The true cause of Christian thankfulnesse. [ 1056]
PLato looking through the dim spectacles of Nature,* 1.1 gave thanks unto God for three things: First, That God had created him a Man, and not a Beast. Secondly, That he was born a Grecian, not a Barbarian. Thirdly, That not onely so, but a Philosopher also. But Christians, that are better bred and taught, turn the stream of their thanks into another manner of channell: First, That God hath created them after his own Image. Secondly, That he hath called them out of the common croud of this world, and made them Christians. Thirdly, and more especially, That amongst those that bear the name of Christ,* 1.2 he hath made them faithfull ones; like a few quick-sighted men, amongst a company of blind ones;* 1.3 like the light in Goshen, when all Egypt was dark besides; or like Gideons fleece, onely watered with the dew of Heaven,* 1.4 whilst the rest of the earth was dry,* 1.5 and destitute of his favour. Great cause of thankfulnesse indeed.