down either with inward or outward afflictions, Esay 57.19. 4. To preserve and adde knowledge and grace to them that have best profited, Mar. 4.24.

Whensoever we goe to the Word, we should meditate on some of these precious promises,* 1.247 to incourage us to attend unto GODS Word with expecta∣tion of his blessing on our la∣bours.

Promises. For the Sacraments. 1. In generall.

They are the Seales of the righteousnesse of faith, Rom. 4.11. or of the Covenant of grace.

The Apostle speaks of both Sa∣craments, 1 Cor. 12.13.

2. The special•• Sacraments.

• Baptisme.
• LORDS Sup∣per.

1. Baptisme. Promises to it.

It is called,* 1.248 The laver of rege∣neration,

Tit. 3.5. The Baptisme of repentance for remission of sinnes, Mar, 1.4. Act. 2.38. Our sins are said to be washed away, Act. 22.16. Heb. 10.22. and Bap∣tisme saveth, 1 Pet. 3.21. all which belong to the blood of CHRIST, Rev. 1.5. 1 John 1.7. our Savi∣our saith, we must be borne of water, John 3.5. that is, be made GODS children by recei∣ving CHRIST,* 1.249 as John 1.12. GOD hath promised that he will baptise us with the HO∣LY GHOST and with fire, Mat. 3.11.

2. LORDS Supper. Prom••ses to it.

* 1.250When our LORD JESUS did ordaine it, he speaking of the Bread,* 1.251 said, This is my body, and of the Wine, This is my blood of the New Testament, Mat. ••6.26, 28. that is, these outward signes and seales were most sure and

certain pledges of his body and blood, which he did as truly give to be spirituall food, as he gave the bread and wine to be bodily food to every believer, 1 Cor. 10.16.

There is a full meale, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, Rom. 14.17. Bread and Wine comprehend entire food; for humidum & siccum are all that are required unto food: this is promised, Esay 25.6. In this mountaine shall the LORD of Hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, &c. that is, he would make for his Church compleat provision. So Pro 9.5.

A Lawfull Oath. Promises to it. God hath promised to reward it.

• 1. In this life, Jer. 12.16. If they will learne the wayes of my people, to

• sweare the LORD liveth &c. then shall they be built in the midst of my people.
• 2. In the life to come with eternall happinesse, for he that sweareth and char∣geth not, though it be to his owne hinderance, he shall dwell in GODS holy Mountaine, Psal. 15 4.

Fasting. Promises to it.

Be afflicted and mourne and weepe, let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your ioy to hea∣vinesse. Humble your selves in the sight of the LORD, and he shall lift you up, J••m. 4.9, 10. If thou fast in sec••••t, thy Father which seeth in secre•• will reward thee openly, Mat. 6.18. Joel 2.12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19. first a fast is prescribed, then a blessing promised.

Praising GOD. Promises of it.

They shall praise the LORD that seeke him, Ps. 22.26. They shall shew forth my praise, Esay 43.21.

Yee shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD, Joel 2.26. where GOD promiseth temporall bles∣sings and a thankfull heart, it is an evident signe of the continu∣ance of them, as there in Jo∣el. And Deuter. 8.10. Esay 62.8, 9.

Promises to it.

Them that honour me I will honour 1 Sam. 2.30.* 1.252

He that offereth praise, glorifieth me, Psal. 50.23.

Praise is one of the Sacrifices with which GOD is well-plea∣sed, Heb. 13.15, 16. Psal. 69.30, 31. Let all the people praise thee, O GOD, let all the people praise thee.

Then shall the Earth yeeld her in∣crease, and GOD, even our owne GOD shall blesse us. Psal. 67.5, 6.

Promises. To Meditation.

Mercy and truth shall be to them which devise good, Pro 14 22.

* 1.253Thinke of these things which ye have both learned and received, and heard and seen in me; and the GOD of peace shall be with you, Phil. 4.8, 9.

Let not the booke of the Law de∣part out of thy mouth, but meditate therin day and night, that thou maist observe to doe according to all that is written therin: for then shalt thou make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good successe, Josh. 1.8. Blessed is the man that medi∣tates on the Word day and night: Psal. 1.2.

Promises.

To Self-examination.

If we would iudge our selves,* 1.254 we should not be iudged, 1 Cor. 11.31.

Let every man proove his owne work, and then he shall have reioycing in himselfe alone, and not in another, Gal. 6.4.

Promises. To those that conscionably sanctifie the LORDS day.* 1.255

The sanctifying of the LORDS ••ay will bring comfort and hap∣••inesse to soule and body.

1. Blessings, Spirituall, 13. v. ••••d Temporall 14. of 58. of Esay. If thou turn away thy foot from the ••abbath from doing thy pleasure on •• holy day, and call the Sabbath a light, the holy of the LORD, honora∣•••••• and shalt honour him, not doing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 owne ways, nor speaking thine 〈◊〉〈◊〉 words: then shalt thou delight thy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the LORD, and I will cause 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to ride upon the high places of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

2. Spirituall.

Blessed is the man that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, Esa. 56.2. See 5, 6, 7. verses, Jer. 17.24, 26. a speciall place. GOD promiseth there, 24, and 26. verses to reward the outward ob∣servation of the Sabbath. The bles∣sing there promised is two-fold, the first concerneth the Com∣mon-wealth, vers. 25. The se∣cond the Church and State of Religion, v. 26.

Promises. To Watchfullnesse.

Blessed is he that watcheth, Matth. 24.46, 47. Revel. 16.15.

They are three times said to be blessed,* 1.256 Luk. 12.37, 38, 43. to shew that they are thrice blessed and ever perfected in blessednes, which keep constantly their spirituall watch.

Promises. Of Conference.

The lips of the wise disperse know∣ledge, Pro. 15.7.

They are a well of life to feed many.

The tongue of the stammerers shall be ready to speake plainly, Esay 32.4. The dumb mans tongue shall sing, Esay 35.6. The mouth of the iust bringeth forth wisdome, Prov. 10.31.

Promises. To Conference.

