A manuali [sic] of divine considerations delivered and concluded by ... Thomas White ; translated out of the original Latine copie.

29. Meditation. Of heedfull Attention to Gods Inspirations.

1. COnsider, that whereas God acteth all things which he doeth by his knowledge, and his will; and that every thing, with all its parts and powers, was made by him: it is consequent, that he knows them all, and perfectly comprehen∣deth the effects of them in them∣selves.

2. Lastly, whatsoever is done through the whole Universe, he hath, as it were, the History of it written in the Tables of his own Eternity, that not the least dust can be divi∣ded, not one sand grow together, not a drop of water, not a leaf of a tree can fall without his will and knowledge: whatsoever he willeth is most efficaciously performed, and wheresoever he ••••••lleth, there

most infallibly it faileth.

1. Conclude, not to be scandalized, or sad, for whatsoever shall come to pass, besides thy own sins; being certain, that since it proceeds ac∣cording to the counsell of him that is all wisedome, tempered with per∣fect goodnesse, it cannot, all things considered, but be best of all, that it should so come to pass.

2. Again, never go about a long time before to consult and be soli∣citous concerning thy future life and actions: since every plot of thine is uncertain, and doubtfull, whether it will be for good or bad, since thou dost not throughly fore∣see even what is before thy eyes.

3. Attend to God alone, that thou maist do thy duty in whatso∣ever he commands or counsells thee: but think that he commands that, which now not to be done is wick∣ed; & to counsell that, which accor∣ding to thy present knowledge, and power, seems to thee fit to be done, without any passion, or corrupt af∣fection.

Neither be thou afterwards solicitous, whether it succeeds or not, being secure, that wisely, ac∣cording to thy Conscience, thou didst undertake it, and as it was sitting for thee: but alwayes stand vigilant, and full of regard in the sight of him that doth see thee, and thine; whether outwardly by any opportunity, or inwardly by any inspiration he offer thee any thing, that thou mayest not omit it; and more especially, that thou mayest not attempt that thing which might dis∣please him.