[ 1310] Christians having an eye upon the Heavenly Rewards, not to be daunted at any outward troubles.
JUlius Caesar,* 1.1 that great Roman Emperor, when he was at any time sad upon the thoughts of some disaster, that besell him in the way of his dominion, was w••nt to say, Cogitate esse Caesarem, Think that thou art Caesar; and that was it that put him into a more joyous temper: And memorable is that place of holy Writ,* 1.2 When Ionadab said to Amnon, Why art thou lean from day to day, being the King's Son? Intimating, that he could have no just cause, to pine and fret away himself, being the King's son, and heir apparent to the Crown, whose present condition, and future hopes, might make him easily dispence with such matters, as would be grievous to others; besides, he was of that power and authority, that he might easily remove any obstacle that lay in his way. Thus it may very well be said of every true-hearted Christian, that having an eye upon the Reward, they should not be daunted at any outward thing whatsoever, but to think upon their Crown and glory,* 1.3 not to have their hearts troubled, and to walk dumpishly and heavily in the wayes of God; For they are the King of Heaven's Sons, Heirs of God, Co-heirs with Christ, the Children of the Bride-Chamber, and therefore to rejoyce and go on with an holy and heavenly chearfulnesse and courage in all the wayes of God.