The mouth of the upright shall deliver them, Pro. 12.6. A man shall be satisfied with good by the f••uit of his mouth, Prov. 12.14. Righteous lips are the delight of Kings, and they love him that spe••keth right, Prov. 16.13. See Prov. 22.11. A mans belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth, Prov. 18.20. A man shall

eate good by the fruit of his mouth, Pro. 13.2.

Promises. To Reproofe.

He that rebuketh a man, shall afterwards find more favour then he that flattereth with the tongue, Pro. 28.23. To them that rebuke the wicked shall be delight, and a good blessing shall come upon them, Pro. 24.25.

Promises. To giving of Alms.

* 1.257Beneficence shall be rewarded.

• 1. In this l••fe.
  • 1. In our selves.
  • 2. In our posterity, Ps. 37.25, 26.
  • 1. In our selves, with
    • 1. Mercy, Blessed are the

• ...
  • ...
    • mercifull for they shall re∣ceive mercy, Mat. 5.7 Pro. 14.21, 22.* 1.258
    • 2. Comfort in sicknesse.
    • 3. Deliverance out of trouble: one verse proves both, Blessed is he that considereth the poore and needy: the LORD will de∣liver him in time of trou∣ble, the LORD will streng∣then him upon the bed of languishing, he will make all his bed in his sicknes, Psal. 41.1, 3.
    • 4. Competency, He that giveth unto the poore shall not lacke, Pro. 28.27. this is a means to bring us to the right use of our wealth, Luk. 11.41.
  • 2. In the life to come, Come yee blessed of my Father, receive the Kingdom prepared for you from the begining of the world, &c. Mat. 25.34. Make to your selvs friends of the Mammon of unrighteousnes, that when ye fail

• ...
  • they may receive you into everlasting habitations, Lu. 16.9. Receiving is not mentioned here in regard of merit * 1.259 (as the Papists say) as though a man could deserve it by giving of almes, but either by way of hearty prayers made by the poore, that they may be received, or els because their Alms shall be unto them a pledge and earnest of their receiving into GODS Kingdome as a Father sayes sweetly if yee will be wise Mer∣chants, thrifty and happy usurers, part with tha•• which you cannot keep that you may gain the which you cannot lo••s•• When thou makest a feas•• call the poore, the maime••▪ the lame, the blind; An•• thou shalt be blessed: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thou shalt be recompenced the resurrection of the ius•• Luk. 14.14.

Promises, to liberall giving.

The liberall soule shall be made fat, and he that watereth shall be watered also himselfe, Prov. 11.25. He which soweth bountifully, shall reape bountifully, 2 Cor. 9.6.

2. To cheerfull giving.

GOD loveth a cheerfull giver,* 1.260 2 Cor. 9.7.

Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved, when thou givest unto him: be∣cause that for this thing the LORD thy GOD shall blesse thee in all thy work••s, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto, Deut. 15.10.

Promises. 1. To liberality to the Saints.

He that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous

man. shall receive a righteous mans reward.* 1.261 And whosoever shall give to drinke unto one of these little ones, a cup of cold water only in the name of a Disciple, he shall in no wise loose his reward, Mat. 10.41, 42. For a cup of cold water, (water the common element, and cold water that cost thee not the charge of fire to warme it) there is a Torrent, may a very Sea of all pleasures provi∣ded for thee for all eternity. For GOD is not unrighteous to forget your worke and labour of love, which yee have shewed toward his name, in that yee have mini∣stred to the Saints, and do minister, Hebr. 6.10.

See Gal. 6.9, 10.

Promises. To bounty to GODS Mini∣stere.

He that receiveth you, receiveth me: He that receiveth a Prophet

in the name of a Prophet, shall re∣ceive a Prophets reward, Matth. 10.40, 41. Some understand that thus, they shall be partakers of the same reward, which is laid up for the Prophets. Calvin takes it for a reward which is fit for the worthinesse of the per∣son, upon whom the liberality shall be bestowed.

Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barnes be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine, Prov. 3.9, 10.* 1.262 And the Le∣vite because he hath no part nor inher••tance with thee,* 1.263 shall come and shall eate, and be satisfied, that the LORD thy GOD may blesse thee in all the worke of thine hand which thou doest, Deut. 14.29.

Promises to seeking of GOD.* 1.264

1. They shall have their hearts filled with joy and gladnesse* 1.265

in the fruition of GODS fa∣vour.* 1.266

* 1.267That propheticall prayer of Davids implieth also a promise in it, Ps. 40.16. Let all those that seeke thee, be glad and reioyce in thee.

Let the heart of them reioyce that seeke the LORD, Psalme 105.3. the very same is, 1 Chro. 16.10.

The LORD often promised to his people, that if they should seeke him,* 1.268 he would be found of them, as David told Salomon his sonne,* 1.269 1 Chron. 28.9. and the Prophet told Asa the King, 2 Chro. 15.2. See 15.

Thou LORD hast not forsa∣ken them that seeke thee, Ps. 9.10. Esa 45.19.

But his people then must seek him with their whole heart,* 1.270 as Deut. 4.29. Jer. 29.13. and dili∣gently, Heb. 11.6.

Seeke yea me, and yee shall liv•• Amos 5.4, 6. And your heart sha•••• live that seeke GOD, Psalm 69.32.

The hand of our GOD is upon all them for good that seeke him,* 1.271 Ezra 8.22. Lam. 3.23.

They that seeke the LORD shall not want any good thing, Psal. 34.10.

Promis••s. To waiting on GOD.

Waiting patiently for the LORDS comming to comfort us, either in temporall or spiri∣tuall distresses, is a right pleasing and acceptable duty and s••rvice unto GOD, which he is wont to crowne with multiplied and over-flowing refre••hings when he comes. They that wait up••n the LORD shall renew their strength, they ••hall m••unt up with w••ngs as Eagles; they shall runne and not be weary, they ••hall walke and not faint, Es••. 40.31. For since the beginning of the world, w•••• have not heard nor perceived by the eare, nei••her hath the eye

seene, O GOD, besides thee, what he hath prepared for him that wai∣teth for him, Esay 64.4. they shall not be ashamed (or disappointed) that wait for him, Esay 49.23. He shall save them, Pro. 20.22. They shall inherit the earth, Psal. 37.9, 34. and Heaven too. Bles∣sed are all they that waite for him, Esay 30.18. Dan. 12.12.

