Motives to holy living, or, Heads for meditation divided into consideratins, counsels, duties : together with some forms of devotion in litanies, collects, doxologies, &c.

§. 26.

12. Concern∣ing the a voiding for¦mer, or com∣mon occasi∣ons of Sin∣ning.

1. Diligently foreseeing, and avoiding, the formerly ob∣served occasions of sinning; being such, either to your self, or to most that have used them. As (to name some) certain places; persons; times; feasts; stage-plays; gaming; strong drinks; such company; such discourse; such books; romances; &c: More specially, taking heed of purposely administring to your self the occasions of temp∣tations; for so the very temptation to sin, being caused by your default, becomes one; whilst, in praying every

day to God, Lead us not into Temptation, you lead your self into it.

2. Being more specially aware of those vices, to which natural temper, or your calling, or the customes of the times, or the place, incline you. As young men, of sen∣suality. Old men, of Avarice. An Inn-keeper, of drink∣ing to excess. A Scholar, of self-conceit, and pride of judg∣ment, &c.

3. Crossing often your appetite (your mind, as we say) in things purely indifferent, and of less moment; that it may better obey in the rest.

4. Mortifying the memory, and imagination, from ru∣minating again and feeding it self upon past, or present, finful, or worldly, pleasures, and secular consolations, and hopes; being a great hindrance of our progress in Piety. (Numb. 11.5, 6. Exod. 16.13. comp. Numb. 11.10. Luk. 9.62.)

Digr. Of the great power of objects presented to the sense, for producing any operation we desire in the Soul.