§. 122.
Digr. 1. Of the exceeding small number of those mi∣nutes of the day, which are ordinarily spent in this nego∣tiation of our Salvation, and intercourse with Heaven. And of the gross abuse of that text Matt. 6, 7. urged in general by slothful, and carnal Christians, against all re∣petitions, and long Prayers; notwithstanding the known contrary practice of our Saviour (who continued whole nights in Prayer; and rose a great while before day to pray &c.) and of the Saints (See Luk. 6.12.) Mark 1.35. Luk. 2.37. —1. Tim. 5.5. Act. 12.12. comp. 6. Eph. 6.18. 1. Thess. 5.17. &c.
Digr. 2. That Holy men have recommended an hours time to be spent in it; the half of which seems the least that may be, for those of less practise herein, to perform them with any considerable devotion. It being observed, that any extraordinary visitations, and consolations of the Spirit, happen not, but after long time of Prayer, unless only to those who have a long time exercised themselves in this divine duty.
Digr. 3. That to those, in whom the love of God is perfectly formed, Prayer is the chiefest pleasure of their life; nor do they force themselves to lengthen, but to re∣strain, the time spent therein, nor to heighten their passions therein, but to abate them: And the vehement desire of this perpetual converse with God, makes company, eating,