We must stirre up our selves to receive the promises, Cant. 5.2, 3. The godly sometimes walk without comfort, because they put it from themselvs, and GOD oftentimes causeth his children to seek long before they find comfort. But the ardent desire shall at length be satisfied. Re∣mission of sinnes, and peace of conscience, are favours worth waiting for. We have not wai∣ted so many years in the meanes of grace for comfort, as GOD hath waited for our conversion.

Promises. 1. That we shall delight in God.

Then shalt thou have they delight in the Almighty, Job 22.26. The promise of delighting our selves in the LORD, is confi∣ned to the duty of delighting in holy exercises, If thou call the Sabbath a delight, &c. then shalt thou delight in the LORD, Esa. 58.13, 14.

A promise. To delighting in GOD.

Delight thy selfe in the LORD,* 1.272 and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart, Ps. 37.4.

Promises to godlines or grace exercised, or to godly and gra∣cious men which act the graces, and exercise themselves in the duties above specified.

True Godlinesse hath the promi∣ses both of this life and of that which is to come,* 1.273 (of this life) Seeke ye first the kingdome of GOD and

the righteousnesse therof,* 1.274 and al these things shall be administred unto you, Matth. 6.33. (and of the life to come) To him that order••th his conversation aright, will I shew the salvation of GOD, Ps. 50.23.

* 1.2751. The godly shall be blessed.

〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••.13 Ps. 11••.1. Ps. 9.8. Ps. ••11▪ 12, 13. Ps. 110.1. Ps. 1.1. Ps. 128.1, 4.

They whom the world ac∣count above all men most mise∣rable, are truly and only happy, as our Saviour prooves, Matth. 5. Blessed are the poore in spirit, &c. from 3. ver. to 12. we shall ne∣ver be truly happy till wee be sincerely holy, nor fully hap∣py till wee bee perfectly ho∣ly.* 1.276

2. The godly shall be a bles¦sing to the place where they live.

I will blesse thee, and the••

shalt be a blessing, Genesis 12.2.

And I will make them a bles∣sing, Ezek. 34.••6. I••rael shall be a blessing in the midst of the land, Esay 19.24.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Book III
• * 1.2

  Rev. 3.••.
• * 1.3

  Et quam sortem pa∣tiuntur om∣nes, ferre ne∣mo recusat. 1 Pet. 5.9. God will make his grace suffi∣cient for us, 2 Cor. 12.9.
• * 1.4

  Heb 2.14.1••
• a 1.5

  Idem hor∣tatur ut pug∣nemus, adiu∣vat ut vin∣camus, defici∣entes suble∣vat & vin∣centes cero∣nat.
• b 1.6

  If GOD leade them in••o tempta∣tion, he will deliver them from evill, Mat. 6.13.
• c 1.7

  The Di∣vel is a Ly∣on, so is Christ, and that of the Tribe of Iu¦dah, there is a Lyon for a Lyon, cou¦rage for courage: the Divell is a Serpent, so Christ cal∣led himselfe the brazen Serpent, the••e is a Serpent for a Serpent wisdome for wisedome.
• d 1.8

  Psal ••0 12 1 Pet. 1.5. kept with all care as a garrison is kept.
• e 1.9

  Mat. 16.1•• Portarum appellatime urbes & con silio & pro pugna••u•••• munitas in∣telligimus, i•• quicquid vel consilio vel viribus potest Satan Beza in lo¦cum.
• * 1.10

  An example of which promise we have in S. Stephen, Act. 6.9, 10.
• * 1.11

  Ex 4, 11, 12 Psal. 8.2. The Apo∣stles were persecuted for prea∣ching the Gospell, Act. 4.3, 3. others for beleeving and profes∣sing the Gospell, Act 9.2.
• * 1.12

  Daniel was cast into the Lyons den for praying unto God, Dan 6.10. and Christ was perse∣cuted for doing works of mercy, Mat. 3.••.
• * 1.13

  Occidi pos∣sumus, vinci non possamus
• * 1.14

  2 Thess. 1.6.
• * 1.15

  The very kind and cause of the a••fliction should be an argument of great consolation.
• * 1.16

  Iam. 1.2. Psal. 69 7, 9, 10. Act. 5 41.
• * 1.17

  Scurtilities and odious nick-names in this kinde are so many honourable badges of thy Christi∣an magna∣nimity, and at the throne of Christ will be certaine∣ly reputed as chara∣cters of spe∣ciall ho∣nour, and remem∣brances of thy worthy service, Bol∣ton.

  Esay 16 1••.
• * 1.18

  Esay 43. c. 2. Esay 44.2.
• * 1.19

  Luk. 12.32.
• * 1.20

  Rev. 2.10.
• * 1.21

  Act. 16.25.
• * 1.22

  An excel∣lent exam∣ple of this we have in Iob 46 10, 1••.
• * 1.23

  Which is termed by S. Augustine the best and greatest usury.
• * 1.24

  Ioh 12 25
• * 1.25

  Rev. 14 13 Q••i moriun∣tur Domini ciusa, id est, propter Do¦minum. Be∣za.

  1 Pet. 4 16.
• * 1.26

  2 Pet. 1.4.
• * 1.27

  There are five nega¦tives toge∣ther in the Originall that strongly affirme, as if hee should say, tell thee I will never for∣sake thee, I tell thee I will never forsake thee and so five times.

  We are to pray that every thing which cau∣seth offence in the Church may be re∣moved, for which we have an ex∣presse pro∣mise, Mat. 13 41.
• * 1.28

  El the strong God, Deu•• fort••, a. Tr••melliu•• renders it.
• * 1.29

  As ••03, Psal. 8 the same He¦brew word is used, and should be so transla∣ted iniquity] that is, ori¦ginall cor∣ruption, transgressi∣on] that is, actuall re¦bellion, sin] that is, sin of custome.
• * 1.30

  God will passe by our meere frail∣ties. There is no god like unto him for passi••g by transgressi∣ons. Micah 7.18. Dan. 9.9. Psal. 1••0 3, 4. 1 Ioh. 2 1, 2.
• * 1.31

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, the same word i•• used, Luk. 10 40.

