Media: the middle things, in reference to the first and last things: or, The means, duties, ordinances, both secret, private and publike, for continuance and increase of a godly life, once begun, till we come to Heaven. Wherein are discovered many blessed medium's or duties, in their right method, manner and proceedings; that so a Christian (the spirit of Christ assisting) may walk on in the holy path, which leads from his new birth to everlasting life. / Drawn, for the most part, out of the most eminently pious, and learned writings of our native practical divines: with additionals of his own, by Isaac Ambrose, minister of the Gospel at Preston in Amoundernes.

CHAP. V.

SECT. I. Of the Nature of Experiences.

EXperience (say some) is a knowledge and discovery of something by sence not evident in it self, but manifested by some event or effect. This description contains both Natural and Spiritual Experience; but my purpose is to speak onely of the latter, and in that respect I look strictly at Experiences, as Real proofs of Scripture truths. When I mark how true every part of Gods Word is, how all the Doctrines, Threatnings and Promises contained therein, are daily verified in others, and in my own self, and so improve, or make use of them to my own Spiritual advantage, this I call Experience.

SECT. 2. Of the gathering of Experiences.

THat our Experiences may further us in the way to Heaven, we must learn 1. To gather them: 2. To improve them. 1. For the gathering of them, the onely way is —

1. To mark things which fall out; To observe the beginnings and events of matters, to eye them every way, on every side, that they may stand us in stead for the future: This observation and pondering of events, with the causes that went before, is the ripener of wit;* 1.1 Who among you will give ear to this? who will hearken for the time to come? Whoso is wise, and will observe those things, even they shall understand the loving kindeness of the Lord.

2. To treasure up, and lay in these observations, to have ready in remembrance such works of God as we have known and observed. The Philosopher saith, that Experience is multi∣plex memoria, A multiplied memory, because of the memory of

the same thing often done, ariseth Experience: I remember the days of old, saith David;* 1.2 I remember how thou didst rebuke Abimelech, and overthrew Nimrod, and Pharoah, and Ahito∣phel: and thus would we treasure up Experiments, the former part of our life would come in to help the latter, and the longer we live, the richer in Faith we should be; even as in Victories, every former overthrow of an Enemy, helps to obtain a suc∣ceeding Victory. This is the use of a sanctified memory, it will lose nothing that may help in time of need, or in the evil day; it records all the breathings, movings, stirrings, workings of a soul towards Christ, or of Christ towards a soul.

3. To cast these things thus marked and laid in under several Spiritual heads, of Promises, Threats, Deceits of the heart, Sub∣tilties of Satan, Allurements of the world, &c. I might inlarge the Heads into any thing that is good or evil: 1. Into any thing that is good, whether it be God, or the things given us by God; his Spirit, his Councels, his Ordinances, his Work of Sanctifica∣tion, and all the fruits of the Spirit. 2. Into any thing that is evil, whether it be Sin, or the fruits of Sin, as Corruption, in∣ability to good, vanity of all the Creatures, the Judgements of God. Thus we must sort our Experiences, as the Apothecary sorteth his Drugs.

SECT. 3. Of the improving of Experiences.

2. FOr the improving of Experiences,—

1. We must consider what Scripture-truth is verified thereby in

• Others.
• Our selves.

1. In others, as if we consider how God blesseth and cheareth the religious; wherein that Text is verified,* 1.3 Blessed are the righ∣teous, for it shall be well with them, for they shall eat the fruit of their doings: Or if we observe how God punisheth the carnal and hypocritical, wherein that Text is verified, Wo unto the wic∣ked, it shall be ill with them,* 1.4 for the reward of their hands shall be given them.

2. In our selves, as if by a Spiritual Experience we taste God to be good;* 1.5 wherein that Text is verified, If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious: If we finde the things given us of God to be good; as that his Spirit is good, according to that Text, Thy Spirit is good:* 1.6 That his Ordinances are good, according to that Text,* 1.7 It is good for me to draw near to God; — and, This is my comfort in affliction,* 1.8 for thy word hath quickned me: That Sanctification, and the fruit of the Spirit, are good; according to that Text,* 1.9 It is good that a man should both hope, and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord: — It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord,* 1.10 and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:* 1.11— It is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing:— It is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; or if by Experience we discern the evil of sin it self out of measure sinful,* 1.12 according to that Text, Sin by the Commandment is be∣come exceeding sinful: If we finde out the corruption of our own Nature,* 1.13 according to that Text, Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me: If we discover the abomination of our own righteousness, according to that Text,* 1.14 We are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are as filthy rags: If we feel our own inabilities to do any good, according to that Text,* 1.15 To will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good, I finde not: — Not that we are suf∣ficient of our selves,* 1.16 to think any thing as of our selves, but our sufficiency is of God: If we have tryal of the vanity of all crea∣tures, as of Riches, Honor, Wisdom, according to that Text, Vanity of vanities,* 1.17 all is vanity: O how will these blessed Expe∣riences, backed by Scripture truths, kindle our affections! I deny not, Faith works more stedfastness, and firmness of adherence, but Experience usually breeds the greater strength of affections: I love the Lord,* 1.18 (saith David) and why so? because (of this Experience) he hath heard my voyce, and my supplications.

2. We must endeavor to produce that fruit, that frame of heart, which the Lord requires, directs, and looks for in such and such cases. Thus the Sanctification of Experiences is evidenced by the Dispositions answering Gods minde, which are left upon the heart, and brought forth into the life afterwards; namely, when Divine discoveries are the more strongly believed; the heart by threats more kindely awed; adherence to the Promises

more strongly confirmed; the deceitful heart more narrowly watched; Satans suggestions more watchfully resisted; the be∣witchings of the world kept at a greater distance from the soul; in a word, when by this experimental application of Gods works to his word, God is more advanced, and Self more abased, the honor of the Lord is more studied, and the edification of his people endeavored, holy love encreased, service quickned, faith strengthned, Christ improved; then is this business Christianly managed indeed. But of these more largely in the next Se∣ction.

SECT 4. Of the Sanctification of Experiences in their several Uses.

THe Sanctification of Experiences is evidenced (as we said) by such Dispositions as these: —

1. When Divine discoveries are more strongly believed; this is one fruit of Experience, it wonderfully strengthens our faith: When the Israelites saw the Egyptians drowned, then they be∣lieved the Lord, and his servant Moses.* 1.19 When we finde all things in the event to be as we believed, this confirms our Faith, as David knew that God favored him, by his deliverances.* 1.20

2. When the heart by threats is more kindely awed: This another fruit of Experience,* 1.21 The righteous also shall see and fear; first see, and then fear: When the Primitive Christians saw Ananias fall down, and give up the ghost,* 1.22 then great fear came on them that heard those things; this holy fear many a time possesseth the Saints:* 1.23 My flesh trembled for fear of thee (saith David) and I am afraid of thy judgements.— When I heard, my belly trembled (saith Habakkuk) my lip quivered at the voyce;* 1.24 rottenness entred into my bones, and I trembled in my self, that I might rest in the day of trouble: As the childe quaketh when he seeth his Father correct a servant, so the faithful tremble when they observe the severity of Gods wrath against impenitent sinners.

3. When the deceitful heart is more narrowly watched: Hath it cozened us once and again? Experience hereof will

breed in us a godly jealousie and suspition over our hearts; we are now conscious of our own weakness, and of the snare that is in every creature, to take and entangle us; and this will make waking Believers circumspect and careful, how they entertain evil motions, how they keep up holy thoughts, how they per∣form holy duties, how their affections move towards that which is above, lest they should miscarry upon the sands.

