wilderness_n where_o no_o refreshment_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v to_o make_v a_o pretence_n of_o come_v unto_o god_n and_o not_o with_o expectation_n of_o receive_v good_a and_o great_a thing_n from_o he_o be_v to_o despise_v god_n himself_o to_o overthrow_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n and_o deprive_v our_o own_o soul_n of_o all_o benefit_n thereby_o and_o want_v hereof_o be_v that_o which_o render_v the_o worship_n of_o the_o most_o useless_a and_o fruitless_a unto_o themselves_o we_o be_v always_o to_o come_v unto_o god_n as_o unto_o a_o eternal_a spring_n of_o goodness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o all_o that_o our_o soul_n do_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o of_o all_o we_o can_v desire_v in_o order_n unto_o our_o everlasting_a blessedness_n and_o all_o these_o thing_n as_o unto_o believer_n may_v be_v reduce_v unto_o the_o two_o head_n before_o mention_v first_o they_o come_v for_o a_o communication_n of_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ._n hence_o do_v all_o our_o peace_n consolation_n and_o joy_n all_o our_o encouragement_n to_o do_v and_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n all_o our_o supportment_n under_o our_o suffering_n sole_o depend_v in_o these_o thing_n do_v our_o soul_n live_v and_o without_o they_o we_o be_v of_o all_o man_n the_o most_o miserable_a it_o be_v the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o be_v the_o immediate_a efficient_a cause_n of_o all_o these_o thing_n in_o we_o he_o shed_v abroad_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o our_o heart_n rom._n 5.5_o he_o witness_v our_o adoption_n unto_o we_o chap._n 8.15_o 16._o and_o thereby_o a_o interest_n in_o the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n in_o god_n as_o he_o be_v love_n but_o the_o outward_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o he_o communicate_v these_o thing_n unto_o we_o and_o effect_n they_o in_o we_o be_v by_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o the_o preach_a of_o it_o ordinary_o he_o do_v the_o same_o work_n also_o in_o prayer_n ofttimes_o in_o other_o holy_a administration_n for_o this_o end_n for_o a_o participation_n of_o this_o grace_n of_o these_o mercy_n do_v believer_n come_v unto_o god_n by_o they_o they_o use_v they_o as_o mean_n to_o draw_v water_n from_o the_o well_n of_o salvation_n and_o to_o receive_v in_o that_o spiritual_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n which_o god_n by_o they_o will_v communicate_v so_o christ_n by_o his_o word_n knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o heart_n if_o it_o be_v open_v by_o faith_n he_o come_v in_o and_o sup_v with_o man_n give_v they_o a_o gracious_a refreshment_n by_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o own_o love_n and_o the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n rev._n 3.20_o joh._n 14.23_o this_o believer_n look_v for_o in_o and_o this_o they_o do_v in_o various_a measure_n receive_v by_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o although_o some_o through_o their_o fear_n and_o temptation_n be_v not_o sensible_a hereof_o yet_o do_v they_o secret_o receive_v these_o bless_a gracious_a supply_n whereby_o their_o soul_n be_v hold_v in_o life_n without_o which_o they_o will_v pine_v away_o and_o perish_v so_o he_o deal_v with_o they_o cant._n 4.5_o 6._o these_o be_v the_o garden_n and_o gallery_n of_o christ_n wherein_o he_o give_v we_o of_o his_o love_n cant._n 7.12_o those_o who_o be_v humble_a and_o sincere_a know_v how_o often_o their_o soul_n have_v be_v refresh_v in_o they_o and_o how_o long_o sometime_o the_o impression_n they_o have_v receive_v of_o divine_a grace_n and_o love_n have_v continue_v with_o they_o unto_o their_o unspeakable_a consolation_n they_o remember_v what_o they_o have_v receive_v in_o the_o open_v and_o application_n of_o the_o exceed_a great_a and_o precious_a promise_n that_o be_v give_v unto_o they_o whereby_o they_o be_v gradual_o more_o and_o more_o make_v partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n how_o many_o a_o time_n they_o have_v receive_v light_n in_o darkness_n refreshment_n under_o despondency_n relief_n in_o their_o conflict_n with_o danger_n and_o temptation_n in_o and_o by_o they_o for_o this_o cause_n do_v affection_n that_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v cleave_v unto_o they_o who_o can_v but_o love_v and_o delight_n in_o that_o which_o he_o have_v find_v by_o experience_n to_o be_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o communicate_v unto_o he_o the_o most_o invaluable_a mercy_n the_o most_o inestimable_a benefit_n whereof_o in_o this_o life_n he_o can_v be_v make_v partaker_n he_o who_o have_v find_v a_o hide_a treasure_n although_o he_o shall_v at_o once_o take_v away_o the_o whole_a of_o it_o yet_o will_v esteem_v the_o place_n where_o he_o find_v it_o but_o if_o it_o be_v of_o that_o nature_n that_o no_o more_o can_v be_v find_v or_o take_v of_o it_o at_o once_o but_o what_o be_v sufficient_a for_o the_o present_a occasion_n yet_o be_v so_o full_a and_o boundless_a as_o that_o whenever_o he_o come_v again_o to_o seek_v for_o it_o he_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o obtain_v present_a supply_n he_o will_v always_o value_v it_o and_o constant_o apply_v himself_o unto_o it_o and_o such_o be_v the_o treasure_n of_o grace_n and_o divine_a love_n that_o be_v in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n if_o we_o be_v stranger_n unto_o these_o thing_n if_o we_o have_v never_o receive_v efficatious_a intimation_n of_o divine_a love_n unto_o our_o soul_n in_o and_o by_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n we_o can_v love_v they_o and_o delight_v in_o they_o as_o we_o ought_v what_o do_v man_n come_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o what_o do_v they_o pray_v for_o what_o do_v they_o expect_v to_o receive_v from_o he_o do_v they_o come_v unto_o god_n as_o the_o eternal_a fountain_n of_o live_v water_n as_o the_o god_n of_o all_o grace_n peace_n and_o consolation_n or_o do_v they_o come_v unto_o his_o worship_n without_o any_o design_n as_o unto_o a_o dry_a and_o empty_a show_n do_v they_o fight_v uncertain_o with_o these_o thing_n as_o man_n beat_v the_o air_n or_o do_v they_o think_v they_o bring_v something_o unto_o god_n but_o receive_v nothing_o from_o he_o that_o the_o best_a of_o their_o business_n be_v to_o please_v he_o in_o do_v what_o he_o command_v but_o to_o receive_v any_o thing_n from_o he_o they_o expect_v not_o nor_o do_v ever_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o have_v do_v so_o or_o no_o it_o be_v not_o for_o person_n who_o walk_v in_o such_o way_n ever_o to_o attain_v a_o due_a delight_n in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n believer_n have_v other_o design_n herein_o and_o among_o the_o rest_n this_o in_o the_o first_o place_n that_o they_o may_v be_v a_o fresh_a make_v partaker_n of_o refresh_a comfort_a pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o thereby_o of_o their_o adoption_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o acceptance_n of_o their_o person_n according_a as_o they_o meet_v with_o these_o thing_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o holy_a worship_n public_a or_o private_a so_o will_v they_o love_v value_n and_o adhere_v unto_o they_o some_o man_n be_v full_a of_o other_o thought_n and_o affection_n so_o as_o that_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o their_o principal_a design_n or_o desire_n or_o be_v content_v with_o that_o measure_n of_o they_o which_o they_o suppose_v themselves_o to_o have_v attain_v or_o at_o least_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o the_o need_n they_o stand_v in_o to_o have_v fresh_a communication_n of_o they_o make_v unto_o their_o soul_n suppose_v that_o they_o can_v do_v well_o enough_o without_o a_o renew_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n every_o day_n some_o be_v so_o ignorant_a of_o what_o they_o ought_v to_o design_n to_o look_v after_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o gospel_n worship_n as_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v have_v any_o real_a design_n in_o they_o many_o of_o the_o better_a sort_n of_o professor_n be_v too_o negligent_a in_o this_o matter_n they_o do_v not_o long_a and_o pant_v in_o the_o inward_a man_n after_o renew_a pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n they_o do_v not_o consider_v how_o much_o need_n they_o have_v of_o they_o that_o they_o may_v be_v encourage_v and_o strengthen_v unto_o all_o other_o duty_n of_o obedience_n they_o do_v not_o prepare_v their_o mind_n for_o their_o reception_n of_o they_o nor_o come_v with_o expectation_n of_o their_o communication_n unto_o they_o they_o do_v not_o right_o fix_v their_o faith_n on_o this_o truth_n namely_o that_o these_o holy_a administration_n and_o duty_n be_v appoint_v of_o god_n in_o the_o first_o place_n as_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o convey_v his_o love_n and_o a_o sense_n of_o it_o unto_o our_o soul_n from_o hence_o spring_v all_o that_o lukewarmness_n coldness_n and_o indifferency_n in_o and_o unto_o the_o duty_n of_o holy_a worship_n that_o be_v grow_v among_o we_o for_o if_o man_n have_v lose_v the_o principal_a design_n of_o faith_n
in_o general_n but_o that_o man_n have_v decoct_v and_o waste_v the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o christian_a religion_n it_o be_v the_o full_a revelation_n of_o god_n that_o ever_o he_o make_v it_o be_v the_o last_o that_o ever_o he_o will_v make_v in_o this_o world_n if_o this_o be_v despise_v if_o man_n rebel_v against_o the_o light_n of_o it_o if_o they_o break_v the_o cord_n of_o it_o and_o be_v senseless_a of_o its_o power_n nothing_o can_v preserve_v they_o from_o the_o high_a atheism_n that_o the_o nature_n of_o man_n be_v capable_a of_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o expect_v relief_n or_o preservation_n from_o inferior_a mean_n where_o the_o high_a and_o most_o noble_a be_v reject_v reason_n or_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n give_v evidence_n unto_o the_o be_v of_o god_n and_o argument_n be_v still_o well_o plead_v from_o they_o to_o the_o confusion_n of_o atheist_n and_o they_o be_v sufficient_a to_o retain_v man_n in_o a_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o divine_a power_n and_o godhead_n who_o have_v no_o other_o no_o high_a evidence_n of_o they_o but_o where_o man_n have_v have_v the_o benefit_n of_o divine_a revelation_n where_o they_o have_v be_v educate_v in_o the_o principle_n of_o christian_a religion_n have_v have_v some_o knowledge_n and_o make_v some_o profession_n of_o they_o and_o have_v through_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n and_o hatred_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v true_o good_a reject_v all_o conviction_n from_o they_o concern_v the_o be_v power_n and_o rule_n of_o god_n they_o will_v not_o be_v keep_v unto_o a_o confession_n of_o they_o by_o any_o consideration_n that_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n can_v suggest_v there_o be_v therefore_o among_o other_o three_z reason_n why_o there_o be_v more_o atheist_n among_o they_o who_o live_v where_o the_o christian_a religion_n be_v profess_v and_o the_o power_n of_o it_o reject_v than_o among_o any_o other_o sort_n of_o man_n even_o than_o there_o be_v among_o the_o heathen_n themselves_o 1._o god_n have_v design_v to_o magnify_v his_o word_n above_o all_o his_o name_n or_o all_o other_o way_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o himself_o unto_o the_o child_n of_o man_n psal._n 138.2_o where_o therefore_o this_o be_v reject_v and_o despise_v he_o will_v not_o give_v the_o honour_n unto_o reason_n or_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n that_o they_o shall_v preserve_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o any_o evil_a whatever_n reason_n shall_v not_o have_v the_o same_o power_n and_o efficacy_n on_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n who_o reject_v the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o divine_a revelation_n by_o the_o word_n as_o it_o have_v or_o may_v have_v on_o they_o who_o best_o guide_v it_o be_v who_o never_o enjoy_v the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v oft_o time_n more_o common_a honesty_n among_o civilise_a heathen_n and_o mahometan_n than_o among_o degenerate_a christian_n and_o from_o the_o same_o reason_n the_o child_n of_o professor_n be_v sometime_o irrecoverable_o profligate_v it_o will_v be_v say_v many_o be_v recover_v unto_o god_n by_o affliction_n who_o have_v despise_v the_o word_n but_o it_o be_v otherwise_o never_o any_o be_v convert_v unto_o god_n by_o affliction_n who_o have_v reject_v the_o word_n man_n may_v by_o affliction_n be_v recall_v unto_o the_o light_n of_o the_o word_n but_o none_o be_v immediate_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o they_o as_o a_o good_a shepherd_n when_o a_o sheep_n wander_v from_o the_o flock_n and_o will_v not_o hear_v his_o call_n send_v out_o his_o dog_n which_o stop_v he_o and_o bite_v he_o hereon_o he_o look_v about_o he_o and_o hear_v the_o call_n of_o the_o shepherd_n return_v again_o to_o the_o flock_n job_n 33.19_o 20_o 21_o 22_o 23_o 24_o 25._o but_o with_o this_o sort_n of_o person_n it_o be_v the_o way_n of_o god_n that_o where_o the_o principal_a mean_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o himself_o and_o wherein_o he_o do_v most_o glorify_v his_o wisdom_n and_o his_o goodness_n be_v despise_v he_o will_v not_o only_o take_v off_o the_o efficacy_n of_o inferior_a mean_n but_o judicial_o harden_v the_o heart_n and_o blind_a the_o eye_n of_o man_n that_o such_o mean_n shall_v be_v of_o no_o use_n unto_o they_o see_v isa._n 6.8_o 9_o 10_o 11_o 12._o act_n 13_o 40_o 41._o rom._n 1.21_o 28._o 2_o thes._n 2.11_o 12._o 2._o the_o contempt_n of_o gospel_n light_a and_o christian_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v supernatural_a which_o be_v the_o beginning_n of_o transgression_n unto_o all_o atheist_n among_o we_o beget_v in_o and_o leaf_n on_o the_o mind_n such_o a_o deprave_a corrupt_a habit_n such_o a_o congery_n of_o all_o evil_n that_o the_o hatred_n of_o the_o goodness_n wisdom_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n can_v produce_v that_o it_o can_v but_o be_v whole_o incline_v unto_o the_o worst_a of_o evil_n as_o all_o our_o original_a vicious_a inclination_n succeed_v immediate_o on_o our_o rejection_n and_o loss_n of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n the_o best_a thing_n corrupt_v yield_v the_o worst_a savour_n as_o manna_n stanke_z and_o breed_v worm_n the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v reject_v stink_a worm_n take_v the_o place_n of_o it_o in_o the_o mind_n which_o grow_v into_o viper_n and_o scorpion_n every_o degree_n of_o apostasy_n from_o gospel-truth_n bring_v in_o a_o proportionate_a degree_n of_o inclination_n unto_o wickedness_n into_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n of_o man_n 2_o pet._n 2.21_o and_o that_o which_o be_v total_a unto_o all_o the_o evil_n that_o they_o be_v capable_a of_o in_o this_o world_n whereas_o therefore_o multitude_n from_o their_o darkness_n unbelief_n temptation_n love_n of_o sin_n