  Est metapho∣ra ab oneri∣bus sumpta, quae utrin∣que admotis manibus sub∣levantur. Beza.
• * 1.32

  Esay 55 7, 8, 9
• * 1.33

  Thou canst not commit more then God can re∣mit; Thy sins are but the sins of men, his mercies are the mer∣cies of an Infinite God.
• * 1.34

  In Christs Kingdome the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the eares of the deafe shall be un∣stopped, 2 Cor. 3.16 Ioh. 9 39. & 12.46.
• * 1.35

  Returne yee 〈…〉〈…〉 and I will heale you•• b••cke∣sl••din••s. Ier. 3.2•• See 12, 13, 1••. verses.
• * 1.36

  Psal. 103 3.
• * 1.37

  Ier. 31.9.
• * 1.38

  Psal. 29.11.
• * 1.39

  Mark the gradation, they shall walke, they shall run, they shall flie, yea, as an Eagle.
• * 1.40

  Esay 57 15. Mat. 5.6.
• * 1.41

  Rev. 3 8, 9, 10
• * 1.42

  God ac∣ce••••s affe∣cting for a••••e••ting, willing for working, desires for deed••, pur∣poses for performan∣ces, pence for pounds. Dyke.

  Examples are many in Scripture, Ge•• 2•• 16, 17 Reb. 11.17 1 Chron. 17 10, 11, 12 Luke 21.3.
• * 1.43

  Pro 15.8.
• * 1.44

  The best gold must have his al∣lowance of such graines, so the best Christian must have some allow∣ance, im¦perfection clea••e•• to him, he can not do all perfectly, for then what need•• the Cove∣nant of grace.
• * 1.45

  Col. 3.24.
• * 1.46

  Ier 31.12, 25
• * 1.47

  Rom 11.29
• * 1.48

  Accipit su∣um, & remit∣tituum, God ac∣cepts that which is his, and for∣gives that which is thine.
• * 1.49

  Micah. 7 18
• * 1.50

  Rom. 9 11. Mat. 25 23, 24. 2 Tim 2 19.

  Singula ve••ba po••du•• habem, certi¦tudo haec ni∣titur •• sun∣damento, 2 non quo∣cun{que} sed sir∣mo, 3 non ho¦minu sed Dei, 4 non vacillan••e s••d stante i••l{que} o••signa∣to, ••d{que} no∣titia Dei, non si••pl••••u sa¦tum inspe∣ction••, sed disce••nen••e sum a non sun. O. Pri∣deaux.
• * 1.51

  1 Pet. 1.5. Kept by the guard of Gods power unt•• salva∣tion, Phil. 4.7. Keepe with a guard as Kings are kept, Ps. 132.11.
• * 1.52

  Our assu∣rance is not in o••r sel••e, b••t in Chri••t; as we la•• hold of Man, so he fa•••• holde••h u••; and as he hath prayed that our faith faile not us, so neither will he let go his hold Ioh 10 27, 28, 29 Heb 7 25 Phil •• 7.
• * 1.53

  S. Austen saith, A mighty man will not loose that which hee hath bought for his mo∣ney, and will Chri•••• loose ••h••t which He hath bought with his blood?
• * 1.54

  Esay 59.21. 1 Cor 3.16.
• * 1.55

  The nature of a seale is to make things sure, Dan 6.8. Mat 27.66. a writing in firme a∣mongst men, when the seale is put to it.
• * 1.56

  Zach 10.12 Iohn 8.12. 2 Sam. 7 14 15.
• * 1.57

  The booke of Psalmes is full of ••he••e com∣fortable promises. Psal. 1, 3. & 9.10.18. Ps 112.6.19. & 73.24, ••6. Ps. 103.17. & 145.14. Ps. 8••.33.
• * 1.58

  Ioh. 6.35, 37 51, 53. & 5.24.
• * 1.59

  Act 3 26.
• * 1.60

  The faith∣full (that they may have com∣fort against their cor∣ruptions) must by be∣holding the promise••, flie unto Christ, and clea••e the fa∣ster to Him, Rom. 7 25. Phil. 3.9.
• * 1.61

  Psal. 51.1.
• * 1.62

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 See 2 Sam. 24.4. His mercies are greater many. Spare me O God according to the greatnes or multitude of thy mer∣cy.

  Neh. 13 22.
• * 1.63

  Psal. 130 8
• * 1.64

  Comforts to those that want, or have lost the meanes of knowledge, their tea∣chers are taken from them.
• * 1.65

  In our spi∣rituall bar∣rennesse la∣men••ed,
• * 1.66

  See 1 & 2. verses.
• * 1.67

  Luther con∣fesseth of himselfe, that after his conver∣sion, he lay three yeares in despara∣tion.
• * 1.68

  Non deserit etiamsi dese∣rere videa∣tur, non dese¦rit etiamsi deserat. Au∣sten.
• * 1.69

  Esay 57.18, 19.
• * 1.70

  Blessed are all they that waite for him, Esay 30.18.
• * 1.71

  For spiritu∣all blessings in Generall, Ephes. 13. he hath bles∣sed us with all spirituall blessings, 2 Pet. 1.4. He hath gi∣ven us all thngs per∣taining to life and godlinesse.
• * 1.72

  Deut 7.7, 8. Amat, quia amai. Ber∣nard.
• * 1.73

  There is a Sic with∣out a Sicut.
• * 1.74

  Ier. 32.40. 2 Sam. 7.15.
• * 1.75

  Iacob, Gen. 28.15. & 3••.3. I will be with thee, that is, to do thee good, Gen 32.12
• * 1.76

  Zach. 2.10, 11.

  Ioel 2.17. Christ is spi¦ritually pre∣sent with all true belee∣vers.

  Rom. 16.24 2 Cor 13.14 Phil. 4.23.
• * 1.77

  •• Chron. 16.9 Psal. 13.18 19 Deut. 11.1••.