4. When Satans suggestions are more watchfully resisted, this is the voyce of Experience in such a case, Doth Satan furiously assail us? be not dismayed; Are his temptations most fierce? be we most diligent in the means of grace, the practice of holiness, the labors of an honest calling; Pray earnestly, exercise faith, stick faster to the word of promise, stop our ears against scruples and doubtings; Draw nigh to God, for Satan will then cease to vex thee with his temptations any more: Resist the Devil, and he will fly from you:* 1.25 it is true, the Believer is too weak of himself to withstand the least assault, but if we relie on the Lord, we may through his power be made victorious in the greatest assaults whatsoever; and here is the comfort of Experience, That a Soul having once returned with victory, through the power of his might, He will abide in the secret place of the most high for ever.

5. When the bewitchings of the world are kept at a great distance from the Soul: This was Solomons case and cure, after all his travels and great delights, he no sooner returns as to him∣self,* 1.26 but he fills the world with this news; What news? Vanity, And what more? Vanity of vanities; And what more? All is vanity: Experience of its vanity, weans him from the love of this earth, it takes him off the creature, and lifts him unto the Lord his Creator; so should we (if ever we were charmed with such Syren songs) be more careful, lest we be drawn away with the pleasing delights of things transitory, and keep them at a greater distance from us.

6. When the Lord Jesus is more studied and advanced: The man that feels Christs gracious power and vertue, will be sure to exalt Christ, and set him up on high; when Israel saw the mighty work of David in overthrowing Goliah, then David was much set by: The Believers experience of Christs mighty and gracious working, makes Christ very precious to him, then

he cryes, as the Soldiers of David,* 1.27 Thou art worth ten thousands of us: Hence it is that Gods people value him above all their profits, friends, ease, credit and lives. Matthew left the Re∣ceipt of Custom, James and John their Ships, and Nets, and Father, and followed him, yea,* 1.28 many for his sake loved not their lives unto death; no wonder they had many sweet experiences of Christ: Christ to their apprehension was the fairest of ten thousand, none but Christ, none but Christ.

7. When the peoples edification is endeavored: Have we tasted of the goodness of God? let us then provoke others to believe, and to serve the Lord together with us; this is one end of Experience, and that use we should make of it towards others. When Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpre∣tation thereof, he worshipped, and turned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise,* 1.29 for the Lord hath delivered the host of Midian into your hands.

8. When a mans own self is more abased: Do we live the life of grace and true holiness? this will teach us to deny our selves whol∣ly: If any man (saith Christ) will come after me,* 1.30 let him deny him∣self; q. d. If any man will come after me in the knowledge of my Will, in the belief of my Promises, in the love of my Truth, in the obedience of my Precepts, let him deny himself, let him lay aside his own wisdom, his own will, his own imagination, his own affections, his own ends, as base and unworthy marks to be aymed at: Let him deny himself; whatsoever is of himself, or belonging to himself, as a corrupt and carnal man; let him go out of himself, that he may come to me; let him empty himself of himself, that he may be capable of me, that I may rule and reign in him, and that he may wholly subject himself to me and my service: This the Apostle stiles, A living, not unto our selves, but unto him that dyed for us; he alone understands,* 1.31 and hath experience of the end of Christs death, that makes Christs glory the end of his life, and lives not to himself, but to Christ.

9. When holy love is more encreased: I love the Lord,* 1.32 be∣cause he hath heard my voyce and my supplication: We cannot taste of the Lord, but we must have an hearty love to the Lord: Will you hear the voyce of Experience? this 'tis, O taste,* 1.33 and see how good the Lord is; and then, O stay me with flaggons,

and comfort me with Apples, for I am sick of love; such a one truly affects Christ, and all that follow Christ; such a one loves the person of Christ, without his priviledges; a naked Christ, as well as a Christ cloathed with all his robes, in all his glory and resplendent beauty; Christ in a Prison, as well as Christ in a Throne: Thus John (after all his Experiences of Christs love to him) could love Christ on the cross, when other forsook him, as well as in the Temple, when he was working miracles.

10. When hope is quickened, such times may come, that death and darkness may surround us, and we may grovel in the dust: But here is our comfort, That tribulation worketh patience, and patience experience, and experience hope: Have we any Ex∣perience of Gods gracious dealings with us in former times?* 1.34 have we sometimes been refreshed by his hand? hath he sometimes helped us? was he found of us when we sought him? nay, often unsought for? hath he come to our souls, and renewed our stock, and filled our becalmed spirits with fresh gales of grace? how should we then but hope? As it was in this respect, it is, and ever shall be; if new temptations arise, and new lusts break in and spoil,* 1.35 it is the voyce of Experience, I was delivered out of the mouth of the Lyon, and the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom, to whom be glory and dominion for ever and ever—and, We had the sentence of death in our selves,* 1.36 that we should not trust in our selves, but in God which raiseth the dead, who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver us, in whom we trust he will yet deliver us.

11. When joys of the Spirit are raised and stirred up: Who is he that hath not been delivered out of some miserable exigents? and if we have,* 1.37 we may well say with David, Thou hast shew∣ed me great troubles and adversities, but thou wilt return and re∣ceive me, and wilt come again, and take me up from the depth of the earth, and comfort me: Former comforts are as a bill obli∣gatory under Gods hand, to assure us that he will not forsake us:* 1.38 Whom God loves, he loves unto the end—Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoyce.

12. When Faith is more and more strengthened, Expe∣riences should be turned into Confidences: Thus David im∣proved his Experiences,* 1.39 The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the Lyon, and out of the paw of the Bear, he will deliver

me out of the hand of this Philistine: In like maner should we take notice of Gods dealings, and after we have once tryed him and his truth, let us trust him for the future; Tryed Truth, and tryed Faith unto it, sweetly agree, and answer one ano∣ther. Hence it is that Experience of Gods love, should refresh our Faith upon any fresh onset;* 1.40 So let all thine enemies perish (said Deborah, the heart of that blessed woman was enlarged, as it were Prophetically) when one falls, they shall all fall; there is the like reason, So let all thine enemies perish, O Lord. Expe∣rience in our selves or others, will inlarge our faith to look for greater matters still from our gracious powerful God: Hath the Lord given us a victory over the Philistins? then Awake, awake Deborah, awake, and be inlarged, O my faith! Every new Ex∣perience is a new knowledge of God, and should fit us for new encounters: I deny not but we ought to trust God upon other grounds, though we had never tryed him; but when he helps our faith by former Experiences, this should strengthen our confidence, and shore up our Spirits, and put us on to go more chearfully to God, as to a tryed friend. It was the speech of one eminent in holiness, upon occasion of the accomplishment of a great request made to God by him, I have tryed God often, now I will trust him indeed. If we were read in the story of our own lives, we might have a Divinity of our own, drawn out of the observation of Gods particular dealings towards us: we might say, This and this truth I dare venture upon, I have found it true, I dare build all my happiness upon it; as Paul,* 1.41 I know whom I have trusted, and I am perswaded he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day; q. d. I have tryed him, he never yet failed me, I am not now to seek how faithful he is to all those that are his.

