[ 1404] Backwardnesse in the service of God, reproved.
AStone needs not to be driven downward,* 1.1 because that motion is suitable to it, and it affects the Centre; the Eagles fly willingly to their prey; an hun∣gry Man needs not either perswasion or compulsion to eat his meat: So did but Men delight in God,* 1.2 What means their hanging back from him; How is it that the Counsels and thoughts of their hearts, the pressing perswasions of the Word, the strong motions of the Spirit, the shining Examples of the godly, the wise advice of Faithful friends, the sweet inducements of pretious Promises, the sad menaces of fearfull Evils; yea,* 1.3 the heavy strokes of an angry God: yea, the tender Mercies of a melting Father, yea the bleeding wounds of a crucified Re∣deemer; How is it that none of these do more prevail with them to a more ready walking with their God: Surely, such backwardnesse, such unwillingnesse in the service of God, cannot but be hatefull unto him.