  There are two sweet Psalmes for promises of future pro∣tection, Psal. 91. & 121.
• * 1.78

  All the haires of your head are numbred Luk. 12.7. and it is Austens in∣ference thereupon, Si fic custo∣diuntur su perstua tua, in quanta securitate est animatua. The eye is kept most diligently, and strong∣ly guarded by nature with tunicle;
• * 1.79

  Psal. 17 8. Deut. 32.10
• * 1.80

  The world is like a wil∣dernesse, the wicked like wilde beast, in a de••art; Gods chil∣dren are so provided for, that God pre∣serve•• them, yea and himselfe s••••ds them out meanes of singular refreshing all their daies.
• * 1.81

  Exod. 33 2. & 32.34.
• * 1.82

  The world it selfe was no sooner begun, but the promise also began of sending Christ into the world, Gen 3.15 Yet this promise was in generall termes, neither shewing what seede, neither shewing what kind of woman, or of what people this seed should be. A second promise was made to Abraham, and it was a little more lightsome then this, for it shewed of what people he should be, viz of the Iewes, Gen 22.8. A third pro∣mise was more lightsome then this too, for it shewes of what Tribe he should be, viz of the Tribe of Iuda, Gen. 49 ••0. A fourth promise was yet more lightsome, for it shewed of what family He should be, viz of the family of David, 2 Sam 7 16 The fifth, and six, and seventh promises were much more lightsome then this, for the fift declared the party that should bring him into the world, viz a Virgin, Esay 7 17 The sixt the place he should be borne in, viz. Bethlehem, a City of Iudah, Micah 5.2 These youth declared the time, viz. seventy weekes of yeeres from the time the Prophet Daniel lived in, that is, foure hundred foure score and ten yeeres, Dan. 9 24. Days first Sermon of our Savi∣ours Nativity.
• * 1.83

  Shilo secun∣dae eius, id in que involvi∣tur partus in utero existēs, Metonymia rei continen∣t••s pro recon¦tenta, ut in∣quit ••remel. See Cart∣wright his confutation of the Rhe¦mish Testa∣ment, on Mat. 1.23 and Perkins on the Creed.
• * 1.84

  Rom 1.2.
• * 1.85

  Christ was promised to come of th•• seede of Da¦vid, Acts 1••.23. See Psal 8••.35.36 & 131, 11, 12, 13 14 Esay 16.5.
• * 1.86

  That is, Iesus Christ, of whom he prophesied, Chap. 7 14 Behold a Virgin shall conceive, and heare a Sonne, and shall call hu¦mane Im∣manuel.
• * 1.87

  Luke 1.32.
• * 1.88

  Mat. 1.21. Luke 3.6.
• * 1.89

  Ioh. 12.4••.
• * 1.90

  Esay 49 6. 1 Ioh. 19.
• * 1.91

  2 Tim. 1.10
• * 1.92

  He is said to be the Head of the body.
• * 1.93

  Rom. 8.32.
• * 1.94

  Ephes. 3.25.
• * 1.95

  Col. 1.14
• * 1.96

  Rom 8 28.30.
• * 1.97

  See Luk. 14 47. Act 5.31.10.43. & 13.38.
• * 1.98

  He came to call sinners, Luk. 5 21.
• * 1.99

  Col. 2.14.
• * 1.100

  Micah. 7.19. As if hee should say, looke as God subdu∣ed Pharaoh and all his hoast in the bottome of the Sea; so he will cast and put a∣way the sins of his people. Psal. 85.2.
• * 1.101

  Rom 4.7, 8.
• * 1.102

  Heb. 8, 12. & 10.17.
• * 1.103

  That which the Heathen Orator spoke flat∣teringly of Iuliu•• Caesar, is most true of God, nihil obli••iset so let, nisi iniu¦rias, He for∣gets nothing but the sins of penitent suppliants.
• * 1.104

  Esay 61.10. Zach. 3.3, 4,
• * 1.105

  Rom. 4.3, 5, 6 8, 9, 10, 11, 22, 23, 24.
• * 1.106

  That is, all belee∣vers tho∣rough the whole world.
• * 1.107

  See Rom. 5.1.10.
• * 1.108

  For yee are all the chil¦dren of God by faith in Christ Iesus Gal. 1 20. Ephes. 1.••.
• * 1.109

  Whereas God did in the old time reveale his will unto some by vi∣sion••, and dreame; now all sorts of men, young and old, men and maides shall be instru∣cted in the knowledge of God more plen∣tifully and perfectly.
• * 1.110

  The Spi∣rit of the Lord shall rest upon him, Esay 11 2. I will put my Spirit upon him. Esay 42.1.
• * 1.111

  Ier 31.33. & 32.4. which is twice re∣peat••d in the Epistle to the Heb 8.10. & 10.16. Ezek. 11.19, 20. which is repeated, Ezek. 35.27. & 37.24.
• * 1.112

  Ezek. 37.28 Deut 28.9.
• * 1.113

  Ephes. 5.25, 26.
• * 1.114

  God will in∣able his children to live a holy life.
• * 1.115

  1 Ioh. 3.3.
• * 1.116

  Tit. 2.14.
• * 1.117

  Zach. 14. The mea∣nest shall have holi∣nesse writ∣ten upon his forehead as the Priests had under the Law, or they shall be holy in their iour∣neys, in ea∣ting and drinking.
• * 1.118

  The re∣wards of Sanctificati∣on.

  The promise of walking in white hereafter is made to none but such as walk in white here, Rev. 3 4.

  There are promises to holinesse, 1. Of Gods presence. 2. Of his ac∣ceptance. 3. Of his fa∣ther-hood, 2 Cor 6.16, 17, 18.
• * 1.119

  There are promises of all kind of graces; not a grace, but there is a promise of it generally, or specially
• * 1.120

  Ier. 24.7. & 31.34. ••os. 2 20.
• * 1.121

  2 Cor 3.16.18.
• * 1.122

  Ioh. 1.17, Mat. 1.16. 1 Ioh 5.10. Ephes 3.5
• * 1.123

  Esay 54.13.
• * 1.124

  Ier. 31.34.
• * 1.125

  Pro 3.32. His secret is with the righteous.
• * 1.126

  The profit of know∣ledge.

  Pro. 3 15 to 19 21. to 25. & 24.14.
• * 1.127

  Dan. 11.3••. & 11.3. The wise shall inherit glory, Pro. 3.35. See P••o. 4.5. to 10.
• * 1.128

  Ioh 17 3. By life eter¦nall is un∣derstood grace, by a metonymie of the effect, quia vitam efficit, it works life. Piscat quia radix & or••go vitae Cyril Quia gustus est vitae aeternae. Brentius. Esay 53.11. M. Perkins on the Creed.