13. When scruples and doubts are removed, O (cryes the soul) I have many Experiences, but no Comfort as yet. Thus Da∣vid, after the remembrance of his songs in the night, left his soul still in doubt; and he goes on to say,* 1.42 Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favorable no more? In this case it is the duty of Christians, to call to minde their former Experiences of Faith and Joy again and again: for though they comfort not at one time, yet they may at another. Have we found a Promise (which is a breast of Consolation) milkless? yet again suck, Com∣fort

may come in the end: If after we have impanell'd a Jury and Grand Inquest to search, and our first Verdict condemns us, or they bring in an Ignor••mus; yet do, as wise Judges often do, send them about it again, they may finde it the next time: Jo∣nah* 1.43 look'd once, it seems, and found no comfort, for he said, I will look again towards thine holy Temple: So some have look'd over their hearts by signs at one time, and have to their thinking found nothing but Hypocrisie, Unbelief, Hardness, Self-seeking, &c. but not long after, examining their hearts again by the same signs, they have espyed the Image of God drawn fairly upon the Tables of their hearts, and so found a world of com∣fort.

O but (cryes the soul) I have tossed and tumbled over my heart, I have searched into the Registers and Records of Gods dealings, and me thinks, I can call nothing into remembrance betwixt God and me: What, nothing? look again: Did God never speak peace to our hearts? Did Christ never shed his love abroad into our souls? Have we at no time found in our heart pure streins of love to Christ? Pure drops of godly sorrow for offending Christ? Have we never an old tryed Evidence, which hath been acknowledged and confirmed again and again in open Court? What, not one? Surely, if we can now call to minde but one, if in truth, it may support us: If one Promise do belong to us, all do; for every one conveys whole Christ, in whom all the Pro∣mises are made, and who is the matter of them: As in the Sa∣crament, the Bread conveys whole Christ, and the Wine conveys whole Christ: so in the Word, every Promise conveys whole Christ; if we can but say as the Church of Ephesus, This thing I have,* 1.44 that I hate sin: we may plead this to God, yea though it be in a lesser degree, if in truth and sincerity (for God brings not a pair of Scales to weigh, but a Touchstone to try our gra∣ces) if it be true gold, though never so little of it, it will pass current with him:* 1.45 He will not quench the smoking flax, though it be but a smoke, not a flame; though it be but as a wick in the socket, (as it is in the Original) likelier to dye and go out, then to continue, which we use to throw away, yet he will not quench it, but accept it. O let us comfort our selves with these words!

O but (cryes the soul again) I have searched all crevases for light, but alas, I cannot see the least beam of it: What help now re∣mains?

If it be thus, poor soul, Be not faithless, but belie∣ving. Christ helps some to live above glorious Manifestations; sometimes in absence of these Manifestations, just ones may live, and rejoyce in the invisible Essence of God: Christians may live waiting on God, when his face is wholly hid from them; or Christians may live depending on God, when all other subordinate stays or helps are lost: In such a soul there may be this resolution, Let God do what he will with me, Ile hang on him still, Though he kill me, yet will I trust in him, and there is comfort in this.

If so (saith the soul) then what need of Experiences, so long as I have the Promises, and may live by Faith? O but for all this, be not careless of Experiences: for 1. It is the goodness of God, that besides the promises of good things to come, he is pleased to give us some present evidence and taste of what we believe: This heightens his mercy, that besides Faith, he should train up his Children by daily renewed Experiences of his father∣ly care. 2. Though it be one thing to live by Faith, another thing to live by sight, yet the more we see, and feel, and taste of God, the more we shall be lead to relye on him, for that which as yet we neither see nor feel: This is the very meaning of God, that by that which we feel, we might be strengthned in that we look for.

SECT. 5. The consideration of Experiences in a practical course; or some practical Rules to be observed.

IT were good for Christians intending the practical part, to ob∣serve these or the like Rules:

• Some Cautionary.
• Some Directory.

1. The Cautionary Rules may be these:—

1. In gathering Experiences, Beware of misprision of Gods Providences. There are many mistakes now adays, and there∣fore it is our best and onely course, for our security, to interpret all Gods works out of his Word: We must make the Scriptures [as we said before] a construing book to the book of Gods

Providences: Judge neither better of prosperity, nor worse of adversity, then Gods word warrants us. This was the Psalmists cure, his Experience put a Probatum est to this prescription, When I thought to know this,* 1.46 it was too painful for me, until I went into the Sanctuary of God, then understood I their end: God may prosper a wicked man, and he may construe this as an argument, and note it as an Experience of Gods gracious dealing with him, and dear love unto him:* 1.47 O take heed! To the Law and to the Testi∣mony, if they speak not according to this word▪ it is because there is no light in them.

2. In improving Experiences, beware how we argue from one Experience to another: Judgements threatned, are not always inflicted after one and the same maner; God meets with the wicked sometimes in this life, and sometimes he reserves their plagues for another. In like maner the gracious Providences of God are not always dispensed after one and the same maner; indeed David could say,* 1.48 The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the Lyon, and out of the paw of the Bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine; and Paul could say, I was delivered out of the mouth of the Lyon, and the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work:* 1.49 and so we may say, that God many times hath delivered us, and doth deliver us, and therefore that he will deliver us still: But this maner of arguing, as it is demon∣strative, so it hath some limitations, which we must carefully take notice of; as

1. That besides a meer Providence, we take notice of some Promise of God on which we build: Thus Paul delivered from death at one time, argued that God would deliver him at an∣other time; but in his arguing he eyes the Promise, he hangs on God,* 1.50 which (saith he) raiseth the dead.

2. That we consider the maner of the Promise, because

1. Some Promises are disjunctive; as when God in his mercy conveys any thing to us either in particular, or in the equivalent, by way of Commutation and Compensation with Spiritual things.* 1.51 Thus a Christians Experience works Hope, but not al∣ways of the self-same outward issue, and maner of deliverance out of his trouble, which he hath before time found; No, we must hope according to the Word, or according to the quality of the Promise: Pauls hope (after Experience of many deli∣verances)

was not expresly or peremptorily, that the prick in his flesh should be removed, but that Gods grace should be sufficient, and so he had the fruit of his former Experience, because he obtained an equivalent supply, but not otherwise.

2. Some Promises are conditional in respect of us; as when God promiseth protection from contagious sickness, and from trouble, and war: If my people which are called by my Name,* 1.52 shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. In these or the like Promises, God may give us the Experience of his Word at one time, but deny it at another, because we fail in the condition of the Promise on our parts. Observe, Chri∣stians! would we conclude a deliverance as formerly, be sure then to look to the frame and disposition of our Spirits: If we are in the way of the Promise, then we may conclude it for certain; if we meet God in the course of his Providence, or in the improvement of the means he hath appointed, then we may set it down, That God will do whatsoever he hath promised to give, in his own way, or other∣wise not.

3. Some Promises are indefinite; as that in Jam. 5.14, 15.* 1.53 Is any sick among you? let him call for the Elders of the Church, and let them pray over him: — and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up: In this case God may sometimes, yet doth not always perform promise according to the letter, though a man may be truly qualified with the conditions specified in that Promise, toties quoties, again and again. It onely intends thus much, That God may, and sometimes will save the sick, and raise him up at the Churches prayers, but he will not ever do so. Now as God doth not always perform, so neither are we absolutely, or infallibly, or universally to conclude, The Promise is not universal, but indefinite, and accordingly our conclusions should not be universal, but indefi∣nite: we should indeed, because of the Promise, adventure our selves upon God in such a condition, not knowing but in his outward dis∣pensations he may make it good to us, yet with submission to his pleasure, if otherwise he dispose of us: And as this is all we must do, so this is all we can say, or conclude in such a case as this is.

