employ_v my_o best_a thought_n and_o skill_n about_o it_o and_o if_o after_o this_o i_o have_v any_o where_o wrong_v or_o misrepresent_v it_o it_o be_v more_o my_o vnhappiness_n than_o my_o fault_n perhaps_o it_o may_v be_v think_v that_o in_o the_o first_o three_o chapter_n i_o have_v discourse_v more_o speculative_o than_o it_o be_v fit_a in_o a_o book_n that_o be_v design_v for_o common_a use_n and_o edification_n but_o it_o may_v be_v when_o the_o reader_n have_v consider_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o argument_n i_o have_v there_o handle_v and_o how_o necessary_o they_o fall_v in_o with_o my_o design_n he_o will_v be_v convince_v that_o it_o be_v unavoidable_a and_o yet_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o with_o a_o little_a diligence_n and_o attention_n of_o mind_n the_o plain_a reader_n may_v be_v able_a to_o comprehend_v the_o main_a reason_n and_o evidence_n of_o what_o i_o drive_v at_o in_o the_o first_o place_n i_o think_v it_o will_v be_v necessary_a in_o treat_v of_o the_o christian_a life_n to_o give_v some_o account_n of_o the_o bless_a end_n it_o refer_v to_o that_o so_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o we_o may_v be_v the_o better_a able_a to_o judge_n of_o the_o necessity_n and_o vsefulness_n of_o those_o mean_n which_o christianity_n prescribe_v in_o order_n to_o it_o and_o this_o i_o have_v endeavour_v in_o the_o first_o chapter_n where_o i_o have_v only_o so_o far_o explain_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o heavenly_a state_n and_o felicity_n as_o be_v necessary_a to_o light_v and_o conduct_v we_o through_o the_o ensue_a design_n in_o the_o second_o place_n i_o judge_v it_o will_v be_v no_o less_o expedient_a to_o give_v some_o general_a account_n of_o what_o kind_n of_o mean_n be_v necessary_a to_o our_o obtain_v this_o end_n that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v convince_v how_o requisite_a both_o the_o principal_a and_o instrumental_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n be_v to_o our_o everlasting_a happiness_n and_o this_o i_o have_v attempt_v in_o the_o second_o chapter_n wherein_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o vast_a distance_n there_o be_v between_o the_o pure_a and_o bless_a state_n of_o heaven_n and_o this_o corrupt_a and_o degenerate_a state_n of_o human_a nature_n i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o show_v that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o necessary_a for_o we_o to_o practice_v and_o acquire_v those_o christian_a virtue_n in_o the_o perfection_n whereof_o the_o heavenly_a bliss_n consist_v but_o that_o to_o enable_v we_o to_o practice_v acquire_v and_o improve_v they_o there_o be_v sundry_a other_o instrumental_a duty_n indispensable_o necessary_a which_o duty_n as_o i_o have_v there_o prove_v be_v of_o no_o other_o use_n or_o significancy_n in_o religion_n than_o as_o they_o be_v mean_n of_o virtue_n and_o piety_n and_o have_v thus_o distribute_v the_o mean_n into_o their_o proper_a kind_n and_o order_n i_o have_v in_o the_o three_o chapter_n treat_v large_o of_o the_o first_o kind_a to_o wit_n the_o practice_n of_o the_o christian_a virtue_n in_o which_o i_o confess_v i_o have_v neither_o handle_v the_o particular_a virtue_n in_o their_o full_a extent_n and_o latitude_n nor_o inforce_v they_o with_o all_o their_o moral_a reason_n that_o be_v do_v already_o to_o excellent_a purpose_n in_o those_o two_o incomparable_a treatise_n of_o holy_a live_n and_o die_v and_o of_o the_o whole_a duty_n of_o man._n nor_o can_v i_o have_v do_v it_o without_o swell_v this_o discourse_n which_o be_v large_a enough_o already_o into_o a_o volume_n too_o large_a for_o common_a use._n and_o indeed_o all_o that_o be_v necessary_a to_o my_o purpose_n be_v only_o so_o far_o to_o explain_v the_o nature_n of_o each_o particular_a virtue_n as_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v thereby_o understand_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o they_o but_o that_o which_o most_o concern_v i_o in_o pursuance_n of_o my_o main_a design_n be_v to_o prove_v that_o the_o practice_n of_o every_o virtue_n be_v a_o essential_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n and_o a_o necessary_a mean_n to_o the_o bless_a end_n of_o it_o and_o according_o as_o i_o have_v show_v from_o the_o express_a command_n of_o our_o religion_n our_o indispensible_a obligation_n to_o practice_v every_o virtue_n so_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o show_v how_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o we_o do_v natural_o grow_v up_o to_o the_o heavenly_a state_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a how_o in_o the_o course_n of_o a_o sinful_a life_n we_o do_v by_o a_o necessary_a efficiency_n gradual_o sink_v ourselves_o into_o the_o state_n of_o the_o damn_a for_o i_o have_v prove_v at_o large_a that_o there_o be_v something_o of_o heaven_n and_o hell_n in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o each_o particular_a virtue_n and_o vice_n and_o that_o in_o the_o perfection_n of_o these_o two_o opposite_a quality_n consist_v the_o main_a happiness_n and_o misery_n of_o those_o two_o opposite_a state_n from_o whence_o it_o will_v necessary_o follow_v that_o as_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o one_o or_o tother_o we_o grow_v more_o virtuous_a or_o vicious_a so_o proportionable_o we_o rise_v up_o towards_o heaven_n or_o sink_v down_o towards_o hell_n by_o a_o fatal_a tendency_n of_o nature_n the_o truth_n of_o which_o be_v not_o only_o acknowledge_v by_o the_o generality_n of_o christian_a writer_n but_o also_o by_o the_o best_a and_o wise_a of_o the_o heathen_a philosopher_n though_o this_o i_o think_v be_v the_o first_o attempt_n that_o have_v be_v make_v to_o derive_v the_o heavenly_a and_o the_o hellish_a state_n from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o particular_a virtue_n and_o vice_n i_o pray_v god_n that_o what_o i_o have_v say_v may_v but_o engage_v some_o more_o skilful_a pen_n in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o this_o noble_a argument_n for_o i_o know_v nothing_o in_o the_o world_n that_o can_v be_v more_o effectual_a to_o engage_v man_n to_o be_v substantial_o religious_a to_o take_v they_o off_o from_o hypocrisy_n and_o formality_n from_o all_o presumptuous_a hope_n and_o false_a dependency_n than_o their_o be_v thorough_o convince_v of_o this_o truth_n that_o the_o eternal_a happiness_n or_o misery_n of_o soul_n be_v found_v in_o their_o virtue_n or_o vice_n and_o that_o there_o be_v as_o inseparable_a a_o connexion_n between_o grace_n and_o glory_n sin_n and_o hell_n as_o there_o be_v between_o fire_n and_o heat_n frost_n and_o cold_a or_o any_o other_o necessary_a cause_n and_o its_o effect_n for_o if_o they_o be_v but_o thorough_o persuade_v of_o this_o they_o will_v easy_o discern_v what_o wretched_a nonsense_n it_o be_v to_o think_v of_o go_v to_o heaven_n or_o escape_v hell_n whilst_o they_o continue_v in_o any_o wilful_a course_n of_o disobedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o virtue_n have_v thus_o treat_v at_o large_a of_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o end_n of_o our_o christian_a life_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v i_o proceed_v in_o the_o four_o chapter_n which_o be_v the_o large_a of_o all_o to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o the_o second_o viz._n the_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o christianity_n which_o be_v enjoin_v we_o as_o means_n subservient_fw-fr to_o our_o practice_n acquisition_n and_o improvement_n of_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n in_o the_o perfection_n whereof_o our_o chief_a happiness_n consist_v and_o for_o the_o more_o distinct_a handle_n of_o these_o i_o have_v consider_v man_n under_o a_o threefold_a state_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o christian_a life_n first_o as_o enter_v into_o it_o second_o as_o actual_o engage_v in_o it_o three_o as_o perfect_v and_o improve_n themselves_o by_o perseverance_n in_o it_o to_o each_o of_o which_o i_o have_v appropriate_v such_o of_o the_o instrumental_a duty_n as_o i_o conceive_v do_v more_o especial_o belong_v to_o they_o it_o be_v true_a some_o of_o the_o duty_n here_o treat_v of_o be_v not_o pure_o instrumental_a but_o of_o a_o mix_a nature_n such_o as_o faith_n prayer_n actual_a dedication_n of_o our_o good_a work_n to_o god_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v essential_a part_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o as_o such_o do_v belong_v to_o those_o divine_a virtue_n the_o perfection_n whereof_o make_v a_o principal_a part_n of_o the_o everlasting_a happiness_n of_o soul_n but_o here_o i_o have_v consider_v they_o only_o as_o mean_n and_o instrument_n in_o the_o use_n of_o which_o we_o be_v to_o acquire_v and_o perfect_v those_o beatifical_a virtue_n and_o of_o this_o sort_n of_o mean_n i_o do_v not_o remember_v any_o one_o particular_a recommend_v in_o holy_a scripture_n but_o what_o have_v be_v here_o treat_v of_o upon_o some_o indeed_o i_o have_v insist_v much_o more_o brief_o than_o upon_o other_o because_o i_o find_v they_o already_o large_o account_v for_o in_o other_o practical_a book_n and_o especial_o in_o those_o two_o excellent_a treatise_n abovenamed_a but_o of_o those_o which_o they_o either_o cursory_o touch_v or_o take_v no_o notice_n at_o all_o i_o think_v myself_o oblige_v
never_o return_v to_o they_o more_o whatsoever_o temptation_n may_v invite_v or_o difficulty_n encounter_v and_o oppose_v we_o which_o resolution_n be_v in_o scripture_n call_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o translate_v repentance_n but_o in_o strictness_n signify_v a_o change_n of_o mind_n or_o of_o purpose_n and_o resolution_n a_o renounce_v our_o sinful_a purpose_n and_o solemn_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o a_o contrary_a resolution_n of_o live_v sober_o and_o righteous_o and_o godly_a in_o this_o present_a world_n so_o that_o wheresoever_o the_o precept_n of_o repentance_n be_v express_v by_o this_o word_n the_o meaning_n of_o it_o be_v to_o oblige_v we_o to_o change_v the_o wicked_a purpose_n of_o our_o heart_n into_o a_o firm_a and_o serious_a resolution_n of_o forsake_v all_o ungodliness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n and_o entire_o resign_v up_o ourselves_o to_o the_o will_n and_o disposal_n of_o god_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i._n e._n to_o change_v our_o mind_n and_o convert_v or_o turn_v be_v in_o scripture_n so_o often_o put_v together_o the_o one_o denote_v the_o inward_a change_n of_o our_o resolution_n the_o other_o the_o outward_a change_n of_o our_o practice_n pursuant_n to_o it_o so_o act_v three_o 19_o repent_v and_o be_v convert_v and_o act_n xxvi_o 20_o that_o they_o shall_v repent_v and_o turn_v to_o god_n and_o do_v work_n meet_v for_o repentance_n that_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v resolve_v to_o forsake_v their_o sin_n and_o submit_v to_o their_o duty_n and_o put_v their_o resolution_n into_o practice_n and_o so_o that_o other_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o also_o render_v repentance_n strict_o signify_v a_o after-care_n that_o be_v pursuant_n unto_o this_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o change_n of_o resolution_n now_o this_o repentance_n or_o change_n of_o resolution_n be_v the_o initial_a act_n of_o the_o religion_n of_o sinner_n whereby_o they_o resume_v their_o inward_a man_n from_o the_o service_n of_o sin_n and_o submit_v and_o resign_v their_o will_n to_o god_n whereby_o in_o heart_n and_o will_n they_o forsake_v the_o devil_n colour_n and_o list_v themselves_o volunteer_n under_o the_o banner_n of_o christ._n and_o be_v so_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v perform_v with_o so_o much_o the_o more_o care_n and_o preparation_n for_o the_o beginning_n of_o all_o great_a erterprise_n be_v the_o ground_n and_o foundation_n of_o they_o which_o if_o it_o be_v not_o firm_o lay_v will_v be_v apt_a to_o sink_v under_o the_o superstructure_n and_o to_o endanger_v their_o ruin_n and_o downfall_n now_o all_o the_o forego_n duty_n be_v necessary_a preparation_n to_o a_o good_a resolution_n we_o ought_v before_o we_o resolve_v to_o spend_v a_o considerable_a portion_n of_o time_n in_o the_o diligent_a practice_n of_o they_o and_o not_o to_o resolve_v hand_n over_o head_n till_o we_o be_v due_o and_o thorough_o prepare_v for_o it_o till_o by_o exercise_v our_o faith_n and_o consideration_n etc._n etc._n we_o have_v break_v and_o tame_v our_o perverse_a and_o obstinate_a will_n and_o thorough_o persuade_v they_o to_o part_v with_o every_o sin_n and_o to_o approve_v of_o and_o consent_n to_o every_o duty_n that_o be_v comprehend_v in_o a_o through_o resolution_n of_o amendment_n and_o if_o when_o we_o be_v about_o to_o resolve_v we_o find_v upon_o a_o strict_a examination_n any_o secret_a reserve_v or_o exception_n in_o our_o will_n if_o there_o be_v any_o lust_n which_o they_o be_v not_o thorough_o persuade_v to_o part_v with_o or_o any_o duty_n to_o which_o they_o be_v not_o full_o reconcile_v we_o ought_v for_o that_o time_n to_o forbear_v resolve_v and_o to_o go_v on_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o preparatory_a duty_n till_o we_o find_v our_o reluctant_a will_n thorough_o conquer_v and_o persuade_v by_o they_o for_o if_o there_o be_v any_o leak_n leave_v open_a in_o our_o resolution_n for_o any_o sin_n to_o creep_v in_o at_o that_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o insinuate_v in_o the_o next_o storm_n of_o temptation_n and_o if_o it_o shall_v not_o let_v in_o other_o sin_n after_o it_o as_o it_o be_v a_o thousand_o to_o one_o but_o it_o will_v it_o will_v by_o its_o own_o single_a weight_n sink_v we_o into_o eternal_a perdition_n wherefore_o before_o ever_o we_o enter_v into_o the_o resolution_n of_o amendment_n we_o ought_v to_o be_v very_o careful_a that_o our_o will_n be_v thorough_o prepare_v for_o it_o that_o they_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o fair_a compliance_n with_o the_o matter_n we_o be_v resolve_v upon_o and_o effectual_o dissuade_v out_o of_o all_o resolution_n to_o the_o contrary_a and_o when_o this_o be_v do_v we_o may_v cheerful_o proceed_v to_o the_o form_n of_o our_o good_a resolution_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v perform_v by_o we_o between_o god_n and_o ourselves_o with_o the_o great_a seriousness_n and_o solemnity_n for_o now_o our_o heart_n be_v ready_a we_o be_v to_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o our_o knee_n and_o in_o these_o or_o such_o like_a word_n to_o devote_v ourselves_o to_o god_n o_o thou_o bless_a author_n of_o my_o be_v i_o be_o now_o full_o convince_v that_o i_o owe_v myself_o to_o thou_o by_o a_o thousand_o tie_n and_o obligation_n and_o be_o infinite_o sorry_a and_o ashamed_a that_o i_o have_v so_o long_o sequester_v and_o withdraw_v myself_o from_o thou_o to_o serve_v my_o own_o base_a lust_n and_o affection_n wherefore_o now_o in_o thy_o dread_a presence_n and_o in_o that_o of_o thy_o holy_a angel_n i_o here_o entire_o resign_v up_o myself_o unto_o thou_o and_o do_v resolve_v without_o any_o reserve_v or_o exception_n that_o whatsoever_o temptation_n i_o may_v meet_v with_o for_o the_o future_a i_o will_v never_o wilful_o withdraw_v or_o alienate_v myself_o from_o thou_o more_o from_o henceforth_o i_o hearty_o renounce_v all_o my_o sin_n and_o particular_o those_o that_o have_v be_v most_o dear_a and_o pleasant_a to_o i_o and_o do_v faithful_o promise_v to_o continue_v thy_o true_a and_o loyal_a subject_n as_o long_o as_o i_o breath_n and_o that_o whatsoever_o invitation_n i_o may_v have_v to_o the_o contrary_n i_o will_v never_o revoke_v the_o resolution_n i_o now_o make_v or_o any_o part_n of_o it_o so_o help_v i_o o_o my_o god_n and_o have_v thus_o solemn_o resolve_v it_o will_v be_v high_o necessary_a that_o for_o the_o far_a ratification_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v yet_o more_o solemn_o repeat_v it_o in_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n wherein_o according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o feast_n upon_o sacrifice_n god_n and_o every_o faithful_a communicant_a do_v mutual_o re-oblige_a themselves_o to_o one_o another_o and_o upon_o the_o sacred_a symbol_n of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o jesus_n do_v ratify_v to_o each_o other_o each_o other_o part_n of_o that_o everlasting_a covenant_n which_o by_o the_o federal_n rite_n of_o his_o meritorious_a death_n and_o sacrifice_n be_v inviolable_o seal_v and_o confirm_v so_o that_o when_o we_o take_v those_o holy_a element_n into_o our_o hand_n which_o the_o priest_n in_o god_n stead_n present_v and_o offer_v to_o we_o we_o do_v in_o effect_n make_v this_o solemn_a dedication_n of_o ourselves_o to_o god_n here_o we_o offer_v and_o present_v unto_o thou_o o_o lord_n ourselves_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n to_o be_v a_o reasonable_a holy_a and_o lively_a sacrifice_n unto_o thou_o and_o here_o we_o call_v to_o witness_v this_o sacred_a blood_n that_o redeem_v we_o and_o those_o vocal_a wound_n which_o do_v now_o intercede_v for_o we_o that_o from_o henceforth_o we_o oblige_v ourselves_o never_o to_o start_v from_o thy_o service_n what_o difficulty_n soever_o we_o may_v encounter_v in_o it_o or_o what_o temptation_n soever_o we_o may_v have_v to_o forsake_v it_o and_o have_v thus_o resolve_v and_o confirm_v our_o resolution_n by_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o our_o saviour_n and_o take_v the_o sacrament_n upon_o it_o not_o to_o depart_v from_o what_o we_o have_v resolve_v we_o have_v actual_o list_v and_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o a_o warfare_n against_o sin_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n upon_o the_o final_a success_n whereof_o our_o everlasting_a fate_n depend_v and_o thus_o you_o see_v what_o duty_n be_v imply_v in_o the_o beginning_n or_o entrance_n of_o this_o warfaring_a part_n of_o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian._n sect_n ii_o wherein_o some_o motive_n be_v urge_v to_o persuade_v man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o those_o duty_n that_o be_v proper_a to_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o christian_a warfare_n have_v in_o the_o former_a section_n give_v a_o brief_a account_n of_o those_o duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o well_o begin_v of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n i_o shall_v now_o for_o a_o close_a of_o that_o argument_n endeavour_v to_o press_v and_o persuade_v those_o who_o have_v not_o as_o yet_o begin_v to_o enter_v immediate_o
those_o virtue_n which_o through_o our_o vicious_a aversation_n to_o they_o seem_v at_o first_o impossible_a will_v grow_v on_o by_o degree_n from_o possible_a to_o easy_a and_o from_o easy_a to_o necessary_a and_o then_o the_o sin_n will_v be_v more_o impossible_a to_o we_o than_o the_o virtue_n now_o what_o a_o mighty_a encouragement_n be_v this_o to_o make_v a_o good_a beginning_n of_o the_o christian_a warfare_n that_o in_o so_o do_v we_o be_v sure_a to_o conquer_v the_o main_a difficulty_n of_o it_o that_o when_o we_o have_v break_v through_o all_o those_o opposition_n that_o lie_v in_o the_o way_n to_o a_o wise_a and_o good_a resolution_n we_o be_v pass_v the_o frontier_n of_o religion_n and_o have_v get_v over_o those_o steep_a alps_o at_o its_o entrance_n shall_v be_v sure_a to_o find_v the_o region_n round_o about_o a_o plain_a and_o a_o easy_a champain_n in_o which_o the_o further_a we_o go_v the_o smooth_a it_o will_v be_v and_o so_o smooth_a and_o smooth_a till_o at_o last_o it_o will_v be_v all_o sweet_a and_o delightful_a like_o the_o flowery_a walk_n of_o paradise_n let_v we_o therefore_o be_v persuade_v without_o any_o far_a delay_n to_o enter_v immediate_o upon_o this_o our_o holy_a warfare_n and_o by_o faith_n and_o consideration_n etc._n etc._n to_o lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o a_o religious_a resolution_n that_o so_o when_o we_o be_v actual_o engage_v against_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o stand_v our_o ground_n against_o all_o temptation_n and_o that_o have_v final_o conquer_v and_o subdue_v they_o we_o may_v receive_v that_o immortal_a crown_n which_o god_n the_o righteous_a judge_n have_v lay_v up_o for_o the_o victorious_a and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o first_o part_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n viz._n our_o entrance_n into_o it_o sect_n iii_o concern_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a warfare_n with_o a_o particular_a account_n of_o the_o duty_n thereunto_o appertain_v i_o shall_v 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consist_v the_o course_n and_o progress_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n in_o order_n whereunto_o it_o be_v indispensable_o necessary_a that_o we_o shall_v still_o repeat_v the_o practice_n of_o those_o duty_n by_o which_o we_o be_v first_o prepare_v to_o enter_v into_o it_o all_o those_o mean_n by_o which_o our_o good_a resolution_n be_v produce_v be_v natural_o conducive_a to_o maintain_v and_o support_v it_o and_o therefore_o we_o find_v that_o faith_n and_o consideration_n etc._n etc._n be_v not_o enjoin_v as_o temporary_a duty_n that_o be_v only_o to_o be_v practise_v in_o the_o beginning_n of_o our_o warfare_n but_o as_o mean_n that_o will_v be_v always_o necessary_a for_o we_o throughout_o our_o whole_a progress_n to_o heaven_n for_o so_o we_o be_v command_v not_o only_o to_o acquire_v a_o sincere_a faith_n or_o belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o to_o continue_v and_o be_v establish_v in_o it_o col._n i._n 2_o 3._o compare_v with_o cap._n two_o 7_o and_o so_o again_o we_o be_v enjoin_v not_o only_o to_o admit_v the_o proposal_n of_o religion_n into_o our_o consideration_n but_o to_o keep_v they_o there_o luk._n viij_o 15_o and_o suffer_v they_o to_o dwell_v rich_o in_o we_o coll._n iii._o 16_o and_o so_o for_o all_o those_o other_o preparatory_a duty_n for_o that_o from_o a_o hearty_a conviction_n of_o our_o need_n of_o christ_n we_o shall_v beg_v all_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o his_o name_n and_o for_o his_o sake_n be_v a_o stand_a precept_n of_o christian_a devotion_n john_n xuj_o 24_o and_o so_o be_v also_o confession_n of_o our_o sin_n to_o god_n 1_o john_n i_o 9_o and_o prayer_n for_o his_o grace_n and_o assistance_n coll._n four_o 2_o nor_o be_v it_o only_o require_v that_o we_o shall_v once_o repent_v or_o change_v our_o bad_a resolution_n for_o a_o good_a one_o but_o that_o we_o shall_v also_o repeat_v and_o confirm_v our_o good_a resolution_n that_o we_o shall_v establish_v our_o heart_n that_o be_v keep_v our_o will_n fix_v and_o determine_v to_o all_o good_a intention_n and_o purpose_n james_n v._n 8_o and_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v adhere_v to_o the_o profession_n and_o practice_n of_o christianity_n with_o a_o firm_a and_o constant_a resolution_n phil._n four_o 1_o for_o to_o proceed_v in_o our_o christian_a warfare_n be_v constant_o to_o live_v up_o to_o our_o good_a resolution_n which_o will_v require_v a_o continue_a application_n of_o those_o mean_n by_o which_o we_o be_v first_o prepare_v and_o dispose_v to_o enter_v into_o it_o thus_o faith_n be_v no_o less_o necessary_a to_o enable_v we_o to_o perform_v than_o it_o be_v to_o prepare_v we_o to_o make_v our_o good_a resolution_n and_o still_o the_o more_o we_o believe_v our_o religion_n the_o more_o we_o shall_v think_v ourselves_o concern_v in_o its_o proposal_n and_o consequent_o the_o more_o firm_o we_o shall_v be_v resolve_v to_o close_v with_o and_o embrace_v they_o and_o so_o still_o as_o our_o faith_n improve_v in_o degree_n of_o certainty_n 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ourselves_o against_o they_o with_o the_o motive_n and_o argument_n of_o our_o religion_n that_o so_o we_o may_v have_v our_o weapon_n ready_a when_o ever_o they_o shall_v assault_v we_o and_o be_v always_o provide_v to_o resist_v they_o again_o if_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o form_v our_o resolution_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v convince_v of_o the_o necessity_n and_o reality_n of_o our_o saviour_n mediation_n than_o it_o will_v be_v no_o less_o necessary_a to_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o that_o our_o hope_n and_o fear_v which_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o our_o action_n shall_v still_o be_v excite_v by_o the_o glorious_a assurance_n of_o mercy_n and_o horrid_a prospect_n of_o sin_n which_o this_o conviction_n imply_v once_o more_o be_v it_o necessary_a to_o the_o well_o make_v of_o our_o resolution_n that_o we_o shall_v affect_v ourselves_o beforehand_o with_o a_o hearty_a shame_n and_o sorrow_n for_o our_o past_a transgression_n then_o will_v it_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a 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the_o christian_a life_n from_o its_o beginning_n to_o its_o consummation_n in_o glory_n together_o with_o the_o several_a mean_n and_o instrument_n of_o christianity_n conduce_v thereunto_o with_o direction_n for_o private_a devotion_n and_o form_n of_o prayer_n fit_v to_o the_o several_a state_n of_o christian_n by_o john_n scott_n rector_n of_o saint_n peter_n poor_a london_n london_n print_v by_o m._n clark_n for_o walter_n kettilby_n at_o the_o bishops-head_n in_o s._n paul_n churchyard_n 1681._o to_o the_o right_n honourable_a and_o right_o reverend_a father_n in_o god_n henry_n lord_n bishop_n of_o london_n and_o one_o of_o his_o majesty_n most_o honourable_a privy-council_n etc._n etc._n my_o lord_n that_o i_o presume_v to_o lay_v these_o paper_n at_o your_o lordship_n foot_n be_v not_o because_o i_o imagine_v they_o deserve_v but_o because_o i_o be_o conscious_a they_o need_v so_o great_a a_o patronage_n not_o but_o that_o be_v the_o discourse_n they_o contain_v as_o great_a 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according_a to_o my_o poor_a ability_n to_o endeavour_v its_o prevention_n and_o consider_v that_o the_o most_o effectual_a mean_v the_o romanist_n have_v use_v to_o subvert_v this_o church_n which_o they_o so_o much_o envy_n and_o all_o the_o reformation_n do_v so_o much_o admire_v and_o depend_v on_o have_v be_v to_o divide_v she_o own_o child_n from_o she_o and_o arm_v they_o against_o she_o by_o start_v new_a opinion_n among_o they_o and_o engage_v their_o zeal_n which_o be_v wont_a to_o be_v employ_v to_o better_a purpose_n in_o hot_a dispute_n about_o the_o modes_n and_o circumstance_n of_o her_o worship_n i_o think_v a_o discourse_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a sphere_n of_o christian_a zeal_n may_v be_v a_o good_a expedient_a to_o take_v man_n off_o from_o those_o dangerous_a contention_n which_o be_v kindle_v and_o be_v feed_v and_o blow_v by_o such_o as_o design_v our_o common_a ruin_n for_o sure_a do_v our_o people_n thorough_o understand_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v christian_n indeed_o and_o how_o much_o duty_n that_o imply_v they_o can_v never_o find_v so_o much_o leisure_n as_o they_o do_v to_o quarrel_v and_o wrangle_v about_o trifle_n this_o my_o lord_n be_v the_o sincere_a design_n of_o what_o i_o here_o present_a to_o your_o lordship_n and_o however_o it_o may_v succeed_v i_o have_v this_o satisfaction_n that_o i_o mean_v well_o and_o have_v express_v my_o good_a will_n to_o this_o poor_a envy_a church_n who_o true_o primitive_a constitution_n pure_a and_o undefiled_a religion_n i_o shall_v always_o admire_v and_o reverence_v and_o whatsoever_o her_o fate_n may_v be_v i_o be_o chain_v to_o her_o fortune_n by_o my_o reason_n and_o conscience_n and_o shall_v ever_o esteem_v it_o more_o eligible_a to_o be_v crush_v in_o piece_n by_o her_o fall_n which_o god_n avert_v than_o to_o flourish_v and_o triumph_n on_o her_o ruin_n but_o among_o the_o many_o ill_a omen_n that_o threaten_v our_o church_n there_o be_v one_o which_o seem_v to_o presage_v its_o prosperity_n and_o that_o be_v that_o such_o eminent_a station_n in_o it_o as_o your_o lordship_n be_v so_o excellent_o supply_v for_o although_o whether_o the_o part_v you_o be_v design_v for_o be_v to_o grace_n her_o triumph_n or_o her_o funeral_n be_v know_v only_o to_o the_o sovereign_a disposer_n of_o event_n yet_o this_o my_o lord_n all_o that_o wish_v well_o to_o our_o church_n conclude_v that_o god_n bestow_v you_o upon_o she_o as_o a_o token_n of_o love_n for_o which_o they_o have_v sufficient_a warrant_n even_o from_o the_o daily_a experience_n they_o have_v of_o the_o prudence_n and_o vigilance_n of_o your_o government_n the_o piety_n integrity_n and_o generosity_n of_o your_o temper_n of_o your_o invincible_a loyalty_n to_o your_o prince_n your_o undaunted_a zeal_n for_o the_o reform_a religion_n and_o grave_n and_o oblige_a deportment_n towards_o all_o you_o converse_v with_o i_o shall_v trouble_v your_o lordship_n no_o far_o but_o conclude_v this_o address_n with_o that_o which_o i_o be_o sure_a be_v the_o hearty_a prayer_n of_o all_o your_o honest_a clergy_n that_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n will_v long_o continue_v your_o lordship_n a_o blessing_n to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o this_o diocese_n a_o honour_n to_o your_o sacred_a order_n and_o the_o noble_a stock_n you_o descend_v from_o and_o if_o what_o i_o here_o present_a prove_v but_o so_o prosperous_a as_o to_o do_v some_o good_a in_o the_o world_n and_o obtain_v your_o lordship_n acceptance_n it_o will_v be_v a_o noble_a compensation_n of_o this_o well-meant_a endeavour_n i_o be_o my_o lord_n your_o lordship_n most_o humble_a and_o most_o obedient_a servant_n john_n scott_n the_o preface_n i_o shall_v not_o trouble_v the_o reader_n with_o a_o long_a apology_n for_o the_o publication_n of_o the_o ensue_a treatise_n though_o i_o may_v plead_v as_o other_o author_n do_v the_o importunity_n of_o friend_n who_o judgement_n i_o very_o much_o reverence_n for_o to_o say_v the_o truth_n i_o do_v by_o no_o mean_n think_v that_o in_o a_o affair_n of_o this_o nature_n it_o be_v safe_a or_o fit_a for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v overbear_v by_o the_o persuasion_n of_o those_o who_o judgement_n he_o have_v just_a cause_n to_o suspect_v may_v be_v bribe_v by_o their_o friendship_n and_o therefore_o have_v i_o not_o hope_v that_o in_o such_o a_o age_n as_o this_o wherein_o through_o our_o own_o division_n and_o debauchery_n both_o in_o opinion_n and_o practice_n and_o the_o hellish_a contrivance_n of_o our_o enemy_n we_o have_v such_o a_o dismal_a prospect_n of_o thing_n before_o we_o these_o paper_n may_v be_v of_o some_o use_n to_o religion_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n i_o will_v never_o have_v trouble_v the_o world_n with_o they_o but_o hope_v they_o may_v i_o have_v venture_v upon_o that_o reason_n to_o publish_v they_o i_o have_v for_o some_o year_n be_v a_o sorrowful_a spectator_n of_o the_o black_a cloud_n that_o be_v gather_v over_o my_o native_a country_n and_o i_o must_v confess_v have_v not_o be_v without_o my_o share_n of_o the_o fear_n and_o anxiety_n of_o the_o age_n but_o be_v at_o last_o quite_o sick_a of_o look_v downward_o upon_o this_o uncomfortable_a scene_n of_o thing_n i_o have_v no_o other_o way_n to_o relieve_v my_o oppress_a thought_n but_o to_o raise_v they_o above_o this_o miserable_a world_n and_o entertain_v they_o with_o the_o comfort_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o better_a state_n beyond_o the_o grave_a wherein_o i_o thank_v god_n i_o have_v find_v such_o rest_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o mind_n as_o render_v my_o black_a apprehension_n of_o the_o ensue_a storm_n very_o tolerable_a and_o now_o because_o i_o will_v not_o eat_v my_o morsel_n alone_o and_o enjoy_v my_o satisfaction_n to_o myself_o i_o have_v endeavour_v by_o this_o follow_a treatise_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o way_n thither_o to_o break_v and_o distribute_v it_o among_o my_o distress_a neighbour_n that_o so_o by_o carry_v their_o mind_n from_o these_o dismal_a expectation_n into_o the_o quiet_a and_o happy_a region_n above_o and_o direct_v their_o life_n and_o action_n thither_o i_o may_v communicate_v to_o they_o the_o bless_a art_n how_o to_o live_v happy_o in_o a_o distract_a world_n and_o methinks_v when_o our_o present_a state_n be_v so_o perplex_a and_o uncertain_a we_o shall_v be_v more_o than_o ordinary_o concern_v to_o make_v sure_a of_o something_o and_o to_o provide_v for_o a_o future_a wellbeing_a that_o so_o we_o may_v not_o be_v miserable_a in_o both_o world_n as_o for_o the_o argument_n i_o have_v undertake_v i_o may_v without_o breach_n of_o modesty_n say_v it_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o noble_a one_o it_o be_v the_o christian_a life_n which_o next_o to_o the_o angelical_a approach_n near_o to_o the_o life_n of_o god_n but_o as_o for_o the_o management_n of_o it_o all_o that_o i_o can_v say_v be_v this_o i_o have_v