pride_n and_o contempt_n of_o god_n do_v fall_v off_o from_o all_o subjection_n of_o soul_n and_o conscience_n unto_o the_o gospel_n either_o notional_o or_o practical_o deride_v or_o despise_v all_o supernatural_a revelation_n they_o be_v a_o thousand_o time_n more_o dispose_v unto_o downright_a atheism_n than_o person_n who_o never_o have_v the_o light_n or_o benefit_n of_o such_o revelation_n take_v heed_n of_o decay_n whatever_o ground_n the_o gospel_n lose_v in_o our_o mind_n sin_n possess_v it_o for_o itself_o and_o its_o own_o ends._n let_v none_o say_v it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o man_n grow_v cold_a and_o negligent_a in_o the_o duty_n of_o gospel_n worship_n public_a and_o private_a which_o be_v to_o reject_v gospel_n light_n let_v they_o say_v and_o pretend_v what_o they_o please_v that_o in_o other_o thing_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o conversation_n it_o be_v well_o with_o they_o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o so_o sin_n will_n sin_n do_v one_o way_n or_o other_o make_v a_o increase_n in_o they_o proportionate_a unto_o these_o decay_n and_o will_v soon_o or_o late_a discover_v itself_o so_o to_o do_v and_o themselves_o if_o they_o be_v not_o utter_o harden_v may_v great_o discover_v it_o inward_o in_o their_o peace_n or_o outward_o in_o their_o life_n 3._o where_o man_n be_v resolve_v not_o to_o see_v the_o great_a the_o light_n be_v that_o shine_v about_o they_o the_o fast_o they_o must_v close_o they_o eye_n all_o atheism_n spring_v from_o a_o resolution_n not_o to_o see_v thing_n invisible_a and_o eternal_a love_n of_o sin_n a_o resolve_a continuance_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o the_o effectual_a power_n of_o vicious_a inclination_n in_o opposition_n unto_o all_o that_o be_v good_a make_v it_o the_o interest_n of_o such_o man_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o god_n to_o call_v they_o to_o a_o account_n for_o a_o supreme_a unavoidable_a judge_n a_o eternal_a rewarder_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a be_v inseparable_a from_o the_o first_o notion_n of_o a_o divine_a be_v whereas_o therefore_o the_o most_o glorious_a light_n and_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n of_o these_o thing_n shine_v forth_o in_o the_o scripture_n man_n that_o will_v abide_v by_o their_o interest_n to_o love_n and_o live_v in_o sin_n must_v close_v their_o eye_n with_o all_o the_o art_n and_o power_n that_o they_o have_v or_o else_o they_o will_v pierce_v into_o their_o mind_n unto_o their_o torment_n this_o they_o do_v by_o downright_a atheism_n which_o alone_o pretend_v to_o give_v they_o security_n against_o the_o light_n of_o divine_a revelation_n against_o all_o other_o conviction_n they_o may_v take_v shelter_n from_o their_o fear_n under_o less_o degree_n of_o it_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o unto_o the_o disparagement_n but_o honour_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o so_o many_o avow_v themselves_o to_o be_v atheist_n in_o those_o place_n wherein_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o be_v know_v and_o profess_v for_o none_o can_v have_v the_o least_o inclination_n or_o temptation_n thereunto_o until_o they_o have_v before_o hand_n reject_v the_o gospel_n which_o immediate_o expose_v they_o unto_o the_o worst_a of_o evil_n nor_o be_v there_o any_o mean_n for_o the_o recovery_n of_o such_o person_n the_o opposition_n that_o have_v be_v
as_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o and_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n it_o be_v true_a the_o light_n of_o it_o can_v full_o comprehend_v the_o nature_n of_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o its_o affection_n for_o they_o be_v infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a such_o as_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o some_o of_o they_o as_o future_a glory_n be_v not_o yet_o clear_o reveal_v but_o it_o discern_v they_o all_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v in_o themselves_o and_o not_o in_o any_o corrupt_a representation_n or_o imagination_n of_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n they_o be_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2.14_o which_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o natural_a man_n can_v receive_v they_o namely_o because_o he_o have_v not_o ability_n spiritual_o to_o discern_v they_o and_o this_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o mind_n the_o principal_a quality_n and_o effect_n of_o faith_n namely_o the_o communication_n unto_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o act_n in_o we_o of_o a_o spiritual_a save_v light_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v and_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n kind_a and_o proper_a use_n see_v ephes._n 1.17_o 18_o 19_o that_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n may_v give_v unto_o you_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o the_o eye_n of_o your_o understanding_n be_v enlighten_v that_o you_o know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o call_v and_o what_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o inheritance_n in_o the_o saint_n and_o what_o be_v the_o exceed_a greatness_n of_o his_o power_n to_o us-ward_n who_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o work_n of_o his_o mighty_a power_n 2_o cor._n 4.6_o god_n shine_v in_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ._n the_o end_n god_n design_n be_v to_o draw_v our_o heart_n and_o affection_n unto_o himself_o and_o unto_o this_o end_n he_o give_v unto_o we_o a_o glorious_a internal_a light_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o discern_v the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v to_o cleave_v unto_o with_o love_n and_o delight_n without_o this_o we_o have_v nothing_o but_o false_a image_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o our_o mind_n not_o always_o as_o unto_o the_o truth_n or_o doctrine_n concern_v they_o but_o as_o unto_o their_o reality_n power_n and_o efficacy_n this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o principal_a effect_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o mind_n namely_o to_o discover_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o represent_v unto_o the_o affection_n thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a in_o their_o nature_n beauty_n and_o genuine_a excellency_n this_o attract_v they_o if_o they_o be_v spiritual_o renew_v and_o cause_v they_o to_o cleave_v with_o delight_n unto_o what_o be_v so_o propose_v unto_o they_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n who_o thereon_o discover_v the_o excellency_n of_o his_o person_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o mediation_n will_v both_o love_v he_o and_o on_o his_o believe_a rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n so_o be_v it_o in_o all_o other_o instance_n the_o more_o steady_a be_v our_o view_n by_o faith_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n the_o more_o firm_a and_o constant_a will_v our_o affection_n be_v in_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o wherever_o the_o mind_n be_v darken_v about_o they_o by_o temptation_n or_o seduction_n from_o the_o truth_n there_o the_o affection_n will_v be_v quick_o weaken_v and_o impair_v wherefore_o three_o affection_n thus_o lead_v unto_o and_o fix_v on_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o the_o light_n and_o conduct_v of_o faith_n be_v more_o and_o more_o renew_v or_o make_v in_o themselves_o more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a they_o be_v in_o their_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o continual_o change_v and_o assimulate_v unto_o the_o thing_n themselves_o become_v more_o and_o more_o to_o be_v what_o they_o be_v namely_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a this_o transformation_n be_v wrought_v by_o faith_n and_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o excellent_a faculty_n and_o operation_n see_v 2_o cor._n 3.18_o and_o the_o mean_n whereby_o it_o work_v herein_o be_v our_o affection_n in_o they_o as_o we_o be_v carnal_a we_o be_v conform_v unto_o this_o world_n and_o by_o they_o as_o sanctify_v be_v we_o transform_v in_o the_o renew_n of_o our_o mind_n rom._n 12.2_o and_o this_o transformation_n be_v the_o introduction_n of_o a_o new_a form_n or_o nature_n into_o our_o soul_n diverse_a from_o that_o wherewith_o we_o be_v before_o endue_v so_o be_v it_o describe_v isaiah_n 11.6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o a_o spiritual_a nature_n they_o be_v change_v into_o and_o it_o be_v twofold_a first_o original_a and_o radical_a as_o to_o the_o substance_n or_o essence_n of_o it_o which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o first_o act_n of_o divine_a grace_n upon_o our_o soul_n when_o we_o be_v make_v new_a creature_n herein_o our_o affection_n be_v passive_a they_o do_v not_o transform_v we_o but_o be_v transform_v second_o gradual_a as_o unto_o its_o increase_n and_o therein_o faith_n work_v in_o and_o by_o the_o affection_n whenever_o the_o affection_n do_v cleave_v intense_o unto_o any_o object_n they_o receive_v a_o impression_n from_o it_o as_o the_o wax_n do_v from_o the_o seal_n when_o apply_v unto_o it_o which_o change_v they_o into_o its_o own_o likeness_n so_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v of_o sensual_a unclean_a person_n they_o have_v eye_n full_a of_o adultery_n 2_o pet._n 2.14_o their_o affection_n be_v so_o whole_o possess_v and_o fill_v with_o their_o lustful_a object_n as_o that_o they_o have_v bring_v forth_o their_o own_o likeness_n upon_o their_o imagination_n that_o blot_v out_o all_o other_o and_o leave_v they_o no_o inclination_n but_o what_o they_o stir_v up_o in_o they_o when_o man_n be_v fill_v with_o the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n which_o carry_v along_o with_o it_o all_o their_o other_o affection_n their_o hope_n fear_n and_o desire_n unto_o a_o constant_a exercise_n about_o the_o same_o object_n they_o become_v earthly-minded_n their_o mind_n be_v so_o change_v into_o the_o image_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o by_o the_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o corrupt_a principle_n of_o sin_n self-love_n and_o lust_n as_o if_o they_o be_v make_v up_o of_o the_o earth_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o savour_n of_o any_o thing_n else_o in_o like_a manner_n when_o by_o faith_n man_n come_v to_o embrace_v heavenly_a thing_n through_o the_o effectual_a work_v of_o a_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o they_o be_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o make_v heavenly_a the_o inward_a man_n be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n love_n be_v more_o sincere_a and_o ardent_a delight_n be_v more_o ravish_a and_o sensible_a desire_n be_v more_o enlarge_v and_o intense_a and_o by_o all_o a_o taste_n and_o relish_v of_o heavenly_a thing_n be_v heighten_v into_o refresh_a experience_n see_v rom._n 5.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o this_o be_v the_o way_n whereby_o one_o grace_n be_v add_v unto_o another_o 2_o pet._n 1.5_o 6._o in_o degree_n great_a be_v the_o assimulation_n between_o renew_a affection_n and_o their_o spiritual_a object_n that_o by_o this_o mean_n may_v be_v attain_v the_o mind_n hereby_o become_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o dwell_v by_o the_o spirit_n christ_n also_o dwell_v in_o believer_n and_o they_o in_o he_o god_n be_v love_n and_o he_o that_o dwell_v in_o love_n dwell_v in_o god_n and_o god_n in_o he_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o love_n in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n give_v a_o mutual_a inhabitation_n unto_o god_n and_o believer_n in_o brief_a he_o who_o affection_n be_v set_v upon_o heavenly_a thing_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n will_v be_v heavenly-minded_n and_o in_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o they_o will_v that_o heavenly_a mindedness_n be_v increase_v the_o transformation_n and_o assimulation_n that_o be_v wrought_v be_v not_o in_o the_o object_n or_o spiritual_a thing_n themselves_o they_o be_v not_o change_v neither_o in_o themselves_o nor_o in_o the_o representation_n make_v of_o they_o unto_o our_o mind_n but_o the_o change_n be_v in_o our_o affection_n which_o be_v make_v like_o unto_o they_o two_o case_n derive_v from_o this_o principle_n and_o consideration_n may_v be_v here_o speak_v unto_o and_o shall_v be_v so_o the_o first_o in_o this_o and_o the_o other_o in_o the_o follow_a chapter_n the_o one_o be_v concern_v the_o slowness_n and_o imperceptibility_n of_o the_o growth_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o their_o assimulation_n unto_o
be_v a_o dangerous_a symtom_n of_o a_o evil_a state_n and_o condition_n and_o that_o those_o in_o who_o it_o be_v will_v at_o last_o be_v find_v to_o be_v but_o hypocrite_n i_o know_v such_o person_n will_v or_o may_v have_v pretend_v evidence_n unto_o the_o contrary_a and_o that_o they_o be_v well_o enough_o satisfy_v of_o and_o with_o their_o own_o sincerity_n in_o many_o thing_n so_o as_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o fix_v upon_o the_o the_o sense_n and_o conviction_n of_o be_v but_o hypocrite_n but_o this_o apprehension_n arise_v from_o a_o false_a notion_n of_o hypocrisy_n no_o man_n they_o suppose_v be_v a_o hypocrite_n but_o he_o that_o general_o or_o universal_o pretend_v himself_o in_o religion_n to_o be_v what_o he_o be_v not_o and_o what_o he_o know_v himself_o not_o to_o be_v or_o at_o least_o may_v easy_o do_v so_o and_o it_o be_v true_a that_o this_o be_v the_o broad_a notion_n of_o pharisaical_a hypocrisy_n but_o take_v a_o hypoerite_n for_o he_o who_o under_o light_n profession_n gift_n duty_n do_v habitual_o and_o willing_o fail_v in_o any_o point_n of_o sincerity_n he_o be_v no_o less_o a_o perish_a hypocrite_n than_o the_o former_a and_o it_o may_v alter_v the_o case_n with_o they_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o every_o one_o in_o who_o there_o be_v this_o prevalent_a decay_n in_o spiritual_a affection_n be_v a_o hypocrite_n god_n forbid_v i_o only_o say_v that_o where_o it_o continue_v without_o remedy_n it_o be_v such_o a_o symtome_n of_o hypocrisy_n as_o that_o he_o who_o be_v wise_a and_o have_v a_o care_n of_o his_o soul_n will_v not_o rest_v until_o he_o have_v search_v it_o unto_o the_o bottom_n for_o it_o seem_v as_o if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o such_o person_n they_o have_v have_v a_o false_a or_o imperfect_a work_n in_o that_o conversion_n unto_o god_n which_o they_o have_v profess_v conviction_n of_o sin_n communication_n of_o spiritual_a light_n and_o gift_n alteration_n upon_o the_o affection_n change_v of_o socicty_n and_o conversation_n have_v make_v it_o up_o now_o it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o such_o a_o work_n great_o to_o flourish_v for_o a_o season_n in_o all_o the_o principal_a part_n and_o duty_n of_o profession_n but_o it_o be_v in_o its_o nature_n also_o gradual_o to_o decay_v until_o it_o be_v quite_o wither_v away_o in_o some_o it_o be_v lose_v by_o the_o power_n of_o some_o vigorous_a temptation_n and_o particular_a lust_n