2. The Directory Rules may be these:—

1. Let us communicate our own Experiences to the good of others. David in his deliverances invites others to have recourse unto him: Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name;* 1.54 then shall the

righteous compass me about, when thou shalt deal bountifully with me. Conceal not within our bosoms those things, the communicating whereof may tend to publike profit: Surely it were a course much tending to the quickning of the faith of all, if we would impart to one another our mutual Experiences.

2. Let us trade others Experiences to our own particular profit. Thus David in desertion hath recourse to Gods gracious dealings with his forefathers: Our fathers trusted in thee, they trusted, and thou didst deliver them; they cryed unto thee, and were delivered, they trusted in thee,* 1.55 and were not confounded. What favor God shew∣eth to any one, he will vouchsafe to every one that seeketh him dili∣gently, if it may be for his good: Thus we finde in Scripture, that sometimes a personal Experience was improved to an universal ad∣vantage, James 5.11. Psal. 73.1. Heb. 13.5, 6.

3. Let us cast our Experiences under several heads, and make the Word and Works face one another, and answer one to another: Or to make the work compleat, it were not amiss to distribute the frame into three Columns; and in the first to set down Experiences, in the second the Texts, in the third Dispositions answering Gods minde, in such and such a case, to be left on the heart afterwards.

4. Let us pray with fervency (when ever we set a time apart to view over our Experiences) that those Dispositions, answering Gods minde in every particular Experience, may be written in our hearts, and brought forth in our life afterwards. This will be the chief use and choyce comfort of the soul in this Duty. And this method a poor creature and servant of Christ hath followed in his own particular practice: whereof I shall give you a taste in the following Section.

SECT. 6. The Experiences of a weak Christian, cast into the method propounded.

§. 1. Judgements on the Wicked.

Experiences.

1643.

FEb. 9. Preston was taken by the Parliaments For∣ces; several Papists slain in it, some naturally of a good disposition, & therefore ma∣ny mourned for their un∣timely death, but rejoyced in the accomplishment of the promise.

Octo. 29. This day a Sol∣dier was slain in Preston in the open Fair; and not long after another Sol∣dier was slain in the very act of drunkenness: It is reported that he was drunk the night before, and that he threatened that very morning, be∣fore night either to kill or to be killed.

1648.

June 6. H.M. (as it is said) drunk together 18 Cans of Ale, and pre∣sently upon it fel sick, & after dyed; others in like maner surfeted: But above all, most terrible was the death of R.H.

Octob. 23. A strange and fearful relation of the ruine of a family, and of a stately house, of one who was exceedingly addicted to the sin of un∣cleanness; and now (ex∣cepting two of his bro∣thers base born) there is not a man left of his name in all England; for which cause he convey∣ed his Estate to a stran∣ger.

Texts.

Rev. 16.6, 7. They have shed the blood of Saints, and thou hast given them blood to drink. —Even so Lord God Almigh∣ty, true and righteous are thy judgements.

Rev. 19.2. He hath judged the great whore, which did cor∣rupt the earth with her forni∣cation, &c.

Gal. 5.19, 20, 21. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these, — Hatred, variance, emu∣lations, wrath, strife, se∣ditions, heresies, envyings, murthers, drunkenness, revellings, and such like.

Isa. 5.11, 14. We unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink, that continue until night, till the wine inflame them: — Therefore Hell hath inlarged her self, and opened her mouth without measure, &c.

Prov. 5.8, 9, 10, 11. Remove thy way from the strange woman, lest thou give thine honor to others; — lest strangers be filled with thy wealth—and thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are con∣sumed.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Rev. 18.4 Come out of her, my people, that ye be not par∣takers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

Rev. 18.20. Rejoyce over her thou heaven, and ye holy A∣postles and Prophets, for God hath avenged you on her.

Gal. 5.16. Walk in the Spirit, & ye shall not ful∣fil the lusts of the flesh.

Gal. 5.24. They that are Christs, have crucified the flesh, with the affe∣ctions and lusts.

1 Cor. 6.20. Ye are bought with a price, therefore glorifie God in your body, & in your Spirit, which are Gods.

Prov. 23.20. Be not amongst wine-bibbers.

Luke 21.34. Take heed to your selves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with sur∣feting and drunkenness, and so that day come upon you una∣wares.

Rom. 13.13. Let us walk ho∣nestly, as in the day, not in riot∣ing and drunkenness.

Ephes. 5.18. Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess, but be filled with the Spirit.

Coloss. 3.5, 6. Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, un∣cleanness, inordinate af∣fection: — For which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the chil∣dren of disobedience.

1 Thess. 4.3. This is the will of God, even your Sanctification, that ye should abstain from for∣nication.

§. 2. Gods love to the Saints.

Experiences.

1642.

SEpt. 29. This night some Christians ob∣served a night of Humi∣liation and Prayer for besieged Manchester; and Octob. 1. the Siege was raised: Gods love was exceedingly mani∣fested herein to the Saints, both within and without that prayed for Town. O let the mercy never be forgotten!

Decemb. 23. Thus they prayed for Blackburn, and Decemb. 24. the siege was raised thence.

1647.

Feb. 11. This evening one was desired to pray for Mr. L. sick childe; and it was observed in the heat of Prayer, at the commending of its soul to God, the soul at that very expression left the body: Blessed be God for this Providence, and for the assistance of his spirit at so needful a time

1648.

August 7. A Letter from Mr. Tho:Shepherd, of the Indians receiving the Gospel in New Eng∣land: He calls them, The precious first fruits of America to Jesus Christ; it much affected the hearts of many.

Aug. 22. many Mi∣racles of mercies to Eng∣land, to the County Pa∣latine of Lancaster, and especially to Preston, by that glorious Victory over the Scots: The Army came to Preston in the very nick of time, by which means it both escaped Plundring and firing, the Enemy having threatned it both ways. Surely, God now an∣swered Prayers, of which the LORD gave some signs the very day be∣fore, at a publike Fast observed in Manchester.

Texts.

2 Chron. 7.14. If my people which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

2 Chron. 6.28, 29, 30. If their enemies besiege them in the cities of their land, — then what prayer shall be made by any man, — hear thou from heaven.

Isa. 65.24. And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer, and whilest they are yet speaking, I will hear.

Acts 7.59, 60. Lord Jesus receive my spi∣rit: — and when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Isa. 60.5, 8. The abun∣dance of the sea shall be converted unto thee, the forces of the Gentiles shal come unto thee: — Who are these that fly as a cloud, and as the doves to their windows?

Judg. 20. 28,42,43,45. Shall I yet again go out to battel against the children of Benjamin my brother, or shall I cease? And the Lord said, Go up, for to morrow I will deliver them into thy hand: — So they turned their backs before the men of Israel— but the battel overtook them, — and chased them, and trod them down with ease over against Gibeah— and they gleaned of them in the high ways, and pur∣sued after them to Gidom, and slew 2000.* 1.56

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Psal. 28.6. Blessed be the Lord, because he hath heard the voyce of my supplications.

Psal. 116. 1, 2. I love the Lord, because he hath heard the voyce of my supplications, because he hath inclined his ear un∣to me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.

Psal. 6.8. Away from me, ye workers of ini∣quity, God hath heard the voice of my weeping.