and_o unite_v they_o in_o one_o centre_n and_o not_o to_o suffer_v himself_o to_o be_v toss_v hither_o and_o thither_o by_o independent_a design_n and_o intention_n because_o this_o will_v unavoidable_o distract_v he_o in_o his_o prosecution_n and_o so_o divide_v and_o weaken_v his_o principle_n of_o action_n that_o he_o will_v be_v able_a to_o do_v nothing_o to_o any_o purpose_n god_n therefore_o be_v the_o great_a object_n of_o religion_n it_o be_v necessary_a in_o order_n to_o our_o progress_n therein_o that_o we_o shall_v as_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v respect_n and_o aim_v at_o he_o in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o action_n that_o we_o shall_v continual_o look_v up_o to_o he_o as_o to_o the_o direct_a star_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o steer_v our_o motion_n and_o conduct_v our_o whole_a life_n under_o a_o fix_a intention_n to_o obey_v his_o will_n and_o imitate_v his_o nature_n and_o indeed_o unless_o we_o do_v this_o we_o be_v not_o good_a man_n in_o the_o sense_n and_o judgement_n of_o religion_n for_o religion_n as_o such_o be_v a_o rule_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o under_o this_o notion_n the_o christian_a religion_n in_o particular_a enjoin_v all_o its_o duty_n viz._n of_o homage_n and_o worship_n to_o god_n for_o it_o require_v we_o to_o do_v all_o as_o unto_o god_n col._n iii._o 23_o and_o to_o do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n x._o 31_o that_o be_v to_o do_v all_o in_o obedience_n to_o he_o and_o imitation_n of_o he_o from_o a_o sincere_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n of_o his_o sovereign_a authority_n over_o we_o and_o immutable_a right_o to_o rule_v and_o command_v we_o not_o that_o a_o actual_a explicit_a intention_n of_o obey_v or_o imitate_v god_n be_v necessary_a to_o every_o good_a action_n for_o our_o occasion_n of_o do_v good_a be_v so_o infinite_a and_o so_o often_o occur_v in_o our_o secular_a affair_n and_o our_o mind_n be_v so_o incapable_a as_o they_o be_v of_o attend_v many_o thing_n at_o once_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o we_o actual_o to_o intend_v obedience_n to_o god_n in_o every_o good_a thing_n we_o perform_v but_o that_o in_o the_o general_n we_o shall_v hearty_o intend_v it_o be_v indispensible_o necessary_a to_o the_o consecrate_v our_o best_a action_n and_o adopt_v they_o into_o the_o family_n of_o religion_n for_o that_o we_o must_v obey_v god_n be_v the_o fundamental_a law_n of_o religion_n from_o whence_o all_o the_o particular_a command_n and_o prohibition_n of_o it_o do_v receive_v their_o force_n and_o obligation_n so_o that_o unless_o we_o do_v what_o he_o command_v with_o a_o general_a intention_n of_o mind_n to_o obey_v he_o we_o do_v not_o act_v upon_o a_o religious_a obligation_n and_o consequent_o though_o our_o action_n shall_v be_v material_o good_a yet_o be_v they_o not_o formal_o religious_a now_o to_o the_o fix_v and_o settle_v such_o a_o general_a intention_n in_o our_o mind_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o in_o the_o particular_a exercise_n of_o our_o religion_n we_o shall_v so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a actual_o intend_v and_o aim_v at_o god_n that_o we_o shall_v throw_v by_o all_o other_o end_v so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a and_o refer_v our_o action_n direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o he_o in_o a_o word_n that_o we_o shall_v formal_o devote_v and_o dedicate_v they_o to_o his_o bless_a will_n and_o pleasure_n so_o as_o to_o be_v able_a to_o say_v this_o and_o this_o i_o do_v pure_o to_o please_v god_n with_o a_o single_a intention_n of_o soul_n to_o resemble_v and_o please_v he_o to_o transcribe_v his_o nature_n and_o comply_v with_o his_o will._n for_o which_o end_n we_o must_v take_v care_n as_o oft_o as_o we_o can_v to_o perform_v our_o religious_a action_n in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o that_o no_o secular_a end_n may_v interpose_v between_o god_n and_o our_o intention_n to_o be_v as_o private_a and_o as_o modest_a as_o we_o can_v in_o our_o religion_n and_o not_o expose_v it_o any_o more_o than_o needs_o must_v to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n lest_o applause_n and_o reputation_n shall_v intrude_v themselves_o upon_o we_o and_o carry_v away_o our_o intention_n from_o god_n for_o thus_o our_o saviour_n advise_v in_o the_o case_n of_o charity_n and_o prayer_n mat._n vi_fw-la 1_o 7._o that_o we_o shall_v not_o do_v our_o alm_n before_o man_n to_o be_v see_v of_o they_o nor_o sound_v a_o trumpet_n before_o they_o to_o make_v the_o street_n ring_v of_o our_o charity_n nay_o if_o possible_a that_o we_o shall_v not_o let_v our_o left_a hand_n know_v what_o our_o right_a hand_n do_v but_o that_o our_o alm_n shall_v be_v secret_a and_o know_v only_o to_o god_n and_o ourselves_o and_o that_o when_o we_o pray_v we_o shall_v not_o affect_v to_o make_v a_o pompous_a show_n of_o it_o in_o the_o synagogue_n and_o corner_n of_o the_o street_n but_o that_o we_o shall_v enter_v into_o our_o closert_n and_o shut_v our_o door_n and_o in_o the_o most_o private_a manner_n unbosom_v our_o soul_n to_o god_n the_o sense_n of_o all_o which_o be_v that_o shall_v we_o endeavour_v so_o far_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v so_o to_o circumstantiate_v our_o charity_n and_o devotion_n as_o not_o to_o give_v any_o opportunity_n to_o secular_a end_n and_o aim_v to_o obtrude_v themselves_o upon_o we_o to_o mingle_v with_o our_o pious_a intention_n and_o deflower_v the_o purity_n of_o they_o not_o that_o i_o think_v it_o unlawful_a for_o a_o man_n to_o intend_v any_o thing_n but_o god_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o his_o duty_n or_o that_o our_o intention_n be_v bad_a when_o it_o immediate_o respect_v any_o worldly_a end_n such_o as_o pleasure_n or_o profit_n or_o honour_n which_o be_v propose_v by_o god_n himself_o as_o argument_n to_o persuade_v man_n to_o their_o duty_n and_o what_o hurt_n can_v it_o be_v for_o man_n to_o aim_v at_o that_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o their_o duty_n which_o god_n have_v propose_v to_o they_o as_o a_o encouragement_n to_o it_o it_o be_v true_a if_o worldly_a advantage_n be_v the_o only_a or_o chief_a end_n we_o aim_v at_o our_o intention_n be_v naught_o and_o so_o be_v all_o the_o action_n thence_o proceed_v but_o if_o together_o with_o that_o we_o do_v so_o hearty_o intend_v and_o aim_v to_o please_v god_n and_o conform_v ourselves_o to_o his_o bless_a will_n and_o nature_n as_o to_o continue_v on_o in_o the_o path_n of_o our_o duty_n to_o he_o not_o only_a when_o we_o have_v no_o prospect_n of_o outward_a advantage_n to_o induce_v we_o to_o it_o but_o when_o outward_a evil_n and_o inconvenience_n lie_v in_o our_o way_n we_o need_v not_o doubt_v but_o our_o intention_n be_v true_o good_a and_o sincere_a notwithstanding_o those_o immediate_a respect_n which_o it_o many_o time_n have_v to_o secular_a end_n and_o inducement_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o the_o more_o it_o respect_v these_o the_o more_o imperfect_a it_o be_v and_o the_o more_o liable_a to_o be_v vanquish_v by_o outward_a temptation_n for_o it_o be_v a_o plain_a sign_n that_o it_o be_v conscious_a of_o its_o own_o weakness_n when_o it_o dare_v not_o stand_v alone_o but_o be_v fain_o to_o call_v in_o to_o it_o the_o assistance_n of_o these_o worldly_a end_n to_o support_v and_o defend_v it_o and_o the_o less_o of_o worldly_a aim_n there_o be_v in_o our_o religious_a intention_n to_o be_v sure_o the_o more_o pure_a and_o simple_a it_o be_v and_o the_o more_o of_o substantial_a piety_n there_o be_v in_o it_o and_o though_o it_o may_v be_v true_o sincere_a notwithstanding_o its_o be_v compound_v with_o secular_a aim_n and_o respect_n yet_o the_o more_o of_o these_o there_o be_v in_o it_o the_o weak_a and_o more_o instable_n it_o must_v necessary_o be_v for_o our_o mind_n be_v finite_a can_v possible_o intend_v many_o thing_n with_o equal_a strength_n and_o vigour_n as_o it_o can_v do_v one_o and_o when_o its_o intention_n be_v disperse_v among_o various_a object_n it_o must_v necessary_o be_v more_o languid_a than_o when_o it_o be_v collect_v unite_a and_o fix_v upon_o one_o and_o consequent_o the_o more_o a_o man_n intention_n respect_v the_o world_n the_o less_o in_o proportion_n it_o must_v respect_v god_n and_o so_o on_o the_o contrary_n and_o then_o the_o less_o a_o man_n respect_v god_n in_o his_o duty_n and_o the_o more_o he_o respect_v the_o world_n the_o more_o liable_a he_o will_v be_v to_o the_o temptation_n of_o worldly_a loss_n or_o advantage_n for_o when_o those_o advantage_n which_o he_o so_o much_o respect_n lie_v on_o the_o opposite_a side_n to_o his_o duty_n to_o be_v sure_a he_o will_v be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o incline_v to_o desert_n it_o and_o as_o often_o as_o fortune_n shift_v side_n and_o carry_v with_o it_o the_o advantage_n of_o pleasure_n profit_n or_o honour_n
enough_o to_o correct_v and_o amend_v they_o before_o they_o be_v too_o deep_o root_v in_o our_o nature_n and_o have_v wound_v themselves_o too_o far_o into_o our_o inclination_n and_o a_o wound_n in_o our_o innocence_n as_o well_o as_o our_o body_n may_v be_v easy_o cure_v if_o it_o be_v take_v in_o time_n but_o if_o it_o be_v neglect_v too_o long_o it_o will_v rankle_v by_o degree_n into_o a_o incurable_a gangreen_n and_o as_o frequent_v self-examination_n be_v a_o great_a bridle_n to_o our_o sin_n so_o it_o be_v also_o a_o effectual_a spur_n to_o our_o virtue_n for_o as_o when_o a_o man_n reflect_v upon_o his_o sin_n and_o miscarriage_n and_o consider_v how_o and_o where_o he_o have_v do_v amiss_o his_o conscience_n will_v be_v present_o urge_v and_o exciting_a he_o to_o repentance_n and_o amendment_n so_o when_o he_o reflect_v upon_o his_o own_o virtue_n and_o sincerity_n his_o conscience_n will_v smile_v upon_o and_o crown_v he_o with_o applause_n and_o give_v he_o such_o a_o sweet_a and_o grateful_a relish_n of_o his_o own_o action_n as_o will_v mighty_o encourage_v he_o to_o persevere_v in_o welldoing_a for_o in_o all_o our_o self-examination_n we_o taste_v the_o difference_n between_o good_a and_o evil_a the_o sweetness_n of_o that_o and_o the_o bitterness_n of_o this_o and_o consequent_o the_o often_o we_o do_v so_o the_o more_o we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o like_v and_o approve_v of_o the_o one_o and_o to_o dislike_v and_o nauseate_a the_o other_o wherefore_o to_o secure_v a_o good_a success_n to_o this_o our_o christian_a warfare_n as_o it_o be_v necessary_a especial_o at_o first_o that_o we_o shall_v every_o morning_n before_o we_o go_v into_o the_o world_n repeat_v and_o enforce_v our_o good_a resolution_n so_o it_o be_v no_o less_o requisite_a especial_o till_o we_o have_v make_v some_o considerable_a progress_n that_o we_o shall_v every_o night_n when_o we_o be_v withdraw_v from_o the_o world_n strict_o examine_v the_o performance_n of_o the_o day_n whether_o they_o be_v such_o as_o do_v comport_v with_o our_o solemn_a engagement_n and_o if_o upon_o a_o impartial_a survey_n it_o appear_v that_o they_o do_v though_o as_o yet_o it_o be_v but_o weak_o and_o imperfect_o let_v we_o attend_v to_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o own_o mind_n to_o that_o silent_a melody_n that_o resound_v from_o our_o conscience_n to_o our_o action_n and_o so_o lie_v down_o in_o peace_n blessing_n and_o adore_v that_o grace_n by_o which_o we_o have_v be_v assist_v and_o preserve_v or_o if_o it_o appear_v that_o we_o have_v be_v unwary_o faulty_a for_o want_v of_o due_a care_n and_o watchfulness_n let_v we_o resolve_v to_o take_v more_o care_n for_o the_o future_a and_o thereby_o to_o put_v a_o timely_a stop_n to_o our_o sin_n before_o it_o have_v too_o far_o insinuate_v into_o our_o will_n and_o inclination_n but_o if_o we_o be_v conscious_a of_o any_o wilful_a breach_n upon_o our_o morning_n vow_n of_o obedience_n let_v we_o lament_v and_o bewail_v it_o with_o shame_n and_o indignation_n what_o have_v i_o do_v o_o wretched_a traitor_n that_o i_o be_o to_o god_n and_o my_o own_o soul_n i_o have_v falsify_v my_o vow_n to_o heaven_n and_o break_v those_o sacred_a band_n by_o which_o i_o be_v tie_v up_o from_o my_o lust_n and_o my_o ruin_n what_o can_v i_o plead_v for_o myself_o base_a and_o unworthy_a that_o i_o be_o with_o what_o face_n can_v i_o go_v into_o his_o dreadful_a presence_n who_o i_o have_v so_o often_o mock_v with_o my_o treacherous_a promise_n of_o amendment_n yet_o go_v i_o will_v though_o i_o be_o all_o ashamed_a and_o confound_v and_o confess_v and_o bewail_v my_o iniquity_n before_o he_o if_o we_o will_v but_o take_v care_n thus_o to_o call_v ourselves_o to_o account_v every_o night_n and_o impartia_o to_o censure_v the_o action_n of_o the_o day_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v imagine_v how_o fast_o it_o will_v set_v we_o forward_o in_o our_o christian_a warfare_n how_o much_o the_o reflection_n on_o a_o well-spent_a day_n will_v cheer_v and_o enliven_v we_o how_o the_o grateful_a sense_n of_o it_o will_v spirit_n our_o faculty_n and_o encourage_v we_o to_o go_v on_o against_o all_o opposition_n how_o much_o the_o review_n of_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o day_n will_v contribute_v to_o make_v our_o reason_n more_o vigilant_a and_o our_o conscience_n more_o tender_a for_o the_o future_a how_o much_o the_o pleasure_n of_o our_o sin_n will_v be_v allay_v and_o abate_v by_o the_o sting_a reflection_n we_o shall_v make_v upon_o they_o and_o how_o much_o the_o dread_a of_o have_v the_o same_o reflection_n repeat_v to_o we_o at_o night_n will_v secure_v we_o against_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o day_n vii_o to_o prosper_v the_o course_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n it_o be_v also_o necessary_a that_o we_o shall_v be_v very_o watchful_a and_o circumspect_a for_o this_o also_o be_v one_o of_o those_o militant_a duty_n which_o the_o gospel_n injoin_v we_o thus_o matt._n xxvi_o 41_o watch_z and_o pray_v that_o you_o enter_v not_o into_o temptation_n and_o mark_v xiii_o 37_o what_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o i_o say_v unto_o all_o watch_n so_o also_o 1_o cor._n xuj_o 13_o watch_v you_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o faith_n quit_v yourselves_o like_o man_n and_o 1_o thes._n v_o 6_o wherefore_o let_v we_o not_o sleep_v as_o do_v other_o but_o let_v we_o watch_v and_o be_v sober_a where_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n be_v plain_o discover_v by_o its_o opposite_a or_o contrary_a let_v we_o not_o sleep_v but_o watch_v i._n e._n do_v not_o behave_v yourselves_o like_o man_n that_o be_v asleep_a that_o take_v no_o notice_n or_o regard_n of_o what_o be_v do_v by_o to_z or_o about_o they_o but_o be_v sure_a you_o exercise_v a_o suitful_a prudent_a and_o constant_a care_n over_o your_o own_o action_n and_o those_o manifold_a temptation_n that_o assault_n and_o surround_v you_o and_o therefore_o elsewhere_o it_o be_v express_v by_o walk_v circumspect_o eph._n v._n 15_o i_o e._n look_v round_o about_o you_o weigh_v the_o nature_n and_o circumstance_n of_o your_o action_n and_o use_v all_o honest_a care_n either_o to_o prevent_v the_o temptation_n that_o threaten_v you_o or_o to_o provide_v against_o they_o so_o that_o in_o short_a the_o sense_n of_o this_o duty_n be_v this_o that_o we_o careful_o avoid_v act_v rash_o and_o precipitant_o without_o consider_v beforehand_o the_o nature_n of_o our_o action_n whether_o it_o be_v good_a or_o evil_n that_o in_o all_o doubtful_a and_o suspicious_a case_n we_o impartial_o consult_v our_o rule_n and_o conscience_n and_o look_v before_o we_o leap_v and_o take_v care_n to_o satisfy_v ourselves_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o our_o design_n before_o we_o put_v they_o into_o execution_n in_o a_o word_n that_o we_o do_v not_o careless_o run_v ourselves_o into_o temptation_n but_o if_o possible_a to_o avoid_v they_o if_o not_o to_o be_v sure_a to_o arm_v ourselves_o against_o they_o and_o keep_v as_o far_o off_o from_o all_o sin_n especial_o from_o that_o we_o be_v most_o incline_v to_o as_o be_v consistent_a with_o our_o necessary_a occasion_n or_o in_o few_o word_n it_o be_v to_o be_v always_o well_o advise_v in_o what_o we_o do_v whether_o it_o be_v good_a or_o evil_n and_o if_o it_o be_v evil_a to_o remove_v so_o far_o as_o we_o can_v from_o all_o occasion_n that_o lead_v to_o it_o and_o provide_v ourselves_o with_o consideration_n against_o it_o and_o to_o keep_v they_o always_o awake_v in_o our_o mind_n that_o we_o may_v not_o be_v surprise_v by_o it_o unaware_o which_o be_v a_o duty_n indispensable_o necessary_a for_o we_o in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n for_o whilst_o we_o accustom_v ourselves_o to_o act_v rash_o and_o inconsiderate_o without_o bethink_v beforehand_o what_o we_o say_v or_o do_v we_o wander_v like_o blind_a man_n in_o a_o field_n that_o be_v full_a of_o pit_n and_o quagmire_n and_o be_v every_o moment_n in_o danger_n of_o stumble_v into_o one_o mischief_n or_o other_o and_o shall_v certain_o plunge_v ourselves_o into_o many_o a_o evil_a custom_n before_o ever_o we_o have_v bethink_v ourselves_o of_o the_o evil_a of_o it_o and_o so_o instead_o of_o conquer_a our_o old_a sin_n we_o shall_v be_v ever_o and_o anon_o run_v ourselves_o into_o new_a one_o and_o while_o we_o be_v run_v away_o from_o one_o evil_a shall_v many_o time_n stumble_v into_o another_o and_o to_o avoid_v the_o defect_n of_o virtue_n leap_v headlong_o into_o the_o excess_n of_o it_o for_o in_o most_o moral_a action_n the_o transition_n from_o the_o utmost_a of_o what_o be_v lawful_a into_o the_o nearmost_a of_o what_o be_v sinful_a be_v indiscernible_a and_o that_o line_n which_o part_v this_o virtue_n from_o that_o neighbour_a vice_n be_v general_o so_o small_a that_o it_o be_v hard_a to_o distinguish_v
what_o kind_n of_o mean_n be_v necessary_a to_o obtain_v it_o how_o natural_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o religion_n do_v raise_v up_o man_n soul_n to_o heaven_n and_o how_o all_o the_o contrary_a vice_n do_v as_o natural_o sink_v and_o press_v they_o down_o to_o hell_n it_o be_v to_o be_v hope_v he_o will_v be_v full_o persuade_v of_o the_o indispensible_a necessity_n of_o enter_v into_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o if_o he_o be_v i_o will_v advise_v he_o 2._o serious_o to_o read_v over_o and_o consider_v the_o first_o and_o second_o section_n of_o the_o four_o chapter_n wherein_o be_v contain_v the_o several_a duty_n which_o be_v proper_a to_o his_o state_n of_o entrance_n into_o the_o christian_a life_n and_o also_o proper_a argument_n and_o motive_n to_o engage_v he_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o which_o if_o he_o will_v read_v to_o good_a effect_n he_o must_v by_o no_o mean_n content_v himself_o with_o a_o single_a perusal_n but_o read_v they_o over_o at_o least_o once_o a_o week_n whilst_o he_o continue_v in_o that_o state_n till_o he_o full_o comprehend_v the_o mean_v and_o use_v of_o all_o those_o duty_n and_o the_o force_n and_o cogency_n of_o those_o argument_n which_o if_o he_o do_v it_o be_v to_o be_v hope_v he_o will_v at_o last_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o through_o and_o wel-weighed_n resolution_n of_o forsake_v his_o sin_n and_o actual_o engage_v in_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v do_v i_o will_v advise_v he_o 3._o with_o the_o same_o care_n and_o frequency_n to_o peruse_v the_o three_o and_o four_o section_n of_o the_o four_o chapter_n wherein_o be_v contain_v all_o the_o several_a duty_n proper_a to_o this_o second_o state_n of_o actual_a engagement_n in_o the_o christian_a life_n as_o also_o sundry_a argument_n or_o motive_n to_o press_v and_o enforce_v they_o and_o when_o by_o the_o assistance_n of_o these_o duty_n he_o have_v continue_v for_o some_o time_n faithful_a and_o constant_a to_o his_o good_a resolution_n 4._o together_o with_o the_o three_o and_o four_o section_n let_v he_o often_o peruse_v and_o consider_v the_o five_o and_o six_o wherein_o be_v contain_v the_o duty_n appertain_v to_o the_o three_o state_n of_o improvement_n and_o perseverance_n in_o the_o christian_a life_n together_o with_o some_o consideration_n to_o enforce_v the_o practice_n of_o they_o all_o which_o i_o will_v earnest_o persuade_v the_o pious_a reader_n to_o read_v and_o consider_v over_o and_o over_o again_o till_o his_o mind_n be_v full_o instruct_v in_o the_o nature_n and_o use_v of_o each_o duty_n and_o have_v thorough_o digest_v the_o force_n and_o evidence_n of_o every_o argument_n and_o this_o may_v suffice_v for_o the_o first_o thing_n propose_v concern_v the_o profitable_a method_n of_o read_v this_o practical_a treatise_n ii_o as_o for_o the_o second_o part_n of_o it_o which_o be_v that_o which_o i_o main_o design_n in_o this_o chapter_n viz._n the_o rule_n and_o direction_n for_o the_o private_a exercise_n of_o our_o religion_n in_o each_o state_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n together_o with_o the_o form_n of_o private_a prayer_n fit_v for_o each_o take_v they_o in_o their_o follow_a order_n direction_n for_o the_o more_o profitable_a exercise_n of_o our_o private_a religion_n in_o the_o state_n of_o our_o entrance_n into_o the_o christian_a life_n in_o the_o morning_n before_o you_o go_v into_o the_o world_n enter_v into_o your_o closet_n and_o there_o consider_v with_o yourself_o a_o while_n the_o miserable_a state_n you_o have_v reduce_v yourself_o to_o by_o your_o past_a sinful_a course_n the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o your_o forsake_v they_o and_o the_o possibility_n of_o your_o recovery_n if_o your_o hearty_o endeavour_n it_o and_o then_o address_v yourself_o to_o god_n in_o this_o follow_a prayer_n o_o most_o glorious_a and_o eternal_a god_n thou_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o being_n the_o father_n of_o angel_n and_o man_n the_o righteous_a and_o almighty_a governor_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n from_o thy_o throne_n thou_o behold_v all_o the_o child_n of_o man_n and_o their_o most_o secret_a action_n be_v open_a and_o naked_a to_o thy_o alseeing_a eye_n and_o such_o be_v the_o purity_n of_o thy_o nature_n that_o thou_o love_v righteousness_n and_o hate_v iniquity_n wheresoever_o thou_o behold_v it_o with_o what_o face_n then_o can_v i_o a_o most_o miserable_a pollute_a wretch_n appear_v in_o thy_o presence_n who_o by_o the_o past_a course_n of_o my_o wickedness_n and_o rebellion_n against_o thou_o have_v not_o only_o render_v myself_o guilty_a and_o just_o obnoxious_a to_o thy_o eternal_a displeasure_n but_o have_v also_o contract_v such_o obstinate_a disposition_n and_o inclination_n to_o sin_n on_o as_o without_o thy_o grace_n and_o assistance_n i_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o conquer_v o_o desperate_a vile_a and_o ungrateful_a wretch_n that_o i_o have_v be_v i_o have_v renounce_v the_o god_n of_o my_o be_v and_o the_o fountain_n of_o my_o mercy_n i_o have_v despise_v thy_o goodness_n trample_v upon_o thy_o authority_n mock_v and_o abuse_v thy_o patience_n and_o long_o suffer_v and_o in_o particular_a i_o must_v confess_v to_o my_o own_o shame_n and_o confusion_n i_o have_v be_v woeful_o guilty_a of_o etc._n and_o now_o by_o these_o my_o manifold_a abomination_n i_o have_v utter_o undo_v myself_o unless_o thou_o take_v pity_n upon_o i_o i_o confess_v i_o have_v forfeit_v my_o soul_n into_o thy_o hand_n and_o if_o thou_o so_o please_v thou_o may_v just_o cast_v i_o away_o from_o thy_o presence_n and_o make_v i_o a_o dire_a example_n of_o thy_o vengeance_n for_o ever_o but_o i_o know_v o_o lord_n that_o thou_o desire_v not_o the_o death_n of_o a_o sinner_n but_o rather_o that_o he_o shall_v repent_v and_o live_v and_o upon_o the_o propitiation_n of_o thy_o own_o son_n blood_n thou_o have_v declare_v thyself_o willing_a to_o receive_v return_a prodigal_n and_o to_o be_v hearty_o reconcile_v to_o they_o notwithstanding_o all_o their_o past_a provocation_n o_o that_o i_o can_v return_v that_o i_o can_v but_o shake_v off_o those_o corrupt_a inclination_n which_o detain_v my_o wretched_a soul_n in_o captivity_n i_o be_o willing_a to_o contribute_v towards_o it_o whatsoever_o i_o be_o able_a but_o alas_o without_o thou_o all_o that_o i_o can_v do_v will_v be_v utter_o ineffectual_a wherefore_o for_o thy_o tender_a mercy_n sake_n for_o thy_o dear_a son_n and_o my_o saviour_n sake_n have_v pity_n upon_o a_o miserable_a wretch_n that_o without_o thy_o help_a hand_n be_v lose_v for_o ever_o and_o since_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o thy_o gospel_n as_o a_o outward_a mean_n to_o save_v and_o recover_v i_o o_o do_v thou_o enable_v i_o by_o thy_o bless_a spirit_n hearty_o to_o believe_v and_o thorough_o to_o consider_v it_o for_o which_o end_n i_o beseech_v thou_o to_o remove_v all_o sinful_a prejudices_fw-la from_o my_o mind_n that_o so_o i_o may_v impartial_o weigh_v those_o evidence_n thou_o have_v give_v i_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o and_o do_v thou_o suggest_v they_o to_o my_o mind_n with_o such_o a_o clear_a and_o convince_a light_n as_o that_o they_o may_v at_o last_o conquer_v my_o infidelity_n and_o beget_v in_o i_o a_o firm_a and_o lively_a faith_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o my_o mind_n be_v vain_a and_o rove_a and_o utter_o averse_a to_o all_o serious_a consideration_n o_o do_v thou_o who_o be_v the_o father_n of_o spirit_n and_o can_v turn_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n which_o way_n thou_o please_v inspire_v good_a thought_n into_o i_o and_o imprint_v they_o upon_o i_o with_o such_o a_o power_n and_o efficacy_n as_o that_o my_o wander_a mind_n may_v be_v reduce_v by_o they_o to_o a_o through_o consideration_n and_o my_o stubborn_a will_n to_o a_o firm_a resolution_n of_o amendment_n particular_o i_o beseech_v thou_o to_o give_v i_o a_o right_a understanding_n of_o the_o urgent_a need_n i_o have_v of_o a_o saviour_n and_o of_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v do_v and_o suffer_v and_o be_v still_o do_v at_o thy_o right_a hand_n in_o order_n to_o the_o cleanse_v my_o guilty_a and_o pollute_a nature_n and_o restore_v i_o to_o thy_o grace_n and_o favour_n that_o so_o hereby_o i_o may_v be_v full_o convince_v how_o odious_a my_o sin_n be_v in_o thy_o sight_n how_o base_a and_o vile_a they_o have_v render_v i_o and_o at_o what_o a_o mighty_a distance_n they_o have_v set_v i_o from_o thou_o and_o that_o be_v convince_v of_o this_o i_o may_v put_v on_o a_o holy_a shame_n and_o confusion_n and_o abhor_v myself_o in_o dust_n and_o ash_n before_o thou_o thou_o know_v o_o lord_n it_o be_v not_o in_o my_o power_n to_o soften_v this_o hard_a and_o unrelenting_a heart_n and_o affect_v it_o with_o that_o godly_a sorrow_n which_o be_v requisite_a to_o work_v a_o true_a repentance_n o_o do_v thou_o smite_v it_o with_o such_o a_o sharp_a and_o