  Faith is the gift of God, whereby we know, apprehend and apply the promi∣ses relying upon them Pa••. on the Rom.
• * 1.129

  Christ is cō¦ceived in our soule by faith, as hee was concei∣ved in the Virgins wombe by her yeal∣ding to the promise. So we closing with the promise, then faith is wrought, and Christ comes to live in the heart.
• * 1.130

  Ioh. 3.18. & 6.35, 11, 25, 16 & 12.•••• 2 Thess. 1.10.
• * 1.131

  Acts 16.30, 31. The Evan∣gelicall pro∣mises of grace con∣cerning ou•• reconcilia∣tion made by Christ and remissi∣on of sins, are so to be beleeved of us, that they may bring firme and solid com∣fort, but un∣lesse I be∣leeve in speeciall, that I am reconciled and that my sinnes are pardoned, I cannot have this consolation, Ergo, I am to beleeve this. The Maior is manifest, because the end of Evangelicall grace and the Di∣vine promises, is that wee may have firme consolation, Heb. 6.18. B. Dav. on Coloss.
• * 1.132

  The smal∣lest measure of true grace that can be, is to hunger after grace in the want thereof, faith a reve∣rend Divine on the fourth of Iohn.
• * 1.133

  Such as un∣feinedly de∣sire & aske grace of God, shall be sure to obtaine it.
• * 1.134

  The Spouse leaned upon her beloved, Cant. 8.5.
• * 1.135

  Deut 31.6. Iosh 1.9. 1 Chron. 28.20. 2 Chron 20.15, 17.

  Esay 41.10, 13, 14.

  He shall not be afraid of evill tidings, his heart is fixed, tru¦sting in the Lord, Psal. 112.7. Con∣fidence in God doth the more binde and oblige him as it w••re to doe us good.
• * 1.136

  Psal. 34.8.
• * 1.137

  Spes est ex∣pectasio eo∣rum quae ve∣rè a Deo pro∣missa fides credidit. Calvin l. 3. Inslit. C. 2. Sect. 42. Rom 8.25. Spet est vir∣tus qua in∣clinamur ad expectationē eorum, quae Deus nobis promisit.
• * 1.138

  Psal. 39 7.33.22. & 119 16••.
• * 1.139

  Dum spiro, sp••ro, saith the Physiti∣an.

  Dum expiro, spero, saith the Divine. Though hee slay me, yet will I trust in him, saith Iob 13.15.
• * 1.140

  1 Pet. 1.13.
• * 1.141

  Rom. 4.2••.
• * 1.142

  2 Tim. 2 13
• * 1.143

  Rom. 4.18. Acts 26 6.
• * 1.144

  Sence cor∣rects imagi∣nation, rea∣son corrects sence, but fai••h cor∣rects both.
• * 1.145

  Psal. 33 21. & 126 5, 6,
• * 1.146

  This duty is often and earnestly in∣ioyned, ••sal. 32.••. Phil. 4. & 3••.
• * 1.147

  Esay 12.2, 3
• * 1.148

  Ier. 3••.12, 13 & 2•• 19.41.16.61 3. Hol. 12.9 Zach. 19.
• * 1.149

  The upright love thee. Cant. 1 4.
• * 1.150

  Deut. 7.9.
• * 1.151

  Iam 2 8.
• * 1.152

  Pr••mises to forg••v•• of 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.153

  Saul was for the time moll••••••••d, when hee saw that Da∣vid spared his life. 1 Sam. 2••.••6 17.
• * 1.154

  Deut 6.1, 2. & 17 19.
• * 1.155

  Psal. 102.15.
• * 1.156

  Illuminati∣on of the understan∣ding, Psal. 11••.••0. Pro 1.7. •• the amendment of a wicked life, ••ro 10.27. & 1••.27. & 15.16. Luke ••.••0 Eccles 8.12. Psal 112 1.
• * 1.157

  Deut. 6.24 Esay 66.2.
• * 1.158

  Psal 33.17
• * 1.159

  All kind of felicity is promised to it, Psal 15 12, 13, ••4, 15. Psal 34 10. Esay 33 6.
• * 1.160

  Ier 30.9. Esay 30.21. & 58.11.
• * 1.161

  1 Ioh. 2.3. & 3.24.
• * 1.162

  1 Tim. 4 8.
• * 1.163

  God said to Adam in Paradise, do this and live. The Lord had Abra∣ham goe out of his coun∣trey, & pro∣mised upon his obedi∣ence to blesse him. Gen. 12.1, ••, 3. and to be his buckler, and excee∣ding great reward Gen. 15.1. & 17.1. & 18.19.
• a 1.164

  Peace and ••ranqui••lity of minde are promi∣••ed to obe∣dience.
• b 1.165

  Psal. 8.13, 1••. Deut. 10.13 & 1.36.

  Long life in man•• of tho••e place•• is promised ••lso to obe∣dience. Deut. 30.20. Pro. 3.1, 1, 2•• 21.
• * 1.166

  Psal. 81.13, 14, 16.
• * 1.167

  1 Ioh 3.22.
• * 1.168

  Pro. 3.1, 4.
• * 1.169

  Deut. 11.17 1 Tim. 4.8.
• * 1.170

  Psal. 19.2. Ezek. 18.9.
• * 1.171

  Man taketh advantage from the de∣linquents confession, confesse (we s••y) and be hanged. But with God, that may rather be a proverbe, Confesse & be saved. Psal. 32.5. See Levit. 26 40, 41, 42.
• * 1.172

  Ezek. 36.26 Non carnale sed carneum cor.