indulge_v unto_o end_v in_o worldliness_n and_o sensuality_n but_o in_o the_o most_o it_o decay_v gradual_o until_o it_o have_v lose_v all_o its_o savour_n and_o sap_n see_v joh._n 15.3_o wherefore_o while_o man_n find_v this_o decay_n in_o themselves_o unless_o they_o be_v fall_v under_o the_o power_n of_o a_o destructive_a security_n unless_o they_o be_v harden_v through_o be_v deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n they_o can_v but_o think_v it_o their_o duty_n to_o examine_v how_o thing_n stand_v with_o they_o whether_o they_o ever_o effectual_o close_v with_o christ_n and_o have_v the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n which_o work_v by_o love_n see_v it_o be_v with_o they_o as_o though_o they_o have_v only_o a_o work_n of_o another_o nature_n for_o a_o save_v work_n in_o its_o own_o nature_n and_o in_o the_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n thrive_v and_o grow_v as_o the_o whole_a scripture_n testify_v but_o it_o be_v this_o false_a and_o imperfect_a work_n that_o have_v no_o root_n and_o be_v thus_o subject_a to_o wither_v six_o person_n in_o such_o a_o estate_n be_v apt_a to_o deceive_v themselves_o with_o false_a hope_n and_o notion_n whereby_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n do_v put_v forth_o its_o power_n to_o harden_v they_o unto_o their_o ruin_n two_o way_n there_o be_v whereby_o this_o pernicious_a effect_n be_v produce_v the_o one_o by_o the_o prevalency_n of_o a_o particular_a lust_n or_o sin_n the_o other_o by_o a_o neglect_n of_o spiritual_a duty_n and_o a_o vain_a conversation_n in_o the_o world_n under_o which_o the_o soul_n pine_v away_o and_o consume_v as_o unto_o the_o first_o of_o these_o there_o be_v three_o false_a notion_n whereby_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n delude_v the_o soul_n of_o men._n the_o first_o be_v that_o it_o be_v that_o one_o sin_n alone_o wherein_o they_o will_v be_v indulge_v let_v they_o be_v spare_v in_o this_o one_o thing_n and_o in_o all_o other_o they_o will_v be_v exact_a enough_o this_o be_v the_o composition_n that_o naaman_n will_v have_v make_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n 2_o king_n 5.18_o and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o many_o trust_n unto_o hence_o it_o have_v by_o the_o event_n be_v make_v to_o appear_v that_o some_o person_n have_v live_v long_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o some_o gross_a sin_n and_o yet_o all_o the_o while_n use_v a_o semblance_n of_o great_a diligence_n in_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n whereby_o poor_a sinner_n delude_v their_o own_o soul_n for_o suppose_v it_o possible_a that_o a_o man_n shall_v give_v himself_o up_o unto_o any_o lust_n or_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o be_v observant_a of_o all_o other_o duty_n yet_o this_o will_v give_v he_o no_o relief_n as_o unto_o the_o eternal_a condition_n of_o his_o soul_n the_o rule_n be_v peremptory_a unto_o this_o purpose_n jam._n 2.10_o 11._o one_o sin_n willing_o live_v in_o be_v as_o able_a to_o destroy_v a_o man_n soul_n as_o a_o thousand_o beside_o it_o be_v practical_o false_a there_o be_v no_o man_n that_o live_v in_o any_o one_o know_a sin_n but_o he_o real_o live_v in_o more_o though_o that_o only_o bear_v the_o chief_a sway._n with_o some_o such_o person_n these_o sin_n appear_v unto_o other_o who_o observe_v their_o frame_n and_o spirit_n though_o they_o appear_v not_o to_o themselves_o in_o some_o they_o be_v manifest_a in_o themselves_o although_o they_o be_v hide_v from_o other_o 1_o tim._n 5.24_o but_o let_v no_o man_n relieve_v himself_o with_o thought_n that_o it_o be_v but_o one_o sin_n while_o that_o one_o sin_n keep_v he_o in_o a_o constant_a neglect_n of_o god_n hence_o second_o they_o deceive_v themselves_o hereby_o for_o they_o judge_v that_o although_o they_o can_v as_o yet_o shake_v off_o their_o sin_n yet_o they_o will_v continue_v still_o to_o love_n god_n and_o abound_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n they_o will_v not_o become_v hater_n of_o god_n and_o his_o way_n and_o persecutor_n for_o all_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o hope_v that_o notwithstanding_o this_o one_o zoar_n this_o lesser_a sin_n which_o their_o constitution_n and_o their_o circumstance_n engage_v they_o in_o that_o it_o may_v be_v well_o with_o they_o at_o the_o last_o this_o also_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n a_o mere_a instrument_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o sin_n to_o act_v its_o deceit_n by_o for_o no_o man_n that_o willing_o live_v in_o any_o sin_n can_v love_v god_n at_o all_o as_o be_v evident_a in_o that_o rule_n 1_o joh._n 2.15_o it_o be_v but_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o love_n to_o god_n that_o any_o man_n have_v who_o live_v in_o any_o know_a sin_n where_o god_n be_v not_o love_v above_o all_o he_o be_v not_o love_v at_o all_o and_o he_o be_v not_o so_o where_o man_n will_v not_o part_v with_o one_o curse_a lust_n for_o his_o sake_n let_v not_o your_o light_n deceive_v you_o nor_o your_o gift_n nor_o your_o duty_n nor_o your_o profession_n if_o you_o live_v in_o sin_n you_o love_v not_o god_n three_o they_o determine_v that_o at_o such_o or_o such_o a_o season_n on_o time_n after_o such_o satisfaction_n give_v unto_o their_o lust_n or_o pleasure_n they_o will_v utter_o give_v over_o so_o as_o that_o iniquity_n shall_v not_o be_v their_o ruin_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o a_o effectual_a instrument_n of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n he_o that_o will_v not_o now_o give_v over_o who_o will_v not_o immediate_o upon_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o prevalency_n of_o any_o sin_n and_o warning_n about_o it_o endeavour_v sincere_o and_o constant_o its_o relinquishment_n say_v what_o he_o will_v and_o pretend_v what_o he_o will_v he_o never_o intend_v to_o give_v over_o nor_o be_v it_o probable_a in_o a_o ordinary_a way_n that_o ever_o he_o will_v do_v so_o when_o man_n decay_n be_v from_o the_o prevalency_n of_o particular_a sin_n by_o these_o and_o the_o like_a false_a notion_n do_v they_o harden_v themselves_o unto_o ruin_n for_o those_o who_o be_v pine_v away_o under_o hectical_a consumption_n a_o general_a decay_n of_o the_o vital_a spirit_n of_o religion_n they_o have_v also_o false_a notion_n whereby_o they_o deceive_v themselves_o as_o first_o that_o although_o they_o have_v some_o cause_n to_o mistrust_v themselves_o yet_o indeed_o their_o condition_n be_v not_o so_o bad_a as_o some_o may_v apprehend_v it_o or_o as_o they_o be_v
the_o affection_n it_o be_v easy_a to_o manifest_v that_o from_o these_o three_o corrupt_a spring_n arise_v that_o flood_n of_o idolatry_n and_o false-worship_n which_o spread_v itself_o over_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o with_o who_o machination_n the_o mind_n of_o man_n be_v yet_o too_o much_o replenish_v four_o where_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o yet_o carnal_a affection_n do_v various_o debase_v spiritual_a thing_n to_o bring_v they_o into_o a_o conformity_n with_o themselves_o and_o this_o may_v proceed_v so_o far_o until_o man_n think_v wicked_o that_o god_n be_v altogether_o like_a unto_o they_o but_o i_o shall_v not_o insist_v on_o these_o thing_n any_o far_o last_o where_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v the_o person_n oâ—_n christ_n be_v the_o centre_n of_o they_o but_o where_o they_o be_v change_v only_o they_o tend_v unto_o a_o end_n in_o self_n where_o the_o new_a man_n as_o â—ut_v on_o christ_n be_v all_o in_o all_o col._n 3.10_o 11._o he_o be_v the_o spring_n by_o his_o spirit_n that_o give_v they_o life_n light_n and_o be_v and_o he_o be_v the_o ocean_n that_o receive_v all_o their_o sâ—â—egâ—â—â—_n god_n even_o the_o father_n present_v not_o himself_o in_o his_o beauty_n and_o amiableness_n as_o the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n but_o as_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n act_v his_o love_n in_o he_o 1_o joh._n 4.8_o 9_o and_o as_o unto_o all_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n renew_a affection_n cleave_v unto_o they_o according_a as_o they_o derive_v from_o christ_n and_o lead_v unto_o he_o for_o he_o be_v unto_o they_o all_o and_o in_o all_o it_o be_v he_o who_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o saint_n do_v love_n for_o himself_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n of_o religion_n in_o and_o for_o he_o the_o air_n be_v pleasant_a and_o useful_a that_o without_o which_o we_o can_v live_v or_o breath_n but_o if_o the_o sun_n do_v not_o enlighten_v it_o and_o warm_v it_o with_o its_o beam_n if_o it_o be_v always_o one_o perpetual_a night_n and_o cold_a what_o refreshment_n can_v be_v receive_v by_o it_o christ_n be_v the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n and_o if_o his_o beam_n do_v not_o quicken_v animate_v and_o enlighten_v the_o best_a the_o most_o necessary_a duty_n of_o religion_n nothing_o desirable_a will_v remain_v in_o they_o this_o be_v the_o most_o certain_a character_n of_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v they_o can_v rest_v in_o nothing_o but_o in_o christ_n they_o fix_v on_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v amiable_a by_o a_o participation_n of_o his_o beauty_n and_o in_o whatever_o he_o be_v therein_o do_v they_o find_v complacency_n it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o who_o affection_n may_v be_v change_v but_o be_v not_o renew_v that_o truth_n be_v and_o it_o may_v be_v make_v good_a by_o all_o sort_n of_o instance_n that_o christ_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o person_n and_o in_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o mediation_n be_v the_o only_a thing_n that_o they_o dislike_v in_o religion_n false_a representation_n of_o he_o by_o image_n and_o picture_n they_o may_v embrace_v and_o delight_n in_o false_a notion_n of_o his_o present_a glory_n greatness_n and_o power_n may_v affect_v they_o a_o worship_n of_o their_o own_o devise_v they_o may_v give_v unto_o he_o and_o please_v themselves_o in_o it_o corrupt_a opinion_n concern_v his_o office_n and_o grace_n may_v possess_v their_o mind_n and_o they_o may_v contend_v for_o they_o but_o those_o who_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v can_v love_v the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n in_o sincerity_n yea_o they_o have_v a_o inward_a secret_a aversation_n from_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o person_n and_o his_o grace_n it_o be_v self_n which_o all_o their_o affection_n centre_n in_o the_o way_n whereof_o be_v too_o long_o here_o to_o be_v declare_v this_o be_v the_o first_o thing_n that_o be_v require_v to_o render_v our_o affection_n in_o such_o a_o state_n and_o condition_n as_o that_o from_o and_o by_o they_o we_o may_v be_v spiritually-minded_n namely_o that_o they_o themselves_o be_v spiritual_o and_o save_o renew_v the_o thing_n that_o remain_v will_v admit_v of_o a_o speedy_a dispatch_n as_o i_o suppose_v chap._n xix_o the_o second_o thing_n require_v that_o we_o may_v be_v spiritual_o mind_a as_o unto_o the_o interest_n of_o our_o affection_n therein_o be_v the_o object_n of_o they_o about_o which_o they_o be_v conversant_a and_o whereunto_o they_o do_v adhere_v what_o this_o be_v material_o or_o what_o be_v the_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o our_o affection_n be_v to_o be_v set_v upon_o have_v be_v declare_v already_o under_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n for_o they_o be_v the_o same_o yea_o as_o have_v be_v intimate_v the_o fix_v of_o our_o affection_n upon_o they_o be_v the_o spring_n and_o cause_n of_o our_o thought_n about_o they_o but_o that_o which_o we_o shall_v now_o inquire_v into_o be_v the_o true_a notion_n and_o consideration_n of_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n which_o render_v they_o the_o formal_a proper_a object_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o their_o adherance_n unto_o they_o for_o as_o be_v intimate_v before_o man_n may_v have_v false_a notion_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n under_o which_o they_o may_v like_v they_o and_o embrace_v they_o with_o unrenewed_a affection_n wherefore_o we_o shall_v inquire_v into_o some_o of_o those_o consideration_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o which_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v satisfactory_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n and_o complacency_n 1._o and_o the_o first_o be_v that_o as_o they_o comprehend_v god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o other_o thing_n as_o derive_v from_o he_o and_o tend_v unto_o he_o they_o have_v a_o infinite_a beauty_n goodness_n and_o amiableness_n in_o they_o which_o be_v powerful_o attractive_a of_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o which_o alone_o be_v able_a to_o fill_v to_o they_o to_o satisfy_v they_o to_o give_v they_o rest_n and_o acquiescency_n love_n be_v the_o most_o roll_a and_o prevalent_a affection_n in_o the_o whole_a soul_n but_o it_o can_v be_v fix_v on_o any_o object_n without_o a_o apprehension_n true_a or_o false_a of_o a_o amiableness_n and_o desirableness_n in_o it_o from_o a_o suitable_a goodness_n unto_o all_o its_o desire_n and_o our_o fear_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v spiritual_a have_v divine_a goodness_n for_o its_o object_n hos._n 3.5_o unless_o this_o be_v that_o which_o draw_v our_o heart_n unto_o god_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n in_o all_o pretence_n of_o love_n unto_o he_o man_n do_v but_o frame_v idol_n to_o themselves_o according_a to_o their_o own_o understanding_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v hos._n 13.2_o wherefore_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v cleave_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n three_o thing_n be_v require_v 1_o that_o we_o apprehend_v and_o do_v find_v a_o goodness_n a_o beauty_n and_o thence_o a_o amiableness_n and_o desirableness_n in_o they_o â—â—ech_n â—_o 17_o many_o pretend_v to_o love_n god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o they_o know_v not_o why_o why_o they_o love_v other_o thing_n they_o know_v well_o enough_o but_o why_o they_o love_v god_n they_o can_v tell_v many_o be_v afraid_a of_o he_o &_o suppose_v they_o ought_v to_o love_v he_o and_o therefore_o pretend_v so_o to_o do_v though_o indeed_o they_o know_v they_o do_v not_o they_o do_v but_o flatter_v he_o with_o their_o lip_n when_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o some_o be_v much_o affect_v with_o the_o benefit_n and_o mercy_n they_o receive_v from_o he_o and_o suppose_v that_o they_o love_v he_o on_o that_o account_n but_o this_o love_n be_v no_o other_o but_o what_o the_o devil_n false_o charge_v job_n withal_o chap._n 1.8_o 9_o 10_o 11._o some_o have_v delight_n in_o the_o outward_a mode_n and_o rite_n of_o divine_a worship_n wherewith_o they_o satisfy_v themselves_o that_o they_o love_v god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n when_o they_o only_o please_v their_o own_o imagination_n and_o carnal_a mind_n many_o have_v a_o traditional_a apprehension_n that_o they_o ought_v to_o love_n god_n they_o know_v no_o reason_n why_o they_o shall_v not_o they_o know_v it_o will_v be_v ill_a for_o they_o if_o they_o do_v not_o and_o these_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o they_o do_v how_o few_o be_v there_o who_o have_v that_o spiritual_a discern_a and_o apprehension_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n that_o view_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o goodness_n and_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n as_o thereby_o alone_o to_o be_v draw_v after_o he_o and_o to_o delight_v in_o he_o yet_o be_v this_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o sincere_a real_a love_n unto_o god_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v that_o we_o may_v apprehend_v a_o amiable_a goodness_n in_o any_o thing_n and_o cleave_v unto_o it_o with_o sincere_a affection_n first_o a_o real_a worth_n or_o