to_o give_v a_o large_a account_n from_o the_o whole_a i_o will_v recommend_v to_o the_o pious_a reader_n the_o consideration_n of_o the_o admirable_a structure_n and_o contrivance_n of_o the_o practical_a part_n of_o christianity_n which_o have_v propose_v to_o we_o a_o end_n so_o great_a and_o sublime_a and_o so_o high_o worthy_a of_o our_o most_o vigorous_a prosecution_n have_v also_o furnish_v we_o with_o such_o choice_n and_o effectual_a mean_n of_o all_o sort_n to_o attain_v it_o the_o consideration_n of_o which_o will_v be_v in_o itself_o a_o great_a inducement_n to_o i_o to_o believe_v christianity_n a_o divine_a religion_n though_o i_o be_v utter_o unacquainted_a with_o its_o external_n evidence_n and_o motive_n of_o credibility_n for_o it_o can_v never_o enter_v into_o my_o head_n that_o such_o a_o rare_a and_o exquisite_a contrivance_n to_o make_v man_n good_a and_o happy_a can_v ever_o owe_v its_o original_a to_o the_o mere_a invention_n of_o a_o carpenter_n son_n and_o a_o company_n of_o illiterate_a fisherman_n especial_o consider_v how_o far_o it_o excel_v the_o moral_a precept_n even_o of_o those_o divine_a philosopher_n who_o believe_v the_o future_a state_n of_o a_o bless_a immortality_n and_o exercise_v their_o best_a wit_n in_o prescribe_v rule_n to_o guide_v and_o direct_v man_n thither_o and_o have_v give_v this_o large_a account_n of_o the_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n and_o also_o enforce_v the_o several_a division_n of_o they_o with_o proper_a argument_n and_o motive_n i_o think_v fit_a to_o add_v a_o five_o chapter_n wherein_o i_o have_v give_v some_o rule_n for_o the_o more_o profitable_a read_n of_o this_o practical_a discourse_n and_o also_o some_o general_a direction_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o private_a religion_n in_o all_o the_o different_a state_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n together_o with_o certain_a form_n of_o private_a devotion_n fit_v for_o each_o state_n in_o which_o i_o have_v suppose_v what_o i_o doubt_n be_v a_o very_a deplorable_a truth_n viz._n that_o the_o generality_n of_o christian_n after_o their_o initiation_n by_o baptism_n into_o the_o public_a profession_n of_o christianity_n be_v so_o unhappy_a as_o to_o be_v seduce_v either_o through_o bad_a example_n or_o education_n into_o a_o vicious_a state_n of_o life_n and_o that_o consequent_o from_o thence_o they_o must_v take_v their_o first_o start_n into_o the_o through_o practice_n of_o christianity_n not_o that_o i_o make_v the_o least_o doubt_n but_o that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a many_o excellent_a christian_n who_o by_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n upon_o their_o pious_a education_n have_v be_v secure_v from_o this_o calamity_n and_o train_v up_o from_o their_o infancy_n under_o a_o prevail_a sense_n of_o god_n and_o religion_n and_o therefore_o for_o such_o as_o these_o as_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o that_o solemn_a method_n of_o repentance_n prescribe_v in_o the_o first_o section_n of_o the_o four_o chapter_n so_o neither_o be_v there_o of_o those_o first_o penitential_a prayer_n in_o this_o five_o chapter_n which_o be_v accommodate_v to_o that_o state_n for_o these_o person_n have_v long_a since_o be_v actual_o engage_v in_o the_o christian_a life_n and_o as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v suppose_v have_v make_v considerable_a improvement_n in_o it_o and_o therefore_o as_o they_o be_v only_o concern_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o and_o three_o state_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n so_o they_o be_v only_o to_o use_v the_o prayer_n which_o be_v fit_v to_o those_o state_n which_o with_o some_o variation_n of_o those_o phrase_n which_o suppose_v the_o past_a course_n of_o our_o life_n to_o have_v be_v vicious_a they_o may_v easy_o accommodate_v to_o their_o own_o condition_n but_o the_o design_n of_o this_o discourse_n be_v not_o only_o to_o conduct_v they_o onward_o in_o their_o way_n who_o have_v already_o enter_v upon_o the_o christian_a life_n but_o also_o to_o reduce_v those_o to_o it_o who_o have_v be_v so_o unhappy_a as_o to_o wander_v into_o vicious_a course_n or_o rather_o though_o it_o serve_v both_o purpose_n it_o be_v whole_o design_v for_o the_o same_o person_n viz._n to_o seek_v and_o bring_v back_o those_o lose_a sheep_n who_o have_v stray_v from_o the_o path_n of_o christian_a piety_n and_o virtue_n and_o then_o to_o lead_v they_o on_o through_o all_o the_o intermediate_v stage_n to_o the_o happy_a state_n of_o immortal_a pleasure_n at_o the_o end_n of_o they_o and_o now_o if_o what_o have_v be_v say_v shall_v by_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n obtain_v its_o design_a effect_n upon_o any_o person_n i_o ask_v no_o other_o requital_n for_o all_o the_o pain_n it_o have_v cost_v i_o but_o his_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n for_o i_o that_o after_o my_o best_a endeavour_n to_o guide_v and_o direct_v he_o to_o heaven_n i_o may_v not_o fall_v short_a of_o it_o myself_o the_o content_n chap._n i._n concern_v the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n the_o necessity_n of_o explain_v what_o it_o be_v in_o order_n to_o our_o understanding_n the_o christian_a life_n page_n 1._o that_o heaven_n be_v the_o end_n of_o it_o p._n 2.3_o etc._n etc._n that_o heaven_n and_o god_n glory_n be_v the_o same_o thing_n p._n 5.6_o what_o kind_n of_o happiness_n heaven_n imply_v with_o a_o general_a account_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o rest_n and_o the_o happiness_n of_o motion_n show_v that_o heaven_n include_v both_o but_o consist_v principal_o of_o the_o latter_a p._n 7.8_o etc._n etc._n that_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o man_n consist_v in_o the_o vigorous_a motion_n of_o his_o understanding_n and_o will_n towards_o suitable_a object_n p._n 11.12_o and_o chief_o in_o the_o knowledge_n and_o choice_n of_o god_n p._n 12.13_o etc._n etc._n and_o also_o in_o the_o knowledge_n and_o choice_n of_o those_o that_o be_v most_o like_o he_o p._n 21.22_o etc._n etc._n the_o glory_n of_o the_o place_n p._n 25.26_o the_o eternity_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n p._n 26.27_o two_o inference_n from_o the_o whole_a p._n 27.28_o etc._n etc._n chap._n ii_o concern_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v that_o the_o mean_n must_v be_v more_o and_o great_a than_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o first_o end_n of_o man_n viz._n the_o enjoyment_n of_o a_o earthly_a paradise_n p._n 33.34_o etc._n etc._n that_o the_o great_a distance_n of_o man_n from_o heaven_n in_o his_o degenerate_a state_n create_v a_o necessity_n of_o many_o more_o mean_n than_o otherwise_o will_v be_v needful_a p._n 35.36_o etc._n etc._n two_o kind_n of_o mean_n necessary_a to_o our_o attainment_n of_o heaven_n viz._n the_o practice_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o use_v of_o the_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o christianity_n p._n 38.39_o etc._n etc._n that_o the_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o christianity_n conduce_v no_o far_o to_o our_o happiness_n than_o as_o they_o be_v mean_n of_o virtue_n prove_v in_o four_o particular_n p._n 42.43_o etc._n etc._n chap._n iii_o concern_v the_o proximate_a mean_n of_o attain_v heaven_n viz._n the_o practice_n of_o the_o christian_a virtue_n show_v what_o virtue_n this_o kind_n of_o means_n consist_v of_o and_o how_o much_o every_o virtue_n contribute_v to_o the_o happiness_n of_o heaven_n a_o distribution_n of_o the_o christian_a virtue_n into_o humane_a divine_a social_n p._n 57.58_o sect_n i._o concern_v the_o humane_a virtue_n show_v that_o from_o the_o constitution_n of_o humane_a nature_n there_o be_v five_o virtue_n necessary_a to_o its_o happiness_n p._n 59.60_o etc._n etc._n first_o prudence_n p._n 62.63_o etc._n etc._n second_o moderation_n p._n 70.71_o etc._n etc._n three_o fortitude_n p._n 79.80_o etc._n etc._n four_a temperance_n p._n 89.90_o etc._n etc._n five_o humility_n p._n 97.98_o etc._n etc._n sect_n ii_o concern_v the_o divine_a virtue_n which_o be_v comprehend_v in_o this_o first_o sort_n of_o mean_n show_v what_o they_o be_v and_o how_o effectual_o they_o conduce_v to_o our_o future_a happiness_n that_o from_o the_o relation_n we_o stand_v in_o to_o god_n there_o arise_v a_o obligation_n to_o six_o several_a virtue_n all_o which_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o happiness_n p._n 108.109_o etc._n etc._n first_o contemplation_n of_o his_o nature_n p._n 109.110_o etc._n etc._n second_o adoration_n of_o his_o perfection_n p._n 117.118_o etc._n etc._n three_o love_n p._n 123.124_o etc._n etc._n four_a imitation_n p._n 136.137_o etc._n etc._n five_o resignation_n p._n 147.148_o etc._n etc._n sixthly_a trust_v and_o dependence_n p._n 162.163_o etc._n etc._n sect_n iii_o concern_v the_o social_n virtue_n which_o be_v include_v in_o this_o first_o sort_n of_o mean_n show_v that_o from_o our_o inclination_n to_o society_n and_o from_o the_o nature_n and_o condition_n of_o humane_a society_n there_o arise_v a_o necessity_n of_o five_o virtue_n to_o our_o everlasting_a happiness_n p._n 175.176_o etc._n etc._n
first_o charity_n p._n 178.179_o etc._n etc._n second_o justice_n p._n 190.191_o etc._n etc._n three_o peaceableness_n p._n 201.202_o etc._n etc._n four_a modesty_n five_o courtesy_n p._n 209.210_o etc._n etc._n sect_n iv._o contain_v some_o motive_n and_o consideration_n to_o persuade_v man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o virtue_n first_o the_o suitableness_n of_o they_o to_o our_o present_a state_n and_o relation_n p._n 222.223_o etc._n etc._n second_o the_o dignity_n of_o they_o p._n 226.227_o etc._n etc._n three_o the_o freedom_n and_o liberty_n of_o they_o p._n 229.230_o etc._n etc._n four_a the_o pleasure_n of_o they_o p._n 234.235_o etc._n etc._n five_o the_o ease_n and_o repose_v of_o they_o p._n 238.239_o etc._n etc._n sixthly_a the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o they_o p._n 242.243_o etc._n etc._n chap._n iu._n concern_v the_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v the_o second_o sort_n of_o mean_n necessary_a to_o our_o obtain_n of_o heaven_n as_o they_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o acquire_v and_o perfect_v the_o christian_a virtue_n in_o order_n to_o the_o better_a distribution_n of_o which_o man_n be_v consider_v under_o a_o threefold_a respect_n to_o the_o christian_a life_n first_o as_o enter_v into_o it_o second_o as_o actual_o engage_v in_o it_o three_o as_o grow_v on_o to_o perfection_n by_o perseverance_n in_o it_o to_o one_o of_o which_o three_o state_n these_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o christianity_n belong_v p._n 247.248_o etc._n etc._n sect_n i._o contain_v those_o instrumental_a duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a for_o we_o in_o our_o entrance_n in_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v first_o faith_n p._n 250.251_o second_o consideration_n p._n 254.255_o etc._n etc._n three_o a_o deep_a and_o through_o conviction_n of_o our_o need_n of_o a_o mediator_n p._n 259.260_o etc._n etc._n four_a a_o deep_a sorrow_n shame_n and_o remorse_n for_o our_o past_a iniquity_n p._n 268.269_o etc._n etc._n five_o earnest_a prayer_n for_o divine_a assistance_n p._n 271_o 272_o etc._n etc._n sixthly_a a_o serious_a and_o solemn_a resolution_n of_o amendment_n p._n 275.276_o etc._n etc._n sect_n ii_o contain_v certain_a motive_n to_o engage_v man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o duty_n first_o the_o vast_a necessity_n of_o our_o enter_v into_o the_o christian_a life_n one_o time_n or_o other_o p._n 281.282_o second_o the_o great_a security_n and_o advantage_n of_o our_o enter_v upon_o it_o now_o p._n 284.285_o etc._n etc._n three_o the_o necessary_a dependence_n of_o the_o final_a success_n upon_o the_o well-beginning_n of_o it_o p._n 288.289_o etc._n etc._n four_a that_o when_o once_o it_o be_v well_o begin_v the_o main_a difficulty_n of_o it_o be_v over_o p._n 291.292_o etc._n etc._n sect_n iii_o contain_v those_o instrumental_a duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a for_o we_o when_o we_o be_v actual_o engage_v in_o the_o christian_a life_n p._n 298_o etc._n etc._n in_o general_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o we_o shall_v frequent_o repeat_v the_o duty_n of_o our_o entrance_n p._n 299.300_o but_o more_o particular_o first_o that_o we_o shall_v arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n and_o courage_n p._n 304.305_o etc._n etc._n second_o that_o we_o shall_v propose_v to_o ourselves_o the_o best_a example_n p._n 308.309_o three_o that_o we_o shall_v frequent_o apply_v ourselves_o for_o advice_n and_o direction_n to_o our_o spiritual_a guide_n p._n 216.317_o etc._n etc._n four_a that_o as_o often_o as_o we_o can_v we_o shall_v actual_o intend_v and_o aim_v at_o god_n in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o life_n and_o action_n p._n 323.324_o etc._n etc._n five_o that_o we_o shall_v possess_v our_o mind_n with_o a_o awful_a apprehension_n of_o god_n presence_n with_o and_o inspection_n over_o we_o p._n 333.334_o etc._n etc._n sixthly_a that_o we_o shall_v frequenty_n examine_v and_o review_v our_o own_o action_n p._n 343.344_o etc._n etc._n seventhly_a that_o we_o shall_v be_v very_o watchful_a and_o circumspect_a p._n 348.349_o etc._n etc._n eighthly_a that_o we_o shall_v be_v diligent_a and_o industrious_a in_o our_o particular_a calling_n p._n 353.354_o etc._n etc._n ninthly_a that_o we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o keep_v up_o a_o constant_a cheerfulness_n of_o spirit_n in_o religion_n p._n 365.366_o etc._n etc._n tenthly_a that_o we_o shall_v maintain_v in_o our_o mind_n a_o constant_a sense_n and_o expectation_n of_o heaven_n p._n 372.373_o etc._n etc._n eleventhly_o that_o we_o shall_v live_v in_o the_o frequent_a use_n of_o the_o public_a ordinance_n and_o institution_n of_o our_o religion_n p._n 377.378_o sect_n iv._o contain_v certain_a motive_n to_o animate_v man_n against_o the_o difficulty_n of_o these_o duty_n first_o that_o whatsoever_o difficulty_n there_o be_v in_o they_o we_o may_v thank_v ourselves_o for_o it_o p._n 388.389_o etc._n etc._n second_o that_o in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o sin_n there_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o difficulty_n as_o well_o as_o in_o these_o duty_n p._n 391.392_o etc._n etc._n three_o that_o how_o great_a soever_o the_o difficulty_n be_v it_o must_v be_v undergon_fw-la or_o that_o which_o be_v much_o more_o intolerable_a p._n 394.395_o four_a that_o how_o difficult_a soever_o they_o may_v be_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n will_v render_v they_o possible_a to_o we_o if_o we_o be_v not_o want_v to_o ourselves_o p._n 396.397_o five_o that_o though_o they_o be_v difficult_a yet_o they_o be_v fair_o consistent_a with_o all_o our_o other_o necessary_a occasion_n p._n 400.401_o six_o that_o the_o difficulty_n be_v such_o as_o will_v abate_v and_o wear_v off_o by_o degree_n p._n 404.405_o seventh_o that_o there_o be_v a_o world_n of_o present_a peace_n and_o satisfaction_n intermingle_v with_o the_o difficulty_n p._n 407.408_o eight_o that_o the_o difficulty_n be_v abundant_o compensated_a by_o the_o reward_n of_o they_o p._n 411.412_o sect_n v._o contain_v those_o instrumental_a duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a for_o we_o in_o order_n to_o our_o improve_n towards_o perfection_n by_o perseverance_n in_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v first_o that_o while_o we_o stand_v we_o shall_v not_o be_v over-confident_a of_o ourselves_o but_o keep_v a_o jealous_a eye_n upon_o the_o weakness_n and_o inconstancy_n of_o our_o own_o nature_n p._n 417.418_o second_o that_o if_o at_o any_o time_n we_o wilful_o fall_v we_o shall_v immediate_o arise_v again_o by_o repentance_n p._n 420.421_o three_o that_o for_o the_o future_a we_o shall_v endeavour_n to_o withdraw_v our_o affection_n from_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o world_n and_o especial_o from_o those_o which_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o our_o fall_n p._n 424.425_o four_a that_o we_o shall_v curious_o search_v into_o the_o small_a defect_n and_o indecency_n of_o our_o nature_n in_o order_n to_o our_o timely_a correct_v and_o reform_v they_o p._n 429.430_o etc._n etc._n five_o that_o we_o shall_v as_o far_o as_o lawful_o we_o can_v live_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n whereof_o we_o be_v member_n p._n 434.435_o etc._n etc._n sixthly_a that_o we_o shall_v not_o stint_v our_o progress_n in_o religion_n out_o of_o a_o fond_a opinion_n that_o we_o be_v good_a enough_o already_o to_o any_o determinate_a degree_n or_o measure_n of_o goodness_n p._n 458.459_o etc._n etc._n seventhly_a that_o we_o shall_v frequent_o entertain_v ourselves_o with_o the_o prospect_n of_o our_o mortality_n 462.463_o eight_o that_o to_o put_v ourselves_o into_o a_o good_a posture_n of_o die_v we_o shall_v discharge_v our_o conscience_n of_o all_o the_o relic_n and_o remain_n of_o our_o past_a guilt_n p._n 467.468_o etc._n etc._n ninthly_a that_o to_o compensate_a so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a for_o those_o guilt_n we_o shall_v take_v care_n to_o redeem_v the_o time_n we_o have_v former_o misspend_v in_o sinful_a course_n by_o be_v double_o diligent_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o the_o contrary_a virtue_n p._n 471.472_o etc._n etc._n tenthly_a that_o we_o shall_v labour_v after_o a_o rational_a and_o wellgrounded_n assurance_n p._n 476.477_o etc._n etc._n sect_n vi_o contain_v certain_a motive_n to_o persuade_v man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o duty_n of_o perseverance_n which_o be_v all_o deduce_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o urgent_a necessity_n of_o our_o final_a perseverance_n as_o first_o unless_o we_o immediate_o recover_v when_o we_o have_v wilful_o relapse_v we_o shall_v go_v much_o fast_a back_n than_o ever_o we_o go_v forward_o p._n 487.488_o etc._n etc._n second_o if_o after_o we_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o religion_n we_o total_o relapse_n we_o shall_v thereby_o forfeit_v the_o fruit_n of_o all_o our_o past_a labour_n p._n 490.491_o etc._n etc._n three_o we_o shall_v forfeit_v the_o fruit_n of_o it_o after_o we_o have_v undergo_v the_o great_a difficulty_n of_o it_o p._n 494.495_o etc._n etc._n four_a we_o shall_v not_o only_o forfeit_v the_o fruit_n of_o our_o past_a labour_n but_o render_v our_o recovery_n more_o hazardous_a p._n 497.498_o etc._n etc._n
five_o we_o shall_v not_o only_o render_v our_o recovery_n more_o difficult_a for_o the_o future_a but_o plung_v ourselves_o for_o the_o present_a into_o a_o far_o more_o criminal_a and_o guilty_a condition_n p._n 501.502_o etc._n etc._n sixthly_a we_o shall_v not_o only_o render_v ourselves_o more_o guilty_a for_o the_o present_a but_o expose_v ourselves_o if_o we_o die_v in_o our_o sin_n to_o a_o deep_a and_o more_o dreadful_a ruin_n 508.509_o chap._n v._n contain_v some_o short_a direction_n for_o the_o more_o profitable_a read_v the_o ensue_a discourse_n p._n 513.514_o and_o also_o direction_n for_o the_o good_a conduct_n and_o regular_a exercise_n of_o our_o closet_n religion_n in_o all_o the_o different_a state_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n together_o with_o form_n of_o private_a devotion_n fit_v to_o each_o state_n p._n 517._o the_o first_o be_v for_o the_o state_n of_o entrance_n into_o the_o christian_a life_n p._n 517.518_o etc._n etc._n the_o second_o for_o the_o state_n of_o actual_a engagement_n in_o it_o p._n 530._o the_o three_o for_o the_o state_n of_o growth_n and_o improvement_n towards_o perfection_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n chap._n i._o concern_v the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n in_o order_n to_o our_o understanding_n what_o be_v the_o nature_n use_v and_o excellency_n of_o any_o mean_n it_o be_v necessary_a we_o shall_v have_v a_o true_a and_o genuine_a notion_n of_o those_o peculiar_a end_n which_o they_o drive_v at_o for_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o as_o they_o be_v mean_n consist_v in_o be_v serviceable_a to_o some_o end_n but_o to_o what_o they_o be_v particular_o serviceable_a must_v be_v collect_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o those_o particular_a end_n whereunto_o they_o be_v direct_v and_o therefore_o till_o we_o know_v what_o those_o particular_a end_n be_v it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v know_v whether_o they_o be_v mean_n or_o no_o or_o which_o be_v the_o same_o thing_n whether_o they_o be_v serviceable_a to_o any_o end_n or_o purpose_n it_o be_v therefore_o the_o design_n of_o this_o work_n to_o explain_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a for_o the_o clear_n of_o our_o way_n to_o give_v some_o account_n of_o the_o bless_a end_n for_o which_o it_o be_v intend_v which_o will_v very_o much_o contribute_v to_o our_o right_a understanding_n of_o the_o great_a usefulness_n and_o subserviency_n of_o each_o part_n of_o it_o thereunto_o therefore_o i._o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o show_v what_o be_v the_o peculiar_a end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n ii_o wherein_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o this_o end_n consist_v i._o as_o for_o the_o end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n we_o be_v assure_v from_o scripture_n that_o it_o be_v no_o other_o but_o heaven_n itself_o that_o state_n of_o endless_a bliss_n and_o happiness_n which_o god_n have_v prepare_v in_o the_o world_n above_o for_o the_o reception_n of_o all_o those_o who_o by_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well-doing_n seek_v for_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o immortality_n that_o this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n be_v evident_a from_o hence_o because_o it_o be_v every_o where_o propose_v by_o our_o saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n as_o the_o chief_a good_a of_o a_o christian_a and_o the_o supreme_a motive_n to_o all_o christian_a virtue_n for_o so_o st._n john_n that_o bosome-favourite_n of_o our_o saviour_n assure_v we_o that_o this_o be_v the_o promise_n which_o christ_n have_v promise_v we_o even_o eternal_a life_n 1_o john_n two_o 25_o and_o if_o we_o look_v into_o the_o gospel_n of_o st._n john_n who_o have_v more_o large_o record_v our_o saviour_n sermon_n and_o discourse_n than_o any_o other_o evangelist_n we_o shall_v find_v eternal_a life_n still_o propose_v by_o he_o as_o the_o supereminent_a promise_n to_o encourage_v and_o persuade_v man_n to_o the_o profession_n and_o practice_n of_o christianity_n for_o so_o john_n four_o 36_o it_o be_v propose_v by_o our_o saviour_n as_o that_o which_o be_v the_o harvest_n of_o a_o christian_a to_o which_o like_o the_o husbandman_n plough_v and_o sow_v all_o our_o care_n and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o be_v direct_v he_o that_o reap_v receive_v wage_n and_o gather_v fruit_n unto_o eternal_a life_n consonant_o whereunto_o st._n paul_n tell_v we_o that_o he_o that_o sow_v to_o the_o spirit_n shall_v of_o the_o spirit_n reap_v life_n everlasting_a gal._n vi_fw-la 8_o and_o this_o as_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o be_v the_o great_a reward_n which_o he_o give_v to_o all_o those_o that_o hear_v and_o follow_v he_o john_n x._o 27_o 28._o and_o this_o the_o great_a argument_n which_o he_o every_o where_o insist_o on_o that_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v life_n everlasting_a that_o whosoever_o hear_v his_o word_n have_v life_n everlasting_a and_o that_o his_o commandment_n be_v life_n everlasting_a and_o rom._n vi_fw-la 22_o everlasting_a life_n be_v express_o say_v to_o be_v the_o end_n of_o have_v our_o fruit_n unto_o holiness_n and_o as_o such_o we_o be_v bid_v to_o direct_v our_o action_n unto_o it_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n unto_o everlasting_a life_n 1_o tim._n i_o 16_o to_o do_v good_a to_o this_o end_n that_o we_o may_v lay_v hold_n upon_o eternal_a life_n 1_o tim._n vi_o 18_o 19_o to_o look_n unto_o jesus_n the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n who_o for_o the_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n etc._n etc._n heb._n twelve_o 2_o and_o therefore_o heaven_n be_v describe_v to_o be_v the_o christian_a canaan_n to_o which_o we_o be_v to_o direct_v all_o our_o step_n whilst_o we_o be_v travail_v through_o this_o world_n heb._n xi_o 14_o 15_o 16._o and_o the_o whole_a life_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v express_v by_o seek_v it_o mat._n vi_fw-la 33_o heb._n xiii_o 14_o col._n iii._o 1_o and_o the_o incorruptible_a crown_n be_v affirm_v to_o be_v as_o much_o the_o end_n of_o the_o race_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n as_o those_o corruptible_a crown_n be_v of_o the_o raze_n in_o the_o olympic_a game_n 1_o cor._n ix_o 25_o for_o it_o be_v to_o eternal_a glory_n that_o we_o be_v call_v 1_o pet._n v_o 10_o 2_o thes._n two_o 14_o and_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o all_o that_o duty_n whereunto_o we_o be_v call_v we_o be_v to_o look_v to_o this_o bless_a hope_n as_o our_o great_a end_n and_o encouragement_n tit._n two_o 13_o this_o i_o have_v the_o more_o large_o insist_v upon_o because_o of_o a_o great_a mistake_n that_o many_o person_n have_v lie_v under_o in_o this_o matter_n which_o be_v that_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a ultimate_a end_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o that_o this_o be_v a_o distinct_a end_n from_o heaven_n the_o first_o of_o which_o i_o confess_v be_v very_o true_a but_o the_o last_o absolute_o false_a that_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v the_o last_o end_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v evident_a from_o those_o text_n which_o bid_v we_o do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n x._o 31_o and_o which_o make_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n to_o be_v the_o point_n in_o which_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o righteousness_n do_v concentre_v phil._n i._n 11_o which_o propose_v this_o as_o the_o end_n of_o all_o religious_a performance_n that_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n may_v be_v glorify_v 1_o pet._n four_o 11_o and_o affirm_v that_o it_o be_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o we_o be_v choose_v to_o be_v christian_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v to_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o glory_n eph._n i_o 12_o but_o that_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v no_o distinct_a end_n from_o our_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o heaven_n be_v as_o evident_a from_o hence_o that_o this_o glory_n consist_v not_o in_o any_o thing_n that_o we_o can_v add_v or_o contribute_v to_o he_o who_o essential_a glory_n be_v so_o immense_a and_o secure_a that_o there_o be_v nothing_o we_o can_v do_v can_v either_o increase_v or_o diminish_v it_o and_o there_o be_v no_o other_o glory_n can_v redound_v to_o he_o from_o any_o thing_n without_o but_o what_o be_v the_o reflection_n of_o his_o own_o natural_a ray_n he_o understand_v himself_o too_o well_o to_o value_v himself_o either_o the_o more_o or_o the_o less_o for_o the_o praise_n or_o dispraise_n of_o his_o creature_n for_o he_o be_v enough_o of_o stage_n and_o theatre_n to_o himself_o and_o have_v the_o same_o satisfy_a prospect_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o the_o loud_a blasphemy_n of_o hell_n as_o among_o the_o perpetual_a halelujah_n of_o heaven_n and_o have_v so_o it_o can_v be_v suppose_v that_o he_o shall_v enjoin_v we_o to_o praise_n and_o glorify_v he_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o any_o good_a or_o advantage_n that_o can_v accrue_v to_o himself_o by_o it_o or_o out_o of_o any_o other_o pleasure_n he_o take_v in_o