Ps. 66. 16, 17, 18, 19. Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul: I cryed unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue: If I regard ini∣quity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me; but verily God hath heard me, he hath attended to the voyce of my Prayer.

Isa. 54.1. Sing O bar∣ren, thou that didst not bear; break forth into singing, & cry aloud, thou that didst not travel with childe: for more are the children of the desolate, then the children of the marryed wife, saith the Lord.

Psa. 2.11. Rejoyce with trembling.

Psal. 44.8. In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.

Exo. 15.11. Who is like unto thee, O Lord, amongst the gods? who is like unto thee, glorious in holi∣nes, fearful in praises, doing wonders?

Iudg. 5.15. For the divisions of Reuben, there were great thoughts of heart.

§. 3. Several Chastisements or Afflictions on my self and others.

Experiences.

1641.

JAn. 24. This day one heard of his Mothers death, whose daily pray∣ers and tears, now mis∣sing, he could not but mourn for her loss.

March 5. This day the LORD visited one with a Feaver, but not long after restored him to his former health.

1645.

Jan. 21. This day fire took hold on the clothes of a yong childe, and burned his face very ill.

1646.

Aug. 23. one fell into a sore sickness; many gave him for gone, but the Lord recovered him.

1647.

Decem. 27. This day one un∣derstood of the slanders, and con∣sultations and threat•• of some eminent persons against him; at which time he fell upon reading, and the Lord seemed to speak to him out of Psal. 31.

1648.

Jan. 24. I had a grie∣ved and troubled heart, by reason of some op∣position of wicked peo∣ple; at night I read a feeling passage of Mr. Rogers on Judges 13. thus, — I have often thought it Gods mercy, to keep the knowledge of such discouragements from them that are to en∣ter into the Ministery, lest they should be deter∣red wholly from it, till by experience they be armed against it.

July 1. or thereabouts, one gave me a Relation of her sad deserti∣on, thus— That one night as she sate by the fire, she thought she saw the ground open, and a gulf of fire appearing; whereupon she cryed, I am damned, I am damned: If at any time she saw any fire, she supposed that she must go into it, and that the De∣vils would fetch her into it. Once wringing her hand••, she cried ou••, O what was I born into the world for? one standing by, answered, To glorifie God; to whom she replyed, You say true, for God shall be glorified in my damnati∣on: If any offered to pray, or to reade, she usually cryed out, It was too late to pray for her; and they should not reade that pure Word of God by her, for it be∣longed not to her. At last God appeared, and she felt marvel∣lous comforts.

Texts.

Psal. 35.14. I bow∣ed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his Mother.

Luke 4. 38, 39. Simons wives mother was taken with a great feaver, and they be∣sought Christ for her; and he rebuked the feaver, and it left her.

Zech. 3.2. Is not this a brand pluckt out of the fire?

Phil. 2.27. For in∣deed he was sick nigh unto death, but God had mercy on him.

Psa. 31.13. I have heard the slander of many, fear was on every side, while they took counsel toge∣ther against me.

Joh. 15.20. Remem∣ber the word that I have said unto you, the servant is not greater then the lord; if they have perse∣cuted me, they wil al∣so persecute you.

1 Cor. 4.13. We are made as the filth of the world, and are as the off-scouring of all things unto this day.

Job 13.24, 26. wherefore hidest thou thy face, and holdest me for thy enemy? thou writest bitter things against me.

Psa. 88.14, 15. Lord, why castest thou off my soul? why hidest thou thy face from me? I am afflicted & ready to dye;—while I suffer thy terrors, I am distracted, &c. v. 16, 17, 18.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

2 King. 2.12. And he cryed, My father, my father, the charet of Israel and the horsemen there∣of.

1 Thess. 4.13. Concerning them which are asleep, sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

Psal. 103. 2, 3. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits; who forgiveth all thine iniqui∣ties, who healeth all thy dis∣eases.

Isa. 43. 1, 2. Fear not, for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name, thou art mine; when thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee, when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burnt.

Psal. 30.3, 4. O Lord, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave, thou hast kept me alive— Sing unto the Lord, O ye Saints of his.

Joh. 11.4. This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

Psa. 31. 14, 15, 16. But I trusted in thee, O Lord; I said, Thou art my God, my times are in thy hand, deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me: Make thy face to shine upon thy servant, &c.

Matth. 5.12. Rejoyce and be exceeding glad, for great is your re∣ward in heaven: for so persecuted they the pro∣phets which were before you.

Matth. 5.44. Pray for them which despitefully use you, & persecute you.

Rom. 8.35. Who shall seperate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulati∣on, or distress, or perse∣cution? &c.

Rom. 12.14. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

Psal. 77.5, 6, 7, 10. I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times: I call to remembrance my song in the night, I com∣mune with mine own heart, and my Spirit makes dili∣gent search: Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favorable no more?— And I said, This is my in∣firmity.

Isaiah 50.10. Who is a∣mong you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voyce of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the Name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.

§. 4. Performances of gracious Promises to my self and others.

Experiences.

1642.

JAn. 6. This day a private Fast being observed, the Lord gave some, that ex∣ercised, the very spi∣rit & power of Pray∣er, to the ravishment of hearers; surely it was the Spirit spake in them.

Feb. 5. The Lord won∣derfully this day (as once before) delivered one from the danger of fire, which had begun in his house, but was discover∣ed by the smoke.

1643.

Ian. 2. This day was snares laid for a poor Christian; the Sheriff of the coun∣ty sent for him, but the Lord delivered him.

1644.

July 2. This day was a publike Fast observed in Manchester, and the ve∣ry same day the Lord returned answers, by overthrowing Pr. Ru∣perts forces at York.

1646.

Sept. 13. The Lord re∣stored one to his health, out of a dangerous dis∣ease, and he praised God for it in the publike As∣semblies.

1647.

Decemb. 11. This day one observed GODS goodness, in supplying fully all his Temporal wants: This he constru∣ed as an earnest both of Spiritual and Eternal favors and mercies in Christ.

1649. May 5. Some Mini∣sters were convented before the Committee of plundred Ministers, and examined by them concerning a Book put forth by the Ministers of Christ in the Province of Lancaster; but the Lord stood by those Ministers, and gave them in that hour what to speak for Christ and his Cause.

Texts.

Zech. 12.10. And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusa∣lem, the spirit of grace, and of supplications.

Rom. 8.26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities,— it ma∣keth intercession for us, with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Isa. 43.2. When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burnt, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

Psa. 64.5, 7. They com∣mune of laying snares privily:— But God shall shoot at them with an ar∣row, suddenly shall they be wounded.

Psal. 55.18. He hath delivered my soul.

Isa. 65.24. And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and whiles they are yet speaking, I will hear.

Deut. 7.15. And the Lord will take away all sickness.

Exod. 23.25. And I will take sickness away from the midst of thee.

Mat. 6.33. Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righte∣ousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.

Pro. 13.4. The soul of the diligent shall have plenty.

Matth. 10. 18, 19, 20. And ye shall be brought before Go∣vernors and Kings for my sake.— But take no thought how, or what ye shall speak, for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak: for it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Jer. 29.12, 13. Then sh••ll ye call upon me, and ye shall go, and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you; and ye shall seek me, and finde me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

Jer. 31.9. They shall come with weeping, and with sup∣plications will I lead them.

Dan. 3.15. Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace.

Isa. 24.15. Wherefore glorifie ye the Lord in the fires.