excellency_n in_o itself_o second_o a_o suitableness_n therein_o unto_o our_o condition_n state_n and_o desire_v after_o rest_n and_o blessedness_n the_o first_o of_o these_o be_v in_o god_n from_o what_o he_o be_v in_o himself_o the_o latter_a be_v from_o what_o he_o be_v unto_o we_o in_o christ_n from_o both_o he_o be_v the_o only_a suitable_a object_n unto_o our_o affection_n under_o this_o apprehension_n do_v we_o love_v god_n for_o himself_o or_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n not_o exclusive_o unto_o our_o advantage_n therein_o for_o a_o desire_n of_o union_n and_o enjoyment_n which_o be_v our_o only_a advantage_n be_v inseparable_a from_o this_o love_n it_o may_v be_v some_o can_v say_v that_o a_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o these_o thing_n be_v the_o first_o foundation_n and_o cause_n of_o their_o love_n to_o god_n yet_o be_v they_o satisfy_v that_o they_o do_v love_v he_o in_o sincerity_n with_o all_o their_o soul_n and_o i_o say_v it_o may_v be_v so_o god_n sometime_o call_v the_o skirt_n of_o his_o own_o love_n over_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o poor_a sinner_n and_o efficacious_o draw_v it_o unto_o himself_o without_o a_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o these_o thing_n by_o a_o mere_a sense_n of_o the_o love_n it_o have_v receive_v so_o elijah_n pass_v by_o elisha_n and_o cast_v his_o mantle_n upon_o he_o as_o a_o transient_a act._n but_o there_o be_v such_o a_o communication_n of_o virtue_n thereby_o that_o he_o run_v after_o he_o and_o will_v not_o be_v defer_v though_o elijah_n say_v go_v back_o again_o for_o what_o have_v i_o do_v unto_o thou_o 1_o king_n 19.19_o 20._o when_o god_n have_v so_o cast_v his_o love_n on_o any_o soul_n it_o follow_v after_o he_o with_o all_o its_o affection_n and_o whereas_o god_n may_v seem_v at_o some_o time_n to_o say_v go_v back_o again_o for_o what_o have_v i_o do_v unto_o thou_o its_o answer_n be_v lord_n whether_o shall_v i_o go_v i_o can_v leave_v thou_o my_o heart_n be_v give_v up_o unto_o thou_o and_o shall_v never_o be_v take_v from_o thou_o but_o i_o say_v unto_o such_o and_o to_o all_o other_o that_o if_o we_o will_v have_v refresh_v evidence_n of_o our_o love_n unto_o god_n that_o it_o be_v sincere_a if_o we_o will_v have_v it_o thrive_v and_o flourish_v befervent_a and_o constant_a we_o be_v to_o exercise_v ourselves_o unto_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n and_o the_o suitableness_n of_o it_o unto_o our_o soul_n in_o and_o by_o jesus_n christ._n nor_o can_v we_o cleave_v unto_o any_o spiritual_a thing_n whatever_o with_o sincere_a affection_n but_o under_o these_o notion_n of_o it_o first_o that_o it_o have_v a_o real_a worth_n or_o excellency_n in_o itself_o second_o that_o it_o be_v suitable_a and_o desirable_a unto_o we_o and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v bewail_v to_o see_v how_o many_o walk_n at_o random_n in_o profession_n that_o know_v neither_o what_o they_o do_v nor_o where_o they_o go_v second_o as_o we_o must_v see_v a_o goodness_n and_o probableness_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n absolute_o so_o as_o that_o we_o may_v fix_v our_o affection_n on_o they_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n so_o we_o must_v see_v it_o comparative_o with_o respect_n unto_o all_o other_o thing_n which_o give_v they_o a_o preference_n in_o our_o affection_n before_o and_o above_o they_o all_o the_o trial_n of_o love_n lie_v in_o the_o prevail_a degree_n on_o more_o or_o less_o if_o we_o love_v other_o thing_n father_n mother_n house_n land_n possession_n more_o than_o christ_n we_o do_v not_o love_v he_o at_o all_o nor_o be_v there_o any_o equality_n allow_v in_o this_o matter_n that_o we_o may_v equal_o love_v temporal_a and_o spiritual_a thing_n if_o we_o love_v not_o christ_n more_o than_o all_o those_o thing_n we_o love_v he_o not_o at_o all_o wherefore_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v cleave_v unto_o they_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n we_o must_v see_v a_o excellency_n in_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a render_v they_o more_o desirable_a than_o all_o other_o thing_n whatever_o with_o what_o love_a countenance_n do_v man_n look_v upon_o their_o temporal_a enjoyment_n with_o what_o tenacious_a embrace_n do_v they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o they_o see_v that_o in_o they_o which_o be_v amiable_a which_o be_v desirable_a and_o suitable_a unto_o their_o affection_n let_v they_o pretend_v what_o they_o please_v if_o they_o see_v not_o a_o great_a goodness_n that_o which_o be_v more_o amiable_a more_o desirable_a in_o spiritual_a thing_n they_o love_v they_o not_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n it_o be_v temporal_a thing_n that_o have_v the_o rule_n of_o their_o affection_n our_o psalmist_n prefer_v jerusalem_n before_o his_o chief_a joy_n psal._n 137.6_o another_o affirm_v that_o the_o law_n of_o god_n mouth_n be_v better_a to_o he_o than_o thousand_o of_o gold_n and_o silver_n psal._n 119.72_o more_o to_o be_v desire_v be_v the_o statute_n of_o the_o lord_n than_o gold_n yea_o than_o much_o fine_a gold_n sweet_a also_o than_o honey_n or_o the_o honeycomb_n psal._n 19.1_o for_o wisdom_n be_v better_a than_o ruby_n and_o all_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v desire_v be_v not_o to_o be_v compare_v unto_o it_o prov._n 8.11_o this_o be_v the_o only_a stable_n foundation_n of_o all_o divine_a affection_n a_o spiritual_a view_n and_o judgement_n of_o a_o goodness_n a_o excellency_n in_o they_o incomparable_o above_o whatever_o be_v in_o the_o most_o desirable_a thing_n of_o this_o world_n be_v require_v thereunto_o and_o if_o the_o affection_n of_o many_o pretend_v high_o to_o they_o shall_v come_v to_o be_v weigh_v in_o this_o balance_n i_o fear_v they_o will_v be_v find_v light_n and_o want_v however_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o they_o who_o will_v not_o be_v deceive_v in_o this_o matter_n which_o be_v of_o eternal_a importance_n to_o examine_v what_o be_v that_o goodness_n and_o excellency_n which_o be_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o they_o desire_v in_o they_o upon_o the_o account_n whereof_o they_o do_v sincere_o value_v and_o esteem_v they_o above_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n whatever_o and_o let_v not_o any_o deceive_v themselves_o with_o vain_a word_n and_o pretence_n while_o their_o esteem_n and_o valuation_n of_o present_a enjoyment_n do_v evident_o engage_v all_o their_o affection_n their_o care_n their_o diligence_n their_o industry_n so_o as_o that_o a_o man_n of_o a_o discern_a spirit_n may_v even_o feel_v they_o turn_v into_o self_n while_o they_o be_v cold_a formal_a negligent_a about_o spiritual_a thing_n we_o must_v say_v how_o dwell_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o they_o much_o more_o when_o we_o see_v man_n not_o only_o give_v up_o the_o whole_a of_o their_o time_n and_o strength_n with_o the_o vigour_n of_o their_o spirit_n but_o sacrifice_v their_o conscience_n also_o unto_o the_o attain_n of_o dignity_n honour_n preferment_n wealth_n and_o ease_n in_o the_o world_n who_o know_v in_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o they_o perform_v religious_a duty_n with_o respect_n unto_o temporal_a advantage_n i_o can_v conceive_v how_o it_o be_v possible_a they_o shall_v discern_v and_o approve_v of_o a_o goodness_n and_o excellency_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n above_o all_o other_o a_o due_a consideration_n be_v require_v hereunto_o that_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v proceed_v from_o and_o be_v resolve_v into_o a_o infinite_a fountain_n of_o goodness_n so_o as_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v absolute_o come_v unto_o rest_n and_o complacency_n and_o find_v full_a assure_a satisfaction_n in_o they_o it_o be_v otherwise_o as_o unto_o all_o temporal_a thing_n man_n will_v very_o fain_o have_v they_o to_o be_v such_o as_o may_v give_v absolute_a rest_n and_o satisfaction_n unto_o all_o their_o affection_n but_o they_o be_v every_o one_o of_o they_o so_o far_o from_o it_o that_o all_o of_o they_o together_o can_v compose_v their_o mind_n in_o rest_n and_o peace_n for_o one_o hour_n they_o gain_v sometime_o a_o transport_v of_o affection_n and_o seem_v for_o a_o season_n to_o have_v fill_v the_o whole_a soul_n so_o as_o it_o have_v no_o leisure_n to_o consider_v their_o emptiness_n and_o vanity_n but_o a_o little_a composure_n of_o man_n thought_n show_v that_o they_o be_v but_o a_o diversion_n in_o a_o journey_n or_o labour_n they_o be_v no_o rest._n hence_o be_v they_o call_v break_v cistern_n that_o will_v hold_v no_o water_n let_v a_o man_n prize_v they_o at_o the_o high_a rate_n that_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o a_o rational_a creature_n to_o be_v reduce_v into_o the_o thought_n of_o whereof_o there_o have_v be_v prodigious_a instance_n let_v he_o possess_v they_o in_o abundance_n beyond_o whatever_o any_o man_n enjoy_v in_o this_o world_n or_o his_o own_o imagination_n can_v before_o hand_n reach_v unto_o let_v he_o be_v assure_v of_o the_o utmost_a peaceable_a continuance_n in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o they_o â—hat_n his_o and_o their_o nature_n be_v
in_o the_o moon_n and_o star_n than_o in_o the_o sun_n but_o because_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n be_v great_a than_o our_o visive_a faculty_n can_v direct_o bear_v and_o behold_v so_o we_o can_v more_o clear_o discover_v the_o truth_n and_o distinct_a nature_n of_o thing_n moral_a and_o natural_a than_o we_o can_v of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a see_v john_n 3.14_o not_o that_o there_o be_v more_o substance_n or_o reality_n in_o they_o but_o because_o the_o ability_n of_o our_o understanding_n be_v more_o suit_v unto_o the_o comprehension_n of_o they_o the_o other_o be_v above_o we_o we_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o our_o mind_n be_v liable_a to_o be_v hinder_v and_o disorder_v in_o their_o apprehension_n of_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a by_o ignorance_n temptation_n and_o prejudices_fw-la of_o all_o sort_n in_o nothing_o more_o be_v man_n subject_a unto_o mistake_n than_o in_o the_o application_n of_o thing_n unto_o themselves_o and_o a_o judgement_n of_o their_o interest_n in_o they_o fear_v self-love_n with_o the_o prevalency_n of_o temptation_n and_o corruption_n do_v all_o engage_v their_o power_n to_o darken_v the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o to_o pervert_v its_o judgement_n in_o no_o case_n do_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o of_o sin_n which_o be_v all_o one_o more_o act_n itself_o hence_o multitude_n say_v peace_n to_o themselves_o to_o who_o god_n do_v not_o speak_v peace_n and_o some_o who_o be_v child_n of_o light_n do_v yet_o walk_v in_o darkness_n hence_o be_v that_o fervent_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n for_o help_v in_o this_o case_n ephes._n 1.16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o there_o be_v also_o a_o great_a similitude_n between_o temporary_a faith_n and_o that_o which_o be_v save_v and_o durable_a and_o between_o gift_n and_o grace_n in_o their_o operation_n which_o be_v that_o that_o be_v under_o present_a consideration_n it_o be_v acknowledge_v therefore_o that_o without_o the_o especial_a light_n and_o conduct_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n no_o man_n can_v make_v such_o a_o judgement_n of_o his_o state_n and_o his_o action_n as_o shall_v be_v a_o stable_a foundation_n of_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n and_o of_o obtain_v peace_n unto_o his_o own_o soul._n and_o therefore_o the_o great_a part_n of_o mankind_n do_v constant_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o these_o thing_n but_o ordinary_o under_o this_o bless_a conduct_n in_o the_o search_n of_o ourselves_o and_o the_o concernment_n of_o our_o duty_n we_o may_v come_v unto_o a_o satisfaction_n whether_o they_o be_v influence_v by_o faith_n and_o have_v grace_n exercise_v in_o they_o especial_o this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n or_o whether_o it_o derive_v from_o the_o power_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n raise_v by_o light_n and_o spiritual_a gift_n only_o and_o so_o whether_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n therein_o do_v spring_n from_o a_o vital_a principle_n of_o grace_n or_o whether_o they_o come_v from_o occasional_a impression_n on_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n itself_o if_o man_n be_v willing_a to_o deceive_v themselves_o or_o to_o hide_v themselves_o from_o themselves_o to_o walk_v with_o god_n at_o all_o per_fw-la adventure_n to_o leave_v all_o thing_n at_o hazard_n to_o put_v off_o all_o trial_n unto_o that_o at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o so_o never_o call_v themselves_o unto_o a_o account_n as_o unto_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o duty_n in_o any_o particular_a instance_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v make_v any_o distinction_n in_o this_o matter_n as_o unto_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o their_o thought_n in_o spiritual_a duty_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v hereunto_o 1._o that_o we_o impartial_o and_o severe_o examine_v and_o try_v the_o frames_n and_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o thereon_o not_o be_v afraid_a to_o speak_v that_o plain_o unto_o our_o soul_n which_o the_o word_n speak_v unto_o we_o this_o diligent_a search_n ought_v to_o respect_v our_o principle_n aim_n end_n act_n with_o the_o whole_a deportment_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o every_o duty_n see_v 2_o cor._n 13.5_o if_o a_o man_n receive_v much_o money_n and_o look_v only_o on_o the_o outward_a form_n and_o superscription_n when_o he_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v great_a store_n of_o currant_n coin_n in_o gold_n and_o silver_n he_o may_v have_v only_a heap_n of_o lead_n or_o copper_n by_o he_o but_o he_o that_o trade_v in_o it_o as_o the_o comfort_n and_o support_v of_o his_o natural_a life_n and_o condition_n he_o will_v try_v what_o he_o receive_v both_o by_o the_o balance_n and_o the_o touchstone_n as_o the_o occasion_n require_v especial_o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o time_n when_o much_o adulterate_v coin_n be_v passant_a