A journal of meditations for every day in the year gathered out of divers authors / written first in Latine by N.B. ; and newly translated into English by E.M. in ... 1669.

* 1.1Of Christs growing in Age and Wis∣dom, &c. Part I.

COnsider 1. And Jesus proceeded in Wisdom, and age, and grace, with God and men. Christ from his first conception had all fullness of Grace, Wisdom, and all manner of Vertue; but he pro∣ceeded still forward in them, to the outward ap∣pearance, accommodating his actions and discourses sutably to his age; that you might learn to conform

your self to the time and place you are in, and to make continual progress in Vertue.

* 1.2Consider 2. There are diverse ways both of profiting, and of failing in a spirituall life. First, some after they have begun well, give back through Inconstancy; and these our Lord condemneth when he saith, No man putting his hand to the plough, and looking back, is apt for the Kingdom of God; and biddeth us remember Lot's wife who was turned into a pillar of Salt, that others might be the wiser by her misfortune.

* 1.3Consider 3. Others in their progress, grow remisse in fervor and use of those means whereby they might profit, and therefore are in danger of falling. To such Christ speaketh in the Apocalyps. I have against thee a few things, because thou hast left thy first charity: Others againe, begin and goe on with a slow pace; and although outwardly there appeare no defect, yet for the most part there is a reall decay within. Finally others when they have once begun well,* 1.4 goe on cheerfully, disposing ascen∣sion in their hearts, &c. From one Vertue to ano∣ther. See in what class you are, or would wish to be, and mend your pace towards gaining the prize.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Luc. 2.52.
• * 1.2

  Luc. 9.62.
• * 1.3

  Apoc. 2.4.
• * 1.4

  Ps. 83.6.