[ 1711] How to be assured of our Election.
A Senator relating to his Son the great honours decreed to a number of Soul∣diers,* 1.1 whose names were written in a book; the Son was importunate to see that book: The Father shews him the outside, it seemed so glorious, that he desired him to open it; No, by no means, it was sealed by the Councell; Then, sayes the Son, tell me if my name be there? The Father replied, the names are secretted to the Senate; The Son studying how he might get some satisfa∣ction, desired him to deliver the merits of those inscribed Souldiers. The Fa∣ther relates to him their noble atchievements, and worthy acts of Valour, where∣with they had eternized their names; Such are written, said he, and none but such must be written in this book;* 1.2 The Son consulting with his own Heart, that he had no such Trophyes to shew; but had spent his time in courting Ladies, ra∣ther then encountring Knights, that he was better for a dance then a March, that he knew no drum but the Tabret, no courage but to be drunk. Hereupon he presently retired himself, repented, entered into a combat with his own affe∣ctions, subdued them, became temp••rate, continent, valiant, vertuous; When the Souldiers came to receive their wreaths, he steps in to challenge one for himself; being asked, upon what title? he answered, If honours be given to Conquerours, I have gotten the noble conquest of all:* 1.3 Wherein? These have subdued strange Foes, but I have conquered my self: Now whosover thou art, that desirest to know whose names are written in Heaven, who is elected to life eternal, it shall not be told thee, This or that undividuall person: but generally thus, Men so qua∣lified, faithfull in Christ and to Christ, obedient to the truth, and for the truth, that have subjected their owne affections, and resigned themselves to the guidance of the Heavenly will: These men have made noble conquests, and shall have Princely Crowns,* 1.4 Find but in thy self this Sanctimony, and thou art sure of thy Election. In Rome the Patres conscripti were distinguished by their Robes, as