in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o a_o man_n reckon_v on_o his_o duty_n by_o tale_n and_o number_n he_o may_v be_v utter_o deceive_v and_o be_v spiritual_o poor_a and_o a_o bankrupt_a when_o he_o esteem_v himself_o rich_a increase_v in_o good_n and_o want_v nothing_o some_o duty_n may_v appear_o hold_v in_o the_o balance_n as_o to_o weight_n which_o will_v not_o hold_v it_o at_o the_o touchstone_n as_o to_o worth_n both_o mean_n be_v to_o be_v use_v if_o we_o will_v not_o be_v mistake_v in_o our_o account_n thus_o god_n himself_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o multitude_n of_o duty_n call_v the_o people_n to_o try_v and_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o be_v such_o as_o have_v faith_n and_o grace_n in_o they_o and_o so_o like_a to_o have_v acceptance_n with_o he_o isa._n 58.2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o 2._o add_v we_o must_v unto_o our_o own_o diligent_a enquiry_n fervent_a prayer_n unto_o god_n that_o he_o will_v search_v and_o try_v we_o as_o unto_o our_o sincerity_n and_o discover_v unto_o we_o the_o true_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n hereof_o we_o have_v a_o express_a example_n psal._n 139.23_o 24._o search_v i_o o_o god_n and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o and_o lead_v i_o in_o the_o way_n everlasting_a this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v have_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n witness_v unto_o our_o sincerity_n with_o our_o own_o spirit_n there_o be_v need_n of_o call_v in_o divine_a assistance_n in_o this_o matter_n both_o from_o the_o importance_n of_o it_o and_o from_o its_o difficulty_n god_n alone_o know_v full_o and_o perfect_o what_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n i_o no_o way_n doubt_v but_o that_o in_o the_o impartial_a use_n of_o these_o mean_n a_o man_n may_v come_v to_o assure_a satisfaction_n in_o his_o own_o mind_n such_o as_o wherein_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v deceive_v whether_o he_o do_v animate_v and_o quicken_v his_o thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o duty_n with_o inward_a vital_a grace_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v impression_n on_o his_o mind_n by_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o duty_n a_o duty_n this_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n and_o necessity_n now_o hypocrisy_n have_v make_v so_o great_a a_o inroad_a on_o profession_n and_o gift_n have_v doflowred_a grace_n in_o its_o principal_a operation_n no_o person_n be_v in_o great_a danger_n of_o walk_v at_o hazard_n with_o god_n than_o those_o who_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n in_o duty_n unto_o their_o own_o satisfaction_n and_o other_o for_o they_o may_v countenance_v themselves_o with_o a_o appearance_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o in_o reality_n and_o power_n when_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o it_o in_o they_o and_o so_o it_o have_v fall_v out_o we_o have_v see_v many_o earnest_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o gift_n who_o have_v turn_v vile_a and_o debauch_a apostate_n some_o have_v be_v know_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o a_o indulgence_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o yet_o to_o abide_v constant_a in_o their_o duty_n isa._n 1.15_o and_o we_o may_v hear_v prayer_n sometime_o that_o open_o discover_v themselves_o unto_o spiritual_a sense_n to_o be_v the_o labour_n of_o the_o brain_n by_o the_o help_n of_o gift_n in_o memory_n and_o invention_n without_o a_o evidence_n of_o any_o mixture_n of_o humility_n reverence_n or_o godly_a fear_n without_o any_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n they_o flow_v as_o wine_n yet_o smell_v and_o taste_v of_o the_o unsavoury_a cask_n from_o whence_o they_o proceed_v it_o be_v necessary_a therefore_o that_o we_o shall_v put_v ourselves_o on_o the_o severe_a trial_n lest_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v not_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v in_o spiritual_a duty_n gift_n be_v gracious_a vouchsafement_n of_o christ_n to_o make_v grace_n useful_a unto_o ourselves_o and_o other_o yea_o they_o may_v make_v they_o useful_a unto_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o who_o have_v no_o grace_n in_o themselves_o but_o as_o
heart_n and_o affection_n 3._o earnestness_n and_o appear_a fervency_n in_o prayer_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a delivery_n of_o the_o word_n of_o it_o yea_o though_o the_o mind_n be_v so_o affect_v as_o to_o contribute_v much_o thereunto_o will_v not_o of_o themselves_o prove_v that_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n therein_o do_v arise_v from_o a_o internal_a spring_n of_o grace_n there_o be_v a_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o prayer_n that_o be_v one_o of_o the_o best_a property_n of_o it_o be_v a_o earnest_n act_v of_o love_n faith_n and_o desire_n but_o there_o be_v a_o fervency_n wherewith_o the_o mind_n itself_o may_v be_v affect_v that_o may_v arise_v from_o other_o cause_n 1._o it_o may_v do_v so_o from_o the_o engagement_n of_o natural_a affection_n unto_o the_o object_n of_o their_o prayer_n or_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o man_n may_v be_v mighty_a earnest_n and_o intent_n in_o their_o mind_n in_o pray_v for_o a_o dear_a relation_n or_o for_o deliverance_n from_o eminent_a trouble_n or_o imminent_a danger_n and_o yet_o all_o this_o fervour_n arise_v from_o the_o vehement_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n about_o the_o thing_n pray_v for_o excite_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n by_o the_o present_a duty_n hence_o god_n call_v the_o earnest_a cry_n of_o some_o for_o temporal_a thing_n not_o a_o cry_v unto_o he_o but_o a_o howl_v hosea_n 7.14_o that_o be_v the_o cry_n of_o hungry_a ravenous_a beast_n that_o will_v be_v satisfy_v 2._o sometime_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o sharpness_n of_o conviction_n which_o will_v make_v man_n even_o roar_v in_o their_o prayer_n for_o disquietment_n of_o heart_n and_o this_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o true_a grace_n as_o yet_o receive_v nor_o it_o may_v be_v ever_o will_v be_v so_o for_o the_o perplex_v work_n of_o conviction_n go_v before_o real_a conversion_n and_o as_o it_o produce_v many_o other_o effect_n and_o change_n in_o the_o mind_n so_o it_o may_v do_v this_o of_o great_a fervency_n in_o vocal_a prayer_n especial_o if_o it_o be_v accompany_v with_o outward_a affliction_n pain_n or_o trouble_n psal._n 78.34_o 35._o 3._o ofttime_n the_o mind_n and_o affection_n be_v very_o little_o concern_v in_o that_o fervour_n and_o earnestness_n which_o appear_v in_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n but_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o gift_n and_o through_o their_o own_o utterance_n man_n put_v their_o natural_a affection_n into_o such_o a_o agitation_n as_o shall_v carry_v they_o out_o into_o a_o great_a vehemency_n in_o their_o expression_n it_o have_v be_v so_o with_o sundry_a person_n who_o have_v be_v discover_v to_o be_v rot_a hypocrite_n and_o have_v afterward_o turn_v curse_v apostate_n wherefore_o all_o these_o thing_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o gracious_a spring_n or_o vital_a principle_n act_v itself_o from_o within_o in_o spiritual_a thought_n some_o it_o may_v be_v will_v design_v a_o advantage_n by_o their_o conception_n unto_o the_o interest_n of_o profaneness_n and_o scoff_v for_o if_o there_o may_v be_v these_o evil_n under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n both_o in_o constancy_n and_o with_o fervency_n if_o there_o may_v be_v a_o total_a want_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o true_a grace_n with_o it_o and_o under_o it_o than_o it_o may_v be_v all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o this_o gift_n and_o its_o use_n be_v but_o hypocrisy_n and_o talk_n but_o i_o say_v 1._o it_o may_v be_v as_o well_o pretend_v that_o because_o the_o sun_n shine_v on_o a_o dunghill_n do_v occasion_n offensive_a and_o noisome_a steam_n therefore_o all_o that_o be_v pretend_v of_o its_o influence_n on_o spice_n and_o flower_n cause_v they_o to_o give_v out_o their_o fragrancy_n be_v utter_o false_a no_o man_n ever_o think_v that_o spiritual_a gift_n do_v change_v or_o renew_v the_o mind_n and_o nature_n of_o man_n where_o they_o be_v alone_o they_o only_o help_v and_o assist_v unto_o the_o useful_a exercise_n of_o natural_a faculty_n and_o power_n and_o therefore_o where_o the_o heart_n be_v not_o saving_o renew_v no_o gift_n can_v stir_v up_o a_o save_a exercise_n of_o faith_n but_o where_o it_o be_v so_o they_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o cause_v the_o savour_n of_o it_o to_o flow_v forth_o 2._o be_v it_o so_o that_o there_o may_v be_v some_o evil_n find_v under_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n what_o remedy_n for_o they_o may_v be_v propose_v be_v it_o that_o man_n shall_v renounce_v their_o use_n of_o it_o and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n only_o 1._o the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o spiritual_a gift_n whatever_o for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o liable_a unto_o abuse_n and_o shall_v we_o reject_v all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v the_o whole_a complexe_n of_o gospel_n gift_n for_o the_o commuication_n whereof_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v promise_v to_o continue_v his_o spirit_n with_o his_o church_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n because_o by_o some_o they_o be_v abuse_v 2._o not_o only_o the_o same_o but_o far_o great_a evil_n may_v be_v find_v in_o and_o under_o the_o read_n of_o prayer_n which_o need_v no_o further_a demonstration_n than_o what_o it_o give_v of_o itself_o every_o day_n 3._o it_o be_v hard_o to_o understand_v how_o any_o benefit_n at_o all_o can_v accrue_v unto_o any_o by_o this_o relief_n when_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o other_o way_n be_v evident_a wherefore_o the_o enquiry_n remain_v how_o we_o may_v know_v unto_o our_o own_o satisfaction_n that_o the_o thought_n we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n be_v from_o internal_a fountain_n of_o grace_n and_o so_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v whereunto_o all_o these_o thing_n do_v tend_v some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v offer_v towards_o satisfaction_n herein_o 1._o i_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v on_o the_o evidence_n before_o give_v that_o person_n who_o have_v any_o spiritual_a light_n and_o will_v diligent_o examine_v and_o try_v their_o own_o heart_n will_v be_v able_a to_o discern_v what_o real_a act_n of_o faith_n of_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n there_o be_v in_o their_o duty_n and_o consequent_o what_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o their_o spiritual_a thought_n in_o general_n we_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o that_o believe_v have_v the_o witness_n in_o himself_o 1_o joh._n 5.10_o sincere_a faith_n will_v be_v its_o own_o evidence_n and_o where_o there_o be_v sincere_a act_n of_o faith_n they_o will_v evidence_n themselves_o if_o we_o try_v all_o thing_n impartial_o by_o the_o word_n but_o if_o man_n do_v as_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o do_v content_v themselves_o with_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o duty_n without_o a_o examination_n of_o their_o principle_n frames_n and_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n if_o they_o walk_v in_o all_o uncertainty_n 2._o when_o the_o soul_n find_v a_o sweet_a spiritual_a complacency_n in_o and_o after_o its_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o grace_n have_v be_v act_v in_o its_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o desire_n jer._n 31._o the_o prophet_n receive_v a_o long_a gracious_a message_n from_o god_n fill_v up_o with_o excellent_a promise_n and_o pathetical_a exhortation_n unto_o the_o church_n the_o whole_a be_v as_o it_o be_v sum_v up_o in_o the_o close_a of_o it_o ver._n 25._o for_o i_o have_v satiate_v the_o weary_a soul_n and_o i_o have_v replenish_v every_o sorrowful_a soul_n whereon_o the_o prophet_n add_v upon_o this_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v and_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o god_n gracious_a message_n have_v so_o compose_v his_o spirit_n and_o free_v his_o mind_n from_o trouble_n as_o that_o he_o be_v at_o quiet_a repose_n in_o himself_o like_o a_o man_n asleep_a but_o after_o the_o end_n of_o it_o he_o stir_v up_o himself_o unto_o a_o review_n and_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v speak_v unto_o he_o i_o awake_v and_o behold_v or_o i_o stir_v up_o myself_o and_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v deliver_v unto_o i_o and_o say_v he_o my_o sleep_n be_v sweet_a unto_o i_o i_o find_v a_o gracious_a complacency_n in_o and_o refreshment_n unto_o my_o soul_n from_o what_o i_o have_v hear_v and_o receive_v so_o be_v it_o ofttimes_o with_o a_o soul_n that_o have_v have_v real_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n it_o find_v itself_o both_o in_o it_o and_o afterward_o when_o it_o be_v awaken_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o spiritual_o refresh_v it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o he_o this_o holy_a complacency_n this_o rest_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o mind_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o delight_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o duty_n they_o do_v not_o pray_v only_o because_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v nor_o yet_o because_o