hear_v himself_o applaud_v and_o commend_v by_o we_o than_o he_o do_v in_o any_o other_o act_n that_o be_v decent_a and_o reasonable_a in_o its_o own_o nature_n but_o it_o be_v therefore_o he_o will_v have_v we_o praise_v he_o because_o he_o know_v it_o be_v for_o our_o good_a and_o high_o conduce_v as_o it_o be_v a_o most_o reasonable_a action_n to_o the_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n of_o our_o reasonable_a nature_n because_o our_o praise_v he_o natural_o excite_v we_o to_o imitate_v he_o and_o to_o transcribe_v into_o our_o own_o nature_n those_o adorable_a perfection_n which_o we_o do_v so_o admire_v and_o extol_v in_o his._n so_o that_o to_o pursue_v our_o own_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n be_v to_o glorify_v god_n according_a to_o his_o own_o design_n and_o intention_n who_o require_v we_o to_o glorify_v he_o for_o no_o other_o purpose_n but_o that_o thereby_o we_o may_v glorify_v ourselves_o and_o indeed_o our_o happiness_n be_v god_n glory_n even_o as_o all_o other_o worthy_a effect_n be_v the_o glory_n of_o their_o cause_n it_o be_v he_o that_o give_v be_v to_o it_o and_o consequent_o he_o that_o be_v glorify_v by_o it_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o resplendency_n of_o his_o own_o almighty_a goodness_n or_o his_o own_o outstretch_v ray_n shine_v back_o upon_o himself_o and_o therefore_o we_o aim_v at_o god_n glory_n just_a as_o he_o himself_o do_v when_o we_o aim_v to_o be_v as_o happy_a as_o he_o will_v have_v we_o that_o be_v when_o we_o pursue_v heaven_n and_o cooperate_v with_o his_o infinite_a goodness_n who_o great_a design_n be_v to_o advance_v we_o to_o that_o bless_a condition_n in_o which_o we_o shall_v glorify_v he_o for_o ever_o and_o be_v everlasting_a monument_n of_o his_o overflow_a benignity_n so_o that_o whether_o we_o call_v our_o last_o end_n heaven_n or_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n it_o be_v all_o but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n since_o by_o obtain_v heaven_n we_o shall_v glorify_v he_o according_a to_o his_o own_o design_n and_o intention_n and_o this_o i_o think_v may_v suffice_v to_o show_v what_o be_v the_o true_a ultimate_a end_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n but_o then_o ii_o it_o will_v be_v yet_o far_a necessary_a for_o our_o clear_n the_o way_n to_o the_o design_n in_o hand_n to_o inquire_v what_o kind_a of_o happiness_n this_o be_v which_o when_o we_o understand_v we_o shall_v be_v the_o better_a able_a to_o comprehend_v what_o duty_n or_o mean_n be_v necessary_a for_o the_o obtain_n it_o and_o this_o enquiry_n will_v be_v easy_o resolve_v by_o consider_v the_o nature_n of_o those_o for_o who_o it_o be_v prepare_v and_o intend_v for_o all_o happiness_n consist_v in_o the_o free_a and_o vigorous_a exercise_n of_o the_o faculty_n of_o nature_n about_o object_n that_o be_v suitable_a to_o themselves_o there_o be_v indeed_o a_o privative_a happiness_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o indolence_n or_o freedom_n from_o pain_n and_o misery_n and_o this_o consist_v not_o so_o much_o in_o the_o exercise_n as_o in_o the_o rest_n and_o quiet_a of_o the_o faculty_n and_o herein_o the_o soft_a and_o restive_a epicurean_o place_v the_o whole_a happiness_n of_o a_o man_n in_o which_o i_o confess_v they_o will_v not_o be_v very_o much_o mistake_v if_o there_o be_v no_o happiness_n belong_v to_o a_o man_n beyond_o that_o animal_n and_o sensual_a one_o in_o which_o the_o disciple_n of_o this_o atheistical_a philosopher_n place_v their_o chief_a good_n for_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n indeed_o be_v mere_o privation_n of_o misery_n and_o short_a reprieve_n from_o the_o grief_n and_o trouble_n of_o a_o wretched_a life_n for_o what_o else_o be_v our_o ease_n and_o rest_v but_o only_o the_o removal_n of_o our_o pain_n and_o weariness_n which_o be_v remove_v the_o pleasure_n be_v present_o over_o and_o then_o we_o grow_v weary_a again_o of_o our_o rest_n and_o ease_n till_o pain_n and_o weariness_n return_v and_o sweeten_v they_o and_o give_v they_o a_o fresh_a and_o new_a relish_n for_o when_o we_o be_v weary_a of_o rest_n we_o be_v fain_o to_o recreate_v ourselves_o with_o action_n and_o when_o we_o be_v weary_a of_o action_n to_o refresh_v ourselves_o with_o rest_n and_o so_o round_o again_o still_o in_o the_o same_o circle_n thus_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o pleasure_n of_o eat_v and_o drink_v consist_v in_o asswage_v the_o pain_n of_o our_o hunger_n and_o thirst._n for_o when_o this_o be_v over_o you_o see_v the_o pleasure_n cease_v and_o till_o it_o return_v again_o every_o fresh_a morsel_n be_v but_o a_o new_a load_n to_o a_o tire_a digestion_n so_o that_o in_o short_a the_o great_a part_n of_o those_o sensual_a felicity_n which_o we_o do_v here_o enjoy_v be_v only_o short_a intermission_n of_o the_o pain_n and_o uneasiness_n of_o a_o wretched_a life_n but_o if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o happiness_n belong_v to_o a_o man_n but_o what_o consist_v in_o not_o be_v sensible_a of_o misery_n it_o be_v much_o more_o desirable_a to_o be_v a_o stone_n than_o a_o man_n and_o the_o only_a way_n for_o he_o to_o be_v perfect_o happy_a will_v be_v to_o deprive_v himself_o of_o all_o sense_n and_o perception_n it_o be_v true_a that_o which_o be_v positive_a in_o our_o happiness_n can_v never_o be_v perfect_o enjoy_v by_o we_o without_o a_o perfect_a indolence_n and_o insensibility_n of_o pain_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o we_o to_o have_v a_o perfect_a sense_n of_o any_o thing_n whilst_o we_o have_v the_o least_o touch_n or_o feel_n of_o its_o contrary_n but_o be_v happiness_n nothing_o else_o but_o a_o non-perception_a of_o misery_n it_o will_v have_v no_o positive_a essence_n or_o reality_n of_o its_o own_o which_o be_v direct_o contrary_a to_o all_o humane_a experience_n for_o we_o plain_o feel_v that_o our_o happiness_n have_v in_o it_o not_o only_o a_o rest_n from_o evil_a but_o a_o grateful_a motion_n to_o good_a and_o that_o as_o our_o pain_n and_o misery_n consist_v in_o a_o acute_a and_o sensible_a perception_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v most_o ungrateful_a to_o our_o nature_n so_o pleasure_n or_o satisfaction_n consist_v in_o a_o vigorous_a perception_n of_o the_o contrary_n so_o that_o beside_o the_o not_o be_v miserable_a which_o be_v not_o so_o proper_o a_o essential_a part_n of_o happiness_n as_o a_o necessary_a disposition_n to_o it_o without_o which_o the_o faculty_n of_o our_o nature_n will_v be_v indispose_v to_o relish_v and_o perceive_v it_o there_o be_v a_o positive_a happiness_n which_o as_o i_o say_v before_o consist_v in_o a_o constant_a free_a and_o vigorous_a exercise_n of_o the_o faculty_n about_o such_o object_n as_o be_v most_o convenient_a and_o suitable_a to_o their_o nature_n for_o happiness_n in_o the_o general_n include_v perfection_n and_o pleasure_n both_o which_o be_v necessary_o include_v in_o such_o a_o exercise_n of_o the_o faculty_n for_o then_o the_o faculty_n be_v perfect_a when_o they_o be_v free_o constant_o and_o vigorous_o employ_v about_o such_o object_n as_o be_v most_o congruous_a to_o their_o several_a nature_n when_o they_o be_v recover_v from_o all_o indisposition_n whether_o natural_a or_o moral_a to_o those_o proper_a motion_n and_o exercise_n for_o which_o they_o be_v frame_v and_o do_v free_o constant_o and_o without_o any_o clog_n or_o interruption_n direct_v all_o their_o course_n towards_o such_o object_n as_o be_v their_o natural_a centre_n and_o then_o the_o faculty_n be_v most_o please_v and_o delight_v too_o when_o they_o be_v most_o vigorous_o exercise_v about_o that_o which_o be_v most_o suitable_a to_o they_o when_o they_o be_v not_o only_o determine_v to_o such_o object_n as_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o their_o nature_n but_o do_v also_o act_v upon_o and_o exert_v themselves_o towards_o they_o with_o the_o great_a sprightliness_n and_o vigour_n these_o thing_n i_o think_v meet_v to_o premise_v concern_v happiness_n in_o the_o general_n as_o be_v very_o needful_a to_o the_o clear_a resolution_n of_o the_o present_a enquiry_n viz._n wherein_o consist_v the_o heaven_n or_o happiness_n of_o a_o man._n in_o short_a therefore_o the_o proper_a heaven_n and_o happiness_n of_o a_o man_n consider_v as_o a_o rational_a be_v consist_v in_o the_o constant_a free_a and_o sprightful_a exercise_n of_o his_o faculty_n about_o such_o object_n as_o be_v most_o convenient_a to_o his_o rational_a nature_n which_o consist_v whole_o of_o understanding_n and_o will_v that_o be_v of_o a_o faculty_n of_o know_v and_o a_o faculty_n of_o choose_v the_o most_o suitable_a object_n of_o it_o be_v such_o as_o be_v most_o worthy_a to_o be_v know_v and_o most_o worthy_a to_o be_v choose_v when_o therefore_o the_o understanding_n be_v always_o vigorous_o exercise_v in_o see_v and_o contemplate_v the_o most_o glorious_a and_o excellent_a truth_n and_o the_o will_n be_v always_o vigorous_o employ_v in_o choose_v and_o
the_o law_n of_o nature_n which_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v nothing_o else_o but_o only_o right_a reason_n dictate_v to_o we_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v do_v in_o order_n to_o a_o earthly_a happiness_n and_o according_o the_o duty_n of_o this_o law_n be_v of_o a_o much_o low_a strain_n than_o the_o duty_n of_o christianity_n they_o be_v intend_v for_o the_o mean_n and_o instrument_n of_o a_o much_o low_a happiness_n for_o in_o this_o our_o earthly_a and_o animal_n state_n right_a reason_n can_v require_v nothing_o of_o we_o but_o what_o be_v subservient_fw-fr to_o our_o earthly_a and_o animal_n felicity_n and_o nothing_o can_v be_v good_a for_o we_o but_o what_o tend_v thereunto_o nothing_o evil_a but_o what_o do_v obstruct_v and_o oppose_v it_o but_o now_o that_o our_o happiness_n be_v place_v in_o another_o world_n and_o in_o such_o vast_o different_a enjoyment_n from_o those_o of_o a_o terrestrial_a paradise_n we_o must_v proceed_v upon_o other_o principle_n for_o now_o every_o action_n be_v good_a or_o bad_a wise_a or_o foolish_a as_o it_o serve_v or_o hinder_v our_o happiness_n in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v high_o reasonable_a that_o now_o we_o shall_v live_v at_o a_o different_a rate_n than_o what_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o in_o that_o animal_n state_n wherein_o we_o be_v first_o create_v that_o we_o shall_v submit_v our_o earthly_a to_o our_o heavenly_a interest_n and_o renounce_v the_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n of_o this_o life_n whensoever_o they_o stand_v in_o competition_n with_o the_o spiritual_a felicity_n of_o the_o life_n to_o come_v now_o we_o be_v no_o long_o to_o look_v upon_o this_o world_n as_o our_o native_a country_n but_o as_o a_o foreign_a land_n and_o so_o we_o be_v to_o reckon_v our_o self_n stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n upon_o earth_n and_o according_o to_o use_v the_o conveniency_n of_o this_o life_n as_o stranger_n do_v their_o inn_n not_o to_o abide_v or_o take_v up_o our_o habitation_n in_o they_o but_o only_o to_o bait_v and_o away_o and_o refresh_v ourselves_o that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v the_o better_o enable_v to_o perform_v our_o journey_n to_o the_o eternal_a world_n for_o the_o scene_n of_o our_o happiness_n be_v shift_v from_o a_o earthly_a immortality_n to_o a_o heavenly_a and_o consequent_o the_o happiness_n itself_o be_v now_o much_o more_o sublime_a and_o pure_a and_o spiritual_a than_o it_o will_v have_v be_v have_v it_o continue_v earthly_a it_o be_v necessary_a that_o our_o nature_n shall_v be_v exalt_v with_o it_o and_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v raise_v as_o high_a above_o the_o condion_fw-la of_o mere_a earthly_a creature_n as_o that_o be_v above_o the_o rank_n and_o quality_n of_o a_o earthly_a happiness_n otherwise_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a for_o we_o to_o relish_v and_o enjoy_v it_o now_o every_o agent_n have_v need_n of_o more_o or_o few_o mean_n proportionable_o as_o he_o be_v far_o off_o or_o near_o to_o the_o end_v he_o drive_v at_o as_o for_o instance_n the_o husbandman_n that_o have_v a_o fat_a and_o fruitful_a soil_n to_o sow_v his_o seed_n in_o be_v near_a to_o the_o attain_n of_o a_o good_a harvest_n than_o he_o that_o have_v a_o barren_a or_o stony_a ground_n to_o work_v upon_o and_o therefore_o have_v much_o less_o to_o do_v for_o whereas_o the_o latter_a before_o he_o can_v plough_v and_o sow_v must_v manure_v his_o ground_n and_o gather_v out_o the_o stone_n of_o it_o the_o former_a needs_o only_o plough_v up_o the_o fertile_a earth_n and_o cast_v his_o seed_n into_o it_o or_o to_o come_v close_o to_o the_o case_n in_o hand_n a_o man_n that_o be_v mere_o ignorant_a be_v in_o a_o much_o near_a capacity_n of_o true_a knowledge_n than_o he_o who_o mind_n be_v altogether_o prejudice_v with_o erroneous_a principle_n and_o therefore_o needs_o much_o few_o help_n and_o mean_n to_o attain_v it_o for_o his_o mind_n be_v perfect_o disengage_v be_v like_o a_o fair_a paper_n on_o which_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o write_v so_o there_o be_v nothing_o to_o be_v blot_v out_o so_o that_o all_o that_o he_o have_v to_o do_v be_v to_o inquire_v after_o and_o receive_v the_o truth_n when_o it_o be_v fair_o propose_v to_o he_o but_o as_o for_o the_o prejudice_v man_n he_o have_v a_o great_a deal_n to_o unlearn_v before_o he_o can_v be_v capable_a of_o learning_n a_o great_a many_o false_a principle_n to_o be_v expunge_v before_o ever_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o thing_n can_v be_v imprint_v on_o his_o understanding_n if_o therefore_o we_o will_v take_v a_o true_a account_n of_o all_o those_o mean_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o attain_n of_o heaven_n we_o must_v consider_v what_o a_o vast_a distance_n we_o be_v from_o it_o in_o this_o corrupt_a and_o degenerate_a state_n of_o our_o nature_n if_o we_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o indifference_n between_o virtue_n and_o vice_n we_o shall_v be_v much_o near_a heaven_n than_o we_o be_v for_o then_o as_o we_o shall_v be_v without_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n in_o the_o free_a exercise_n whereof_o the_o state_n of_o heaven_n consist_v so_o we_o shall_v be_v without_o all_o that_o repugnance_n and_o aversation_n to_o they_o which_o render_v they_o so_o difficult_o attainable_a and_o our_o nature_n be_v already_o in_o a_o aequilibrium_fw-la will_v by_o the_o least_o over-weight_n of_o motive_n be_v present_o incline_v to_o virtue_n and_o goodness_n but_o alas_o in_o this_o corrupt_a state_n whereinto_o we_o be_v sink_v our_o nature_n run_v evil-ward_n with_o a_o very_a strong_a and_o prevail_a bias_n and_o be_v not_o only_o void_a of_o virtue_n but_o averse_a to_o it_o and_o this_o set_v we_o at_o a_o far_o great_a distance_n from_o the_o bless_a end_n of_o our_o religion_n than_o otherwise_o we_o shall_v be_v for_o every_o degree_n of_o vicious_a inclination_n that_o be_v in_o we_o be_v a_o remove_n from_o heaven_n a_o descent_n from_o that_o perfection_n of_o virtue_n wherein_o the_o heavenly_a blessedness_n consist_v and_o if_o so_o how_o remote_a from_o heaven_n be_v the_o generality_n of_o man_n in_o the_o beginning_n of_o their_o progress_n thither_o when_o to_o their_o natural_a corruption_n they_o have_v superad_v by_o their_o sinful_a course_n so_o many_o inordinate_a inclination_n and_o inveterate_a sinful_a habit_n when_o by_o a_o long_a series_n of_o wicked_a action_n they_o have_v raise_v and_o blow_v up_o their_o concupiscence_n into_o such_o rage_a flame_n of_o lust_n as_o general_o they_o do_v and_o be_v thus_o far_o go_v back_o from_o our_o end_n there_o be_v sundry_a mean_n which_o otherwise_o will_v have_v be_v perfect_o needless_a and_o superfluous_a that_o be_v now_o become_v absolute_o necessary_a thereunto_o for_o have_v we_o begin_v our_o progress_n towards_o heaven_n from_o a_o state_n of_o indifferency_n between_o virtue_n and_o vice_n we_o have_v have_v no_o more_o to_o do_v but_o to_o practice_v those_o several_a virtue_n of_o religion_n of_o which_o the_o heavenly_a life_n and_o state_n consist_v to_o love_v and_o to_o contemplate_v to_o adore_v and_o to_o obey_v god_n and_o behave_v ourselves_o just_o and_o charitable_o towards_o one_o another_o all_o which_o will_v have_v be_v so_o easy_a that_o we_o shall_v have_v have_v no_o occasion_n of_o any_o instrumental_a duty_n to_o facilitate_v they_o to_o we_o whereas_o now_o start_v heavenward_n as_o we_o general_o do_v from_o a_o most_o corrupt_a and_o degenerate_a state_n there_o be_v sundry_a other_o mean_n which_o we_o must_v use_v as_o instrument_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o acquire_v and_o persevere_v in_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o heavenly_a life_n to_o our_o conquer_a the_o difficulty_n of_o and_o kill_v the_o vicious_a aversation_n of_o our_o nature_n against_o they_o all_o which_o will_v have_v be_v needless_a at_o least_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n have_v not_o our_o nature_n be_v so_o deprave_v and_o corrupt_a as_o it_o be_v so_o that_o as_o the_o case_n now_o stand_v with_o we_o there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o mean_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o obtain_n of_o heaven_n the_o first_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n in_o the_o perfection_n whereof_o consist_v the_o state_n of_o heaven_n the_o second_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o certain_a instrumental_a duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o acquire_v those_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o overcome_v the_o difficulty_n of_o they_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o these_o be_v the_o proximate_a mean_n those_o which_o direct_o and_o immediate_o respect_v the_o great_a and_o ultimate_a end_n the_o second_o the_o more_o remote_a mean_n which_o immediate_o respect_v those_o mean_n that_o immediate_o respect_v the_o end_n the_o first_o be_v like_o the_o art_n of_o the_o builder_n which_o immediate_o respect_v the_o house_n the_o second_o like_o the_o art_n of_o the_o smith_n which_o immediate_o respect_v the_o mean_n
and_o instrument_n of_o building_n i._o one_o sort_n of_o mean_n necessary_a to_o the_o obtain_n of_o heaven_n and_o that_o which_o more_o direct_o and_o immediate_o respect_v it_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o those_o virtue_n in_o the_o perfection_n whereof_o the_o heavenly_a life_n consist_v for_o we_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o all_o heavenly_a virtue_n be_v to_o be_v acquire_v and_o perfect_v only_o by_o practice_n that_o as_o all_o bad_a disposition_n be_v acquire_v and_o improve_v into_o habit_n by_o bad_a practice_n and_o custom_n so_o be_v all_o the_o contrary_a virtuous_a one_o by_o the_o contrary_a practice_n for_o religion_n proceed_v in_o the_o method_n of_o nature_n and_o carry_v we_o on_o from_o the_o act_n to_o the_o disposition_n and_o from_o the_o disposition_n to_o the_o habit_n of_o virtue_n and_o by_o the_o same_o method_n the_o divine_a grace_n which_o accompany_v religion_n do_v ordinary_o work_v its_o effect_n upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n not_o by_o a_o instantaneous_a infusion_n of_o virtuous_a habit_n into_o the_o will_n but_o by_o persuade_v they_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o those_o virtue_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o their_o vicious_a habit_n and_o to_o persist_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o till_o they_o have_v mortify_v those_o habit_n and_o thorough_o habituate_v and_o enure_v themselves_o to_o these_o so_o that_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v like_o a_o graff_n which_o though_o it_o be_v put_v into_o a_o stock_n which_o be_v quite_o of_o another_o kind_n do_v yet_o make_v use_n of_o the_o faculty_n and_o juice_n of_o the_o stock_n and_o so_o by_o cooperate_n with_o they_o convert_v it_o by_o degree_n into_o its_o own_o nature_n and_o this_o be_v exact_o agreeable_a to_o the_o common_a experience_n of_o man_n who_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o their_o reformation_n be_v so_o far_o from_o act_v virtuous_o from_o habit_n and_o inclination_n that_o it_o go_v against_o the_o very_a grain_n of_o their_o nature_n and_o they_o will_v much_o rather_o return_v to_o their_o vicious_a course_n if_o they_o be_v not_o chase_v and_o pursue_v by_o the_o terror_n of_o a_o awaken_v conscience_n and_o when_o afterward_o they_o come_v to_o act_v upon_o a_o more_o ingenuous_a principle_n yet_o still_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o a_o great_a averseness_n and_o reluctancy_n to_o it_o and_o it_o be_v a_o great_a while_n usual_o ere_o they_o arrive_v to_o a_o habit_n or_o facility_n of_o act_v virtuous_o but_o then_o by_o perseverance_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o virtue_n they_o be_v more_o and_o more_o incline_v and_o dispose_v to_o it_o and_o so_o by_o degree_n it_o become_v easy_a and_o natural_a to_o they_o if_o therefore_o we_o will_v ever_o arrive_v to_o that_o perfection_n of_o virtue_n which_o the_o heavenly_a state_n imply_v it_o must_v be_v by_o the_o practice_n of_o virtue_n by_o a_o continual_a train_n and_o exercise_v ourselves_o in_o all_o the_o part_n of_o the_o heavenly_a life_n which_o by_o degree_n will_v wear_v off_o the_o difficulty_n of_o it_o and_o adapt_v and_o familiarize_v our_o nature_n to_o it_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d those_o thing_n which_o they_o that_o learn_v aught_o to_o do_v they_o learn_v by_o do_v they_o thus_o we_o learn_v devotion_n by_o prayer_n submission_n to_o god_n by_o deny_v ourselves_o charity_n by_o give_v alm_n and_o meekness_n by_o forgive_a injury_n and_o we_o may_v as_o reasonable_o expect_v to_o commence_v learn_v without_o study_n as_o virtuous_a without_o the_o practice_n of_o virtue_n since_o therefore_o the_o formal_a happiness_n of_o our_o reasonable_a nature_n consist_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o the_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o it_o be_v by_o these_o alone_a that_o we_o can_v relish_v and_o enjoy_v the_o blissful_a object_n of_o heaven_n it_o hence_o follow_v that_o the_o practice_n of_o those_o virtue_n be_v the_o most_o direct_a and_o immediate_a mean_n to_o obtain_v the_o bless_a end_n of_o our_o religion_n but_o then_o ii_o another_o sort_n of_o mean_n necessary_a to_o our_o obtain_n of_o heaven_n consist_v of_o certain_a instrumental_a duty_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o acquire_v improve_v and_o perfect_a these_o heavenly_a virtue_n what_o these_o mean_n be_v will_v be_v hereafter_o large_o show_v all_o that_o i_o shall_v say_v of_o they_o at_o present_a be_v that_o they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v no_o far_o good_a and_o useful_a than_o as_o they_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o do_v tend_v towards_o the_o acquire_n improve_n and_o perfect_v it_o for_o the_o whole_a duty_n of_o man_n may_v be_v distribute_v into_o these_o two_o general_n viz._n the_o religion_n of_o the_o end_n and_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n the_o religion_n of_o the_o end_n contain_v all_o that_o heavenly_a virtue_n wherein_o the_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n of_o humane_a nature_n consist_v and_o this_o the_o apostle_n distribute_v into_o three_o particular_n viz._n sobriety_n righteousness_n and_o godliness_n the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n comprehend_v all_o that_o duty_n which_o do_v either_o natural_o or_o by_o institution_n respect_n and_o drive_v at_o this_o religion_n of_o the_o end_n and_o that_o all_o other_o duty_n that_o be_v not_o itself_o a_o natural_a branch_n and_o part_n of_o it_o do_v respect_n and_o drive_v at_o it_o the_o apostle_n assure_v we_o when_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o gospel_n or_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v reveal_v from_o heaven_n for_o this_o very_a purpose_n to_o teach_v we_o to_o deny_v all_o ungodliness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n and_o to_o live_v sober_o and_o righteous_o and_o godly_a in_o this_o present_a world_n and_o if_o we_o do_v not_o use_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n to_o this_o purpose_n it_o be_v altogether_o useless_a and_o insignificant_a for_o the_o purpose_n of_o all_o religious_a duty_n be_v either_o 1._o to_o reconcile_v man_n to_o god_n and_o god_n to_o they_o or_o 2._o to_o perfect_v the_o humane_a nature_n or_o 3._o to_o entitle_v man_n to_o heaven_n or_o 4._o to_o qualify_v and_o dispose_v they_o for_o the_o heavenly_a life_n to_o neither_o of_o which_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n be_v any_o far_a useful_a than_o as_o it_o produce_v and_o promote_v in_o we_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n which_o be_v imply_v in_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o end_n for_o i._o it_o be_v no_o further_a useful_a towards_o the_o reconcile_a we_o to_o god_n and_o god_n to_o us._n for_o there_o can_v be_v no_o hearty_a reconciliation_n between_o adverse_a party_n without_o there_o be_v a_o mutual_a likeness_n and_o agreement_n of_o nature_n now_o the_o carnal_a mind_n which_o include_v all_o that_o be_v repugnant_a to_o the_o heavenly_a virtue_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n rom._n seven_o 17_o that_o be_v have_v a_o natural_a antipathy_n to_o the_o purity_n and_o goodness_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o this_o antipathy_n the_o same_o apostle_n tell_v we_o be_v found_v in_o our_o wicked_a work_n coloss._n i_o 21_o so_o that_o though_o we_o shall_v practice_v never_o so_o diligent_o all_o that_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n though_o we_o shall_v pray_v and_o hear_v and_o receive_v sacrament_n etc._n etc._n with_o never_o so_o much_o zeal_n and_o constancy_n yet_o all_o this_o will_v be_v insignificant_a as_o to_o the_o reconcile_a our_o nature_n to_o god_n unless_o it_o destroy_v in_o we_o that_o carnal_a mind_n and_o those_o wicked_a work_n which_o render_v we_o so_o averse_a to_o his_o goodness_n and_o though_o god_n bear_v a_o hearty_a good_a will_n to_o all_o that_o be_v capable_a of_o good_a and_o embrace_n his_o whole_a creation_n with_o the_o outstretch_v arm_n of_o his_o benevolence_n yet_o he_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o be_v please_v with_o or_o delight_v in_o any_o but_o such_o as_o resemble_v he_o in_o those_o amiable_a grace_n of_o purity_n and_o goodness_n for_o which_o he_o love_v himself_o for_o he_o love_v not_o himself_o mere_o because_o he_o be_v himself_o which_o will_v be_v a_o blind_a instinct_n rather_o than_o a_o reasonable_a love_n but_o because_o he_o be_v good_a and_o he_o love_v himself_o above_o all_o other_o thing_n because_o he_o know_v himself_o to_o be_v the_o high_a and_o most_o perfect_a good_a and_o consequent_o he_o love_v all_o other_o thing_n proportionable_o as_o they_o approach_v and_o resemble_v he_o in_o goodness_n and_o indeed_o if_o he_o love_v we_o for_o any_o other_o reason_n beside_o that_o for_o which_o he_o love_v himself_o he_o will_v not_o have_v infinite_a reason_n to_o love_v himself_o because_o he_o will_v not_o have_v that_o reason_n to_o love_v himself_o for_o which_o he_o love_v and_o take_v delight_n in_o vs._n since_o therefore_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o our_o resemblance_n of_o god_n can_v reconcile_v he_o to_o we_o and_o since_o our_o resemblance_n of_o he_o
by_o pass_v out_o of_o one_o world_n into_o another_o and_o therefore_o as_o in_o this_o world_n it_o be_v likeness_n that_o do_v congregate_v and_o associate_v being_n together_o so_o doubtless_o it_o be_v in_o the_o other_o too_o so_o that_o if_o we_o carry_v with_o we_o thither_o our_o wicked_a and_o devilish_a disposition_n as_o we_o shall_v doubtless_o do_v unless_o we_o subdue_v and_o mortify_v they_o here_o there_o will_v be_v no_o company_n fit_a for_o we_o to_o associate_v with_o but_o only_o the_o devilish_a and_o damn_a ghost_n of_o wicked_a man_n with_o who_o our_o wretched_a spirit_n be_v already_o join_v by_o a_o likeness_n of_o nature_n will_v mingle_v themselves_o as_o soon_o as_o ever_o they_o be_v excommunicate_v from_o the_o society_n of_o mortal_n for_o whither_o shall_v they_o flock_v but_o to_o the_o bird_n of_o their_o own_o feather_n with_o who_o shall_v they_o associate_v but_o with_o those_o malignant_a spirit_n to_o who_o they_o be_v already_o join_v by_o a_o community_n of_o nature_n so_o that_o suppose_v that_o when_o they_o land_n in_o eternity_n it_o be_v leave_v to_o their_o own_o liberty_n to_o go_v to_o heaven_n or_o hell_n into_o the_o society_n of_o the_o bless_a or_o the_o damn_a it_o be_v plain_a that_o heaven_n will_v be_v no_o place_n for_o they_o that_o the_o air_n of_o that_o bright_a region_n of_o eternal_a day_n will_v never_o agree_v with_o their_o black_a and_o hellish_a nature_n for_o alas_o what_o shall_v they_o do_v among_o those_o bless_a being_n that_n inhabit_v it_o to_o who_o godlike_a nature_n divine_a contemplation_n and_o heavenly_a employment_n they_o have_v so_o great_a a_o repugnancy_n and_o aversation_n so_o that_o beside_o the_o have_v a_o right_a to_o heaven_n it_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o enjoy_n it_o that_o we_o shoule_fw-mi be_v antecedent_o dispose_v and_o qualify_v for_o it_o and_o it_o be_v thus_o god_n have_v be_v gracious_o please_v to_o to_o make_v those_o very_a virtue_n the_o condition_n of_o our_o right_n to_o heaven_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a disposition_n and_o qualification_n of_o our_o spirit_n for_o it_o that_o so_o with_o one_o and_o the_o same_o labour_n we_o may_v entitle_v ourselves_o to_o and_o qualify_v ourselves_o to_o enjoy_v it_o now_o as_o we_o show_v you_o before_o the_o condition_n of_o our_o right_n to_o heaven_n be_v our_o practise_v those_o heavenly_a virtue_n which_o be_v imply_v in_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o end_n and_o as_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_v no_o further_a entitle_v we_o to_o heaven_n than_o as_o it_o produce_v and_o promote_v in_o we_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n so_o it_o no_o further_o qualify_v we_o for_o it_o for_o when_o the_o soul_n go_v into_o eternity_n it_o leave_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n behind_o it_o and_o carry_v nothing_o with_o it_o but_o only_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o disposition_n which_o it_o here_o acquire_v by_o those_o mean_n for_o as_o for_o faith_n and_o consideration_n hear_v of_o god_n word_n and_o receive_v of_o sacrament_n etc._n etc._n they_o be_v all_o but_o scaffold_n to_o that_o heavenly_a building_n of_o inward_a purity_n and_o goodness_n and_o when_o this_o be_v once_o finish_v for_o eternity_n then_o must_v those_o scaffold_n all_o go_v down_o as_o thing_n of_o no_o further_o use_v or_o necessity_n but_o as_o for_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o mind_n they_o be_v to_o stand_v for_o ever_o to_o be_v the_o receptacle_n and_o habitation_n of_o all_o heavenly_a pleasure_n and_o hence_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o of_o those_o three_o christian_a grace_n faith_n hope_n and_o charity_n charity_n which_o in_o the_o large_a sense_n of_o it_o comprehend_v all_o heavenly_a virtue_n be_v the_o great_a because_o the_o two_o former_a be_v but_o mean_v of_o charity_n shall_v cease_v in_o heaven_n and_o be_v swallow_v up_o for_o ever_o in_o vision_n and_o enjoyment_n but_o charity_n say_v he_o never_o fail_v 1_o cor._n twelve_o 13_o by_o all_o which_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o mean_n be_v no_o further_o useful_a to_o we_o than_o as_o it_o be_v apt_a to_o produce_v and_o promote_v in_o we_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n the_o practice_n of_o which_o be_v the_o most_o direct_a and_o immediate_a mean_n to_o the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o a_o christian._n wherefore_o as_o a_o man_n may_v knock_v and_o file_n and_o yet_o be_v no_o mechanic_n though_o the_o hammer_n and_o file_n with_o which_o he_o do_v it_o be_v very_o useful_a tool_n to_o the_o make_n of_o any_o curious_a machine_n so_o a_o man_n may_v pray_v and_o hear_v and_o receive_v sacrament_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o be_v a_o very_a bungler_n in_o the_o bless_a trade_n of_o a_o heavenly_a life_n for_o though_o it_o be_v true_a these_o be_v excellent_a mean_n of_o heavenly_a live_n yet_o as_o the_o art_n of_o the_o mechanic_n consist_v not_o bare_o in_o use_v his_o tool_n but_o in_o use_v they_o in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o perfect_a and_o accomplish_v his_o work_n so_o the_o art_n of_o one_o that_o pretend_v to_o the_o heavenly_a life_n consist_v not_o bare_o in_o pray_v and_o hear_v etc._n etc._n but_o in_o use_v these_o mean_n with_o that_o religious_a skill_n and_o artifice_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o render_v they_o effectual_o subservient_fw-fr to_o the_o end_n of_o piety_n and_o virtue_n and_o thus_o i_o have_v give_v a_o general_a account_n of_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o obtain_n of_o heaven_n and_o which_o as_o i_o have_v show_v be_v either_o such_o as_o tend_v more_o direct_o and_o immediate_o to_o it_o or_o such_o as_o more_o remote_o respect_v it_o the_o first_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n in_o the_o perfection_n whereof_o the_o happiness_n of_o heaven_n consist_v the_o second_o be_v the_o practise_v of_o those_o duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o acquire_v and_o perfect_v those_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o of_o these_o two_o part_n consist_v the_o whole_a christian_a life_n which_o take_v in_o not_o only_o all_o those_o virtue_n that_o be_v to_o be_v practise_v by_o we_o in_o heaven_n but_o also_o all_o those_o duty_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o overcome_v the_o difficulty_n of_o those_o virtue_n and_o to_o acquire_v and_o perfect_v they_o the_o first_o of_o these_o for_o distinction_n sake_n we_o will_v call_v the_o heavenly_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n it_o be_v that_o part_n of_o it_o which_o we_o shall_v lead_v in_o heaven_n after_o we_o have_v learn_v it_o here_o upon_o earth_n the_o second_o i_o shall_v call_v the_o warfaring_a or_o militant_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v peculiar_a to_o our_o earthly_a state_n wherein_o we_o be_v to_o contend_v and_o strive_v with_o the_o manifold_a difficulty_n which_o attend_v we_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n both_o which_o i_o conceive_v be_v imply_v in_o those_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n phil._n i._n 27_o only_o let_v your_o conversation_n be_v as_o become_v the_o gospel_n where_o the_o greek_a word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o render_v let_v your_o conversation_n be_v strict_o signify_v behave_v ourselves_o as_o citizen_n or_o which_o if_o we_o may_v have_v leave_n to_o coin_v a_o word_n may_v be_v fit_o render_v citizen_n it_o as_o become_v the_o gospel_n for_o the_o word_n imply_v that_o those_o of_o who_o he_o speak_v be_v denizen_n of_o some_o free_a city_n for_o so_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o phil._n iii._o 20_o be_v render_v conversation_n strict_o denote_v a_o citizenship_n from_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d citizen_n and_o be_v of_o the_o same_o import_n with_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o act_v xxii_o 28_o be_v translatee_fw-mi a_o freedom_n i._n e._n of_o the_o city_n of_o rome_n which_o denote_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o those_o who_o though_o they_o dwell_v out_o of_o that_o city_n and_o sometime_o remote_a from_o it_o have_v yet_o the_o jus_fw-la civitatis_fw-la romanae_fw-la the_o privilege_n of_o it_o belong_v to_o they_o for_o thus_o cicero_n describe_v it_o omnibus_fw-la municipibus_fw-la dvas_fw-la esse_fw-la tatrias_fw-la unam_fw-la naturae_fw-la alteram_fw-la juris_fw-la catonis_fw-la exemplo_fw-la qui_fw-la tusculi_fw-la natus_fw-la in_o populi_n romani_fw-la societaem_n susceptus_fw-la est_fw-la i._n e._n all_o such_o as_o be_v make_v free_a of_o the_o city_n have_v two_o country_n one_o of_o nature_n the_o other_o of_o law_n as_o cato_n for_o instance_n who_o be_v bear_v at_o tusculum_n and_o afterward_o admit_v a_o citizen_n of_o rome_n which_o exact_o agree_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o heavenly_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o citizenship_n which_o the_o apostle_n here_o attribute_n to_o christian_n who_o though_o they_o belong_v at_o present_a to_o another_o