Psal. 64.9, 10. And all men shall fear, and shall de∣clare the work of God: for they shall wisely consider of his doing; the righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and shall trust in him, and all the upright shall glo∣ry.

Psa. 66.13, 14. I wil pay thee my vows which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath spoken.

Psa. 66.20. Blessed be God, which hath not tur∣ned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.

Psa. 30.3▪ 12. Thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit;— to the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to thee for ever.

Psal. 62.10. If riches encrease, set not your heart upon them.

Prov. 30.8. Remove far from me vanity and lyes, give me neither po∣verty nor riches: feed me with food conveni∣ent for me.

Matth. 10.16. Be ye wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Matth. 10.26. Fear them not therefore, for there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed, and hid that shall not be known.

Matth. 10.28. But rather fear him, who is able to de∣stroy both soul and body in hell.

§. 5. The temptations of Sin prevailing, of Satan cheating, of the World ensnaring.

Experiences.

1646.

MAy 25. The Lord opened a poor creatures eye, to see in some measure the depths of Satan, and deceitful∣ness of his own heart: he acted in things doubt∣ful, against the reluctan∣cy of his own conscience before; no question this is sin, because it is not of faith.

1647.

Jan. 23. This evening one fell into exorbitancy of passion; it was so strong in him, that it cast him into Palpitation of heart.

March 27. Ones heart was over-powered, and exceedingly troubled with the cares of this life; and this occasioned some discontentments in his family. O base world! how dost thou vex them that intermeddle with thee?

October 5. One was overcome with a strong temptation of Satan, for which his conscience immediately smit him very sore.

1648.

April 4. & 17. A poor creature in the night was fearfully troubled in his dreams with De∣vils, and Torments, and Satans power over his soul: He apprehended strongly that Satan was with him, and very busie to insnare him; which at his first awaking struck him with trembling and horror.

Texts.

Rom. 7. That which I do, I allow not.

Rom. 14.23. He that doubteth, is dam∣ned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith, for whatsoever is not of faith, is sin.

Iob 18.4. He teareth him∣self in his anger.

Prov. 15.1. A soft answer turneth away wrath, but grie∣vous words stir up anger.

Pro. 19 11. The discretion of man deferreth his anger, and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

Eccles. 1.2, 14. Va∣nity of vanities, saith the preacher, vanity of vanities, all is va∣nity.—Behold, all is vanity, and vexation of spirit.

Rom. 7.23. I see an∣other law in my members, warring against the law of my minde, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

2 Cor. 2.11. We are not ignorant of his devices.—

Ephes. 6.11. Of the wiles of the devil. — Rev. 2.24. Of the depths of Satan.

1 Thess. 3.5. By some means the tempter hath tempted you.

1 Pet. 5.8. Your ad∣versary the Devil, as a roaring lyon, walketh a∣bout seeking whom he may devour.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Rom. 14.22. Hast thou faith? have it to thy self before God: Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.

Gal. 2.14. Walk uprightly, according to the truth of the Gospel.

Psal. 37.8. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; fret not thy self in any wise to do evil.

Eph. 4.31. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and cla∣mor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.

Col. 3.12, 13. Put on therefore bowels of mercies, kindeness, humbleness of minde, meekness, long-suffering, forbearing one another.

Luke 21.34. Take heed to your selves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeting and drunken∣ness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.

1 Joh. 5.4. Whosoever is born of God overcometh the world; and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

Matth. 26.41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation; the Spirit indeed is wil∣ling, but the flesh is weak.

Eph. 6.11, 16. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.— A∣bove all, take the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

Jam. 4.7. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.— 1 Pet 5.9. Whom resist sted∣f••st in the faith.

2 Pet. 2.9. The Lord know∣eth how to deliver the godly out of temptations.

§. 6. Victories of the World, Lusts, Temptations, Corruptions, Satan.

Experiences.

1646.

MAy 25. the Lord dis∣covered to a poor creature his sins, not one∣ly in things absolutely sinful, but in things doubtful; and by the po∣wer of his might, began blessedly to subdue in him those his iniquities.

1647.

Jan. 24. One troubled in conscience for his rash anger, reconciled himself to his adversary, and im∣mediately God spake peace to his conscience.

March 27. A poor soul being mightily in∣snared with the world, and finding by experi∣ence its vanity and vex∣ation, he resolved against it, divided his estate be∣twixt his wife and chil∣dren, desiring thence∣forth piously to make his soul to rejoyce in Gods blessings and his own labors, and to give himself to the LORD wholly for the remain∣der of his days: This desire he makes at the feet of Christ.

1648.

March 6. This night in his sleep a troubled soul was by Sa∣tan tempted to sin, but the Lord stood by him, put prayers into him though asleep, whereby he overcame the temptation; then awaking, he deeply apprehended Satans approach and busie tem∣ptations: it struck him into fears, but praising God for his assist∣ance, he received boldness, and then slept again.

Texts.

Rom. 14.14. I know and am perswaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing un∣clean of it self; but to him that esteemeth any thing to be un∣clean, to him it is un∣clean.

Mat. 5.23, 24. If thou bring thy gift to the Al∣tar, and there remembrest that thy brother hath ought against thee,— go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother.

Eccles. 2.24.-3.22.-5.19. There is nothing better then that a man should rejoyce in his own works, for that is his portion. Every man also to whom God hath given riches, and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to re∣joyce in his labor; this is the gift of God.

1 Tim. 6.9, 10, 11. They that will be rich, fall into tem∣ptation and a snare: — for the love of money is the root of all evil: — But thou O man of God, flee these things, and fol∣low after righteousness, god∣liness, faith, love, patience, meckness.

2 Cor. 12.7, 8, 9. There was given to me a thorn in the flesh;—for this thing I besought the Lord thrice that it might depart from me; and he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Rom. 14.••9. Let us follow after the things which make for peace, and things where∣with one may edifie ano∣ther.

Acts 24.16. And herein do I exercise my self, to have always a conscience void of offence, toward God, and toward men.

Matth. 11.29. Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall finde rest unto your souls.

Tit. 1.7. For a Bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God, not self-willed, not soon angry.

Phil. 4.11. I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

1 Tim. 6.8. And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content.

1 Tim. 6.17, 18, 19. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute,—lay∣ing up in store for them∣selves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

1 Cor. 15.57. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the vi∣ctory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Cor. 12.9. Most gladly there∣fore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

James 4.5, 6. The Spirit that dwelleth in us, lusteth to envy, but he giveth more grace.

§. 7. Observations of Gods providences.

Experiences.

1642.

FEb. 5. This day one observed a special providence in preventing a sin, to which he had given consent, with some reluctancy of spirit. O gracious Provi∣dence!

May 25. A Mini∣ster being generally opposed & discoun∣tenanced by the peo∣ple, who had former∣ly expressed singular love to him, which arose from his cast∣ing off some unlaw∣ful ceremonies of the Church; it pleased the Lord that he ob∣served this day a spe∣cial providence, w^ch put a courage into him, by reading (as it fel in course in his fa∣mily-duties) Psal. 57.

June 24. One this day understood by a Knight, that some snares were laid for him, and by a special Providence at the same time he opened the Bible, and cast his eye on Psa. 37. v. 32, 33, 34. to his great incouragement and comfort.

1647. Aug. 9. this day some Christians ob∣serving a private Fast in reference to the Distractions betwixt the City and Army, in midst of the duty, there came into them an Emissary from the Army, with Papers and Declarations; of this Providence (though sad) they made use in their Prayers.