faith_n and_o profession_n in_o these_o our_o day_n the_o belly_n of_o man_n cleave_v unto_o the_o dust_n or_o their_o affection_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n i_o speak_v not_o of_o those_o who_o by_o rapine_n deceit_n and_o oppression_n strive_v to_o enrich_v themselves_o nor_o of_o those_o who_o design_v nothing_o more_o than_o the_o attainment_n of_o greatness_n and_o promotion_n in_o the_o world_n though_o not_o by_o way_n of_o open_a wickedness_n lest_o of_o all_o of_o they_o who_o make_v religion_n and_o perhaps_o their_o ministry_n therein_o a_o mean_n for_o the_o attain_n secular_a end_n and_o preferment_n no_o wise_a man_n can_v suppose_v such_o person_n any_o of_o they_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o it_o be_v most_o easy_a to_o disprove_v all_o their_o pretence_n but_o i_o intend_v only_o those_o at_o present_a who_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o attain_v riches_n be_v lawful_a honest_a and_o unblameable_a who_o use_v they_o with_o some_o moderation_n and_o do_v profess_v that_o their_o portion_n lie_v in_o better_a thing_n so_o as_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o fasten_v a_o conviction_n on_o they_o in_o matter_n of_o their_o conversation_n whatever_o may_v seem_v to_o reflect_v upon_o they_o they_o esteem_v it_o to_o be_v that_o who_o omission_n will_v make_v they_o foolish_a in_o their_o affair_n or_o negligent_a in_o their_o duty_n but_o even_o among_o these_o also_o there_o be_v oft_o time_n that_o inordinate_a love_n unto_o present_a thing_n that_o esteem_n and_o valuation_n of_o they_o that_o concernment_n in_o they_o as_o be_v not_o consistent_a with_o their_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v with_o some_o their_o relation_n with_o some_o their_o enjoyment_n with_o most_o both_o in_o conjunction_n be_v a_o idol_n which_o they_o set_v up_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o secret_o bow_v down_o unto_o about_o these_o be_v their_o hope_n and_o fear_n exercise_v on_o they_o be_v their_o love_n in_o they_o be_v their_o delight_n they_o be_v whole_o take_v up_o with_o their_o own_o concern_v count_v all_o lose_v that_o be_v not_o spend_v on_o they_o and_o all_o time_n misspend_v that_o be_v not_o engage_v about_o they_o yet_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o do_v they_o judge_v to_o be_v good_a in_o themselves_o their_o heart_n do_v not_o condemn_v they_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o the_o valuation_n they_o have_v of_o their_o relation_n and_o enjoyment_n they_o suppose_v to_o be_v lawful_a within_o the_o bound_n which_o they_o have_v assign_v unto_o it_o their_o care_n about_o they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o mind_n but_o their_o duty_n it_o be_v no_o easy_a matter_n it_o require_v much_o spiritual_a wisdom_n to_o fix_v right_a boundary_n unto_o our_o affection_n and_o their_o act_n about_o earthly_a thing_n but_o let_v man_n plead_v and_o pretend_v what_o they_o please_v i_o shall_v offer_v one_o rule_n in_o this_o case_n which_o will_v not_o fail_v and_o this_o be_v that_o when_o man_n be_v so_o confident_a in_o the_o good_a state_n and_o measure_n of_o their_o affection_n and_o their_o act_n towards_o earthly_a thing_n as_o that_o they_o will_v oppose_v their_o engagement_n into_o they_o unto_o know_a duty_n of_o religion_n piety_n and_o charity_n they_o be_v go_v into_o a_o sinful_a excess_n be_v there_o a_o state_n of_o the_o poor_a that_o require_v their_o liberality_n and_o bounty_n you_o must_v excuse_v they_o they_o have_v family_n to_o provide_v for_o when_o what_o be_v expect_v from_o they_o signify_v nothing_o at_o all_o as_o unto_o a_o due_a provision_n for_o their_o family_n nor_o be_v what_o will_v lessen_v their_o inheritance_n or_o portion_n one_o penny_n in_o the_o issue_n be_v they_o call_v to_o a_o attendance_n on_o season_n of_o religious_a duty_n they_o be_v so_o full_a of_o business_n that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o they_o to_o have_v leisure_n for_o any_o such_o occasion_n so_o by_o all_o way_n declare_v that_o they_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o a_o prevalent_a predominant_a affection_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n this_o fill_v all_o place_n with_o lifeless_a sapless_a useless_a professor_n who_o approve_v themselves_o in_o their_o condition_n while_o it_o be_v visible_o unspiritual_a and_o wither_a the_o heart_n will_v have_v something_o whereon_o in_o a_o way_n of_o pre-eminence_n it_o will_v fix_v itself_o and_o its_o affection_n this_o in_o all_o its_o perpetual_a motion_n it_o seek_v for_o rest_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o and_o every_o man_n have_v a_o edge_n the_o edge_n of_o his_o affection_n be_v set_v one_o way_n or_o other_o though_o it_o be_v more_o keen_a in_o some_o than_o other_o and_o whereas_o all_o sort_n of_o thing_n that_o the_o heart_n can_v fix_v upon_o or_o turn_v the_o edge_n of_o its_o affection_n unto_o be_v distribute_v by_o the_o apostle_n into_o thing_n above_o and_o thing_n beneath_o thing_n heavenly_a and_o thing_n earthly_a if_o we_o have_v not_o such_o a_o view_n and_o prospect_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n as_o to_o cause_v our_o heart_n to_o cleave_v unto_o they_o and_o delight_v in_o they_o let_v we_o pretend_v what_o we_o will_v it_o be_v impossible_a but_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o a_o predominant_a affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n herein_o lie_v the_o great_a danger_n of_o multitude_n at_o this_o present_a season_n for_o let_v man_n profess_v what_o they_o will_v under_o the_o power_n of_o this_o frame_n their_o eternal_a state_n be_v in_o hazard_v every_o moment_n and_o person_n be_v engage_v in_o it_o in_o great_a variety_n of_o degree_n and_o we_o may_v cast_v they_o under_o two_o head_n 1._o some_o do_v not_o at_o all_o understand_v that_o thing_n be_v amiss_o with_o they_o or_o that_o they_o be_v much_o to_o be_v blame_v they_o plead_v as_o be_v before_o observe_v that_o they_o be_v all_o lawful_a thing_n which_o their_o heart_n do_v cleave_v unto_o and_o which_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o take_v care_n of_o and_o regard_n may_v they_o not_o delight_v in_o their_o own_o relation_n especial_o at_o such_o a_o time_n when_o other_o break_v and_o cancel_v all_o duty_n and_o bond_n of_o relation_n in_o the_o service_n of_o and_o provision_n they_o make_v for_o their_o lust_n may_v they_o not_o be_v careful_a in_o good_a and_o honest_a way_n of_o diligence_n about_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o world_n when_o the_o most_o either_o lavish_a their_o time_n away_o in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o bestial_a lust_n or_o heap_v they_o up_o by_o deceit_n and_o oppression_n may_v they_o not_o contrive_v for_o the_o promotion_n of_o their_o child_n in_o the_o world_n to_o add_v the_o other_o hundred_o or_o thousand_o pound_n unto_o their_o advancement_n that_o they_o may_v be_v in_o as_o good_a condition_n as_o other_o see_v he_o be_v worse_a than_o a_o infidel_n who_o provide_v not_o for_o his_o own_o family_n by_o such_o reason_n and_o secret_a thought_n do_v many_o justify_v themselves_o in_o their_o earthly_a mindedness_n and_o so_o fix_v they_o be_v in_o the_o approbation_n of_o themselves_o that_o if_o you_o urge_v they_o to_o their_o duty_n you_o shall_v loose_v their_o acquaintance_n if_o they_o do_v not_o become_v your_o enemy_n for_o tell_v they_o the_o truth_n yea_o they_o will_v avoid_v one_o duty_n that_o lie_v not_o against_o their_o earthly_a interest_n because_o it_o lead_v unto_o another_o they_o will_v not_o engage_v in_o religious_a assembly_n or_o be_v constant_a unto_o their_o duty_n in_o they_o for_o fear_v duty_n of_o charity_n shall_v be_v require_v of_o they_o or_o expect_v from_o they_o on_o what_o ground_n such_o person_n can_v satisfy_v themselves_o that_o they_o be_v spiritually-minded_n i_o know_v not_o i_o shall_v leave_v only_o one_o rule_n with_o person_n that_o be_v thus_o mind_v where_o our_o love_n unto_o the_o world_n have_v prevail_v by_o its_o reason_n plea_n and_o pretence_n to_o take_v away_o our_o fear_n and_o jealousy_n over_o our_o own_o heart_n lest_o we_o shall_v inordinate_o love_v it_o there_o it_o be_v assure_o predominant_a in_o we_o 2._o other_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o heart_n at_o least_o be_v jealous_a and_o afraid_a lest_o it_o shall_v be_v find_v that_o their_o heart_n do_v cleave_v inordinate_o unto_o these_o thing_n hence_o they_o endeavour_v to_o contend_v against_o this_o evil_a sometime_o by_o force_v themselves_o unto_o such_o act_n of_o piety_n or_o charity_n as_o be_v contrary_a unto_o that_o frame_n and_o sometime_o by_o labour_v a_o change_n of_o the_o frame_n itself_o especial_o they_o will_v do_v so_o when_o god_n be_v please_v to_o awaken_v they_o by_o trial_n and_o affliction_n such_o as_o write_v vanity_n and_o emptiness_n on_o all_o earthly_a enjoyment_n but_o for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o strive_v not_o lawful_o and_o so_o obtain_v not_o what_o they_o seem_v to_o aim_v at_o this_o disease_n with_o many_o be_v mortal_a
and_o will_v not_o be_v thorough_o cure_v in_o any_o but_o by_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o this_o part_n of_o spiritual-mindedness_a there_o be_v other_o duty_n require_v also_o unto_o the_o same_o end_n namely_o of_o the_o mortification_n of_o our_o desire_n and_o affection_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n whereof_o i_o have_v treat_v elsewhere_o but_o without_o this_o or_o a_o fix_a contemplation_n on_o the_o desirableness_n beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n it_o will_v not_o be_v attain_v further_o to_o evince_v the_o truth_n hereof_o we_o may_v observe_v these_o two_o thing_n first_o if_o by_o any_o mean_v a_o man_n do_v seem_v to_o have_v take_v off_o his_o heart_n from_o the_o love_n of_o present_a thing_n and_o be_v not_o at_o the_o same_o time_n take_v up_o with_o the_o love_n of_o thing_n that_o be_v heavenly_a his_o seem_a mortification_n be_v of_o no_o advantage_n unto_o he_o so_o person_n frequent_o through_o discontent_n disappointment_n or_o dissatisfaction_n with_o relation_n or_o mere_a natural_a weariness_n have_v leave_v the_o world_n the_o affair_n and_o care_n of_o it_o as_o unto_o their_o wont_a conversation_n in_o it_o and_o have_v betake_v themselves_o to_o monastery_n convent_v or_o other_o retirement_n suit_v their_o principle_n without_o any_o advantage_n to_o their_o soul_n second_o god_n be_v no_o such_o severe_a lord_n and_o master_n as_o to_o require_v we_o to_o take_v off_o our_o affection_n from_o and_o mortify_v they_o unto_o those_o thing_n which_o the_o law_n of_o our_o nature_n make_v dear_a unto_o we_o as_o wife_n child_n house_n land_n and_o possession_n and_o not_o propose_v unto_o we_o somewhat_o that_o be_v incomparable_o more_o excellent_a to_o fix_v they_o upon_o so_o he_o invite_v the_o elect_a of_o the_o gentile_n unto_o christ_n psal._n 45.10_o harken_v o_o daughter_n and_o consider_v and_o incline_v thy_o ear_n forget_v also_o thy_o own_o people_n and_o thy_o father_n house_n that_o be_v come_v into_o the_o faith_n of_o abraham_n who_o forsake_v his_o country_n and_o his_o father_n house_n to_o follow_v god_n whither_o ever_o he_o please_v but_o he_o propose_v this_o for_o their_o encouragement_n ver_fw-la 11._o so_o shall_v the_o king_n great_o desire_v thy_o beauty_n for_o he_o be_v thy_o lord_n and_o worship_n thou_o he_o the_o love_n of_o the_o great_a king_n be_v a_o abundant_a satisfactory_a recompense_n for_o part_v with_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n so_o when_o abraham_n servant_n be_v send_v to_o take_v rebecka_n for_o a_o wife_n unto_o isaac_n he_o require_v that_o she_o shall_v immediate_o leave_v father_n and_o mother_n brother_n and_o all_o enjoyment_n and_o go_v along_o with_o he_o but_o withal_o that_o she_o may_v know_v herself_o to_o be_v no_o loser_n thereby_o he_o not_o only_o assure_v she_o of_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o master_n but_o also_o at_o present_a he_o give_v her_o jewel_n of_o silver_n and_o jewel_n of_o gold_n and_o raiment_n gen._n 24.53_o and_o when_o our_o saviour_n require_v that_o we_o shall_v part_v with_o all_o for_o his_o sake_n and_o the_o gospel_n he_o promise_v a_o hundred_o fold_v in_o lieu_n of_o they_o even_o in_o this_o life_n namely_o in_o a_o interest_n in_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a wherefore_o without_o a_o assiduous_a meditation_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n as_o a_o better_a more_o noble_a and_o suitable_a object_n for_o our_o affection_n to_o be_v fix_v on_o we_o can_v never_o be_v free_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n from_o a_o inordinate_a love_n of_o the_o thing_n here_o below_o it_o be_v sad_a to_o see_v some_o professor_n who_o will_v keep_v up_o spiritual_a duty_n in_o church_n and_o in_o their_o family_n who_o will_v speak_v and_o discourse_v of_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o keep_v themselves_o from_o the_o open_a excess_n of_o the_o world_n yet_o when_o they_o come_v to_o be_v try_v by_o such_o duty_n as_o entrench_v on_o their_o love_n and_o adherence_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n quick_o manifest_a how_o remote_a they_o be_v from_o be_v spiritually-minded_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n be_v they_o to_o be_v try_v as_o our_o saviour_n try_v the_o young_a man_n who_o make_v such_o a_o profession_n of_o his_o conscientious_a and_o religious_a conversation_n go_v sell_v what_o thou_o have_v give_v to_o the_o poor_a and_o follow_v i_o something_o may_v be_v plead_v in_o excuse_n for_o their_o tergiversation_n but_o alas_o they_o will_v decline_v their_o duty_n when_o they_o be_v not_o touch_v unto_o the_o hundred_o part_n of_o their_o enjoyment_n i_o bless_v god_n i_o speak_v not_o thus_o of_o many_o of_o my_o own_o knowledge_n and_o may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n unto_o the_o most_o unto_o who_o i_o usual_o speak_v in_o this_o manner_n but_o belove_a we_o be_v persuade_v better_a thing_n of_o you_o and_o thing_n that_o accompany_v salvation_n though_o we_o thus_o speak_v heb._n 6.9_o yea_o the_o same_o testimony_n may_v be_v give_v of_o many_o in_o this_o city_n which_o the_o same_o apostle_n give_v unto_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n 2_o cor._n 8.1_o 2_o 3._o understand_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n bestow_v on_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n how_o that_o in_o a_o great_a trial_n of_o affliction_n the_o abundance_n of_o their_o joy_n and_o their_o poverty_n abound_v unto_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n for_o to_o their_o power_n and_o beyond_o their_o power_n they_o be_v willing_a of_o themselves_o there_o have_v be_v nothing_o do_v among_o we_o that_o may_v or_o can_v be_v boast_v of_o yet_o consider_v all_o circumstance_n it_o may_v be_v there_o have_v not_o be_v more_o instance_n of_o true_a evangelical_n charity_n in_o any_o age_n or_o place_n for_o these_o many_o year_n for_o they_o who_o have_v be_v but_o useful_a and_o helpful_a herein_o the_o lord_n remember_v they_o for_o good_a and_o spare_v they_o according_a to_o the_o multitude_n of_o his_o mercy_n it_o be_v true_a they_o have_v not_o many_o of_o they_o found_v college_n build_v hospital_n or_o raise_v work_n of_o state_n and_o magnificence_n for_o very_o many_o of_o they_o be_v such_o as_o who_o deep_a poverty_n comparative_o have_v abound_v unto_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n the_o bask_n and_o belly_n of_o multitude_n of_o poor_a and_o needy_a servant_n of_o christ_n have_v be_v warm_v and_o refresh_v by_o they_o blessing_n god_n for_o they_o thank_n be_v be_v to_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n in_o this_o case_n for_o his_o unspeakable_a gift_n 2_o cor._n 9.15_o bless_a be_v god_n who_o have_v not_o leave_v the_o gospel_n without_o this_o glory_n nor_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o without_o this_o evidence_n of_o its_o power_n and_o efficacy_n yea_o god_n have_v exalt_v the_o glory_n of_o persecution_n and_o affliction_n for_o many_o since_o they_o have_v lose_v much_o of_o their_o enjoyment_n by_o they_o and_o have_v all_o endanger_v continual_o have_v abound_v in_o duty_n of_o charity_n beyond_o what_o they_o do_v in_o the_o day_n of_o their_o fullness_n and_o prosperity_n so_o out_o of_o the_o eater_n there_o have_v come_v forth_o meat_n and_o if_o the_o world_n do_v but_o know_v what_o fruit_n in_o a_o way_n of_o charity_n and_o bounty_n unto_o the_o praise_n of_o god_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v occasion_v by_o their_o make_v many_o poor_a it_o will_v abate_v of_o their_o satisfaction_n in_o their_o success_n but_o with_o many_o it_o be_v not_o so_o their_o mind_n be_v so_o full_a of_o earthly_a thing_n they_o do_v so_o cleave_v unto_o they_o in_o their_o affection_n that_o no_o sense_n of_o duty_n no_o example_n of_o other_o no_o concernment_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n or_o the_o gospel_n can_v make_v any_o impression_n on_o they_o if_o there_o be_v yet_o in_o they_o so_o much_o life_n and_o light_n of_o grace_n as_o to_o design_n a_o deliverance_n from_o this_o woeful_a condition_n the_o mean_n insist_v on_o must_v be_v make_v use_n of_o especial_o this_o advice_n be_v needful_a unto_o those_o who_o be_v rich_a who_o have_v large_a possession_n or_o abound_v in_o the_o good_n of_o this_o world_n the_o poor_a the_o afflict_a the_o sorrowful_a be_v prompt_v from_o their_o outward_a circumstance_n as_o well_o as_o excite_v by_o inward_a grace_n frequent_o to_o remember_v and_o to_o think_v of_o the_o thing_n above_o wherein_o lie_v their_o only_a reserve_n and_o relief_n against_o the_o trouble_n and_o urgency_n of_o their_o present_a condition_n but_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o abundance_n be_v accompany_v with_o a_o twofold_n evil_n lie_v direct_o contrary_a unto_o this_o duty_n 1._o a_o desire_n of_o increase_n and_o add_v thereunto_o earthly_a enjoyment_n enlarge_v man_n earthly_a desire_n and_o the_o love_n of_o they_o grow_v with_o their_o income_n a_o moderate_a stock_n of_o water_n sufficient_a for_o our_o use_n may_v be_v keep_v within_o ordinary_a