satisfaction_n and_o necessary_o render_v we_o by_o so_o many_o degree_n miserable_a as_o it_o exceed_v the_o real_a worth_n and_o value_n of_o thing_n beside_o which_o also_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o all_o these_o lesser_a good_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o extravagant_a affection_n be_v thing_n which_o we_o must_v ere_o long_o be_v for_o ever_o deprive_v of_o for_o the_o lesser_a good_n be_v those_o which_o be_v only_o good_a for_o the_o worse_a part_n of_o we_o that_o be_v for_o our_o body_n and_o animal_n life_n the_o proper_a good_n whereof_o be_v the_o outward_a sensitive_a enjoyment_n of_o this_o world_n all_o which_o when_o we_o leave_v this_o world_n we_o must_v leave_v for_o ever_o and_o go_v away_o into_o eternity_n with_o nothing_o about_o we_o but_o only_o the_o good_a or_o bad_a disposition_n of_o our_o soul_n so_o that_o if_o our_o soul_n be_v carnalize_v through_o our_o immoderate_a affection_n to_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n we_o shall_v carry_v that_o affection_n with_o we_o but_o leave_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o thus_o vehement_o affect_v behind_o we_o for_o ever_o for_o that_o which_o be_v the_o prevail_a temper_n of_o soul_n in_o this_o life_n will_v doubtless_o be_v so_o in_o the_o other_o too_o and_o so_o far_o be_v that_o of_o the_o poet_n true_a quae_fw-la gratia_fw-la currûm_fw-la armorúmque_fw-la fuit_fw-la vivis_fw-la quae_fw-la cura_fw-la nitentes_fw-la pascere_fw-la equos_fw-la eadem_fw-la sequitur_fw-la tellure_n repostos_fw-la for_o though_o the_o come_n into_o the_o other_o world_n will_v questionless_a improve_v those_o soul_n which_o be_v real_o good_a before_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v imagine_v how_o it_o shall_v create_v those_o good_a who_o be_v habitual_o bad_a and_o if_o we_o retain_v in_o the_o other_o world_n that_o prevail_a affection_n to_o these_o sensitive_a good_n which_o we_o contract_v in_o this_o it_o must_v necessary_o render_v we_o unspeakable_o miserable_a there_o for_o every_o lust_n the_o soul_n carry_v into_o the_o other_o world_n will_n by_o be_v eternal_o separate_v from_o its_o pleasure_n convert_v into_o a_o hopeless_a desire_n and_o upon_o that_o account_n grow_v more_o furious_a and_o impatient_a for_o of_o all_o the_o torment_n of_o the_o mind_n i_o know_v none_o that_o be_v comparable_a to_o that_o of_o a_o outrageous_a desire_n join_v with_o despair_n of_o satisfaction_n which_o be_v just_a the_o case_n of_o sensual_a and_o worldly_a mind_a soul_n in_o the_o other_o life_n where_o they_o be_v full_a of_o sharp_a and_o unrebated_a desire_n and_o like_o starve_a man_n that_o be_v shut_v up_o between_o two_o dead_a wall_n be_v torment_v with_o a_o fierce_a but_o hopeless_a hunger_n which_o have_v nothing_o else_o to_o feed_v on_o prey_n and_o quarry_n on_o themselves_o and_o in_o this_o desolate_a condition_n they_o be_v force_v to_o wander_v to_o and_o fro_o torment_v with_o a_o restless_a rage_n a_o hungry_a and_o unsatisfy_a desire_n crave_v food_n but_o neither_o find_n nor_o expect_v any_o and_o so_o in_o unexpressible_a anguish_n they_o pine_v away_o a_o long_a eternity_n and_o though_o they_o may_v find_v content_a and_o satisfaction_n can_v they_o but_o divert_v their_o affection_n another_o way_n and_o reconcile_v they_o to_o the_o heavenly_a enjoyment_n yet_o be_v irrecoverable_o preingage_v to_o sensual_a good_n they_o have_v no_o savour_n or_o relish_n of_o any_o thing_n else_o but_o be_v like_o feverish_a tongue_n that_o disgust_v and_o nauseate_a the_o most_o grateful_a liquor_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o own_o overflow_a gall._n so_o impossible_a be_v it_o for_o man_n to_o be_v happy_a either_o here_o or_o hereafter_o so_o long_o as_o their_o affection_n to_o the_o lesser_a good_n of_o this_o world_n do_v so_o immoderate_o exceed_v the_o worth_n and_o value_n of_o they_o one_o essential_a part_n therefore_o of_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v the_o great_a mean_n of_o our_o happiness_n be_v the_o virtue_n of_o moderation_n the_o peculiar_a office_n whereof_o be_v to_o bound_v our_o concupiscible_a affection_n and_o proportion_v they_o to_o the_o intrinsic_n worth_n of_o those_o outward_a good_n which_o we_o affect_v and_o desire_v for_o though_o the_o word_n moderation_n according_a to_o our_o present_a acceptation_n of_o it_o be_v no_o where_o to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n yet_o the_o virtue_n express_v by_o it_o be_v frequent_o enjoin_v as_o particular_o where_o we_o be_v forbid_v to_o set_v our_o affection_n upon_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o earth_n col._n iii._o 2_o to_o love_v the_o world_n or_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n 1_o john_n two_o 15_o which_o phrase_n be_v not_o to_o be_v so_o understand_v as_o if_o we_o be_v not_o to_o love_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o world_n at_o all_o for_o they_o be_v the_o blessing_n of_o god_n and_o such_o as_o he_o have_v propose_v to_o we_o in_o his_o promise_n as_o the_o reward_n and_o encouragement_n of_o our_o obedience_n and_o to_o be_v sure_a he_o will_v never_o encourage_v we_o to_o obey_v he_o by_o the_o hope_n of_o such_o reward_n as_o be_v unlawful_a for_o we_o to_o desire_v and_o love_n the_o meaning_n therefore_o of_o these_o prohibition_n be_v that_o we_o shall_v so_o moderate_v our_o affection_n to_o the_o world_n as_o not_o to_o permit_v they_o to_o exceed_v the_o real_a worth_n and_o value_n of_o its_o enjoyment_n for_o it_o be_v not_o simple_o our_o love_a it_o but_o our_o love_v it_o to_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o our_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v here_o forbid_a for_o he_o that_o love_v the_o world_n say_v st._n john_n the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n be_v not_o in_o he_o i._n e._n he_o that_o love_v it_o to_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o to_o prefer_v the_o riches_n honour_n and_o pleasure_n of_o it_o before_o god_n and_o his_o duty_n to_o he_o have_v no_o real_a love_n to_o god_n i._n e._n he_o love_v not_o god_n as_o god_n as_o the_o chief_a good_a and_o supreme_a beauty_n and_o perfection_n and_o hence_o covetousness_n which_o be_v a_o immoderate_a desire_n of_o the_o world_n be_v call_v idolatry_n col._n iii._o 5_o because_o it_o set_v the_o world_n in_o the_o place_n of_o god_n and_o give_v it_o that_o supreme_a degree_n of_o affection_n which_o be_v only_o due_a to_o he_o and_o this_o the_o apostle_n there_o call_v inordinate_a affection_n because_o it_o extravagant_o exceed_v the_o intrinsic_n worth_a and_o value_n of_o its_o object_n wherefore_o we_o be_v strict_o enjoin_v to_o take_v heed_n and_o beware_v of_o covetousness_n luke_n twelve_o 15_o and_o to_o let_v our_o conversation_n be_v without_o covetousness_n heb._n xiii_o 5_o by_o all_o which_o and_o sundry_a other_o command_n and_o prohibition_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o moderation_n of_o our_o concupiscible_a affection_n be_v make_v a_o necessary_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n now_o that_o this_o also_o mighty_o contribute_v to_o our_o acquisition_n of_o the_o heavenly_a happiness_n be_v evident_a not_o only_o from_o what_o have_v be_v already_o say_v but_o also_o from_o hence_o that_o till_o our_o affection_n be_v thus_o moderate_v we_o can_v have_v no_o savour_n or_o relish_n of_o the_o heavenly_a enjoyment_n for_o in_o this_o corrupt_a state_n of_o our_o nature_n we_o general_o understand_v by_o our_o affection_n which_o like_o colour_a glass_n represent_v all_o object_n to_o we_o in_o their_o own_o hue_n and_o complexion_n when_o therefore_o a_o man_n affection_n be_v immoderate_o carry_v out_o towards_o worldly_a thing_n they_o will_v be_v sure_a by_o degree_n to_o corrupt_v and_o deprave_v his_o judgement_n and_o render_v he_o as_o unfit_a to_o judge_v of_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a enjoyment_n as_o a_o ploughman_n be_v to_o be_v a_o moderator_n in_o the_o school_n for_o when_o a_o man_n thought_n have_v be_v employ_v another_o way_n and_o the_o delight_n of_o sense_n have_v for_o a_o long_a while_n preoccupy_v his_o understanding_n he_o will_v judge_v thing_n to_o be_v good_a or_o evil_a according_a as_o they_o disgust_v or_o gratify_v his_o low_a appetite_n and_o this_o be_v the_o standard_n by_o which_o he_o measure_v thing_n it_o be_v impossible_a he_o shall_v have_v any_o savour_n of_o those_o spiritual_a good_n in_o which_o the_o happiness_n of_o heaven_n consist_v for_o though_o in_o his_o nature_n there_o be_v a_o tendency_n to_o rational_a pleasure_n yet_o this_o he_o may_v and_o very_o frequent_o do_v stifle_v and_o extinguish_v by_o addict_v himself_o whole_o to_o the_o delight_n and_o gratification_n of_o his_o sense_n which_o by_o degree_n will_v so_o melt_v down_o his_o rational_a inclination_n into_o his_o sensual_a and_o confound_v and_o mingle_v they_o with_o his_o carnal_a appetite_n that_o his_o soul_n will_v whole_o sympathize_v with_o his_o body_n and_o have_v all_o like_v and_o dislike_v in_o common_a with_o
his_o happiness_n for_o what_o great_a torment_n can_v our_o mind_n endure_v than_o to_o be_v a_o everlasting_a spectator_n of_o the_o bliss_n and_o happiness_n of_o one_o who_o it_o hate_v how_o then_o will_v it_o fret_v and_o gall_v our_o meager_a and_o envious_a spirit_n to_o see_v that_o bless_a be_v who_o we_o can_v endure_v surround_v with_o a_o infinite_a happiness_n with_o a_o happiness_n so_o vast_a as_o that_o it_o can_v admit_v of_o no_o increase_n and_o yet_o so_o secure_a as_o that_o it_o can_v never_o suffer_v a_o diminution_n so_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a you_o see_v for_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n to_o live_v happy_o upon_o god_n in_o the_o other_o life_n unless_o it_o be_v inspire_v beforehand_o with_o a_o hearty_a love_n and_o affection_n to_o he_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o holy_a religion_n do_v so_o strict_o require_v we_o to_o love_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n with_o all_o our_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o our_o mind_n mat._n xxii_o 37_o to_o love_v he_o because_o he_o love_v we_o first_o to_o delight_v ourselves_o in_o the_o lord_n psal._n xxxvii_o 4_o and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n phil._n iii._o 1_o and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n always_o phil._n four_o 4_o i_o e._n to_o be_v habitual_o complacent_fw-la or_o well_o please_v with_o the_o infinite_a beauty_n goodness_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n nay_o of_o such_o vast_a import_n be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o account_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o it_o be_v there_o recommend_v as_o the_o proper_a principle_n of_o christian_a life_n for_o so_o rom._n xiii_o 10_o we_o be_v tell_v that_o love_n be_v the_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n that_o be_v the_o adequate_a principle_n of_o all_o christian_a obedience_n and_o gal._n v._n 6_o we_o be_v tell_v that_o neither_o circumcision_n nor_o uncircumcision_n avail_v any_o thing_n in_o christ_n jesus_n but_o faith_n which_o work_v by_o love_n that_o be_v there_o be_v nothing_o of_o any_o account_n with_o christ_n buch_v such_o a_o belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o beget_v in_o we_o a_o hearty_a love_n to_o god_n and_o do_v thereby_o work_v and_o exert_v itself_o as_o by_o that_o which_o be_v the_o only_a genuine_a principle_n of_o christian_a life_n and_o action_n it_o be_v true_a beside_o this_o principle_n of_o love_n the_o gospel_n act_v we_o both_o by_o our_o fear_n and_o hope_n exciting_a the_o one_o by_o threaten_n of_o the_o great_a evil_n and_o animate_v the_o other_o with_o promise_n of_o the_o great_a good_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o neither_o these_o nor_o any_o other_o principle_n of_o religious_a action_n can_v be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n whilst_o they_o be_v total_o separate_v from_o love_n to_o he_o for_o there_o be_v no_o principle_n of_o obedience_n can_v be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n that_o be_v not_o a_o principle_n of_o universal_a obedience_n but_o to_o love_n god_n be_v a_o great_a and_o main_a instance_n of_o obedience_n that_o can_v be_v no_o principle_n of_o universal_a obedience_n which_o do_v not_o effectual_o excite_v we_o to_o love_v he_o it_o be_v true_a the_o religion_n of_o most_o man_n begin_v upon_o the_o principle_n of_o hope_n and_o fear_v and_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o these_o be_v good_a beginning_n but_o yet_o till_o by_o these_o we_o be_v excite_v to_o love_n god_n as_o well_o as_o to_o do_v the_o other_o part_n of_o our_o duty_n our_o obedience_n be_v lame_a and_o partial_a and_o consequent_o unacceptable_a so_o that_o though_o hope_v and_o fear_n be_v good_a ingredient_n to_o compound_v a_o acceptable_a principle_n of_o obedience_n yet_o without_o a_o intermixture_n of_o love_n they_o be_v by_o no_o mean_n sufficient_a there_o may_v be_v indeed_o and_o at_o first_o there_o general_o be_v much_o less_o of_o love_n in_o this_o internal_a spring_n of_o our_o obedience_n than_o of_o hope_n or_o fear_v whilst_o yet_o the_o whole_a composition_n be_v true_o please_v and_o acceptable_a to_o god_n for_o the_o low_a degree_n of_o cordial_a love_n intermix_v with_o our_o hope_n and_o fear_v be_v sufficient_a to_o leaven_n and_o consecrate_v they_o into_o a_o acceptable_a principle_n of_o obedience_n but_o still_o the_o less_o of_o love_n there_o be_v in_o it_o the_o more_o weak_a and_o languid_a and_o imperfect_a it_o be_v and_o in_o all_o its_o progress_v towards_o perfection_n its_o ripeness_n and_o maturity_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v by_o the_o degree_n of_o love_n that_o be_v in_o it_o and_o till_o our_o love_n be_v arrive_v to_o that_o degree_n of_o fervour_n and_o ardency_n as_o to_o become_v the_o predominant_a motive_n and_o master_n ingredient_n of_o this_o our_o compound_a principle_n of_o obedience_n our_o state_n in_o goodness_n be_v very_o low_a and_o imperfect_a so_o that_o in_o short_a the_o principle_n that_o act_n and_o move_v we_o in_o religion_n be_v still_o more_o and_o more_o perfect_a the_o more_o of_o love_n there_o be_v in_o it_o and_o the_o less_o of_o hope_n and_o fear_n and_o when_o hope_n and_o fear_n be_v both_o swallow_v up_o in_o love_n and_o this_o be_v become_v the_o sole_a spring_n of_o action_n in_o we_o then_o it_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o heaven_n the_o soul_n that_o act_n and_o animate_v the_o religion_n of_o just_a man_n make_v perfect_a so_o that_o if_o ever_o we_o design_v to_o grow_v up_o to_o their_o bless_a state_n we_o must_v endeavour_v to_o kindle_v and_o blow_v up_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o in_o order_n hereunto_o we_o must_v be_v frequent_o represent_v to_o our_o own_o mind_n the_o infinite_a reason_n we_o have_v to_o love_v he_o and_o press_v ourselves_o with_o the_o vast_a obligation_n he_o have_v lay_v upon_o we_o spread_v they_o fair_o before_o our_o thought_n in_o all_o their_o endear_n circumstance_n we_o must_v ever_o and_o anon_o set_v our_o cold_a and_o freeze_a soul_n before_o those_o melt_a flame_n of_o his_o love_n and_o beauty_n and_o never_o leave_v chafe_v they_o at_o they_o urge_v and_o press_v they_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o they_o till_o we_o feel_v the_o heavenly_a fire_n begin_v to_o kindle_v in_o our_o bosom_n and_o above_o all_o thing_n we_o must_v take_v care_n by_o the_o constant_a practice_n of_o what_o be_v agreeable_a to_o god_n nature_n to_o reconcile_v our_o mind_n and_o temper_n to_o he_o for_o till_o this_o be_v do_v we_o can_v never_o be_v habitual_o please_v or_o delight_v in_o he_o but_o when_o once_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o those_o eternal_a rule_n of_o goodness_n that_o be_v found_v in_o his_o bless_a nature_n we_o have_v so_o far_o reconcile_v our_o nature_n to_o he_o as_o that_o our_o heart_n and_o his_o stand_n bend_v the_o same_o way_n and_o be_v for_o the_o main_a alike_o incline_v and_o dispose_v than_o we_o be_v prepare_v for_o and_o make_v proper_a and_o convenient_a fuel_n to_o receive_v this_o heavenly_a flame_n of_o love_n to_o he_o and_o when_o this_o be_v once_o so_o thorough_o kindle_v in_o our_o heart_n as_o that_o we_o be_v habitual_o well_o please_v and_o delight_v in_o he_o so_o as_o to_o rejoice_v in_o his_o happiness_n acquiesce_v in_o his_o will_n and_o meditate_v on_o his_o beauty_n and_o goodness_n with_o a_o unfeigned_a complacency_n of_o soul_n we_o be_v then_o in_o the_o same_o state_n that_o be_v in_o kind_a though_o not_o in_o degree_n with_o the_o bless_a people_n of_o heaven_n and_o though_o in_o this_o life_n we_o may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o raise_v ourselves_o to_o that_o height_n of_o love_n as_o we_o desire_v and_o much_o less_o as_o that_o bless_a object_n deserve_v our_o present_a knowledge_n be_v short_a our_o thought_n unsteady_a and_o our_o affection_n entangle_v in_o sense_n and_o sensual_a thing_n yet_o when_o we_o go_v from_o hence_o into_o the_o other_o world_n and_o be_v there_o admit_v to_o a_o more_o intimate_a view_n of_o his_o nature_n work_n and_o perfection_n our_o imperfect_a love_n will_v be_v immediate_o improve_v into_o a_o high_a seraphic_a flame_n for_o now_o we_o shall_v not_o only_o know_v he_o better_o have_v he_o always_o in_o our_o view_n and_o continual_o shine_v full_a in_o our_o eye_n but_o we_o shall_v be_v remove_v from_o all_o other_o object_n that_o be_v apt_a to_o divert_v our_o thought_n or_o divide_v our_o affection_n from_o he_o so_o that_o now_o our_o love_n be_v kindle_v and_o feed_v with_o the_o pure_a light_n with_o the_o ever_o outstreaming_a ray_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a beauty_n and_o goodness_n will_v always_o exert_v its_o utmost_a vigour_n and_o spend_v itself_o without_o decay_n in_o one_o continue_v everlasting_a rapture_n and_o then_o how_o unconceivable_o happy_a will_v our_o state_n be_v when_o we_o shall_v always_o live_v in_o view_n of_o the_o most_o lovely_a
your_o corrupt_a nature_n yet_o if_o you_o vigorous_o persist_v in_o it_o you_o will_v find_v the_o difficulty_n will_v soon_o wear_v off_o and_o then_o it_o will_v be_v all_o ease_n and_o pleasure_n for_o when_o our_o nature_n be_v deprave_v either_o by_o sensuality_n or_o devilishness_n it_o be_v like_o a_o bone_n out_o of_o joint_n full_a of_o pain_n while_o it_o be_v out_o and_o much_o more_o painful_a while_o it_o be_v set_v but_o as_o soon_o as_o that_o be_v do_v it_o be_v immediate_o well_o and_o easy_a vi_o and_o last_o consider_v the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o this_o heavenly_a life_n and_o conversation_n for_o beside_o that_o god_n exact_v it_o of_o we_o as_o a_o indispensable_a condition_n of_o our_o happiness_n and_o have_v assure_v we_o that_o if_o we_o live_v after_o the_o flesh_n we_o shall_v die_v and_o that_o without_o holiness_n we_o shall_v never_o see_v the_o lord_n beside_o this_o i_o say_v a_o heavenly_a conversation_n be_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n necessary_a to_o qualify_v we_o for_o heaven_n or_o as_o the_o apostle_n express_v it_o to_o make_v we_o meet_v to_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n for_o happiness_n be_v a_o relative_a thing_n imply_v in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o it_o a_o mutual_a correspondence_n between_o the_o object_n which_o felicitate_a and_o the_o faculty_n which_o be_v felicitate_v by_o they_o and_o be_v the_o object_n never_o so_o good_a in_o themselves_o never_o so_o pregnant_a with_o pleasure_n and_o bliss_n yet_o if_o they_o do_v not_o agree_v with_o the_o faculty_n whereunto_o they_o be_v object_v instead_o of_o blessing_n they_o will_v but_o afflict_v and_o torment_v they_o and_o if_o a_o man_n be_v place_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o heaven_n among_o all_o the_o ravish_a fruition_n with_o which_o that_o bless_a place_n abound_v yet_o unless_o his_o mind_n and_o temper_n do_v suit_n and_o agree_v with_o they_o they_o will_v be_v so_o many_o misery_n and_o vexation_n to_o he_o and_o he_o will_v be_v afflict_v even_o in_o abraham_n bosom_n and_o grope_v for_o heaven_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o paradise_n so_o that_o suppose_v that_o god_n be_v so_o unreasonable_o fond_a of_o the_o happiness_n of_o wicked_a soul_n as_o to_o prefer_v it_o before_o the_o honour_n of_o his_o government_n and_o the_o purity_n of_o his_o nature_n and_o the_o sanction_n of_o his_o law_n yet_o still_o there_o be_v a_o invincible_a obstacle_n behind_o that_o must_v render_v their_o future_a felicity_n impossible_a and_o that_o be_v that_o it_o can_v be_v without_o a_o plain_a contradiction_n to_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n the_o temper_n of_o wicked_a soul_n be_v whole_o repugnant_a to_o all_o the_o felicity_n of_o the_o other_o world_n so_o that_o if_o they_o be_v all_o set_v before_o they_o they_o will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o enjoy_v they_o but_o must_v be_v force_v to_o pine_v and_o famish_v amid_o all_o that_o plenty_n of_o delight_n there_o be_v no_o viand_n in_o all_o that_o heavenly_a entertainment_n that_o they_o will_v relish_v any_o sweetness_n in_o and_o therefore_o if_o god_n shall_v so_o far_o pardon_v they_o as_o not_o to_o punish_v they_o himself_o by_o any_o immediate_a stroke_n of_o vengeance_n that_o will_v be_v the_o utmost_a favour_n that_o his_o omnipotent_a goodness_n can_v do_v for_o they_o whilst_o they_o continue_v in_o their_o sin_n which_o notwithstanding_o such_o a_o pardon_n will_v for_o ever_o continue_v they_o extreme_o miserable_a and_o what_o great_a matter_n do_v a_o pardon_n signify_v to_o a_o malefactor_n that_o be_v die_v of_o the_o stone_n or_o strangury_n he_o can_v but_o have_v die_v though_o he_o have_v not_o be_v pardon_v and_o die_v he_o must_v though_o he_o be_v and_o just_o as_o little_a almost_o will_v it_o signify_v to_o a_o deprave_a soul_n to_o be_v pardon_v and_o absolve_v by_o god_n whilst_o it_o have_v a_o disease_n within_o that_o prey_v upon_o its_o vital_n and_o hasten_v it_o on_o to_o a_o certain_a ruin_n for_o it_o can_v have_v be_v but_o miserable_a in_o the_o future_a life_n if_o it_o have_v not_o be_v pardon_v and_o miserable_a it_o must_v be_v if_o it_o continue_v wicked_a whether_o it_o be_v pardon_v or_o no._n for_o it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o place_n as_o the_o state_n that_o make_v either_o heaven_n or_o hell_n and_o the_o state_n of_o heaven_n and_o hell_n consist_v in_o perfect_a holiness_n and_o wickedness_n and_o proportionable_o as_o we_o do_v improve_v in_o either_o of_o these_o so_o we_o do_v approach_v towards_o the_o one_o state_n or_o the_o other_o for_o as_o heaven_n be_v the_o centre_n of_o all_o that_o be_v virtuous_a pure_a and_o holy_a and_o all_o that_o be_v good_a tend_v thither_o by_o a_o natural_a sympathy_n so_o hell_n be_v the_o centre_n of_o all_o impiety_n and_o wickedness_n and_o all_o that_o be_v bad_a do_v natural_o press_v and_o sink_v down_o thither_o as_o towards_o its_o proper_a place_n and_o element_n and_o shall_v not_o the_o divine_a vengeance_n concern_v itself_o to_o exclude_v wicked_a soul_n out_o of_o heaven_n yet_o their_o own_o wickedness_n will_v do_v it_o for_o that_o be_v a_o place_n of_o such_o inaccessible_a light_n and_o purity_n that_o no_o impurity_n or_o wickedness_n can_v approach_v it_o but_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v beat_v off_o with_o the_o dreadful_a lightning_n of_o its_o glory_n and_o tumble_v headlong_o down_o as_o oft_o as_o it_o essay_n to_o climb_v up_o thither_o as_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n shall_v not_o god_n by_o a_o immediate_a vengeance_n precipitate_v wicked_a soul_n into_o hell_n yet_o their_o own_o wickedness_n by_o the_o mighty_a weight_n of_o its_o own_o nature_n will_v inevitable_o press_v and_o sink_v they_o down_o into_o that_o miserable_a condition_n what_o egregious_a nonsense_n therefore_o be_v it_o for_o wicked_a man_n to_o talk_v of_o go_v to_o heaven_n alas_o poor_a creature_n what_o will_v you_o do_v there_o there_o be_v no_o wanton_a amour_n among_o those_o heavenly_a lover_n no_o river_n of_o wine_n among_o their_o river_n of_o pleasure_n to_o gratify_v your_o unbounded_a sensuality_n no_o parasite_n to_o flatter_v your_o lofty_a pride_n no_o misery_n to_o feed_v your_o meager_a envy_n no_o mischief_n to_o tickle_v your_o devilish_a revenge_n nothing_o but_o chaste_a and_o divine_a pure_a and_o spiritual_a enjoyment_n such_o as_o your_o brutish_a and_o devilish_a appetite_n will_v eternal_o loath_a and_o nauseate_a wherefore_o if_o we_o mean_v to_o go_v to_o heaven_n and_o to_o be_v happy_a there_o we_o must_v now_o endeavour_v to_o dispose_v and_o attemper_v our_o mind_n to_o it_o which_o be_v no_o other_o way_n to_o be_v do_v but_o by_o lead_v a_o heavenly_a life_n and_o conversation_n which_o by_o degree_n will_v habituate_v and_o naturalize_v our_o soul_n to_o the_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o so_o work_v and_o inlay_v they_o into_o the_o frame_n and_o temper_v of_o our_o mind_n that_o it_o will_v be_v our_o great_a pleasure_n to_o be_v exert_v and_o exercise_v they_o and_o then_o our_o soul_n will_v be_v dress_v and_o make_v ready_a for_o heaven_n and_o when_o we_o go_v from_o hence_o to_o take_v possession_n of_o its_o joy_n they_o will_v be_v all_o so_o agreeable_a to_o our_o prepare_a appetite_n that_o we_o shall_v present_o fall_v to_o and_o feed_v upon_o they_o with_o infinite_a gust_n and_o relish_n but_o till_o by_o live_v a_o heavenly_a life_n we_o have_v dispose_v ourselves_o for_o heaven_n we_o be_v utter_o incapable_a of_o enjoy_v it_o so_o that_o now_o thing_n be_v reduce_v to_o this_o issue_n that_o either_o our_o sin_n or_o our_o soul_n must_v die_v and_o we_o must_v necessary_o shake_v hand_n either_o with_o heaven_n or_o our_o lusts._n and_o therefore_o unless_o we_o value_v eternal_a happiness_n so_o little_a as_o to_o exchange_v it_o for_o the_o sordid_a and_o trifle_a pleasure_n of_o sin_n and_o unless_o we_o love_v our_o sin_n so_o well_o as_o to_o ransom_v they_o with_o the_o blood_n of_o our_o immortal_a soul_n it_o concern_v we_o speedy_o to_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o this_o heavenly_a life_n and_o conversation_n for_o this_o be_v a_o eternal_a and_o immutable_a law_n that_o if_o we_o will_v be_v wicked_a we_o must_v be_v miserable_a chap._n iu._n concern_v the_o militant_a or_o warfaring_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o acquire_v and_o perfect_v the_o heavenly_a virtue_n show_v how_o effectual_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o it_o conduce_v thereunto_o have_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n give_v a_o large_a account_n of_o the_o heavenly_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n and_o show_v how_o direct_o and_o immediate_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o the_o virtue_n that_o be_v comprehend_v in_o it_o tend_v to_o the_o heavenly_a state_n and_o how_o natural_o they_o all_o grow_v into_o eternal_a