  Not a fleshly but a fleshly heart.
• * 1.173

  Promises to true contri∣tion or hu∣miliation.
• * 1.174

  This sorrow shall not be everlasting, but it shall end in com∣fort.
• * 1.175

  Luke 6 21.
• * 1.176

  Doler p••op∣ter off••n∣sum Deum per nostra peccata.
• * 1.177

  See Ier. 21. The meeke shall increase their ioy in the Lord, and the poore a∣mong men shall re∣ioyce in the holy one of Israel, Esay 29.19.
• * 1.178

  See Esay 65 13, ••4. & 60.5, 10, 11, 12.13. Psal. 10.5. Mat. 11.28 Ier. 31.18, 19 20. Psal. 51.17.
• * 1.179

  Esay 30.19 Zach. 8.19.
• * 1.180

  2 Cor. 1.3, 4, 5.
• * 1.181

  God will make him∣s••l••e mar∣vellous in their delive∣rance, when all other humane helpes and comfo••ts faile, Esay ••3.18, 9, 20, 21.
• * 1.182

  Zach. 13.1.
• * 1.183

  The second benefit this sorrow will bring, is, that it will make us ca∣pable of and able to thrive in every saving grace.

  Such shall attaine to a cleare, cer∣taine, and sanctified knowledge of the truth. Such shall get power over their corruptions, Eccles. 7.3. 2 Chron. 32.26.

  Counterfeit humiliation, hath beene effectuall for the turning away of Gods iudge∣ments. 2 Chron. 12.12.
• * 1.184

  1 King 21.29.
• * 1.185

  Ambrose said to Mo¦nica the mother of Austin, when with many tea••es, s••e bewai¦led her ••ons unconversi∣on, Fieri non potest, ut 〈…〉〈…〉 l••ch••y••a¦rum perea•• It could not be that the Son of so many teares should pe∣rish. Aug. Confess l. 3 c. 13.
• * 1.186

  Esay 4 3, 4. & 27 9
• * 1.187

  Esay 11.6.
• * 1.188

  Nothing cleaves more perti∣naciously, or is more inexpugna∣ble then a strong lust. As God of ten promi∣sed his peo∣ple going to conquer the land of Ca∣naan, that no enemy should be able to stand against them, Deut 7 24 & 11.2•••• Iosh. 1.5. & ••0 8 so he hath as certainely promised to the Elect victory over their ene∣mies.
• * 1.189

  We should doe there∣fore as Ie∣hosaphat did, 2 Chro. 20.11.
• * 1.190

  God hath promised to give grace s••fficient to them that aske it. Ezek. 36.25, 26.
• * 1.191

  Zeph. 3.9, 11.
• * 1.192

  E••ay 10.20 21, 22.
• * 1.193

  The like is Zach. 1 3. I will turne unto you, in pard••n of sinne, and delivery of them out of the scar∣city and dangerous condition they were in, into a better estate of peace, and plenty and outward prosperity.
• * 1.194

  Esay 1.16, 17, 8

  God will heare their prayers that turne unto him.

  Iob ••2.27. 1 King. 8 48, 49.

  2 Chron. 7.14.
• * 1.195

  See Esay 59.20.

  Ier. 4.1. & 3.1.
• * 1.196

  Iob 33 27, 28, 29.

  Ezek 18.2••, 22, 23, 27, 28, 30, 32. & 33.12, 14, 15, 19
• * 1.197

  Mat. 18.4.
• * 1.198

  Wisedome is with the lowl••, Pro. 11.3.
• * 1.199

  God hath two thrones; one in the highest hea∣vens, the other in the lowest heart Esay 6••.2.
• * 1.200

  God hath promised to water this grace with secret ioyes and easefull re∣freshings, Esay 29 19. Mat. 11.29.
• * 1.201

  Rev. 3.10.
• * 1.202

  Heb. 12.9. Who through faith and patience in∣herit the promise••, Heb. 6.12.
• * 1.203

  Blessings (indefinite∣ly) are upon the head of the righteous Pro. 10.6.
• * 1.204

  See Psal. 58.11. Pro. 10.16 24, ••0. Psal. 92, 12, Pro. 4.18.
• * 1.205

  Esay 57.1.
• * 1.206

  Pro. 11.3, 5, 6, 11.

  Pro. 10 29. Pro. 4 2, 11. & 19.1.

  Job 8.6, 20. Psal 61.10.
• * 1.207

  Psal. ••7.18. Pro. 2.7, 21. Pro. 11.3, 6.
• * 1.208

  See Esay 33.15. Pro. 10, I••b 17.9, ••0. Psal ••5 and Psal 24

  Pro 10 20. Pro. 11.20.
• * 1.209

  Psal. 3.••. & 4 8. Rom. 5.1.
• * 1.210

  Ob. O but (may a child of God say) I have ma¦ny and great afflictions in the world. Sol. What ••hough, in Christ thou maist have peace, Ioh. 16.33.

  Ob. O but I cannot see which way I should have peace Sol. He will create peace Esay 57.19. Ob. O but the peace we have, neither is, nor here will be per∣fect.

  Sol. Peace shall come, Esay 57.21. Ob. O but am afraid least my peace with God breake and so hold not.

  Sol. The mountaines may fall, but Gods Cove∣nant of peace shall not fall, Esay 54.10.
• * 1.211

  Mat. 28.20. Mat. 7.24, 25. Rom 8 35 to the end 1 Ioh. 2 24. Ioh 6.47. 2 Tim 4 18. Mat. 24.24.
• * 1.212

  Mar. 13.13.
• * 1.213

  Rev. 3.5, 11 12, 21.
• * 1.214

  Hee that overcommeth shall inherit all things. Rev 21.7.
• * 1.215

  Rom. 27. Col. 1.1••. Heb 3 6.
• * 1.216

  The righteous shall flourish like the Palme-tree, ver. 12.

  The Palme-tree never, looseth his leafe or fruit saith Plinie. Quentumun veveres non v••terascent. ••unius.
• * 1.217

  Ezek. 47.••2
• * 1.218

  The Apostle proveth that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and migh•• 〈…〉〈…〉 and p••a••s••d God 〈◊〉〈◊〉

  T••ess••loni¦ans, that the•• d••d gr••w. 2 ••hess. ••
• * 1.219

  The more we proceed in holinesse, our salvati∣on is still the nearer to us. Rom 13.11.
• * 1.220

  Ezek. 18 31
• * 1.221

  Ezek. 36.25, 26.
• * 1.222

  God ac∣ce••••s ••is in their ser∣v••ces.
• * 1.223

  Exod. 19 5, 6.
• * 1.224

  God re∣wards his children for the good they doe, even in this I for the least teare shed, and wo••d spoken in a good cause goes not without a re••ard.