all_o the_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o spiritual_a judgement_n as_o well_o as_o natural_a affection_n and_o i_o do_v not_o understand_v how_o a_o man_n can_v be_v a_o sincere_a believer_n unto_o who_o sin_n be_v not_o the_o great_a burden_n and_o sorrow_n wherefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o belong_v unto_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o it_o be_v a_o state_n wherein_o we_o shall_v be_v eternal_o free_v from_o sin_n and_o all_o the_o concernment_n of_o it_o but_o only_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n by_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o he_o that_o true_o hate_v sin_n and_o abhor_v it_o who_o principal_a desire_n and_o design_n of_o life_n be_v to_o be_v free_v from_o it_o so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v possible_a who_o walk_v in_o self_n abasement_n through_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o many_o disappointment_n when_o he_o hope_v it_o shall_v act_v in_o he_o no_o more_o can_v as_o i_o judge_v but_o frequent_o betake_v himself_o for_o refreshment_n unto_o thought_n of_o that_o state_n wherein_o he_o shall_v be_v free_v from_o it_o and_o triumph_n over_o it_o unto_o eternity_n this_o be_v a_o notion_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v easy_o apprehend_v and_o fix_v on_o the_o mind_n which_o we_o may_v dwell_v upon_o unto_o the_o great_a advantage_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o soul_n frequent_a thought_n and_o meditation_n of_o heaven_n under_o this_o notion_n do_v argue_v a_o man_n to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o it_o be_v a_o convince_a evidence_n that_o sin_n be_v a_o burden_n unto_o he_o that_o he_o belong_v to_o be_v deliver_v from_o it_o and_o all_o its_o consequent_n that_o no_o thought_n be_v more_o welcome_a unto_o he_o than_o those_o of_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o and_o although_o man_n be_v trouble_v about_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v desirous_o be_v free_v from_o they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o perplex_v their_o mind_n and_o make_v their_o conscience_n uneasy_a yet_o if_o they_o be_v not_o much_o in_o the_o prospect_n of_o this_o relief_n if_o they_o find_v not_o refreshment_n in_o it_o i_o fear_v their_o trouble_n be_v not_o such_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v wherefore_o when_o man_n can_v so_o wrangle_v and_o wrestle_v with_o their_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o take_v up_o the_o best_a of_o their_o relief_n in_o hope_n that_o it_o will_v be_v better_o with_o they_o at_o some_o time_n or_o other_o in_o this_o world_n without_o long_a desire_n after_o that_o state_n wherein_o sin_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o they_o can_v give_v no_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v it_o be_v quite_o otherwise_o with_o sincere_a believer_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o duty_n the_o consideration_n of_o the_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n of_o the_o purity_n and_o holiness_n of_o that_o good_a spirit_n that_o dwell_v in_o they_o of_o the_o light_n grace_n and_o mercy_n which_o they_o have_v attain_v through_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v those_o which_o make_v the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n most_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o they_o this_o be_v that_o which_o even_o break_v their_o heart_n and_o make_v some_o of_o they_o go_v mourn_v all_o the_o day_n long_o namely_o that_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o which_o alone_a god_n hate_v shall_v be_v find_v in_o they_o or_o be_v remain_v with_o they_o it_o be_v in_o this_o condition_n a_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v if_o together_o with_o watchful_a endeavour_n for_o the_o universal_a mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o utter_a excision_n of_o it_o both_o root_n and_o branch_n they_o constant_o add_v these_o thought_n of_o that_o bless_a state_n wherein_o they_o shall_v be_v absolute_o and_o eternal_o free_v from_o all_o sin_n with_o refreshment_n delight_n and_o complacency_n these_o thing_n belong_v unto_o our_o direction_n for_o the_o fix_v of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n on_o thing_n above_o this_o the_o mean_a and_o weak_a person_n who_o have_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o grace_n be_v capable_a of_o apprehend_v and_o able_a to_o practice_v and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o the_o sense_n they_o have_v of_o the_o evil_a of_o sin_n will_v put_v they_o on_o every_o day_n if_o they_o shut_v not_o their_o eye_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o refreshment_n that_o be_v in_o it_o let_v they_o who_o can_v arise_v in_o their_o mind_n unto_o fix_a and_o stable_a thought_n of_o any_o other_o notion_n of_o these_o invisible_a thing_n dwell_v on_o this_o consideration_n of_o they_o wherein_o they_o will_v find_v no_o small_a spiritual_a advantage_n and_o refreshment_n unto_o their_o soul_n 2._o as_o unto_o the_o positive_a part_n of_o this_o glorious_a future_a state_n the_o thought_n and_o apprehension_n of_o man_n be_v very_o various_a and_o that_o we_o may_v know_v as_o well_o what_o to_o avoid_v as_o what_o to_o embrace_v we_o shall_v a_o little_a reflect_v on_o some_o of_o they_o 1._o many_o be_v able_a to_o entertain_v no_o rational_a conception_n about_o a_o future_a state_n of_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n no_o notion_n wherein_o either_o faith_n or_o reason_n be_v concern_v imagination_n they_o have_v of_o something_o that_o be_v great_a and_o glorious_a but_o what_o it_o be_v they_o know_v not_o no_o wonder_n if_o such_o person_n have_v no_o delight_n in_o no_o use_n of_o thought_n of_o heaven_n when_o their_o imagination_n have_v fluctuate_v up_o and_o down_o in_o all_o uncertainty_n for_o a_o while_n they_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o nothing_o glorious_a and_o therefore_o desirable_a they_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o it_o must_v be_v but_o nothing_o can_v be_v so_o unto_o they_o but_o what_o be_v suitable_a unto_o their_o present_a disposition_n inclination_n and_o principle_n and_o hereof_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o true_a spiritual_a glory_n of_o heaven_n or_o in_o the_o eternal_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n these_o thing_n be_v not_o suit_v unto_o the_o will_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o therefore_o they_o can_v rise_v up_o unto_o any_o constant_a desire_n of_o they_o hence_o to_o please_v themselves_o they_o begin_v to_o imagine_v what_o be_v not_o but_o whereas_o what_o be_v true_o heaven_n please_v they_o not_o and_o what_o do_v please_v they_o be_v not_o heaven_n nor_o there_o to_o be_v find_v they_o seldom_o or_o never_o endeavour_v in_o good_a earnest_n to_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o it_o it_o be_v well_o if_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o the_o future_a state_n and_o eternal_a glory_n do_v not_o exceed_o prejudice_n believer_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o meditation_n about_o they_o they_o have_v nothing_o fix_v or_o state_v in_o their_o mind_n which_o they_o can_v betake_v themselves_o unto_o in_o their_o thought_n when_o they_o will_v contemplate_v about_o they_o and_o by_o the_o way_n whatever_o do_v divert_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o the_o power_n and_o life_n of_o spiritual_a worship_n as_o do_v all_o pompous_a solemnity_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o do_v great_o hinder_v they_o as_o unto_o right_a conception_n of_o our_o future_a state_n there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n give_v unto_o the_o saint_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n but_o whereas_o they_o be_v oblige_v unto_o a_o worship_n that_o be_v carnal_a and_o outward_o pompous_a they_o never_o have_v clear_a and_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o glory_n for_o life_n and_o immortality_n be_v bring_v to_o light_n by_o the_o gospel_n wherefore_o although_o no_o man_n live_a can_v see_v or_o find_v out_o the_o infinite_a riches_n of_o eternal_a glory_n yet_o be_v it_o the_o duty_n of_o all_o to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o in_o general_a so_o as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v fix_v thought_n of_o it_o love_n unto_o it_o earnest_n desire_v after_o it_o all_o under_o its_o own_o true_a and_o proper_a notion_n 2._o so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o mankind_n as_o the_o mahometan_n unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v all_o the_o principal_a and_o most_o desirable_a part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o inhabit_v and_o possess_v do_v conceive_v the_o state_n of_o future_a blessedness_n to_o consist_v in_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o their_o sensual_a lust_n and_o pleasure_n a_o evidence_n this_o be_v that_o the_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v have_v no_o power_n or_o efficacy_n on_o their_o mind_n to_o change_v they_o from_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n or_o place_v their_o happiness_n in_o fulfil_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o flesh._n it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o enlighten_v their_o mind_n to_o discern_v a_o beauty_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n nor_o excite_v their_o affection_n unto_o the_o love_n of_o they_o nor_o free_v the_o soul_n
to_o look_v after_o blessedness_n in_o such_o thing_n as_o alone_o be_v suit_v unto_o its_o rational_a constitution_n for_o if_o it_o do_v they_o will_v place_v their_o happiness_n and_o blessedness_n in_o they_o wherefore_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o artifice_n of_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n to_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o man_n unto_o their_o eternal_a destruction_n 3._o some_o of_o the_o philosopher_n of_o old_a do_v attain_v a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o blessedness_n of_o man_n in_o another_o world_n do_v consist_v in_o the_o soul_n full_a satisfaction_n in_o the_o goodness_n and_o beauty_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o there_o be_v a_o truth_n in_o this_o notion_n which_o contemplative_a man_n have_v adorn_v with_o excellent_a and_o rational_a discourse_n and_o sundry_a who_o have_v be_v and_o be_v learned_a among_o christian_n have_v great_o improve_v this_o truth_n by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o scripture_n from_o reason_n they_o take_v up_o with_o thought_n of_o the_o goodness_n the_o amiableness_n the_o selfsufficiency_n the_o alsufficient_a satisfactoriness_n of_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n these_o thing_n shine_v in_o themselves_o with_o such_o a_o glorious_a light_n as_o that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o require_v unto_o a_o perception_n of_o they_o but_o that_o man_n do_v not_o wilful_o shut_v their_o eye_n against_o it_o through_o bestial_a sensuality_n and_o love_n of_o sin_n from_o reason_n also_o do_v they_o frame_v their_o conception_n concern_v the_o capacity_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n for_o the_o immediate_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n and_o what_o be_v suit_v therein_o unto_o their_o utmost_a blessedness_n no_o more_o be_v require_v unto_o these_o thing_n but_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n and_o man_n with_o our_o relation_n unto_o he_o and_o dependence_n on_o he_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o scripture_n they_o frame_v these_o thing_n into_o that_o which_o they_o call_v the_o beatifical_a vision_n whereby_o they_o intend_v all_o the_o way_n whereby_o god_n in_o the_o high_a and_o immediate_a instance_n can_v and_o do_v communicate_v of_o himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o the_o utmost_a elevation_n of_o their_o intellectual_a capacity_n to_o receive_v those_o communication_n it_o be_v such_o a_o intellectual_a apprehension_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o perfection_n with_o ineffable_a love_n as_o gives_z the_o soul_n the_o utmost_a rest_n and_o blessedness_n which_o its_o capacity_n can_v extend_v unto_o these_o thing_n be_v so_o and_o they_o have_v be_v by_o many_o both_o pious_o and_o elegant_o illustrate_v howbeit_o they_o be_v above_o the_o capacity_n of_o ordinary_a christian_n they_o know_v not_o how_o to_o manage_v they_o in_o their_o mind_n nor_o exercise_v their_o thought_n about_o they_o they_o can_v reduce_v they_o unto_o present_a usefulness_n nor_o make_v they_o subservient_fw-fr unto_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o grace_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o scripture_n give_v we_o another_o notion_n of_o heaven_n and_o glory_n not_o contrary_a unto_o this_o not_o inconsistent_a with_o it_o but_o more_o suit_v unto_o the_o faith_n and_o experience_n of_o believer_n and_o which_o alone_o can_v convey_v a_o true_a and_o useful_a sense_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o our_o mind_n this_o therefore_o be_v diligent_o to_o be_v inquire_v into_o and_o firm_o state_v in_o our_o thought_n and_o affection_n 4._o the_o principal_a notion_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v we_o of_o the_o state_n of_o heavenly_a blessedness_n and_o which_o the_o mean_a believer_n be_v capable_a of_o improve_n in_o daily_a practice_n be_v that_o faith_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o