happiness_n i_o shall_v in_o the_o next_o place_n endeavour_n to_o give_v some_o brief_a account_n of_o that_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n which_o be_v pure_o militant_a and_o which_o whole_o consist_v of_o those_o instrumental_a duty_n by_o the_o use_n of_o which_o we_o be_v to_o conquer_v the_o difficulty_n of_o those_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o to_o acquire_v and_o perfect_v they_o which_o difficulty_n as_o i_o show_v before_o chap._n 2._o be_v the_o inbred_a corruption_n of_o our_o own_o nature_n together_o with_o those_o manifold_a temptation_n from_o without_o by_o which_o they_o be_v continual_o provoke_v and_o excite_v and_o so_o to_o subdue_v and_o conquer_v these_o as_o that_o they_o may_v neither_o take_v we_o off_o from_o nor_o clog_v and_o indispose_v we_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o heavenly_a virtue_n be_v the_o great_a design_n and_o business_n of_o this_o warfaring_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n that_o i_o may_v therefore_o handle_v it_o 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to_o render_v we_o acceptable_a to_o god_n 4._o a_o hearty_a sorrow_n shame_n and_o remorse_n for_o our_o sin_n past_a 5._o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n for_o aid_n and_o assistance_n to_o enable_v we_o effectual_o to_o renounce_v they_o 6._o a_o serious_a and_o well_o weigh_v resolution_n to_o forsake_v and_o abandon_v they_o for_o ever_o i._o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o our_o good_a beginning_n of_o this_o our_o christian_a warfare_n that_o we_o shall_v hearty_o believe_v the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o our_o religion_n for_o our_o hearty_a belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v in_o scripture_n represent_v as_o the_o main_a and_o principal_a weapon_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o combat_v against_o the_o world_n and_o our_o own_o lusts._n and_o hence_o it_o be_v call_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o breastplate_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v the_o two_o principal_a part_n of_o armour_n of_o defence_n denote_v that_o a_o hearty_a belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o principal_a 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not_o true_a be_v not_o so_o that_o which_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v be_v to_o we_o as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o how_o then_o be_v it_o possible_a we_o shall_v be_v move_v by_o that_o good_a or_o evil_a which_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v and_o in_o which_o by_o consequence_n we_o can_v apprehend_v ourselves_o concern_v wherefore_o in_o our_o entrance_n into_o the_o christian_a warfare_n it_o be_v high_o necessary_a that_o we_o do_v not_o take_v up_o our_o faith_n at_o a_o venture_n and_o believe_v wink_v without_o know_v why_o or_o wherefore_o but_o that_o we_o shall_v so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a impartial_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o our_o religion_n and_o search_v into_o the_o ground_n of_o its_o credibility_n that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o give_v some_o reason_n to_o ourselves_o and_o other_o of_o the_o hope_n that_o be_v in_o we_o for_o
to_o and_o fair_o represent_v to_o ourselves_o all_o the_o difficulty_n and_o temptation_n wherewith_o we_o must_v engage_v and_o as_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v render_v they_o actual_a and_o present_a to_o we_o by_o suppose_v ourselves_o already_o engage_v in_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n and_o surround_v with_o all_o the_o temptation_n both_o from_o within_o and_o without_o that_o we_o can_v reasonable_o expect_v will_v oppose_v themselves_o against_o we_o and_o have_v thus_o place_v ourselves_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o difficulty_n of_o religion_n we_o must_v never_o cease_v urge_v ourselves_o with_o the_o great_a argument_n and_o motive_n of_o it_o till_o we_o have_v thorough_o persuade_v our_o stubborn_a will_n and_o obtain_v of_o they_o a_o explicit_a consent_n to_o every_o duty_n that_o call_v for_o our_o consent_n and_o resolution_n iii_o to_o our_o good_a beginning_n of_o the_o christian_a warfare_n it_o be_v also_o necessary_a that_o we_o be_v deep_o and_o thorough_o convince_v of_o our_o great_a need_n of_o a_o mediator_n to_o make_v a_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o render_v we_o acceptable_a to_o god_n for_o it_o be_v to_o convince_v we_o of_o this_o necessary_a truth_n that_o the_o scripture_n do_v so_o express_o declare_v that_o as_o there_o be_v one_o god_n so_o there_o be_v one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n 1_o tim._n two_o 5_o that_o if_o any_o man_n sin_n we_o have_v a_o advocate_n with_o the_o father_n jesus_n christ_n the_o righteous_a and_o that_o he_o be_v the_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o not_o for_o we_o only_o but_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o that_o it_o be_v for_o his_o name_n sake_n that_o our_o sin_n be_v forgive_v 1_o john_n two_o 1_o 2_o 12._o that_o we_o have_v redemption_n through_o his_o blood_n eph._n i._n 7_o and_o that_o without_o the_o shed_v his_o blood_n there_o be_v no_o remission_n and_o that_o it_o be_v by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o himself_o that_o christ_n put_v away_o sin_n heb._n ix_o 22_o 26._o that_o we_o be_v accept_v of_o god_n through_o his_o belove_a son_n eph._n i._n 6_o that_o christ_n be_v enter_v into_o heaven_n now_o to_o appear_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n for_o we_o heb._n ix_o 24_o and_o that_o there_o he_o ever_o live_v to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o heb._n seven_o 25_o that_o it_o be_v through_o he_o that_o we_o have_v access_n unto_o the_o father_n eph._n two_o 18_o and_o by_o he_o that_o we_o have_v admittance_n to_o his_o grace_n and_o favour_n rom._n v._n 2_o the_o design_n of_o all_o which_o be_v thorough_o to_o convince_v we_o of_o this_o great_a truth_n that_o by_o our_o apostasy_n from_o god_n and_o rebellion_n against_o he_o we_o have_v all_o render_v ourselves_o so_o very_o obnoxious_a to_o his_o vengeance_n that_o he_o will_v not_o pardon_v we_o upon_o any_o less_o atonement_n than_o the_o precious_a blood_n nor_o admit_v we_o into_o favour_n upon_o any_o less_o motive_n than_o the_o powerful_a intercession_n of_o his_o own_o son_n that_o by_o the_o heinousness_n of_o our_o gild_n we_o have_v so_o high_o incense_v the_o father_n of_o mercy_n against_o we_o that_o no_o less_o consideration_n than_o the_o death_n and_o advocation_n of_o the_o great_a and_o dear_a person_n in_o the_o whole_a world_n will_v move_v he_o to_o admit_v of_o our_o repentance_n and_o listen_v to_o our_o supplication_n and_o certain_o next_o to_o exact_v the_o punishment_n due_a to_o our_o sin_n at_o our_o own_o hand_n the_o most_o dreadful_a severity_n he_o can_v have_v express_v be_v to_o resolve_v not_o to_o remit_v it_o upon_o any_o other_o consideration_n than_o that_o of_o his_o own_o son_n undergo_n it_o in_o our_o stead_n by_o which_o he_o have_v give_v we_o the_o great_a reason_n that_o heaven_n and_o earth_n can_v afford_v to_o tremble_v at_o his_o justice_n even_o whilst_o we_o be_v enclose_v in_o the_o arm_n of_o his_o mercy_n this_o therefore_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v deep_o and_o thorough_o convince_v of_o that_o our_o sin_n have_v set_v we_o at_o such_o a_o distance_n from_o god_n that_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n will_v reconcile_v he_o to_o we_o and_o that_o though_o without_o our_o repentance_n he_o will_v never_o be_v reconcile_v to_o we_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o that_o or_o any_o thing_n else_o we_o can_v do_v that_o he_o will_v be_v induce_v to_o receive_v we_o into_o favour_n but_o only_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o that_o precious_a sacrifice_n which_o his_o eternal_a son_n have_v offer_v up_o for_o we_o the_o firm_a persuasion_n and_o consideration_n of_o which_o will_v mighty_o over-awe_n our_o mind_n and_o imprint_v upon_o they_o such_o ghastly_a and_o horrible_a apprehension_n of_o sin_n as_o will_v scare_v we_o from_o all_o thought_n of_o compliance_n with_o it_o the_o dreadful_a demonstration_n which_o god_n have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o righteous_a severity_n against_o it_o in_o the_o very_a reason_n of_o his_o pardon_v it_o will_v effectual_o antidote_n we_o against_o all_o our_o sinful_a security_n and_o confidence_n for_o this_o way_n of_o god_n pardon_v we_o upon_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o his_o son_n guard_v his_o mercy_n with_o such_o a_o awful_a terror_n as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o dishearten_v the_o most_o desperate_a sinner_n from_o presume_v upon_o it_o for_o he_o that_o dare_v presume_v to_o sin_v on_o upon_o a_o mercy_n that_o cost_v the_o blood_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n have_v courage_n enough_o to_o outface_v the_o flame_n of_o hell_n and_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o any_o mercy_n that_o the_o great_a god_n can_v indulge_v with_o safety_n to_o his_o own_o authority_n for_o what_o mercy_n can_v be_v safe_a from_o that_o man_n abuse_n and_o presumption_n that_o dare_v abuse_v a_o mercy_n so_o guard_v and_o secure_v as_o this_o be_v by_o be_v found_v upon_o such_o a_o dreadful_a consideration_n and_o as_o a_o through_o persuasion_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o christ_n sacrifice_n to_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o our_o sin_n will_v fill_v we_o with_o awful_a apprehension_n of_o the_o divine_a severity_n and_o set_v before_o we_o a_o most_o dismal_a prospect_n of_o the_o vast_a demerit_n of_o our_o sin_n both_o which_o be_v necessary_a to_o engage_v we_o to_o a_o through_o reformation_n so_o a_o through_o conviction_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o his_o intercession_n to_o render_v our_o duty_n our_o prayer_n and_o person_n acceptable_a to_o god_n will_v effectual_o humble_a and_o abase_v we_o in_o our_o own_o eye_n which_o as_o i_o shall_v show_v you_o by_o and_o by_o be_v high_o conducive_a to_o a_o good_a beginning_n of_o this_o our_o christian_a warfare_n for_o next_o to_o banish_v we_o from_o his_o presence_n for_o ever_o the_o most_o effectual_a course_n god_n can_v take_v to_o abase_v we_o be_v to_o exclude_v we_o from_o all_o immediate_a intercourse_n with_o he_o and_o not_o to_o admit_v of_o any_o more_o address_n or_o supplication_n from_o we_o but_o only_o through_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o mediator_n which_o be_v a_o plain_a demonstration_n how_o infinite_o pure_a he_o be_v and_o how_o base_a and_o vile_a our_o sin_n have_v render_v we_o insomuch_o that_o he_o will_v not_o suffer_v a_o sinful_a creature_n to_o come_v near_o he_o otherwise_o than_o by_o a_o proxy_n that_o he_o will_v not_o accept_v of_o a_o service_n from_o a_o guilty_a hand_n nor_o listen_v to_o a_o prayer_n from_o a_o sinful_a mouth_n till_o it_o be_v first_o hallow_a and_o present_v to_o he_o by_o a_o pure_a and_o holy_a mediator_n so_o that_o unless_o we_o be_v strange_o inconsiderate_a we_o can_v but_o be_v touch_v with_o a_o deep_a sense_n of_o our_o own_o vileness_n when_o we_o think_v at_o what_o a_o distance_n the_o pure_a and_o holy_a god_n keep_v we_o how_o he_o stand_v off_o at_o the_o stench_n of_o our_o abomination_n and_o notwithstanding_o all_o his_o benignity_n towards_o we_o will_v neither_o hear_v we_o nor_o have_v any_o thing_n to_o do_v with_o we_o without_o the_o powerful_a intercession_n of_o his_o own_o son_n and_o as_o our_o conviction_n of_o the_o necessity_n we_o have_v of_o christ_n sacrifice_n and_o intercession_n be_v very_o apt_a to_o affect_v we_o with_o holy_a sorrow_n and_o fear_n both_o which_o be_v very_o powerful_a instrument_n of_o our_o reformation_n so_o our_o persuasion_n of_o the_o reality_n and_o excellency_n of_o his_o mediation_n be_v no_o less_o apt_a to_o inspire_v we_o with_o a_o mighty_a hope_n and_o assurance_n of_o acceptance_n with_o god_n if_o we_o reform_v and_o amend_v for_o it_o seem_v that_o upon_o propitiatory_a sacrifice_n and_o intercede_v spirit_n guilty_a mind_n have_v be_v always_o incline_v to_o place_v their_o confidence_n of_o acceptance_n with_o god_n hence_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n general_o
from_o virtue_n to_o vice_n or_o from_o vice_n to_o virtue_n he_o will_v still_o be_v ready_a to_o face_v about_o with_o it_o and_o be_v always_o veer_v like_o a_o weathercock_n to_o a_o contrary_a point_n upon_o every_o change_n of_o wind._n whereas_o when_o a_o man_n intention_n pure_o respect_v god_n it_o will_v be_v immovable_o fix_v among_o all_o the_o change_n and_o alteration_n from_o without_o for_o there_o be_v no_o outward_a change_n or_o capricio_n of_o fortune_n can_v hinder_v a_o man_n from_o please_a god_n who_o love_n to_o we_o depend_v not_o upon_o our_o be_v poor_a or_o rich_a please_v or_o pain_v depress_v or_o advance_v but_o upon_o our_o be_v true_o virtuous_a and_o religious_a and_o therefore_o if_o our_o aim_n be_v pure_o to_o please_v he_o we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o continue_v so_o which_o side_n soever_o fortune_n smile_v upon_o wherefore_o to_o our_o successful_a progress_n in_o religion_n it_o be_v high_o necessary_a that_o so_o far_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v we_o shall_v abstract_a and_o separate_v our_o religious_a intention_n from_o all_o these_o worldly_a respect_n and_o this_o must_v be_v do_v by_o look_v frequent_o up_o to_o god_n and_o actual_o refer_v and_o dedicate_a our_o action_n to_o he_o by_o shut_v our_o eye_n when_o we_o be_v enter_v upon_o any_o duty_n to_o all_o worldly_a consideration_n and_o determine_v with_o ourselves_o this_o i_o will_v do_v pure_o because_o it_o be_v godlike_a or_o because_o god_n have_v command_v it_o whether_o i_o shall_v be_v commend_v or_o disgrace_v for_o it_o whether_o i_o shall_v get_v or_o lose_v by_o it_o i_o will_v not_o now_o regard_n it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o it_o be_v good_a and_o that_o god_n have_v command_v it_o and_o therefore_o for_o this_o reason_n only_o i_o will_v do_v it_o without_o any_o other_o respect_n or_o consideration_n by_o which_o mean_v we_o shall_v by_o degree_n so_o purify_v our_o intention_n and_o refine_v they_o from_o worldly_a aim_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o act_v vigorous_o in_o religion_n without_o any_o other_o respect_n but_o that_o of_o please_a god_n and_o conform_v ourselves_o to_o his_o will_n and_o nature_n and_o when_o once_o we_o can_v do_v thus_o we_o be_v in_o a_o great_a forwardness_n in_o religion_n for_o now_o the_o will_n of_o god_n have_v get_v such_o a_o ascendant_n over_o we_o that_o as_o we_o can_v cheerful_o obey_v he_o without_o external_a inducement_n so_o we_o can_v free_o contemn_v all_o inducement_n to_o the_o contrary_a and_o it_o be_v our_o great_a and_o chief_a aim_n to_o please_v and_o be_v like_o he_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v without_o we_o will_v have_v very_o little_a power_n to_o move_v we_o one_o way_n or_o '_o other_o because_o now_o our_o great_a aim_n be_v above_o they_o and_o our_o eye_n be_v so_o steadfast_o fix_v upon_o god_n that_o we_o be_v not_o at_o leisure_n to_o regard_v they_o and_o our_o mind_n be_v thus_o indispose_v to_o listen_v to_o the_o restless_a importunity_n of_o external_a good_n and_o evil_n our_o innocence_n be_v safe_a and_o we_o may_v pass_v triumphant_o through_o all_o their_o temptation_n it_o be_v a_o noble_a say_v of_o epictetus_n lib._n 2._o c._n 19_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d etc._n etc._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i._n e._n there_o be_v no_o other_o way_n for_o a_o man_n to_o eject_v sorrow_n and_o fear_n and_o lust_n from_o his_o soul_n but_o by_o look_v up_o to_o god_n alone_o and_o resign_v ourselves_o to_o he_o only_o and_o devote_v our_o life_n to_o the_o obedience_n of_o his_o commandment_n and_o elsewhere_o he_o tell_v his_o scholar_n that_o the_o main_a thing_n which_o he_o drive_v at_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i._n e._n to_o make_v they_o free_a and_o bless_a by_o persuade_v they_o to_o look_v up_o to_o god_n in_o every_o thing_n whether_o it_o be_v small_a or_o great_a lib._n 2._o c._n 19_o for_o whilst_o in_o our_o religious_a intention_n we_o do_v too_o much_o respect_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v without_o we_o we_o do_v in_o a_o great_a measure_n intrust_v they_o with_o our_o virtue_n and_o religion_n and_o so_o far_o as_o we_o make_v they_o inducement_n to_o our_o duty_n so_o far_o it_o be_v in_o their_o power_n to_o secure_v or_o betray_v it_o as_o for_o instance_n so_o much_o as_o i_o aim_v at_o profit_n in_o any_o religious_a action_n so_o much_o power_n profit_n have_v over_o my_o religion_n and_o if_o the_o same_o profit_n shall_v invite_v i_o to_o a_o wicked_a action_n it_o will_v have_v as_o much_o power_n to_o betray_v my_o religion_n as_o it_o have_v to_o secure_v it_o for_o the_o same_o gain_n will_v have_v the_o same_o influence_n on_o i_o when_o it_o tempt_v i_o to_o sin_n as_o it_o have_v when_o it_o tempt_v i_o to_o obey_v what_o a_o dangerous_a thing_n therefore_o be_v it_o for_o man_n to_o intrust_v such_o a_o treasure_n as_o their_o innocence_n and_o religion_n in_o such_o irresponsible_a hand_n and_o to_o give_v those_o outward_a thing_n which_o be_v the_o temptation_n of_o vice_n a_o power_n to_o dispose_v of_o their_o virtue_n what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o commit_v the_o keep_n of_o our_o sheep_n to_o a_o wolf_n or_o of_o our_o chastity_n to_o a_o goat_n wherefore_o as_o we_o will_v be_v safe_a in_o our_o religious_a progress_n it_o high_o concern_v we_o to_o purify_v our_o good_a intention_n so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a from_o all_o worldly_a respect_n and_o to_o level_v they_o direct_o and_o immediate_o at_o god_n and_o in_o order_n hereunto_o v._o to_o render_v the_o course_n and_o progress_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n successful_a it_o be_v also_o necessary_a that_o we_o possess_v our_o mind_n with_o a_o awful_a apprehension_n of_o god_n presence_n with_o and_o inspection_n over_o we_o among_o the_o many_o excellent_a rule_n which_o the_o heathen_a moralist_n have_v give_v for_o the_o conduct_n of_o man_n life_n this_o be_v one_o that_o in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o their_o life_n they_o shall_v imagine_v some_o excellent_a person_n for_o who_o they_o have_v a_o great_a veneration_n to_o be_v present_a with_o they_o as_o a_o witness_n and_o spectator_n of_o all_o their_o action_n and_o it_o be_v wholesome_a advice_n that_o one_o give_v his_o lewd_a friend_n that_o he_o shall_v hang_v the_o picture_n of_o his_o grave_n and_o serious_a father_n in_o the_o room_n where_o he_o be_v wont_a to_o celebrate_v his_o debauch_n imagine_v that_o the_o severe_a eye_n of_o the_o good_a old_a man_n though_o but_o in_o effigy_n will_v give_v a_o mighty_a check_n to_o the_o wanton_a sally_n of_o the_o intemperate_a youth_n and_o if_o the_o bare_a fiction_n of_o a_o man_n be_v present_a with_o we_o or_o his_o be_v present_a only_o in_o a_o dead_a picture_n may_v be_v rational_o suppose_v to_o have_v so_o strong_a a_o influence_n on_o our_o action_n of_o how_o much_o great_a force_n must_v our_o firm_a belief_n and_o sense_n of_o god_n presence_n with_o we_o be_v to_o regulate_v our_o life_n and_o action_n and_o that_o he_o be_v thus_o present_a with_o we_o we_o have_v sufficient_a reason_n to_o conclude_v not_o only_o from_o the_o infinite_a plenitude_n of_o his_o essence_n which_o be_v self-existent_a can_v not_o be_v bound_v or_o limit_v by_o any_o cause_n from_o without_o and_o therefore_o must_v necessary_o be_v boundless_a and_o immense_a but_o also_o from_o express_a assertion_n of_o scripture_n which_o assure_v we_o that_o his_o eye_n be_v in_o every_o place_n behold_v the_o evil_a and_o the_o good_a prov._n xv_o 3_o that_o he_o be_v a_o god_n at_o hand_n and_o not_o a_o god_n afar_o off_o and_o that_o no_o man_n can_v hide_v himself_o in_o secret_a place_n that_o he_o shall_v not_o see_v he_o and_o that_o he_o fill_v heaven_n and_o earth_n jer._n xxiii_o 23_o 24._o and_o that_o we_o can_v go_v no_o whither_o from_o his_o presence_n psal._n cxxxix_o 7_o 8._o and_o that_o all_o thing_n be_v naked_a and_o open_a to_o his_o eye_n heb._n four_o 13_o that_o be_v that_o the_o world_n be_v surround_v and_o fill_v with_o his_o be_v which_o be_v both_o the_o womb_n that_o contain_v and_o the_o soul_n that_o pervade_v the_o creation_n and_o that_o be_v thus_o present_a with_o we_o wherever_o we_o be_v he_o must_v needs_o be_v suppose_v to_o have_v a_o constant_a inspection_n over_o we_o and_o a_o clear_a sense_n and_o perception_n of_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v and_o he_o be_v thus_o present_a with_o we_o in_o reality_n and_o not_o in_o fiction_n or_o picture_n it_o must_v doubtless_o be_v of_o mighty_a avail_n to_o the_o well-government_n of_o our_o life_n to_o be_v continual_o inspire_v with_o a_o actual_a and_o vigorous_a sense_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o our_o saviour_n command_v we_o to_o do_v good_a from_o a_o
where_o they_o be_v separate_v and_o to_o fix_v the_o just_a boundary_a whitherto_o we_o may_v go_v and_o no_o far_o but_o then_o consider_v that_o almost_o every_o virtue_n lie_v in_o the_o middle_a between_o two_o sinful_a extreme_n neither_o of_o which_o be_v separate_v from_o it_o by_o any_o plain_a or_o visible_a landmark_n how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o we_o without_o great_a care_n of_o our_o step_n to_o keep_v on_o steadfast_o in_o the_o right_a path_n when_o there_o be_v so_o many_o wrong_a one_o border_v upon_o it_o for_o when_o we_o perceive_v we_o have_v wander_v too_o far_o towards_o either_o extreme_a and_o be_v endeavour_v to_o retrieve_v ourselves_o if_o we_o do_v not_o take_v great_a care_n of_o our_o step_n we_o shall_v be_v apt_a to_o wander_v as_o far_o the_o other_o way_n and_o so_o stumble_v out_o of_o one_o extreme_a into_o another_o for_o he_o who_o live_v heedless_o and_o incurious_o regard_v not_o how_o near_o he_o approach_v to_o any_o sin_n provide_v he_o do_v but_o keep_v himself_o out_o of_o it_o and_o when_o once_o a_o man_n take_v the_o liberty_n to_o go_v as_o near_o to_o any_o sin_n as_o he_o think_v he_o lawful_o may_v it_o be_v a_o thousand_o to_o one_o but_o he_o will_v be_v transport_v by_o his_o inclination_n a_o great_a deal_n further_o than_o he_o shall_v so_o true_a be_v that_o of_o clem._n alex._n paedag._n lib._n 2._o c._n 1_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i._n e._n they_o who_o will_v do_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v lawful_a will_v quick_o be_v induce_v to_o do_v what_o be_v unlawful_a especial_o if_o they_o be_v strong_o incline_v to_o it_o because_o the_o very_a nearness_n of_o what_o a_o man_n love_v do_v always_o render_v it_o more_o tempt_a and_o allure_a to_o he_o thus_o he_o that_o have_v a_o strong_a inclination_n to_o lie_v can_v never_o be_v safe_a so_o long_o as_o he_o allow_v himself_o to_o be_v excessive_o talkative_a he_o that_o be_v vehement_o propense_a to_o fleshly_a lust_n must_v needs_o endanger_v his_o innocence_n if_o he_o come_v too_o near_o the_o farthermost_a limit_n of_o a_o modest_a freedom_n and_o he_o who_o nature_n be_v prone_a to_o malice_n and_o revenge_n can_v but_o run_v a_o mighty_a hazard_n if_o he_o indulge_v to_o himself_o the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o a_o just_a and_o lawful_a resentment_n for_o bad_a inclination_n be_v never_o so_o impatient_a of_o restraint_n as_o when_o they_o be_v within_o prospect_n of_o their_o proper_a satisfaction_n and_o the_o object_n which_o attract_v they_o be_v near_o and_o easy_a to_o be_v enjoy_v upon_o which_o account_v it_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o very_a dangerous_a thing_n for_o such_o as_o be_v engage_v in_o the_o christian_a warfare_n to_o live_v within_o sight_n of_o the_o temptation_n they_o be_v most_o incline_v to_o because_o the_o near_o they_o be_v to_o they_o the_o more_o they_o will_v court_v and_o importune_v they_o and_o while_o a_o man_n come_v near_o a_o belove_a lust_n and_o do_v not_o enjoy_v it_o he_o do_v but_o tantalise_v himself_o and_o enrage_v his_o appetite_n after_o those_o vicious_a satisfaction_n who_o allure_a relish_v he_o have_v almost_o forget_v if_o therefore_o he_o will_v obtain_v a_o perfect_a victory_n over_o his_o lust_n he_o must_v not_o only_o forbear_v to_o act_v but_o also_o to_o approach_v it_o at_o least_o till_o he_o have_v so_o far_o wean_v his_o inclination_n from_o it_o as_o that_o its_o nearness_n cease_v to_o be_v a_o temptation_n to_o he_o for_o inclination_n like_o all_o other_o motion_n be_v always_o swift_a when_o it_o be_v near_a its_o centre_n and_o when_o once_o it_o be_v within_o the_o reach_n and_o attraction_n of_o it_o it_o hurry_v towards_o it_o with_o fury_n and_o impatience_n and_o if_o in_o this_o its_o violent_a rage_n it_o happen_v to_o break_v out_o to_o its_o belove_a sin_n and_o to_o taste_v the_o forbid_a pleasure_n of_o it_o it_o will_v thereby_o immediate_o recover_v all_o its_o impair_a strength_n and_o become_v as_o headstrong_a and_o outrageous_a as_o ever_o and_o so_o all_o that_o ground_n which_o we_o get_v in_o a_o month_n abstinence_n from_o our_o sin_n we_o shall_v lose_v in_o a_o moment_n enjoyment_n of_o it_o upon_o this_o account_n therefore_o it_o high_o concern_v we_o if_o we_o will_v succeed_v in_o our_o christian_a warfare_n to_o be_v very_o watchful_a and_o circumspect_a to_o look_v well_o to_o our_o step_n and_o not_o approach_v too_o near_o to_o any_o sin_n but_o especial_o to_o any_o that_o we_o be_v strong_o incline_v to_o viii_o to_o give_v we_o good_a success_n in_o this_o our_o christian_a warfare_n it_o be_v also_o necessary_a that_o we_o be_v diligent_a and_o industrious_a in_o our_o particular_a calling_n this_o be_v one_o of_o those_o instrumental_a duty_n which_o our_o religion_n prescribe_v throughout_o the_o whole_a course_n and_o progress_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n thus_o 1_o thes._n 4._o x_o 2._o we_o beseech_v you_o brethren_n that_o you_o increase_v more_o and_o more_o and_o that_o you_o study_v to_o be_v quiet_a and_o to_o do_v your_o own_o business_n and_o work_v with_o your_o own_o hand_n as_o we_o command_v you_o and_o this_o 2_o thes._n three_o 10_o he_o back_n with_o another_o that_o if_o any_o will_v not_o work_v they_o shall_v not_o eat_v i._n e._n that_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v maintain_v in_o their_o sloth_n and_o idleness_n and_o like_a drone_n be_v permit_v to_o dwell_v at_o ease_n in_o the_o hive_n and_o devour_v the_o labour_n of_o the_o more_o industrious_a bee_n and_o this_o verse_n xi_o he_o call_v walk_v disorderly_a and_o v_o viij_o and_o ix_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o it_o be_v for_o this_o cause_n that_o he_o rather_o choose_v to_o work_v with_o his_o own_o hand_n for_o his_o livelihood_n than_o to_o be_v maintain_v by_o they_o as_o he_o may_v just_o have_v demand_v that_o he_o may_v make_v himself_o a_o example_n of_o diligence_n for_o they_o to_o follow_v so_o also_o eph._n four_o 28_o let_v he_o that_o steal_v steal_v no_o more_o but_o rather_o let_v he_o labour_n work_v with_o his_o hand_n the_o thing_n which_o be_v good_a i._n e._n employ_v himself_o in_o some_o honest_a call_v that_o he_o may_v have_v to_o give_v to_o he_o that_o needs_o the_o sense_n of_o all_o which_o be_v to_o oblige_v we_o to_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o some_o honest_a call_v or_o employment_n and_o to_o be_v diligent_a and_o industrious_a in_o it_o and_o how_o necessary_a this_o be_v to_o secure_v we_o in_o the_o whole_a course_n and_o progress_n of_o our_o religion_n appear_v from_o hence_o that_o we_o be_v natural_o a_o sort_n of_o very_o active_a being_n that_o must_v be_v employ_v one_o way_n or_o other_o that_o we_o have_v a_o mind_n within_o we_o that_o will_v be_v always_o in_o motion_n that_o be_v a_o spiritual_a subsistence_n and_o as_o such_o of_o a_o quite_o different_a nature_n from_o dull_a and_o sluggish_a matter_n will_v never_o admit_v of_o rest_n and_o inactivity_n that_o derive_v all_o its_o pleasure_n from_o action_n and_o have_v nothing_o to_o live_v upon_o but_o the_o grateful_a relish_n of_o its_o own_o motion_n and_o this_o be_v the_o state_n of_o that_o active_a principle_n within_o we_o that_o constitute_v we_o man_n we_o have_v need_n take_v great_a care_n to_o keep_v it_o honest_o busy_v and_o employ_v for_o it_o be_v natural_o such_o a_o exceed_a busy_a thing_n it_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o find_v something_o or_o other_o to_o work_v upon_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o constant_o employ_v about_o honest_a and_o lawful_a thing_n it_o will_v quick_o divert_v the_o current_n of_o its_o motion_n another_o way_n and_o exert_v its_o activity_n upon_o dishonest_a and_o unlawful_a one_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o since_o the_o apostasy_n of_o humane_a nature_n god_n have_v place_v the_o generality_n of_o man_n in_o such_o circumstance_n wherein_o some_o honest_a call_v and_o their_o diligence_n and_o industry_n therein_o be_v indispensible_o necessary_a to_o their_o comfortable_a subsistence_n for_o he_o wise_o consider_v that_o such_o be_v the_o indisposition_n of_o our_o degenerate_a nature_n to_o the_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a exercise_n of_o religion_n that_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a for_o we_o in_o this_o imperfect_a state_n to_o keep_v our_o mind_n always_o intent_n upon_o they_o to_o fix_v our_o thought_n continual_o upon_o he_o and_o exert_v our_o power_n without_o any_o pause_v or_o interruption_n in_o perpetual_a act_n of_o love_n adoration_n and_o imitation_n of_o he_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o repugnance_n in_o our_o temper_n to_o these_o bless_a operation_n that_o if_o we_o have_v nothing_o else_o to_o do_v they_o will_v soon_o grow_v irksome_a and_o intolerable_a to_o we_o and_o therefore_o lest_o be_v quite_o tire_v out_o with_o these_o spiritual_a act_n of_o