  Mat. 10.••2. Iob 34.11.
• * 1.225

  Ier. 32.18. Psal. 111.5. Ps. 105 42. Mal. 3.16.
• * 1.226

  2 Chron. 15.7.
• * 1.227

  Zach. 13.9.
• * 1.228

  Every one should la∣bour for more Spirit then speech in prayer
• * 1.229

  Promises of audience in prayer.

  See Psal. 18.3 & 20.6. Ioh 4 10. Iob 22 27. & 33.6. Esay 58 ••. David plea¦deth this promise, Psal. 4.1.
• * 1.230

  Generall promises to prayer, that God will heare and answer us, Esay 30.19 Iohn 16.23 particular promises; first delive∣rance from any trouble and afflicti¦on, Ps. 50.15. of strength and patience to beare it, Iam. 1.5. Secondly, whatsoever spirituall grace wee stand in need of, Luk. 11.13. Thirdly, in∣ward ioy & peace of conscience, Iob 23.26. Ioh. 16.24.
• * 1.231

  We are to be familiar¦••y acquain∣ted with these pro∣mises and meditate on some of them when we goe to pray.
• * 1.232

  Exod 22 23. Psal 9.9. & 22.24.
• * 1.233

  Psal. 86.6, 7.
• * 1.234

  Psal. 5.24.
• * 1.235

  Ier. 29 12, ••3
• * 1.236

  Luke 8.7, 8
• * 1.237

  Iam 5.16.
• * 1.238

  Psal. 81.10.
• * 1.239

  D. Playfer••
• * 1.240

  Non dicitur quid dabitur, saith Austen Christ na∣meth not what shall be givē to you, to let us know that that gift, is a thing suprae omne nomen, above all that can bee named Matth 6.6.
• * 1.241

  If every se∣verall belei∣ver have a promise, Mat 7.7, 8 to bee heard in whatsoever he shall ask according to the will of God, when he praieth a∣part by him self, or pri∣vately in his fr••ily, or with a few, much more when hee ioyns in prayer with the Minister and ••he rest of the godly i•• the publi•• assembly Mat 18, 20.
• * 1.242

  God hath promised to accompany this ordināce of his with the divine power & ef∣ficacy of his Holy Spirit. Esay 59.21. Iohn 5.25.
• * 1.243

  Rev. 1.3.
• * 1.244

  Pro 8, 34, 35. Metaphora à clientibus so res patronorū obsidentibus. sunius.
• * 1.245

  Esa. 5•• 1, 2. Promises

  1. Generall God will e∣ver assist this ordinance and worke with it, Mat. 28.10.

  2. ••••ee will save the souls of his people by this ordi∣nance, Iam. 1 21. ••s. 55.3.

  3 By this or¦dinance he will beginne grace and convert the soule, Ps. 19.7. 4 By this ordinance he will increase and perfect grace where he hath be∣gun it, Mark. 4.24 Act 20.32. God hath made also part••cular promises to them that attend on this ordinance. 1. That by it he will give them strength to overcome their strongest corruptions, Psal. 119 9 2. That hee will by it worke peace in their consciences, Esay. 57.9.
• * 1.246

  Prov •• 14. Mark 4.24. Luke 1 28. Rom. 1.16.
• * 1.247

  Wee should heare so, as to expect & hope for life by the word which the Lord promi¦seth, Deu. 3••.47. Ioh. 5.39.
• * 1.248

  It is a usuall thing to call the principal cause & the instrument by the same name.
• * 1.249

  Acts 1, 4, 5.
• * 1.250

  1 Cor 11 24, 25.
• * 1.251

  ••••k. 21.19 ••0 Iohne. 14.5•• Mark 1, 22, ••4.
• * 1.252

  The duty of Fasting is to bee perfor∣med when the accom∣plishment of some remar∣kable pro∣mise is ex∣pe••ted to be fulfilled to the Church. Dan. 9.2, 3.
• * 1.253

  This promise may be also applied, to the follow¦ing of good examples & presidents.
• * 1.254

  Lan. 3.4••,
• * 1.255

  The Lord prom••seth many singu∣lar graces to all that san∣ctifie hi•• day of what naci∣on, or condi∣tion soever they be

  ••hey shall have their hearts filled full of spiri∣tuall joy. God will give them the spirit of prayer & hear their pray∣ers, he will give ••hem a∣bility to serve him, hee will also accept & reward their service.
• * 1.256

  Ter{que} qua∣te••{que} beati. Poelices ter & amp••ius Ho∣rat.
• * 1.257

  See Mat 6. Heb 13.16. Eccles. 11.••. Esay 587, 8, 10, 11.

  Ps. 129.
• * 1.258

  Pro. 14.21, 22
• * 1.259

  Though Alms deeds merit not at Gods hands: yet they make him our debtor according to his gratious promise, said King Iames, Pro, 1••.17. 1 Tim 6.18.19.
• * 1.260

  He that hath a bountifull eve shall be blessed, for he giveth of his bread to the poor, Pro 2•• 9
• * 1.261

  Dicit frigidae aquae, ne in calida sumptū lignorū cau∣sari quis pos∣set, Hieron. Mark 9.4. Propecuto a∣quae fr••gidae torrens vo∣luptatis.
• * 1.262

  See Mal. 3.10 1••.
• * 1.263

  A promise to paying of tithes.
• * 1.264

  Zephany 2.3
• * 1.265

  Rest on eve¦ry side from enemies
• * 1.266

  Book IV
• * 1.267

  2 Chro. 14.7
• * 1.268

  Esay 55.6.
• * 1.269

  2 Chro 14 7 Mat. 77.
• * 1.270

  2 Chro. 31.11 Blessed are they that seeke him with their whole heart, Psalm 119.2.
• * 1.271

  Book III
• * 1.272

  Psalm ••9 15 16, ••7, 18.
• * 1.273

  1 Tim 4 8.
• * 1.274

  Book IV
• * 1.275

  ••r••mises in gen••rall to t••e w••ys of godlinesse.
• * 1.276

  〈…〉〈…〉, Au••••in.