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1. COnsider, that the perfe∣ction of a humane soul consisteth either in this, that it self is made a partaker of those consi∣derations which are of the highest rank and order, or that it extends its own to such things as are inferiour to its self; of the which, the first comes by contemplation, the other by action: and for both these ends sacred Theology doth most emi∣nently instruct it.
2. For it reacheth to the highest contemplation of God, and those
spirituall substances which are next unto him; it treateth also of the be∣ginnings, the end, substance, or∣der, and constitution of all things; it considereth the operation, provi∣dence, and command as well of God, as of spirituall substances, and of all kind of action which is proper unto man, and from whom neither the meanest of things can ly hid, nor the greatest escape his capacity: it is Theology that frameth, and re∣gulateth the principles, and the Ar∣chitectonick Idea.
3. Moreover, the profit of it is such, that it confirmeth our faith, governs our manners, and exempts a man from the servitude of pinning himself upon anothers judge∣ment, concerning those things which become and are proper to man as man. But its eminency is such, that the Divine is alwaies to be called to counsell to advise what is to be done, and to give his approba∣tion in all other Arts and Sciences whatsoever, especially such as are
the most excellent among others.
4. It teacheth such as sit at the helm to govern kingdomes, and states, what is lawfull, what is ho∣nest, and what is necessary to be done. It instructeth the Lawyer how his own principles are to be under∣stood, and how far they are to be extended. To the Masters of fami∣lies, to Citizens, to Merchants, in one word, to all men when they are in deepest consultation concerning themselves, and their affairs, it is necessary, and the Princesse of acti∣on; it is honourable before all men, tis admirable, and to be esteemed with reverence.
Conclude, in no wife to shew thy self unthankfull to the divine mer∣cy, who hath vouchsafed thee so great a benefit: but when thou hast considered to what a dignity he hath lifted thee up, contend in humility, and the returning of a gratefull soul, that he may not repent him of so great a benefit, but that he would bestow upon thee that favour with
perseverance to gather the desired fruit.