thought_n and_o reflection_n but_o so_o long_o as_o we_o keep_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o sobriety_n and_o do_v not_o sally_v out_o into_o malicious_a or_o scurrilous_a or_o profane_a jest_a our_o religion_n do_v not_o only_o connive_v at_o our_o mirth_n but_o commend_v and_o approve_v it_o and_o so_o remote_a be_v it_o from_o cramp_v those_o string_n and_o sinew_n of_o the_o mind_n cheerfulness_n and_o action_n that_o it_o recollect_n their_o scatter_a vigour_n and_o wind_n up_o their_o slackness_n to_o a_o true_a harmony_n for_o it_o require_v that_o our_o speech_n shall_v be_v always_o with_o grace_n col._n four_o 6_o i_o e._n as_o some_o expositor_n understand_v the_o phrase_n that_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v whine_v and_o melancholy_a but_o sprightly_a and_o cheerful_a it_o bid_v we_o rejoice_v evermore_o 1_o thes._n v_o 16_o and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n always_o and_o again_o rejoice_v phil._n four_o 4_o that_o be_v to_o indeaver_n to_o be_v cheerful_a in_o all_o condition_n and_o to_o bear_v all_o event_n with_o a_o serene_a and_o lightsome_a mind_n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n reckon_v this_o among_o the_o bless_a fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o that_o divine_a spirit_n which_o accompany_v and_o animate_v christianity_n viz._n joy_n or_o cheerfulness_n gal_n v._n 22_o and_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o particular_n in_o which_o the_o same_o apostle_n make_v the_o christian_a law_n to_o consist_v as_o they_o stand_v oppose_v to_o the_o ritual_a law_n of_o the_o jew_n the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n i._n e._n the_o law_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n be_v not_o meat_n and_o drink_n i._n e._n consist_v not_o of_o injunction_n or_o prohibition_n of_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o a_o ritual_a or_o indifferent_a nature_n but_o righteousness_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n rom._n fourteen_o 17_o which_o three_o particular_n be_v oppose_v to_o thing_n that_o be_v unnecessary_a must_v by_o the_o law_n of_o opposition_n denote_v thing_n that_o be_v necessary_a and_o therefore_o as_o by_o righteousness_n and_o peace_n must_v be_v mean_v justice_n and_o peaceableness_n so_o by_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n must_v be_v mean_v cheerfulness_n and_o alacrity_n in_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n because_o joy_n can_v be_v in_o no_o other_o sense_n matter_n of_o necessary_a duty_n by_o all_o which_o its_o evident_a that_o cheerfulness_n of_o temper_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v discountenance_v by_o our_o religion_n that_o it_o be_v require_v and_o enjoin_v by_o it_o so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n and_o choice_n and_o indeed_o it_o high_o become_v we_o who_o serve_v so_o good_a a_o master_n to_o be_v free_a and_o cheerful_a and_o thereby_o to_o express_v a_o grateful_a sense_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o of_o those_o glorious_a reward_n which_o we_o expect_v from_o his_o inexhaustible_a bounty_n but_o as_o for_o a_o gloomy_a look_v and_o deject_a countenance_n it_o better_o beseem_v a_o galleyslave_n than_o a_o servant_n of_o god_n and_o as_o cheerfulness_n be_v a_o duty_n that_o very_o well_o become_v our_o state_n so_o it_o be_v high_o necessary_a to_o support_v and_o carry_v we_o on_o in_o our_o christian_a warfare_n for_o cheerfulness_n be_v nature_n best_a friend_n it_o remove_v its_o oppression_n enlivens_fw-la its_o faculty_n and_o keep_v its_o spirit_n in_o a_o brisk_a and_o regular_a motion_n and_o hereby_o render_v it_o easy_a to_o itself_o and_o useful_a and_o serviceable_a to_o god_n and_o man._n it_o dispel_v cloud_n from_o the_o mind_n and_o fear_n from_o the_o heart_n and_o kindle_v and_o cherish_v in_o we_o brave_a and_o generous_a affection_n and_o compose_v our_o nature_n into_o such_o a_o regular_a temper_n as_o be_v of_o all_o other_o the_o most_o fit_a to_o receive_v religious_a impression_n and_o the_o breathe_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o what_o the_o jew_n do_v observe_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o prophecy_n be_v as_o true_a of_o the_o spirit_n of_o holiness_n that_o it_o dwell_v not_o with_o sadness_n but_o with_o cheerfulness_n that_o be_v itself_o of_o a_o calm_a and_o gentle_a nature_n it_o love_v not_o to_o reside_v with_o black_a and_o melancholy_a passion_n but_o require_v a_o compose_a and_o serene_a temper_n to_o act_v upon_o and_o hence_o tertul._n in_o his_o de_fw-mi spectac_n deus_fw-la praecepit_fw-la spiritum_fw-la sanctum_fw-la utpote_fw-la pro_fw-la naturae_fw-la suae_fw-la bono_fw-mi tenerum_fw-la &_o delicatum_fw-la tranquillitate_fw-la &_o lenitate_fw-la &_o quiete_n &_o pace_n tractare_fw-la non_fw-la furore_fw-la non_fw-la bile_n non_fw-la ira_fw-la non_fw-la dolore_fw-la inquietare_fw-la i._n e._n god_n have_v command_v that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v of_o a_o tender_a and_o delicate_a nature_n shall_v be_v entertain_v by_o we_o with_o tranquillity_n and_o mildness_n with_o quietness_n and_o peace_n and_o that_o we_o shall_v take_v care_n not_o to_o disturb_v he_o with_o fury_n and_o choler_n or_o with_o anger_n and_o grief_n and_o indeed_o melancholy_a natural_o infest_v the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o disturb_v he_o in_o all_o his_o operation_n it_o overwhelm_v the_o fancy_n with_o black_a reek_n and_o vapour_n and_o thereby_o cloud_n and_o darken_v the_o understanding_n and_o intercept_v the_o holy_a spirit_n illumination_n and_o like_o red_a colour_a glass_n before_o the_o eye_n cause_n the_o most_o lovely_a and_o attractive_a object_n to_o look_v bloody_a and_o terrible_a it_o distract_v the_o thought_n and_o render_v they_o wild_a rove_a and_o incoherent_a and_o thereby_o utter_o indispose_v they_o to_o prayer_n and_o consideration_n and_o render_v they_o deaf_a and_o unattentive_a to_o all_o good_a motion_n and_o inspiration_n it_o freeze_v up_o the_o heart_n with_o despair_a fear_n and_o despondency_n and_o represent_v easy_a thing_n as_o difficult_a to_o we_o and_o difficult_a as_o impossible_a and_o thereby_o discourage_v we_o from_o all_o those_o virtuous_a attempt_n to_o which_o the_o bless_a spirit_n do_v so_o importunate_o excite_v and_o provoke_v we_o in_o a_o word_n it_o natural_o benumb_v and_o stupefy_v the_o soul_n obstruct_v its_o motion_n and_o make_v it_o listless_a and_o unactive_a and_o so_o by_o indispose_v it_o to_o cooperate_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n render_v it_o a_o incapable_a subject_n of_o his_o divine_a grace_n and_o influence_n thus_o melancholy_a you_o see_v by_o its_o sullen_a and_o malevolent_a aspect_n do_v obstinate_o resist_v and_o counter-influence_n the_o holy_a spirit_n without_o who_o aid_n and_o assistance_n we_o can_v never_o hope_v to_o prosper_v in_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n wherefore_o if_o we_o mean_v to_o succeed_v in_o this_o great_a affair_n it_o concern_v we_o to_o use_v all_o honest_a and_o innocent_a mean_n to_o dispel_v this_o black_a and_o mischievous_a humour_n and_o to_o beget_v and_o maintain_v in_o our_o mind_n a_o constant_a serenity_n and_o cheerfulness_n of_o temper_n and_o when_o ever_o our_o spirit_n begin_v to_o droop_v and_o languish_v to_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o such_o natural_a remedy_n such_o harmless_a diversion_n refreshment_n and_o recreation_n as_o be_v fit_a and_o proper_a to_o raise_v they_o up_o again_o and_o not_o to_o suffer_v they_o to_o sink_v into_o a_o bog_n of_o melancholy_a humour_n whilst_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n by_o any_o honest_a art_n or_o invention_n to_o support_v they_o which_o if_o we_o can_v but_o effect_v will_v be_v of_o vast_a advantage_n to_o we_o in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o religion_n for_o in_o a_o even_a cheerfulness_n of_o temper_n our_o spirit_n will_v be_v always_o lively_a strong_a and_o active_a and_o fit_a for_o the_o best_a and_o noble_a operation_n they_o will_v give_v light_n to_o our_o understanding_n courage_n to_o our_o heart_n and_o wing_n to_o our_o affection_n so_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v able_a more_o clear_o to_o discern_v divine_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n more_o resolute_o to_o practice_v and_o more_o vehement_o to_o aspire_v after_o they_o and_o our_o consideration_n will_v be_v more_o fix_v our_o devotion_n more_o intent_n and_o all_o our_o spiritual_a endeavour_n more_o active_a and_o vivacious_a for_o a_o cheerful_a temper_n will_v represent_v every_o thing_n cheerful_o to_o we_o it_o will_v represent_v god_n so_o lovely_a religion_n so_o attractive_a the_o reward_n of_o it_o so_o immense_a and_o the_o difficulty_n of_o it_o so_o inconsiderable_a and_o thereby_o inspire_v we_o with_o so_o much_o life_n and_o courage_n as_o that_o none_o of_o all_o those_o spiritual_a enemy_n we_o war_v and_o contend_v against_o will_v be_v able_a to_o withstand_v our_o resolution_n x._o to_o our_o course_n and_o progress_n in_o this_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n it_o be_v also_o necessary_a that_o we_o maintain_v in_o our_o mind_n a_o constant_a sense_n and_o expectation_n of_o heaven_n that_o since_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o other_o world_n be_v future_a and_o invisible_a and_o consequent_o less_o apt_a to_o touch_v and_o affect_v we_o
come_v 1_o cor._n xi_o 26_o and_o that_o this_o do_v not_o like_o the_o precept_n of_o baptism_n oblige_v we_o for_o once_o only_o and_o no_o more_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o forego_n word_n of_o this_o last_o recite_v text_n as_o often_o as_o you_o eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n which_o plain_o show_v that_o these_o sacramental_a element_n be_v to_o be_v more_o than_o once_o receive_v by_o we_o it_o be_v true_a how_o often_o it_o be_v to_o be_v do_v neither_o christ_n nor_o his_o apostle_n have_v any_o where_o define_v but_o if_o we_o consult_v primitive_a example_n which_o in_o the_o absence_n of_o express_a precept_n be_v the_o best_a rule_n to_o determine_v ourselves_o by_o we_o shall_v find_v that_o it_o be_v very_o frequent_o receive_v for_o from_o some_o passage_n in_o the_o act_n of_o the_o apostle_n it_o seem_v probable_a that_o christian_n do_v then_o communicate_v every_o day_n as_o particular_o act_v two_o 46_o where_o they_o be_v say_v to_o continue_v daily_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o break_v bread_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o house_n that_o be_v as_o it_o seem_v probable_a in_o some_o upper_a room_n of_o the_o temple_n though_o perhaps_o this_o daily_a may_v refer_v only_o to_o the_o lord_n day_n agreeable_o to_o that_o act_n xx_o 7_o on_o the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n when_o the_o disciple_n come_v together_o to_o break_v bread_n paul_n preach_v unto_o they_o but_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o whensoever_o they_o assemble_v to_o the_o public_a worship_n they_o close_v it_o with_o the_o lord_n supper_n which_o they_o do_v for_o a_o great_a while_n in_o the_o western_a church_n every_o day_n in_o the_o week_n and_o in_o the_o eastern_a as_o st._n basil_n tell_v we_o epist._n 289._o four_o time_n a_o week_n beside_o festival_n so_o that_o allow_v for_o our_o declension_n from_o the_o primitive_a zeal_n and_o devotion_n one_o will_v think_v that_o to_o communicate_v now_o once_o in_o four_o week_n shall_v be_v a_o very_a moderate_a proportion_n but_o as_o for_o those_o that_o whole_o neglect_v this_o sacred_a institution_n for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o see_v not_o how_o they_o can_v excuse_v themselves_o from_o be_v guilty_a of_o a_o wilful_a rebellion_n against_o their_o saviour_n or_o with_o what_o confidence_n they_o can_v expect_v either_o that_o he_o shall_v assist_v they_o with_o his_o grace_n on_o the_o way_n or_o crown_v they_o with_o his_o salvation_n in_o the_o end_n when_o they_o so_o perverse_o turn_v their_o back_n upon_o a_o ordinance_n which_o he_o have_v solemn_o institute_v for_o a_o conveyance_n of_o the_o one_o and_o a_o seal_n of_o the_o other_o but_o will_v we_o take_v that_o care_n that_o become_v we_o to_o prepare_v ourselves_o for_o and_o frequent_v this_o holy_a institution_n there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o we_o shall_v find_v it_o of_o mighty_a advantage_n to_o we_o in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o religion_n for_o till_o we_o be_v arrive_v to_o a_o confirm_a state_n of_o good_a our_o holy_a fervour_n will_v be_v very_o apt_a to_o cool_v our_o good_a purpose_n to_o slacken_v and_o unwind_v and_o our_o virtuous_a endeavour_n to_o languish_v and_o tire_v and_o therefore_o unless_o we_o take_v care_n frequent_o to_o revive_v our_o religion_n with_o this_o spiritual_a repast_n and_o restorative_n and_o still_o to_o add_v new_a fuel_n to_o it_o as_o the_o flame_n decay_v it_o will_v quick_o pine_v away_o and_o expire_v but_o if_o upon_o the_o solemn_a return_v of_o this_o sacred_a festival_n we_o will_v constant_o come_v with_o due_a preparation_n to_o our_o master_n table_n and_o here_o renew_v our_o vow_n re-invigorate_a our_o resolution_n repair_v our_o decay_n and_o put_v our_o sluggish_a grace_n into_o a_o new_a fermentation_n we_o shall_v find_v our_o religion_n not_o only_o live_v but_o thrive_v and_o be_v still_o acquire_v new_a degree_n of_o strength_n and_o activity_n but_o because_o this_o argument_n have_v be_v already_o so_o full_o handle_v in_o our_o practical_a treatise_n particular_o by_o the_o reverend_n dr._n patrick_n in_o his_o mensa_fw-la mystica_fw-la and_o christian_a sacrifice_n i_o shall_v refer_v the_o reader_n thither_o for_o the_o far_a consideration_n of_o it_o and_o thus_o with_o all_o the_o brevity_n i_o can_v i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o those_o duty_n which_o be_v necessary_a in_o the_o course_n and_o progress_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n sect_n iv._o contain_v certain_a motive_n to_o animate_v man_n against_o the_o difficulty_n of_o these_o duty_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o course_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n how_o necessary_a and_o useful_a to_o we_o those_o aforenamed_a duty_n be_v in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n have_v be_v sufficient_o show_v so_o that_o now_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o our_o sloth_n and_o vnwillingness_n can_v object_v against_o they_o but_o only_o this_o that_o they_o be_v very_o difficult_a and_o do_v require_v more_o of_o our_o time_n and_o care_n and_o pain_n than_o we_o can_v convenient_o spare_v from_o our_o other_o necessary_a occasion_n that_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o be_v so_o unpleasant_a and_o severe_a and_o attend_v with_o so_o much_o cumber_v and_o trouble_v that_o we_o very_o much_o doubt_v we_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o go_v through_o with_o they_o and_o therefore_o to_o remove_v this_o objection_n out_o of_o man_n way_n and_o to_o excite_v they_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o necessary_a duty_n i_o shall_v for_o a_o conclusion_n of_o this_o argument_n add_v to_o what_o have_v be_v say_v of_o it_o these_o follow_a consideration_n 1._o that_o whatsoever_o difficulty_n there_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o we_o may_v thank_v ourselves_o for_o it_o 2._o that_o in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o sin_n there_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o difficulty_n as_o well_o as_o in_o our_o warfare_n against_o it_o 3._o that_o how_o difficult_a soever_o this_o warfare_n may_v be_v it_o must_v be_v endure_v or_o that_o which_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n worse_o 4._o that_o though_o it_o be_v difficult_a yet_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o it_o but_o what_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n will_v render_v possible_a to_o we_o if_o we_o be_v not_o want_v to_o ourselves_o 5._o that_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o duty_n be_v not_o so_o difficult_a but_o that_o it_o be_v fair_o consistent_a with_o all_o our_o other_o necessary_a occasion_n and_o diversion_n 6._o that_o the_o difficulty_n of_o they_o be_v such_o as_o will_v certain_o abate_v and_o wear_v off_o by_o degree_n if_o we_o constant_o practise_v they_o 7._o that_o with_o the_o difficulty_n of_o they_o there_o be_v a_o world_n of_o present_a peace_n and_o satisfaction_n intermingle_v 8._o that_o their_o difficulty_n be_v abundant_o compensated_a by_o the_o final_a reward_n of_o they_o i._o consider_v that_o whatsoever_o difficulty_n there_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o 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and_o uncontaminated_a nature_n of_o a_o man_n be_v the_o most_o grateful_a and_o aggreeable_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n but_o if_o by_o our_o own_o ill_a government_n we_o disease_n our_o nature_n and_o deprave_v its_o primitive_a constitution_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n that_o religion_n which_o be_v so_o well_o proportion_v to_o it_o in_o its_o purity_n shall_v sit_v hard_a and_o uneasy_a upon_o it_o in_o its_o apostasy_n and_o corruption_n for_o to_o a_o man_n that_o be_v in_o a_o fever_n every_o thing_n be_v bitter_a even_a honey_n which_o when_o he_o be_v well_o be_v exceed_v sweet_a and_o grateful_a but_o the_o bitterness_n which_o he_o taste_v be_v not_o in_o the_o honey_n but_o in_o the_o gall_n which_o overflow_v his_o own_o palate_n and_o so_o to_o a_o nature_n that_o be_v disease_v with_o any_o unnatural_a lust_n that_o which_o be_v most_o congruous_a to_o itself_o will_v be_v
be_v able_a do_v you_o but_o your_o part_n which_o be_v only_o what_o you_o can_v and_o then_o doubt_v not_o but_o god_n will_v do_v he_o put_v forth_o but_o your_o honest_a hearty_a endeavour_n and_o earnest_o implore_v his_o aid_n and_o assistance_n and_o if_o then_o you_o miscarry_v let_v heaven_n answer_v for_o it_o but_o if_o upon_o a_o pretence_n that_o your_o work_n be_v too_o difficult_a and_o your_o enemy_n too_o mighty_a for_o you_o you_o lay_v down_o your_o arm_n and_o resolve_v to_o contend_v with_o they_o no_o long_o let_v heaven_n and_o earth_n judge_v between_o god_n and_o you_o which_o be_v to_o be_v charge_v with_o your_o ruin_n god_n that_o so_o gracious_o offer_v you_o his_o help_n that_o stretch_v out_o his_o hand_n to_o raise_v you_o up_o tender_v you_o his_o spirit_n to_o guard_v and_o conduct_v you_o through_o all_o opposition_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n or_o you_o that_o will_v not_o be_v persuade_v to_o do_v any_o thing_n for_o yourselves_o but_o rather_o 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possess_v of_o peace_n of_o conscience_n for_o the_o present_a but_o assure_v of_o a_o happy_a life_n for_o the_o future_a when_o he_o have_v conquer_v the_o difficulty_n he_o contend_v with_o viii_o consider_v that_o the_o difficulty_n of_o these_o duty_n be_v abundant_o compensated_a by_o the_o reward_n of_o they_o a_o generous_a mind_n will_v think_v no_o mean_n too_o hard_o which_o tend_v to_o noble_a and_o worthy_a end_n in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o which_o opposition_n only_o whet_v its_o courage_n and_o resolution_n so_o that_o doubtless_o have_v we_o any_o spark_n of_o generosity_n in_o we_o the_o vastness_n and_o excellency_n of_o the_o end_n we_o pursue_v will_v make_v we_o despise_v all_o difficulty_n in_o the_o way_n to_o it_o what_o a_o meanness_n of_o spirit_n therefore_o do_v it_o argue_v in_o we_o to_o stand_v boggle_n as_o we_o do_v at_o the_o difficulty_n of_o religion_n to_o think_v much_o of_o spend_v a_o few_o day_n or_o year_n in_o this_o world_n in_o strive_v 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age_n reflect_v upon_o it_o with_o pleasure_n and_o delight_n wherefore_o when_o your_o courage_n begin_v to_o shrink_v at_o the_o difficulty_n of_o your_o warfare_n do_v but_o lift_v up_o your_o eye_n to_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n and_o to_o be_v sure_a if_o you_o have_v any_o heart_n that_o will_v inspire_v you_o with_o such_o a_o brave_a resolution_n as_o nothing_o will_v be_v too_o hard_a for_o but_o what_o be_v absolute_o impossible_a for_o how_o can_v we_o be_v dishearten_v at_o any_o superable_a difficulty_n so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v animate_v with_o this_o persuasion_n that_o if_o we_o have_v our_o fruit_n unto_o holiness_n our_o end_n shall_v be_v everlasting_a life_n sect_n v._o concern_v those_o duty_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o perfection_n and_o consummation_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n show_v what_o they_o be_v and_o how_o effectual_o they_o conduce_v to_o the_o perfect_a we_o in_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o heavenly_a life_n i_o proceed_v now_o to_o the_o three_o and_o last_o part_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n viz._n the_o consummation_n of_o it_o which_o be_v final_a perseverance_n for_o after_o we_o have_v actual_o engage_v and_o make_v some_o progress_n in_o it_o our_o next_o care_n and_o duty_n be_v that_o we_o do_v not_o relapse_n and_o base_o retreat_v from_o what_o we_o have_v so_o prosperous_o undertake_v and_o hitherto_o so_o effectual_o prosecute_v but_o that_o so_o long_o as_o we_o live_v we_o persist_v in_o a_o open_a defiance_n to_o our_o sin_n and_o endeavour_v to_o pursue_v and_o mortify_v our_o inclination_n to_o they_o and_o persevere_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o virtue_n still_o endeavour_v thereby_o to_o improve_v and_o grow_v on_o to_o perfection_n that_o so_o we_o may_v die_v as_o we_o have_v hitherto_o live_v and_o consummate_v our_o warfare_n in_o a_o final_a victory_n and_o that_o when_o our_o lord_n shall_v come_v or_o send_v his_o herald_n death_n to_o summon_v we_o off_o from_o the_o field_n we_o may_v be_v find_v fight_v under_o his_o banner_n against_o sin_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n and_o final_o die_v as_o we_o have_v live_v his_o faithful_a soldier_n and_o follower_n for_o this_o he_o indispensable_o exact_v of_o we_o viz._n that_o we_o shall_v be_v faithful_a unto_o death_n rev._n two_o 10_o that_o we_o shall_v patient_o continue_v in_o well-doing_n rom._n two_o 7_o that_o we_o shall_v endure_v to_o the_o end_n matt._n x._o 22_o and_o hold_v the_o begin_n of_o our_o confidence_n steadfast_a to_o the_o end_n heb._n iii._o 14_o that_o we_o shall_v keep_v his_o work_n to_o the_o end_n and_o final_o overcome_v as_o well_o as_o fight_v rev._n two_o 26_o in_o a_o word_n that_o have_v set_v our_o hand_n to_o the_o plough_n we_o shall_v not_o look_v back_o luke_n ix_o 62_o but_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v always_o abound_v in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n forasmuch_o as_o we_o know_v that_o our_o labour_n be_v not_o in_o vain_a in_o the_o lord_n 1_o cor._n xv_o 58_o the_o sense_n of_o all_o which_o be_v that_o we_o shall_v not_o only_o begin_v this_o our_o christian_a warfare_n and_o prosecute_v it_o for_o a_o while_n but_o that_o we_o shall_v proceed_v and_o persevere_v in_o it_o as_o long_o as_o we_o breath_n and_o never_o lie_v down_o our_o arm_n till_o we_o lie_v down_o our_o life_n in_o order_n to_o which_o as_o we_o must_v still_o persevere_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o those_o duty_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o course_n and_o progress_n of_o our_o warfare_n so_o there_o be_v sundry_a other_o duty_n which_o we_o must_v practice_v and_o which_o have_v a_o more_o direct_a and_o immediate_a influence_n upon_o the_o final_a success_n and_o consummation_n of_o it_o all_o which_o i_o shall_v reduce_v to_o these_o follow_v particular_n 1._o that_o while_o we_o stand_v we_o shall_v not_o be_v over_o confident_a of_o ourselves_o but_o still_o keep_v a_o jealous_a eye_n upon_o the_o weakness_n and_o inconstancy_n of_o our_o own_o nature_n 2._o that_o if_o at_o any_o time_n we_o wilful_o fall_v and_o miscarry_v we_o shall_v immediate_o arise_v again_o by_o repentance_n 3._o that_o to_o prevent_v the_o like_a fall_n and_o miscarriage_n for_o the_o future_a we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o withdraw_v our_o affection_n from_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o world_n but_o more_o especial_o from_o those_o which_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o our_o fall_n 4._o that_o we_o shall_v more_o curious_o search_v into_o the_o small_a defect_n and_o indecency_n of_o our_o nature_n in_o order_n to_o our_o reform_v and_o correct_v they_o 5._o that_o so_o far_o as_o lawful_o we_o can_v we_o shall_v live_v in_o a_o close_a communion_n with_o the_o church_n whereof_o we_o be_v member_n 6._o that_o we_o shall_v not_o out_o of_o a_o fond_a opinion_n that_o we_o be_v good_a enough_o already_o
we_o to_o some_o great_a work_n or_o to_o support_v we_o under_o some_o extraordinary_a suffer_v for_o he_o be_v a_o wise_a and_o careful_a father_n of_o his_o child_n and_o know_v it_o be_v much_o more_o necessary_a for_o we_o to_o be_v good_a than_o to_o be_v ravish_v and_o transport_v and_o that_o such_o high_a cordial_n be_v neither_o proper_a nor_o safe_a for_o we_o but_o in_o great_a extremity_n and_o therefore_o for_o we_o to_o expect_v that_o he_o shall_v make_v they_o our_o ordinary_a food_n and_o entertainment_n be_v a_o argument_n of_o our_o childish_a ignorance_n and_o presumption_n but_o though_o such_o immediate_a whisper_v and_o revelation_n may_v serve_v to_o good_a purpose_n in_o a_o pinch_v of_o extremity_n yet_o be_v they_o by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v build_v upon_o as_o the_o foundation_n of_o our_o ordinary_a stand_v assurance_n for_o so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v a_o evil_a spirit_n without_o and_o a_o disorder_a fancy_n within_o we_o that_o can_v imitate_v these_o whisper_v we_o shall_v be_v continual_o liable_a so_o long_o as_o we_o put_v confidence_n in_o they_o to_o all_o the_o cheat_n and_o imposture_n of_o natural_a and_o diabolical_a enthusiasm_n and_o unavoidable_o mistake_v many_o a_o injection_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o many_o a_o warm_a flush_n of_o fancy_n or_o brisk_a fermentation_n of_o melancholy_a humour_n for_o a_o whisper_n and_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o by_o this_o mean_n be_v often_o lull_v into_o false_a confidence_n and_o assurance_n which_o like_o golden_a dream_n will_v vanish_v when_o we_o awake_v and_o leave_v we_o miserable_o disappoint_v that_o assurance_n therefore_o which_o we_o be_v to_o aim_v at_o must_v be_v found_v in_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o infer_v from_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o own_o integrity_n and_o uprightness_n and_o this_o we_o be_v command_v to_o endeavour_v after_o so_o heb._n x._o 22_o we_o be_v bid_v to_o draw_v near_o unto_o god_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o confidence_n or_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v in_o a_o firm_a persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n to_o we_o and_o our_o interest_n in_o his_o promise_n which_o persuasion_n be_v to_o be_v found_v upon_o a_o inward_a sense_n of_o our_o have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n and_o according_o heb._n vi_fw-la 11_o to_o be_v diligent_a in_o good_a work_n to_o the_o full_a assurance_n of_o hope_n unto_o the_o end_n i._n e._n to_o be_v so_o diligent_a in_o our_o duty_n as_o that_o we_o may_v thereby_o acquire_v such_o a_o full_a assurance_n of_o our_o reward_n as_o may_v enable_v we_o to_o continue_v and_o hold_v out_o to_o the_o end_n for_o so_o st._n john_n tell_v we_o that_o it_o be_v by_o the_o integrity_n of_o our_o virtue_n and_o particular_o of_o our_o love_n to_o one_o another_o that_o we_o be_v to_o assure_v our_o heart_n before_o god_n 1_o joh._n three_o 14_o 19_o for_o say_v he_o v_o 21_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n and_o for_o this_o purpose_n among_o other_o the_o same_o apostle_n tell_v we_o he_o write_v this_o catholic_n epistle_n that_o true_a christian_n may_v know_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o they_o have_v eternal_a life_n 1_o joh._n v_o 13_o from_o all_o which_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o labour_v after_o such_o a_o assurance_n of_o heaven_n as_o natural_o arise_v from_o the_o clear_a and_o certain_a sense_n of_o our_o sincerity_n towards_o god_n and_o the_o firm_a belief_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n to_o which_o our_o sincerity_n entitle_v we_o for_o when_o we_o be_v so_o far_o improve_v in_o religion_n as_o that_o upon_o a_o impartial_a survey_v of_o ourselves_o we_o can_v feel_v our_o own_o integrity_n and_o sensible_o perceive_v that_o our_o intention_n be_v pure_a our_o resolution_n fix_v and_o our_o heart_n entire_o devote_v to_o god_n we_o may_v from_o thence_o most_o certain_o infer_v our_o title_n and_o interest_n to_o the_o promise_n of_o heaven_n so_o that_o to_o the_o obtain_v this_o assurance_n all_o that_o we_o have_v to_o do_v be_v so_o far_o to_o purify_v our_o intention_n from_o sinister_a aim_n and_o subdue_v our_o bad_a inclination_n to_o our_o resolution_n of_o obedience_n as_o that_o when_o ever_o we_o reflect_v upon_o and_o compare_v ourselves_o with_o the_o rule_n our_o conscience_n may_v be_v able_a without_o any_o diffidence_n to_o pronounce_v we_o sincere_a and_o then_o we_o may_v as_o certain_o conclude_v our_o interest_n in_o heaven_n as_o we_o can_v that_o god_n promise_n be_v true_a and_o if_o after_o we_o be_v thus_o far_o improve_v in_o religion_n we_o still_o remain_v unassure_v it_o proceed_v not_o from_o the_o want_n of_o sufficient_a evidence_n but_o either_o from_o a_o melancholy_a temper_n or_o a_o weak_a faith_n or_o a_o misinform_a conscience_n and_o whichsoever_o of_o these_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o it_o when_o that_o be_v once_o remove_v we_o shall_v as_o plain_o feel_v our_o own_o sincerity_n and_o therein_o our_o interest_n in_o heaven_n as_o we_o do_v now_o our_o bodily_a passion_n and_o have_v once_o attain_v this_o assurance_n it_o will_v animate_v our_o heart_n with_o a_o heroic_a courage_n against_o all_o temptation_n and_o carry_v we_o on_o with_o unspeakable_a alacrity_n through_o all_o the_o remain_a stage_n of_o our_o duty_n it_o will_v invigorate_v our_o endeavour_n and_o wing_v our_o activity_n and_o make_v we_o all_o life_n and_o spirit_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o holy_a religion_n and_o as_o when_o the_o christian_a army_n after_o a_o tedious_a march_n towards_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n come_v within_o view_n of_o the_o holy_a city_n and_o behold_v afar_o off_o the_o tower_n and_o turret_n of_o jerusalem_n they_o be_v so_o ecstacy_v with_o joy_n that_o they_o make_v the_o heaven_n ring_n with_o triumphant_a shout_n and_o acclamation_n and_o as_o if_o that_o sight_n have_v give_v new_a soul_n to_o they_o run_v on_o upon_o their_o enemy_n with_o a_o courage_n that_o force_a victory_n wherever_o they_o come_v so_o when_o a_o good_a man_n after_o a_o long_a progress_n from_o one_o degree_n of_o virtue_n to_o another_o be_v get_v so_o far_o as_o that_o from_o a_o certain_a sense_n and_o feel_v of_o his_o own_o sincerity_n he_o can_v discern_v the_o new_a jerusalem_n above_o and_o his_o own_o interest_n in_o it_o that_o bless_a sight_n will_v fill_v he_o with_o so_o much_o joy_n courage_n and_o alacrity_n that_o no_o temptation_n for_o the_o future_a will_v be_v able_a to_o withstand_v or_o interrupt_v he_o so_o that_o his_o conscience_n will_v be_v always_o ring_v with_o acclamation_n of_o victory_n and_o the_o remainder_n of_o his_o march_n will_v be_v all_o a_o triumphal_a progress_n to_o he_o and_o when_o he_o come_v to_o the_o conclusion_n of_o it_o to_o die_v and_o pass_v the_o gate_n of_o this_o bless_a city_n the_o firm_a assurance_n which_o he_o have_v of_o admittance_n will_v dispel_v the_o fear_n sweeten_v the_o trouble_n and_o assuage_v the_o pang_n and_o agony_n of_o the_o dolorous_a passage_n so_o that_o he_o will_v die_v not_o only_o with_o peace_n but_o with_o joy_n and_o go_v away_o into_o eternity_n with_o hallelujah_n in_o his_o mouth_n if_o therefore_o we_o mean_v to_o bring_v this_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n to_o a_o happy_a conclusion_n it_o concern_v we_o now_o while_o we_o have_v opportunity_n to_o labour_v after_o a_o wise_a and_o wellgrounded_n assurance_n of_o heaven_n sect_n vi_o contain_v certain_a motive_n to_o press_n man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o duty_n of_o perseverance_n in_o the_o christian_a warfare_n have_v in_o the_o forego_n section_n describe_v all_o those_o duty_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o last_o part_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n to_o wit_n final_a perseverance_n and_o show_v how_o effectual_o they_o all_o contribute_v thereunto_o i_o shall_v now_o according_a to_o my_o former_a method_n conclude_v with_o some_o motive_n to_o press_v and_o persuade_v man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o all_o which_o i_o shall_v deduce_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o great_a and_o urgent_a necessity_n of_o our_o final_a perseverance_n to_o which_o those_o duty_n be_v such_o necessary_a help_n and_o mean_n for_o unless_o we_o take_v in_o the_o assistance_n of_o these_o duty_n in_o all_o probability_n we_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o hold_v out_o to_o the_o end_n and_o unless_o we_o persevere_v to_o the_o end_n we_o be_v guilty_a of_o the_o most_o fatal_a and_o mischievous_a piece_n of_o folly_n in_o the_o world_n for_o consider_v 1._o if_o after_o we_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o religion_n we_o wilful_o relapse_n we_o shall_v go_v back_o much_o fast_o than_o ever_o we_o have_v