Aug. 13. This day hear∣ing the proceedings at London, a Minister brake out into those words written in Is. 59.14, 15, 16.

1648.

March 1. This day one musing on Gods Providences, he occasi∣onally took up a Book, and read in it, That the recording of Pro∣vidences is not the least portion of Gods Praise, of our Duty, of Posterities Patrimony.

Texts.

2 Thess. 3.3. The Lord is faithful, who shall sta∣blish you, and keep you from evil.

Psal. 94.18. When I said, My foot slippeth: thy mercy, O Lord, held me up.

1 Sam. 2.9. He will keep the feet of his saints.

Psal. 69.7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. For thy sake I have born reproach, shame hath covered my face, I am become a stranger unto my brethren, and an alien unto my mothers children: for the zeal of thy house hath eaten me up, and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are faln upon me: When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach:— But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O Lord, in an acceptable time.

Psal. 37.32, 33. The wicked watcheth the righ∣teous, and seeketh to slay him; the Lord will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.

Psal. 38.12. They that seek after my life, lay snares for me: and they that seek, my hurt speak mischievous things.

Dan. 9.16, 20, 22, 26. I beseech thee let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy city Ierusa∣lem:—And whilest I was speaking and praying, and confes∣sing my sin,—the man informed me, & talk∣ed with me, and said, Unto the end of the War desolations are determined.

Isa. 59.14, 16. Judge∣ment is turned away back∣wards, and justice stand∣eth afar off, for truth is faln in the streets.

Job 5.27. Lo, this we have searched, so it is; hear thou it, and know it for thy good.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Joh. 17.15. I pray not that thou shouldst take me out of the world, but that thou shouldst keep me from the evil.

Isa. 30.21. This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand and when ye turn to the left.

2 Sam. 16.11, 12. Let him alone, and let him curse, for the Lord hath bidden him; it may be the Lord wil look on my affliction, and that the Lord will requite good for his cursing this day.

Isa. 51.7. Hearken un∣to me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear ye not the re∣proach of men, neither be afraid of their revilings.

Mat. 5.12. Rejoyce, and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecu∣ted they the Prophets which were before you.

Psal. 37.34. Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.

Psal. 38.13, 15. But I as a deaf man heard not, and I was as a dumb man that openeth not his mouth: for in thee Lord do I hope, thou wilt hear, O Lord my God.

Isa. 26.16, 17, 18. Lord, in trouble have they vi∣sited thee, they pour out a prayer when thy cha∣stening was upon them, like as a woman with childe that draweth neer the time of her delive∣ry: — We have been with childe, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind, we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth.

Lam. 1.20. Behold, O Lord, for I am in distress, my bowels are troubled, mine heart is turned within me, for I have grievously re∣belled.

Psal. 34.8, 9. O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him; fear the Lord, ye his saints.

§. 8. The breathings of the Spirit in others, and my own Soul.

Experiences.

1641.

MAy 20. This day the Lord cast one into a Spiritual, heavenly ravishing love-trance; he tasted the goodness of God, the very sweetness of Christ, and was filled with the joys of the Spi∣rit above measure. O it was a good day, and bles∣sed foretaste of heaven.

1644.

April 21. This day one received the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, but found not in it the com∣fortable presence of Christ as at other times; it troubled his soul, and then falling to examina∣tion and prayer, the Lord was pleased at last to give him a sweet visit, and spiritual refreshing.

1645.

March 17. After some extreme torment, one voided a Stone; and sud∣denly the Spirit of Christ injected this motion into his heart, That the best cure for the stone in his heart, was to look on Christ, whose heart he pierced; and to consider that Christ looks on him in every action, and therefore that he should still carry as in his pre∣sence, that his heart should be stil on Gods eye

1646.

May 22. The Lord by his spirit wrought in one a depth of hu∣miliation for sin, and yet he was troubled that he was not more troubled for it.

1647.

Feb. one was struck into very sad, serious, and withal sweet stir∣rings of Gods Spirit within him, at the consideration of E∣ternity.

1648.

May 7. This day one felt many sweet im∣pressions of Gods Spi∣rit in his heart, some∣times melting, and some∣times cheering his soul, in the publike Ordinan∣ces of his Word and Sa∣crament.

Texts.

Cant. 2.3. I sate down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste.

2 Cor. 7.4. I am filled with comfort, I am ex∣ceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

Acts 13.52. And they were filled with joy, and with the holy Ghost.

Cant. 3.1, 2, 3, 4. I sought him whom my soul loveth, I sought him, but I found him not: I will rise now, & go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I wil seek him whom my soul loveth; I sought him, but I found him not: —it was but a little that I passed from them, but I found him whom my soul loveth.

Zech. 12.10. And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one that mourneth for his onely son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his first∣born.

Heb. 4.13. All things are naked and open un∣to the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Isa. 38.14. Like a crane or a swallow, so did I chatter, I did mourn as a dove, mine eyes fail with looking upwards: O Lord un∣dertake for me.

Ps. 39.3, 4. while I was musing, the fire burn∣ed; then spake I with my tongue, Lord make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days.

Cant. 5.1. I am come into my garden, my sister my spouse, I have gather∣ed my myrrhe with my spice; I have eaten my honey-comb with my ho∣ney; I have drunken my wine with my milk: Eat O friends, drink, yea drink abundantly, O beloved.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

1 Pet. 1.8. Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom though now we see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory.

Rev. 22.17, 20. And the Spirit & the Bride say Come, and let him that heareth, say Come, and let him that is a∣thirst come.— He which te∣stifieth these things, saith, Surely I come quickly. A∣men, even so come Lord Iesus

Cant. 1.7. Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon? for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy com∣panions?

Cant. 3.4. I found him whom my soul loveth, I held him, and would not let him go.

2 Thess. 5.19. Quench not the Spirit.

Ezek. 11.19, 20. I will take away the stony heart out of their flesh, and I will give them an heart of flesh, that they may walk in my statutes, and keep my ordinances to do them.

Zech. 12.11. In that day there shal be a great mourning in Jerusalem, as the mourning of Had∣dadrimmon in the valley of Megiddon.

James 4.9, 10. Be af∣flicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heavi∣ness: humble your selves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

Deut. 32.29. O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would con∣sider their latter end.

1 Tim. 6.12. Lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called.

Psal. 89.15. Bles∣sed is the people that know the joyful sound, they shall walk O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.

§. 9. Deceits of the heart beguiling.

Experiences.

1641.

FEb. 19. This day one fell upon a re∣ligious work, but too strongly intended himself and his own ends therein. O de∣ceitful heart!

1643.

Jan. 2. A poor soul was this day strongly moved, & ready to drop into evil, which would have been scandal; but by a subtile kinde of dealing, he declined the tempta∣tion, so that it brake not then forth into outward act: yet in this carriage was more policy then piety, O it was devoid of that plain si••plicity which the Gospel requireth.

April 17. A poor soul committed sin, and con∣cealed it; but the Lords eye was upon him, which after he was sensible of.

1644.

July 2. One made a shew of that grace and godliness, which he may well say he had not in that measure as he made shew of.

1645.

March 8. One con∣cealed and smother∣ed the grace & con∣science that was in him, in respect of the place and company, which might have been prejudicial un∣to him. O deceitful heart!

1646.

May 13. One per∣formed indeed a good action, but he exceedingly over∣prized it; which he found afterwards.