together_o to_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n for_o a_o dire_a and_o speedy_a vengeance_n against_o we_o vi_o consider_v if_o after_o you_o have_v make_v some_o progress_n in_o religion_n you_o revolt_v into_o sinful_a course_n you_o will_v not_o only_o render_v yourselves_o for_o the_o present_a more_o guilty_a but_o as_o a_o consequence_n of_o that_o you_o will_v certain_o expose_v yourselves_o if_o you_o die_v before_o your_o recovery_n to_o a_o deep_a and_o more_o dreadful_a ruin_n for_o this_o we_o may_v depend_v upon_o that_o the_o judge_n of_o all_o the_o world_n will_v do_v righteous_o and_o consequent_o that_o as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n he_o will_v proportion_v his_o reward_n to_o our_o service_n so_o on_o the_o other_o he_o will_v measure_v his_o punishment_n by_o our_o guilt_n and_o demerit_n and_o if_o he_o thus_o proceed_v as_o he_o most_o certain_o will_v how_o horrible_a be_v it_o to_o think_v of_o the_o black_a and_o dismal_a fate_n that_o hang_v over_o the_o head_n of_o apostate_n who_o gild_n be_v aggravate_v by_o those_o abovenamed_a circumstance_n to_o such_o a_o prodigious_a bulk_n and_o magnitude_n must_v be_v suppose_v to_o draw_v after_o it_o a_o punishment_n proportionable_a and_o if_o so_o then_o doubtless_o the_o portion_n of_o apostate_n among_o wicked_a and_o miserable_a spirit_n will_v be_v the_o most_o wretched_a &_o deplorable_a for_o beside_o those_o supernumerary_a stripe_n they_o must_v expect_v to_o receive_v from_o god_n as_o be_v servant_n that_o have_v know_v their_o master_n will_n and_o experience_v the_o goodness_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o have_v final_o refuse_v to_o comply_v with_o it_o their_o reflection_n on_o their_o own_o apostasy_n and_o the_o folly_n and_o madness_n of_o it_o will_v doubtless_o gall_v and_o torment_v they_o a_o thousand_o time_n more_o than_o all_o the_o other_o sting_n of_o their_o conscience_n together_o for_o how_o must_v it_o enrage_v they_o against_o themselves_o to_o ruminate_v on_o their_o own_o folly_n as_o they_o be_v wander_v through_o the_o infernal_a shade_n o_o desperate_a creature_n from_o what_o glorious_a hope_n have_v we_o precipitate_v ourselves_o into_o this_o dismal_a state_n we_o have_v once_o get_v a_o fair_a way_n onward_o to_o heaven_n and_o be_v arrive_v within_o sight_n of_o its_o bless_a shore_n we_o have_v shake_v off_o our_o lust_n master_v our_o inclination_n and_o subdue_v our_o will_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o in_o so_o do_v have_v conquer_v the_o most_o difficult_a part_n of_o our_o voyage_n we_o have_v weather_v the_o cross_a wind_n of_o temptation_n from_o without_o and_o stem_v the_o tide_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n within_o so_o that_o have_v we_o but_o bear_v up_o courageous_o a_o little_a far_o we_o that_o be_v now_o howl_v among_o damn_a ghost_n may_v have_v be_v triumph_v with_o bless_a spirit_n but_o o_o abominable_a fool_n and_o traitor_n to_o ourselves_o after_o all_o the_o successful_a pain_n we_o have_v take_v to_o be_v happy_a we_o have_v shipwreck_a our_o soul_n at_o the_o mouth_n of_o our_o harbour_n and_o to_o gratify_v a_o base_a lust_n have_v leap_v headlong_o from_o the_o brink_n of_o the_o river_n of_o pleasure_n into_o this_o lake_n of_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n and_o have_v we_o thus_o undo_v ourselves_o thus_o mad_o thus_o without_o pretence_n or_o temptation_n o_o curse_a be_v our_o folly_n curse_v be_v our_o lust_n and_o for_o ever_o curse_v be_v we_o for_o harbour_v and_o entertain_v they_o thus_o will_v these_o miserable_a people_n incessant_o rave_v against_o themselves_o and_o with_o dire_a reflection_n on_o their_o desperate_a folly_n for_o ever_o enrage_v and_o multiply_v their_o own_o torment_n so_o that_o be_v i_o descend_v to_o the_o bottomless_a pit_n and_o have_v but_o so_o much_o time_n before_o i_o come_v there_o as_o to_o make_v one_o prayer_n more_o in_o my_o own_o behalf_n next_o to_o that_o of_o be_v whole_o deliver_v thence_o i_o know_v none_o i_o shall_v soon_o pitch_v upon_o than_o this_o o_o lord_n deliver_v i_o from_o that_o portion_n of_o hell_n which_o thou_o have_v reserve_v for_o apostate_n so_o that_o if_o now_o that_o we_o have_v so_o far_o engage_v ourselves_o in_o the_o christian_a warfare_n we_o shall_v be_v so_o mad_a as_o to_o retreat_v into_o our_o old_a sinful_a course_n it_o have_v be_v a_o thousand_o time_n better_o for_o we_o that_o we_o have_v never_o engage_v in_o it_o at_o all_o for_o unless_o we_o repent_v of_o our_o retreat_n and_o come_v on_o again_o we_o have_v take_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o pain_n in_o religion_n to_o no_o other_o purpose_n but_o only_o to_o to_o treasure_n up_o to_o ourselves_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n and_o heat_v the_o furnace_n of_o our_o future_a torment_n yet_o seven_o time_n hot_a wherefore_o since_o the_o matter_n be_v now_o reduce_v to_o this_o issue_n that_o if_o we_o revolt_v from_o our_o christian_a warfare_n we_o shall_v not_o only_o defeat_v ourselves_o of_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o our_o past_a labour_n and_o contention_n but_o also_o enhance_v our_o future_a punishment_n so_o that_o we_o must_v either_o resolve_v to_o win_v heaven_n by_o our_o perseverance_n or_o sink_v ourselves_o into_o the_o neithermost_a hell_n by_o our_o apostasy_n let_v we_o pull_v up_o our_o courage_n and_o mangre_n all_o temptation_n to_o the_o contrary_a continue_v steadfast_a and_o immovable_a in_o our_o christian_a resolution_n remember_v what_o the_o captain_n of_o our_o salvation_n have_v promise_v rev._n iii._o 21_o to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o grant_v to_o sit_v with_o i_o in_o my_o throne_n even_o as_o i_o also_o overcome_v and_o be_o sit_v down_o with_o my_o father_n in_o his_o throne_n chap._n v._o contain_v some_o short_a direction_n for_o the_o more_o profitable_a read_v the_o precede_a discourse_n and_o also_o for_o the_o conduct_n and_o regular_a exercise_n of_o our_o closet_n religion_n in_o all_o the_o different_a state_n of_o the_o christian_a life_n together_o with_o form_n of_o private_a devotion_n fit_v to_o each_o state_n in_o the_o forego_n chapter_n i_o have_v endeavour_v a_o full_a account_n of_o all_o those_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o christianity_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o acquire_v improve_v and_o perfect_v the_o principal_a virtue_n of_o it_o in_o the_o perfection_n of_o which_o virtue_n heaven_n which_o be_v the_o great_a end_n of_o christianity_n consist_v and_o for_o the_o more_o distinct_a management_n thereof_o i_o consider_v man_n under_o a_o threefold_a state_n first_o as_o enter_v into_o the_o christian_a life_n second_o as_o actual_o engage_v in_o the_o course_n of_o it_o three_o as_o improve_n towards_o perfection_n by_o perseverance_n in_o it_o and_o give_v a_o distinct_a account_n of_o all_o those_o instrumental_a duty_n that_o be_v proper_a to_o each_o of_o these_o state_n and_o now_o that_o what_o have_v be_v say_v in_o that_o and_o the_o precede_a chapter_n may_v have_v its_o due_a effect_n upon_o the_o reader_n mind_n i_o have_v think_v fit_a to_o reduce_v it_o to_o practice_n by_o direct_v man_n first_o how_o to_o read_v and_o apply_v the_o several_a part_n of_o it_o to_o their_o own_o particular_a state_n second_o by_o furnish_v they_o with_o some_o short_a rule_n for_o the_o more_o profitable_a exercise_n of_o their_o private_a religion_n in_o each_o of_o those_o different_a state_n together_o with_o form_n of_o private_a devotion_n fit_v to_o each_o state_n i._o as_o to_o the_o first_o of_o these_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o to_o the_o make_v man_n sincere_a and_o hearty_a christian_n it_o be_v high_o necessary_a that_o they_o shall_v have_v a_o right_a understanding_n first_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o great_a and_o chief_a end_n which_o christianity_n propose_v to_o they_o second_o of_o the_o mean_n by_o which_o that_o end_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v three_o of_o the_o natural_a tendency_n of_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o christianity_n towards_o this_o bless_a end_n and_o of_o the_o contrary_a tendency_n of_o the_o opposite_a vice_n towards_o their_o eternal_a misery_n and_o ruin_n of_o all_o which_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o give_v a_o account_n in_o the_o three_o first_o chapter_n of_o this_o book_n wherefore_o i_o will_v advise_v the_o reader_n 1._o careful_o and_o serious_o to_o peruse_v those_o chapter_n wherein_o because_o i_o have_v be_v sometime_o force_v by_o the_o sublimity_n of_o my_o argument_n to_o discourse_v a_o little_a more_o abstruse_o than_o in_o any_o of_o the_o follow_a part_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a for_o he_o to_o employ_v more_o of_o his_o thought_n and_o consideration_n and_o not_o to_o content_v himself_o with_o a_o slight_a and_o cursory_a perusal_n and_o when_o by_o a_o serious_a consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v there_o discourse_v his_o mind_n be_v full_o convince_v what_o a_o kind_n of_o heaven_n he_o be_v to_o expect_v hereafter_o
righteousness_n that_o now_o at_o last_o my_o foolish_a soul_n be_v persuade_v to_o part_n with_o those_o sin_n which_o be_v its_o plague_n and_o infelicity_n and_o to_o embrace_v those_o bless_a duty_n by_o which_o thou_o have_v design_v to_o raise_v i_o to_o immortal_a glory_n by_o these_o good_a beginning_n thou_o have_v give_v i_o some_o reason_n to_o hope_v for_o a_o happy_a success_n upon_o my_o poor_a endeavour_n praise_v be_v thy_o grace_n i_o be_o at_o present_a hearty_o willing_a to_o be_v thou_o and_o be_v i_o but_o sure_a to_o continue_v thus_o mind_v and_o dispose_v i_o will_v immediate_o make_v over_o my_o heart_n and_o will_n to_o thou_o by_o the_o most_o solemn_a engagement_n but_o o_o lord_n i_o be_o afraid_a of_o myself_o i_o dread_v my_o own_o inconstancy_n and_o thou_o know_v i_o have_v too_o much_o reason_n for_o it_o i_o have_v mock_v thou_o too_o often_o already_o with_o my_o deceitful_a promise_n and_o engagement_n i_o have_v sin_v and_o then_o promise_a amendment_n i_o have_v promise_v amendment_n and_o then_o sin_v again_o as_o if_o all_o that_o i_o mean_v by_o my_o promise_n be_v only_o to_o ask_v leave_n of_o thou_o to_o sin_n against_o thou_o anew_o now_o after_o so_o many_o falsification_n i_o will_v not_o for_o all_o the_o world_n deal_v treacherous_o with_o thou_o any_o more_o wherefore_o before_o i_o solemn_o resign_v and_o devote_v myself_o to_o thou_o by_o a_o new_a purpose_n and_o engagement_n i_o desire_v to_o make_v some_o far_a trial_n of_o my_o own_o steadfastness_n to_o see_v whether_o this_o present_a inclination_n of_o my_o will_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o passion_n or_o a_o settle_a judgement_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n therefore_o i_o do_v most_o humble_o beseech_v thou_o to_o be_v present_a with_o i_o in_o all_o my_o way_n and_o continual_o to_o influence_n my_o mind_n with_o thy_o grace_n and_o spirit_n to_o strengthen_v my_o faith_n to_o fix_v my_o consideration_n to_o persuade_v my_o will_n and_o feed_v and_o cherish_v these_o my_o holy_a desire_n with_o good_a thought_n and_o inspiration_n that_o so_o i_o may_v remain_v steadfast_a and_o immovable_a and_o no_o temptation_n whatsoever_o may_v be_v able_a to_o alter_v the_o temper_n of_o my_o mind_n or_o divert_v it_o from_o its_o good_a inclination_n and_o that_o have_v have_v a_o sufficient_a experience_n of_o the_o fix_a disposition_n of_o my_o soul_n to_o obey_v thou_o i_o may_v devote_v myself_o to_o thou_o with_o a_o cheerful_a heart_n and_o a_o assure_a hope_n of_o my_o own_o sincerity_n and_o constancy_n o_o lord_n hear_v and_o help_v i_o for_o thy_o mercy_n sake_n and_o for_o jesus_n christ_n his_o sake_n in_o who_o most_o perfect_a form_n of_o prayer_n i_o far_o pray_v our_o father_n etc._n etc._n if_o after_o a_o sufficient_a trial_n of_o yourself_o you_o find_v you_o be_v constant_o incline_v to_o submit_v to_o god_n to_o part_v with_o every_o sin_n &_o comply_v with_o every_o duty_n consider_v that_o now_o it_o be_v high_a time_n for_o you_o to_o devote_v yourself_o to_o god_n and_o what_o abundant_a reason_n you_o have_v for_o it_o and_o what_o a_o powerful_a obligation_n you_o must_v lay_v upon_o yourself_o by_o so_o do_v and_o when_o you_o have_v serious_o consider_v these_o thing_n give_v up_o yourself_o to_o god_n in_o this_o follow_a form_n of_o prayer_n which_o for_o the_o great_a sanction_n and_o more_o awful_a solemnity_n of_o your_o good_a resolution_n you_o will_v do_v well_o to_o repeat_v at_o the_o next_o sacrament_n o_o most_o merciful_a father_n so_o infinite_a be_v the_o goodness_n of_o thy_o nature_n that_o thou_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o pity_v and_o relieve_v the_o poor_a and_o needy_a and_o to_o extend_v thy_o timely_a succour_n to_o we_o helpless_a sinner_n whensoever_o we_o cry_v unto_o thou_o of_o the_o truth_n whereof_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o who_o be_o the_o vile_a of_o sinner_n a_o most_o sensible_a proof_n and_o experiment_n for_o not_o long_o ago_o i_o be_v so_o dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n that_o have_v not_o thou_o take_v pity_n upon_o i_o and_o quicken_v i_o by_o thy_o grace_n i_o have_v die_v for_o ever_o my_o understanding_n be_v so_o blind_a that_o i_o see_v not_o my_o danger_n my_o conscience_n so_o sear_v that_o i_o feel_v not_o my_o gild_n my_o will_n so_o enslave_v to_o my_o lust_n that_o i_o can_v not_o endure_v to_o think_v of_o part_v with_o they_o but_o now_o bless_a be_v thy_o grace_n which_o first_o excite_v my_o endeavour_n and_o have_v hitherto_o prosper_v they_o i_o do_v not_o only_o see_v the_o danger_n my_o sin_n have_v expose_v i_o to_o and_o sensible_o feel_v the_o gild_n of_o they_o but_o be_o free_o willing_a to_o renounce_v they_o for_o ever_o and_o to_o part_v even_o with_o those_o darling_n lust_n that_o have_v heretofore_o be_v as_o dear_a to_o i_o as_o my_o right_a eye_n and_o now_o o_o lord_n i_o be_o come_v before_o thou_o and_o i_o hope_v with_o a_o true_o loyal_a and_o sincere_a heart_n to_o offer_v up_o my_o soul_n and_o body_n to_o thou_o and_o vow_v a_o everlasting_a obedience_n to_o thy_o bless_a will._n for_o jesus_n sake_n refuse_v not_o this_o poor_a oblation_n which_o though_o it_o be_v infinite_o unworthy_a of_o thy_o acceptance_n be_v the_o best_a thing_n i_o be_o able_a to_o present_v thou_o to_o thou_o o_o glorious_a trinity_n father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n i_o do_v from_o henceforth_o eternal_o devote_v myself_o and_o all_o my_o faculty_n add_v and_n here_o at_o the_o table_n of_o my_o bless_a saviour_n and_o upon_o these_o sacred_a memorial_n of_o his_o wound_n and_o blood_n i_o utter_o abjure_v all_o know_v and_o wilful_a sin_n and_o rebellion_n and_o particular_o all_o such_o as_o have_v be_v heretofore_o most_o dear_a to_o i_o faithful_o promise_v by_o thy_o gracious_a assistance_n from_o henceforth_o to_o observe_v thy_o law_n without_o any_o reserve_v or_o exception_n this_o in_o the_o sincerity_n of_o my_o soul_n i_o do_v here_o vow_v to_o thy_o divine_a majesty_n and_o however_o i_o may_v be_v hereafter_o tempt_v i_o will_v never_o wilful_o depart_v from_o it_o or_o from_o any_o part_n of_o it_o so_o help_v i_o o_o my_o god_n for_o jesus_n christ_n his_o sake_n in_o who_o own_o word_n i_o far_o pray_v our_o father_n etc._n etc._n direction_n for_o the_o more_o profitable_a exercise_n of_o our_o private_a religion_n in_o the_o state_n of_o our_o actual_a engagement_n in_o the_o christian_a life_n when_o you_o go_v into_o your_o closet_n in_o the_o morning_n consider_v serious_o with_o yourself_o the_o solemn_a engagement_n you_o lie_v under_o what_o a_o cry_a guilt_n it_o will_v be_v to_o violate_v it_o what_o madness_n and_o folly_n to_o recede_v from_o it_o after_o you_o have_v take_v so_o much_o pain_n to_o reduce_v yourself_o to_o it_o what_o mighty_a reason_n you_o have_v to_o persist_v in_o it_o and_o what_o powerful_a assistance_n be_v promise_v you_o if_o you_o be_v not_o want_v to_o yourself_o and_o then_o offer_v up_o this_o follow_a prayer_n o_o eternal_a god_n who_o be_v the_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o do_v through_o he_o bestow_v so_o many_o good_a and_o perfect_a gift_n upon_o thy_o creature_n i_o desire_v for_o ever_o to_o remember_v and_o adore_v thy_o goodness_n towards_o i_o who_o thou_o have_v snatch_v as_o a_o firebrand_n out_o of_o the_o fire_n and_o at_o length_n reduce_v to_o a_o serious_a purpose_n of_o amendment_n after_o a_o long_a and_o obstinate_a course_n of_o disobedience_n in_o which_o if_o i_o have_v still_o persist_v i_o must_v have_v perish_v everlasting_o o_o bless_a be_v thy_o great_a name_n that_o after_o so_o many_o year_n rebellion_n against_o thou_o for_o which_o i_o have_v long_o ago_o deserve_v to_o be_v banish_v into_o utter_a darkness_n i_o do_v yet_o behold_v the_o light_n of_o another_o day_n and_o be_o allow_v a_o far_a space_n to_o repent_v and_o execute_v my_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n and_o now_o o_o lord_n as_o thou_o have_v wrought_v my_o will_n into_o a_o good_a resolution_n in_o despite_n of_o all_o the_o corrupt_a inclination_n of_o my_o nature_n leave_v not_o i_o beseech_v thou_o thy_o workmanship_n unfinished_a but_o by_o the_o mighty_a operation_n of_o thy_o grace_n excite_v and_o enable_v i_o faithful_o to_o perform_v what_o i_o have_v so_o serious_o resolve_v it_o be_v a_o mighty_a work_n that_o i_o have_v undertake_v to_o cleanse_v a_o base_a pollute_a nature_n and_o root_v up_o all_o its_o filthy_a lust_n and_o affection_n and_o plant_v it_o with_o all_o the_o heavenly_a disposition_n and_o improve_v they_o into_o everlasting_a happiness_n and_o thou_o know_v what_o strong_a opposition_n will_v be_v make_v against_o i_o and_o with_o what_o powerful_a temptation_n i_o must_v struggle_v throughout_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o my_o future_a
and_o for_o evermore_o amen_n after_o this_o thanksgiving_n consider_v brief_o with_o yourself_o the_o indispensible_a necessity_n of_o your_o perseverance_n to_o the_o end_n and_o how_o not_o only_o vain_a and_o fruitless_a but_o also_o hurtful_a and_o mischievous_a to_o you_o all_o your_o past_a labour_n in_o religion_n will_v be_v without_o it_o and_o then_o conclude_v your_o morning_n devotion_n with_o this_o prayer_n for_o perseverance_n o_o god_n who_o art_n unchangeable_o holy_a and_o bless_a who_o be_v the_o same_o yesterday_o to_o day_n and_o for_o ever_o and_o do_v never_o swerve_v or_o vary_v from_o the_o essential_a goodness_n and_o purity_n of_o thy_o own_o nature_n look_v down_o i_o beseech_v thou_o upon_o i_o a_o fickle_a weak_a and_o mutable_a creature_n who_o thou_o have_v redeem_v to_o thyself_o and_o hitherto_o conduct_v by_o thy_o grace_n and_o spirit_n thou_o know_v o_o lord_n the_o weakness_n of_o my_o nature_n and_o how_o unable_a i_o be_o without_o thy_o strength_n and_o assistance_n to_o finish_v the_o race_n which_o thou_o have_v set_v before_o i_o thou_o know_v what_o temptation_n i_o must_v struggle_v with_o and_o what_o difficulty_n i_o must_v yet_o overcome_v before_o i_o be_o seize_v of_o the_o bless_a prize_n i_o be_o contend_v for_o wherefore_o since_o thou_o have_v hitherto_o be_v my_o constant_a support_n and_o defence_n forsake_v i_o not_o now_o for_o thy_o name_n sake_n but_o as_o thou_o have_v begin_v a_o good_a work_n in_o i_o so_o i_o beseech_v thou_o to_o finish_v and_o complete_a it_o to_o uphold_v my_o feeble_a soul_n by_o thy_o free_a spirit_n under_o all_o temptation_n and_o difficulty_n that_o so_o by_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well-doing_n i_o may_v seek_v for_o and_o at_o last_o obtain_v honour_n and_o glory_n immortality_n and_o eternal_a life_n for_o which_o end_n o_o lord_n preserve_v i_o from_o be_v over-confident_a of_o my_o own_o ability_n and_o inspire_v i_o with_o a_o holy_a jealousy_n of_o myself_o that_o whilst_o i_o stand_v i_o may_v take_v heed_n lest_o i_o fall_v and_o if_o at_o any_o time_n i_o shall_v be_v so_o base_a and_o so_o unhappy_a as_o to_o offend_v thou_o wilful_o which_o i_o beseech_v thou_o to_o prevent_v for_o thy_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n sake_n o_o suffer_v i_o not_o to_o sleep_v in_o my_o sin_n but_o recall_v i_o instant_o by_o the_o check_n of_o my_o conscience_n and_o the_o conviction_n of_o thy_o spirit_n lest_o while_o i_o add_v sin_n to_o sin_n and_o one_o degree_n of_o wickedness_n to_o another_o my_o lust_n shall_v regain_v their_o dominion_n over_o i_o and_o thou_o shall_v be_v angry_a with_o i_o and_o reject_v i_o from_o thy_o covenant_n for_o ever_o and_o that_o i_o may_v every_o day_n serve_v thou_o more_o free_o and_o steadfast_o wean_v i_o i_o beseech_v thou_o more_o and_o more_o from_o those_o temptation_n to_o sin_n that_o be_v round_o about_o i_o and_o give_v i_o such_o a_o true_a understanding_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o all_o the_o good_n and_o evil_n of_o this_o world_n as_o that_o neither_o the_o flattery_n of_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o other_o may_v ever_o be_v able_a to_o withdraw_v i_o from_o my_o duty_n and_o lest_o while_o i_o be_o mortify_v my_o old_a sin_n i_o shall_v careless_o permit_v new_a one_o to_o spring_n up_o in_o my_o nature_n good_a god_n do_v thou_o mind_v i_o to_o search_v and_o try_v my_o own_o heart_n and_o take_v a_o severe_a account_n even_o of_o the_o small_a defect_n and_o imperfection_n within_o i_o that_o so_o i_o may_v correct_v and_o reform_v they_o in_o time_n before_o they_o be_v improve_v into_o inveterate_a habit_n and_o grant_v that_o i_o may_v be_v always_o so_o sensible_a of_o my_o own_o imperfection_n as_o that_o i_o may_v never_o rest_v in_o any_o present_a attainment_n but_o may_v still_o be_v press_v forward_o to_o the_o mark_n of_o my_o high_a call_n in_o jesus_n christ._n suggest_v to_o i_o i_o beseech_v thou_o frequent_a thought_n of_o my_o mortality_n 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communion_n of_o thy_o church_n and_o suffer_v i_o not_o to_o be_v lead_v away_o by_o the_o error_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o to_o fall_v from_o my_o own_o steadfastness_n and_o final_o i_o beseech_v thou_o to_o grant_v that_o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o bless_a mean_n i_o may_v so_o far_o prevail_v over_o the_o infirmity_n and_o corruption_n of_o my_o nature_n as_o that_o at_o last_o i_o may_v have_v a_o clear_a and_o certain_a feel_v of_o my_o own_o integrity_n and_o uprightness_n towards_o thou_o that_o so_o be_v from_o thence_o assure_v of_o thy_o love_n and_o of_o my_o title_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n i_o may_v run_v the_o way_n of_o thy_o commandment_n more_o cheerful_o and_o at_o last_o finish_v my_o course_n with_o unspeakable_a joy_n and_o now_o o_o lord_n i_o resign_v myself_o to_o thou_o take_v i_o i_o beseech_v thou_o into_o thy_o care_n and_o protection_n this_o day_n preserve_v i_o from_o all_o evil_a but_o especial_o from_o sin_n and_o quicken_v i_o by_o thy_o 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the_o common_a sense_n and_o ingenuity_n of_o a_o man_n in_o i_o how_o can_v i_o think_v of_o thou_o without_o rapture_n of_o love_n how_o can_v i_o draw_v near_o unto_o thou_o without_o transport_v of_o delight_n and_o complacency_n but_o vile_a and_o ungrateful_a that_o i_o be_o i_o can_v think_v of_o all_o thy_o goodness_n with_o cold_a and_o freeze_a affection_n and_o can_v come_v into_o thy_o presence_n not_o only_o with_o indifference_n but_o reluctancy_n good_a god_n what_o be_o i_o make_v of_o what_o a_o insensible_a soul_n do_v i_o carry_v about_o i_o o_o i_o be_o ashamed_a of_o myself_o i_o be_o confound_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o my_o own_o baseness_n and_o yet_o woe_n be_v i_o i_o can_v help_v it_o i_o strive_v to_o shake_v off_o this_o clog_n of_o my_o corrupt_a
upon_o it_o by_o put_v in_o practice_n these_o initial_a duty_n of_o it_o you_o who_o have_v be_v hitherto_o war_a against_o god_n and_o strive_v against_o your_o duty_n and_o your_o happiness_n be_v at_o last_o persuade_v to_o make_v a_o stand_v for_o a_o while_n and_o to_o listen_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o reason_n and_o religion_n which_o do_v both_o call_v aloud_o to_o you_o to_o face_n about_o to_o desert_v the_o party_n wherein_o you_o be_v engage_v and_o come_v over_o to_o the_o side_n of_o virtue_n and_o that_o i_o may_v if_o possible_o prevail_v i_o do_v here_o earnest_o beseech_v you_o even_o by_o all_o that_o be_v dear_a and_o precious_a to_o you_o by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o by_o the_o live_v of_o your_o soul_n and_o by_o all_o your_o hope_n of_o happiness_n in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v serious_o to_o consider_v with_o i_o these_o follow_a motive_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a necessity_n of_o begin_v this_o our_o spiritual_a warfare_n one_o time_n or_o 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we_o be_v make_v if_o vanquish_v we_o be_v undo_v to_o eternity_n so_o that_o in_o this_o spiritual_a warfare_n we_o do_v not_o contend_v like_o the_o warrior_n of_o this_o world_n for_o a_o triumphal_a wreath_n that_o will_v wither_v upon_o our_o brow_n or_o for_o fame_n and_o renown_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o breath_n of_o a_o company_n of_o talk_a people_n or_o for_o the_o enlarge_n of_o our_o empire_n over_o the_o next_o handful_n of_o a_o turf_n but_o we_o be_v contend_v with_o enemy_n that_o be_v pursue_v we_o to_o hell_n and_o bind_v we_o in_o chain_n of_o everlasting_a darkness_n we_o be_v to_o fight_v for_o our_o immortality_n for_o all_o our_o hope_n of_o happiness_n and_o wellbeing_a in_o a_o never-ending_a life_n a_o and_o when_o so_o much_o depend_v upon_o the_o success_n of_o our_o conflict_n and_o we_o must_v conquer_v and_o be_v crown_v or_o die_v win_v the_o field_n and_o heaven_n or_o yield_v ourselves_o captive_a to_o eternal_a misery_n i_o leave_v you_o 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the_o christian_a life_n which_o we_o all_o confess_v to_o be_v both_o necessary_a and_o difficult_a and_o it_o be_v so_o what_o do_v we_o else_o by_o our_o delay_n it_o but_o only_o prolong_v the_o pain_n and_o trouble_v of_o it_o and_o whereas_o by_o one_o brave_a attempt_n we_o may_v ease_v ourselves_o and_o set_v our_o soul_n at_o rest_n for_o ever_o we_o languish_v away_o our_o life_n in_o misery_n and_o be_v sick_a with_o the_o fear_n of_o our_o remedy_n just_o like_o poor_a man_n that_o be_v under_o the_o torment_n of_o the_o stone_n they_o know_v they_o must_v be_v cut_v or_o die_v but_o out_o of_o a_o frightful_a apprehension_n of_o their_o remedy_n they_o put_v it_o off_o from_o time_n to_o time_n they_o promise_v they_o will_v endure_v it_o rather_o than_o lose_v their_o life_n but_o when_o they_o come_v to_o the_o trial_n their_o heart_n fail_v and_o they_o must_v needs_o have_v a_o little_o long_a respite_n but_o all_o the_o while_o they_o endure_v not_o only_o the_o 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