May 15. This day a poor soul upon strict ex∣amination of his heart, found that formerly he had judged many sinful actions lawful and good, and had excused many actions though in them∣selves sinful: he felt not such a powerful opera∣tion of his corruptions before, and so through Pride and Ignorance thought better of him∣self then he had cause.

1647.

March 27. A poor soul wofully breaking such Vows as he had for∣merly made, he now saw the unsoundness and un∣setledness of his deceive∣able heart.

1648. May 29. One felt many strivings and contrary workings in his spirit; some∣times in prayer ravished, and sometimes heavy; sometimes full of comfort, and some∣times exceedingly dejected; sometimes patient, and other whiles impatient. O the sic∣kleness and uncertainty of the heart in the course of piety.

Octob. 24. One many times, but now especial∣ly, took notice of the slipperiness of his heart in the very act of per∣formance: Sometimes (said he) it slily steals away after idle and wan∣dering imaginations: sometimes it lets in base thoughts of praise, vain glory, &c. sometimes it raiseth up many good and holy motions, meditations, desires and affections, which yet are nothing to the present performance, and therefore come not from the Spirit of grace, but from Satan. O cheat∣ing cozening heart!

Texts.

Rom. 7.21, 22, 23. I finde a law, that when I would do good, evil is pre∣sent with me. I delight in the law of God after the inner man; but I see an∣other law in my mem∣bers, warring against the law of my minde.

Gal. 6.12. As many as desire to make a fair show in the flesh, they constrain you—onely lest you should suffer persecu¦tion for the cross of Christ.

Gal. 2.14. But (howsoever I yielded not) I saw that I walked not uprightly accord∣ing to the truth of the Gospel

Psal. 69.5. O God, thou knowest my fool∣ishnes, and my sins are not hid from thee.

Jer. 17.9. The heart is deceitful above things.

2 Cor. 12.11. I am become a fool in glo∣rying, ye have com∣pelled me.

Mat. 26.58, 70. But Peter followed him a∣far off unto the high priests pallace, and went in, and sate with the servants to see the end; —and saying (to the damsel that came unto him) I know not what thou sayest.

2 Cor. 11.7. That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly in this confidence of boasting.

2 Cor. 12.11. I am be∣come a fool in glorying.

Gal. 1.13, 14, 15, 16. For ye have heard of my con∣versation in time past, — being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who sepe∣rated me from my mo∣thers womb, and called me by his grace, to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen, immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood.

Rom. 7.5. What I would, that do I not, but what I hate, that do I.

Rom. 7.18, 19. To will is present with me, but how to perform that which is good, I finde not: for the good that I would do, I do not, but the evil which I would not, that I do.

Gal. 5.17. For the flesh lust∣eth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh, and these are contrary the one to the other.

Rom. 7.22. For I delight in the law of God after the in∣ward man; but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my minde.

Jerem. 17.9. The heart is deceitful a∣bove all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it?

Rom. 7.21. I finde then a law, that when I would do good, evil is present with me.

Dispositions required in this case, and to be prayed for.

Rom. 7.24, 25. O wretched man that I am, who shall de∣liver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Iesus Christ our Lord.

Matth. 16.24. If any man will come after me, let him deny himself.

2 Cor. 1.12. Our rejoycing should be this, The testimony of our Conscience, that in simplici∣ty and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we had our conversation in the world.

2 Cor. 11.3. But I fear lest by any m••ans, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your mindes should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Hab. 1.13. Thou art of purer eyes then to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity.

Heb. 4.13. All things are na∣ked and open to the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

2 Cor. 12.5. Of my self I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.

2 Cor. 12.6. But now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

Heb. 10.23. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, for he is faith∣ful that promised.

Psal. 40.10. I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart: I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation, I have not concealed thy lo∣ving kindeness.

1 Cor. 4.7. And what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory as if thou hadst not received it?

Jer. 9.23. Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom: — 2 Cor. 10.17. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

Phil. 3.12, 13, 14, 15. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect; but I follow after, if that I may ap∣prehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not my self to have apprehended; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behinde, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark, for the price of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore as many as be perfect, be thus minded, and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this to you.

1 Cor. 16.13. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.

Psal. 76.11. Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God.

Eccles 5.4 When thou vow∣est a vow unto God, defer not to pay it, for he hath no pleasure in fools; pay that which thou hast vowed.

Rom. 7.24, 25. O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord: So then, with my minde I my self serve the law of God, but with my flesh the law of sin.

Gal. 5.18. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

Gal. 5. 24, 25. They that are Christs, have crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts: If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Gen. 15.11. And when the fowls came down upon the car∣cases, Abram drove them away.

Mat. 26.41. Watch and pray, that ye en∣ter not into tempta∣tion; the Spirit in∣deed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

1 Pet. 4.7. But the end of all things is at hand; be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Isa. 42.23. Psal. 107.43.
• * 1.2

  Psal. 143.5.
• * 1.3

  Isa 3.10.
• * 1.4

  Isa. 3.11.
• * 1.5

  1 Pet. 2.3.
• * 1.6

  Psal. 143.10.
• * 1.7

  Psa. 73.28.
• * 1.8

  Psa. 119.50.
• * 1.9

  Lam 3.26.
• * 1.10

  Psa. 92.1.
• * 1.11

  Gal 4.18. Heb. 13.9.
• * 1.12

  Rom. 7.13.
• * 1.13

  Psa. 51.5.
• * 1.14

  Isa. 64.6.
• * 1.15

  Rom. 7.18.
• * 1.16

  2 Cor 3.5.
• * 1.17

  Eccles. 1.2.
• * 1.18

  Psal. 116.1.
• * 1.19

  Exod. 14 31.
• * 1.20

  Psal 41.11.
• * 1.21

  Psal. 52.6.
• * 1.22

  Acts 5.5.
• * 1.23

  Psal. 119.120.
• * 1.24

  Hab. 3.16.
• * 1.25

  Lam. 4.7.
• * 1.26

  Eccle. 1.2.
• * 1.27

  2 Sam. 18.3.
• * 1.28

  Rev. 12.11.
• * 1.29

  Iudges 7.15.
• * 1.30

  Luke 9.23.
• * 1.31

  2 Cor. 5.15.
• * 1.32

  Psal. 116.1.
• * 1.33

  Psal. 34.8. Can. 2.5.
• * 1.34

  Rom. 5.4.
• * 1.35

  2 Tim. 4.17, 18
• * 1.36

  2 Cor. 1 9, 10.
• * 1.37

  Psa. 71.20, 21.
• * 1.38

  Iohn 13.1. Psal 63.7.
• * 1.39

  1 Sam 17.36, 37.
• * 1.40

  Iudg 5.31.
• * 1.41

  2 Tim. 1.12.
• * 1.42

  Psa. 77.7.
• * 1.43

  Ionah 2.4.
• * 1.44

  Rev. 2.6.
• * 1.45

  Isa. 42.3.
• * 1.46

  Psa. 37.16, 17
• * 1.47

  Isa 8.20.
• * 1.48

  1 Sam. 17.36, 37.
• * 1.49

  2 Tim. 4.17, 18.
• * 1.50

  2 Cor. 1.9,10
• * 1.51

  Rom 5.4.
• * 1.52

  2 Chron. 7.14.
• * 1.53

  Iames 5.14, 15.
• * 1.54

  Psal. 142.7.
• * 1.55

  Psal. 22.4, 5.
• * 1.56

  See the oc∣casion of this battel, v. 13, 14, 15.