sight_n and_o grace_n into_o glory_n we_o walk_v now_o by_o faith_n and_o not_o by_o sight_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 5.7_o wherefore_o this_o be_v the_o difference_n between_o our_o present_a and_o our_o future_a state_n that_o sight_n hereafter_o shall_v supply_v the_o room_n of_o faith_n 1_o joh._n 3.2_o and_o if_o sight_n come_v into_o the_o place_n of_o faith_n than_o the_o object_n of_o that_o sight_n must_v be_v the_o same_o with_o the_o present_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n so_o the_o apostle_n inform_v we_o 1_o cor._n 13.9.10_o 12._o for_o we_o know_v in_o part_n and_o when_o we_o prophesy_v in_o part_n but_o when_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a be_v come_v that_o which_o be_v in_o part_n shall_v be_v do_v away_o for_o now_o we_o see_v through_o a_o glass_n dark_o but_o then_o face_n to_o face_n those_o thing_n which_o we_o see_v now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n we_o shall_v then_o have_v a_o immediate_a sight_n and_o full_a comprehension_n of_o for_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a must_v come_v and_o do_v away_o that_o which_o be_v in_o part_n what_o then_o be_v the_o principal_a present_a object_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v evangelical_n into_o who_o room_n sight_n must_v succeed_v be_v it_o not_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n grace_n love_n kindness_n and_o power_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o revelation_n of_o the_o eternal_a counsel_n of_o his_o will_n and_o the_o way_n of_o their_o accomplishment_n unto_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o the_o church_n in_o and_o by_o he_o with_o the_o glorious_a exaltation_n of_o christ_n himself_o wherefore_o in_o the_o full_a satisfactory_a representation_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o our_o soul_n receive_v by_o sight_n or_o a_o direct_a immediate_a intuition_n of_o they_o do_v the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n principal_o consist_v we_o behold_v they_o now_o dark_o as_o in_o a_o glass_n that_o be_v the_o utmost_a which_o by_o faith_n we_o can_v attain_v unto_o in_o heaven_n they_o shall_v be_v open_o and_o full_o display_v the_o infinite_a incomprehensible_a excellency_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n be_v not_o propose_v in_o scripture_n as_o the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n nor_o shall_v they_o be_v so_o unto_o sight_n in_o heaven_n the_o manifestation_n of_o they_o in_o christ_n be_v the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o faith_n here_o and_o shall_v be_v of_o our_o sight_n hereafter_o only_o through_o this_o manifestation_n of_o they_o we_o be_v lead_v even_o by_o faith_n ultimate_o to_o acquiesce_v in_o they_o as_o we_o shall_v in_o heaven_n be_v lead_v by_o love_n perfect_o to_o adhere_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n ineffable_a this_o be_v our_o immediate_a objective_n glory_n in_o heaven_n we_o hope_v for_o no_o other_o and_o this_o if_o god_n will_v i_o shall_v short_o more_o full_o explain_v whoever_o live_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o have_v any_o experience_n of_o the_o life_n power_n and_o sweetness_n of_o these_o heavenly_a thing_n unto_o who_o they_o be_v a_o spring_n of_o grace_n and_o consolation_n they_o be_v able_a to_o meditate_v on_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o in_o their_o full_a enjoyment_n think_v much_o of_o heaven_n as_o that_o which_o will_v give_v you_o a_o perfect_a view_n and_o comprehension_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o those_o other_o thing_n which_o shall_v be_v immediate_o declare_v some_o perhaps_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v that_o if_o this_o be_v heaven_n they_o can_v see_v no_o great_a glory_n in_o it_o no_o such_o beauty_n as_o for_o which_o it_o shall_v be_v desire_v it_o may_v be_v so_o for_o some_o have_v no_o instrument_n to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o invisible_a thing_n but_o carnal_a imagination_n some_o have_v no_o light_n no_o principle_n no_o disposition_n of_o mind_n or_o soul_n whereunto_o these_o thing_n be_v either_o acceptable_a or_o suitable_a some_o will_v go_v no_o further_o in_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o god_n and_o the_o faculty_n and_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n than_o reason_n will_v guide_v they_o which_o may_v be_v of_o use_n but_o we_o look_v for_o no_o other_o heaven_n we_o desire_v none_o but_o what_o we_o be_v lead_v unto_o and_o prepare_v for_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o which_o shall_v perfect_v all_o the_o beginning_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o we_o not_o what_o shall_v be_v quite_o of_o another_o nature_n and_o destructive_a of_o they_o we_o value_v not_o that_o heaven_n which_o be_v equal_o suit_v unto_o the_o desire_v and_o inclination_n of_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o best_a for_o we_o know_v that_o they_o who_o like_v not_o grace_n here_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v like_v that_o which_o be_v glory_n hereafter_o no_o man_n who_o be_v not_o acquaint_v experimental_o in_o some_o measure_n with_o the_o life_n power_n and_o evidence_n of_o faith_n here_o have_v any_o other_o heaven_n in_o his_o aim_n but_o what_o be_v erect_v in_o his_o own_o imagination_n the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n which_o the_o gospel_n prepare_v we_o for_o which_o faith_n lead_v and_o conduct_n we_o unto_o
think_v to_o express_v their_o love_n and_o conformity_n unto_o he_o they_o will_v have_v image_n of_o he_o which_o they_o will_v embrace_v adore_v and_o bedew_v with_o their_o tear_n they_o will_v have_v crucifix_n as_o they_o call_v they_o which_o they_o will_v carry_v about_o they_o and_o wear_v next_o unto_o their_o heart_n as_o if_o they_o resolve_v to_o lodge_v christ_n always_o in_o their_o bosom_n they_o will_v go_v in_o pilgrimage_n to_o the_o place_n where_o he_o die_v and_o rise_v again_o through_o a_o thousand_o danger_n and_o purchase_v a_o feign_a chip_n of_o a_o tree_n whereon_o he_o suffer_v at_o the_o price_n of_o all_o they_o have_v in_o the_o world_n they_o will_v endeavour_v by_o long_a thoughtfulness_n fast_n and_o watch_n to_o cast_v their_o soul_n into_o rapture_n and_o ecstasy_n wherein_o they_o fancy_v themselves_o in_o his_o presence_n they_o come_v at_o last_o to_o make_v themselves_o like_o he_o in_o get_v impression_n of_o wound_n on_o their_o side_n their_o hand_n and_o foot_n unto_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o sundry_a other_o of_o a_o alike_a nature_n and_o tendency_n do_v superstition_n abuse_v and_o corrupt_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o a_o pretence_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o truth_n for_o there_o be_v no_o more_o certain_a gospel_n truth_n than_o this_o that_o believer_n ought_v continual_o to_o contemplate_v on_o christ_n by_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o their_o thought_n and_o affection_n and_o that_o thereby_o they_o be_v change_v and_o transform_v into_o his_o image_n 2_o cor._n 3.18_o and_o we_o be_v not_o to_o forego_v our_o duty_n because_o other_o man_n have_v be_v mistake_v in_o they_o nor_o part_n with_o practical_a fundamental_a principle_n of_o religion_n because_o they_o have_v be_v abuse_v by_o superstition_n but_o we_o may_v see_v herein_o how_o dangerous_a it_o be_v to_o depart_v in_o any_o thing_n from_o the_o conduct_n of_o scripture_n light_n and_o rule_n when_o for_o want_v thereof_o the_o best_a and_o most_o noble_a endeavour_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n even_o to_o love_n christ_n and_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o he_o do_v issue_n in_o provocation_n of_o the_o high_a nature_n pray_v therefore_o that_o you_o may_v be_v keep_v unto_o the_o truth_n in_o all_o thing_n by_o a_o diligent_a attendance_n unto_o the_o only_a rule_n thereof_o and_o conscientious_a subjection_n of_o soul_n unto_o the_o authority_n of_o god_n in_o it_o for_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o suffer_v our_o affection_n to_o be_v entangle_v with_o the_o paint_n or_o artificial_a beauty_n of_o any_o way_n or_o mean_n of_o give_v our_o love_n unto_o christ_n which_o be_v not_o warrant_v by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n yet_o i_o must_v say_v that_o i_o have_v rather_o be_v among_o they_o who_o in_o the_o act_n of_o their_o love_n and_o affection_n unto_o christ_n do_v fall_v into_o some_o irregularity_n and_o excess_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o express_v it_o provide_v their_o worship_n of_o he_o be_v neither_o superstitious_a nor_o idolatrous_a than_o among_o those_o who_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v christian_n do_v almost_o disavow_v their_o have_v any_o thought_n of_o or_o affection_n unto_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n but_o there_o be_v no_o need_n that_o we_o shall_v foolish_o run_v into_o either_o of_o these_o extreme_n god_n have_v in_o the_o scripture_n sufficient_o provide_v against_o they_o both_o he_o have_v both_o show_v we_o the_o necessity_n of_o our_o diligent_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o have_v limit_v out_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v so_o do_v and_o let_v our_o design_n be_v what_o they_o will_v where_o in_o any_o thing_n we_o depart_v from_o his_o prescription_n we_o be_v not_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o so_o be_v sure_a to_o lose_v all_o that_o we_o do_v wherefore_o two_o thing_n be_v require_v that_o we_o may_v thus_o think_v of_o christ_n and_o meditate_v on_o he_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n 1_o that_o the_o mean_n of_o bring_v he_o to_o mind_n be_v what_o god_n have_v promise_v and_o appoint_v 2._o that_o the_o continue_a proposal_n of_o he_o as_o the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n and_o meditation_n be_v of_o the_o same_o kind_n for_o both_o these_o end_n the_o superstitious_a mind_n of_o man_n invent_v the_o way_n of_o image_n and_o crucifix_n with_o their_o appurtenance_n before_o mention_v and_o this_o render_v all_o their_o devotion_n a_o abomination_n that_o which_o tend_v unto_o these_o end_n among_o believer_n be_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o word_n will_v you_o then_o think_v of_o christ_n as_o you_o ought_v take_v these_o two_o direction_n 1._o pray_o that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n may_v abide_v with_o you_o continual_o to_o mind_n you_o of_o he_o which_o he_o will_v do_v in_o all_o in_o who_o he_o do_v abide_v for_o it_o belong_v unto_o his_o office_n 2._o for_o more_o fix_v thought_n and_o meditation_n take_v some_o express_a place_n of_o scripture_n wherein_o he_o be_v set_v forth_o and_o propose_v either_o in_o his_o person_n office_n or_o grace_n unto_o you_o gal._n 3.1_o 4._o this_o duty_n lie_v at_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o that_o bless_a communion_n and_o intercourse_n that_o be_v between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n this_o i_o confess_v be_v despise_v by_o some_o and_o the_o very_a notion_n of_o it_o esteem_v ridiculous_a but_o they_o do_v therein_o no_o less_o than_o renounce_v christianity_n and_o turn_v the_o lord_n christ_n into_o a_o idol_n that_o neither_o know_v see_v nor_o hear_v but_o i_o speak_v unto_o they_o who_o be_v not_o utter_a stranger_n unto_o the_o life_n of_o faith_n who_o know_v not_o what_o religion_n be_v unless_o they_o have_v real_a spiritual_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n thereby_o consider_v this_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v in_o particular_a exemplify_v in_o the_o book_n of_o canticle_n there_o be_v not_o one_o instance_n of_o it_o to_o be_v find_v which_o do_v not_o suppose_v a_o continual_a thoughtfulness_n of_o he_o and_o in_o answer_n unto_o they_o as_o they_o be_v act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n wherein_o he_o be_v delight_v do_v he_o by_o his_o spirit_n insinuate_v into_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o love_n kindness_n and_o relation_n unto_o we_o the_o great_a variety_n wherein_o these_o thing_n be_v mutual_o carry_v on_o between_o he_o and_o the_o church_n the_o singular_a endearment_n which_o ensue_v thereon_o and_o bless_a estate_n in_o rest_n and_o complacency_n do_v make_v up_o the_o substance_n of_o that_o holy_a discourse_n no_o thought_n then_o of_o christ_n proceed_v from_o faith_n accompany_v with_o love_n and_o delight_n shall_v be_v lose_v they_o that_o sow_v this_o seed_n shall_v return_v with_o their_o sheaf_n christ_n will_v meet_v they_o with_o gracious_a intimation_n of_o his_o acceptance_n of_o they_o delight_n in_o they_o and_o return_v a_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o love_n unto_o they_o he_o never_o will_v be_v he_o never_o be_v behind_o with_o any_o poor_a soul_n in_o return_n of_o love_n those_o gracious_a and_o bless_a promise_n which_o he_o have_v make_v of_o come_v unto_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o of_o make_v his_o abode_n with_o they_o and_o of_o sup_v with_o they_o all_o expression_n of_o a_o gracious_a presence_n and_o intimate_a communion_n do_v all_o depend_v on_o this_o duty_n wherefore_o we_o may_v consider_v three_o thing_n concern_v these_o thought_n of_o christ._n 1._o that_o they_o be_v exceed_o acceptable_a unto_o he_o as_o the_o best_a pledge_n of_o our_o cordial_a affection_n cant._n 2.14_o o_o my_o dove_n that_o be_v in_o the_o cleft_n of_o the_o rock_n in_o the_o secret_a place_n of_o the_o stair_n let_v i_o see_v thy_o countenance_n let_v i_o hear_v thy_o voice_n for_o sweet_a be_v thy_o voice_n and_o thy_o countenance_n be_v comely_a when_o a_o soul_n through_o manifold_a discouragement_n and_o despondency_n withdraw_v and_o as_o it_o be_v hide_n itself_o from_o he_o he_o call_v to_o see_v a_o poor_a weep_n blubber_a face_n and_o to_o hear_v a_o break_a voice_n that_o scarce_o go_v beyond_o sigh_n and_o groan_n 2._o these_o thought_n be_v the_o only_a mean_n whereby_o we_o comply_v with_o the_o gracious_a intimation_n of_o his_o love_n mention_v before_o by_o they_o do_v we_o hear_v his_o knock_n know_v his_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v he_o entrance_n that_o he_o may_v abide_v and_o sup_v with_o we_o sometime_o indeed_o the_o soul_n be_v surprise_v into_o act_n of_o gracious_a communion_n with_o christ_n cant._n 6.11_o but_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v unless_o we_o abide_v in_o those_o way_n and_o mean_n which_o prepare_v
make_v unto_o atheism_n with_o argument_n for_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n of_o god_n take_v from_o reason_n and_o natural_a light_n in_o this_o and_o other_o age_n have_v be_v of_o good_a use_n to_o cast_v contempt_n on_o the_o pretence_n of_o evil_a man_n to_o justify_v themselves_o in_o their_o folly_n but_o that_o they_o have_v so_o much_o as_o change_v the_o mind_n of_o any_o i_o much_o doubt_n no_o man_n be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o atheistical_a thought_n or_o can_v be_v so_o long_o but_o he_o that_o be_v ensnare_v into_o they_o by_o his_o desire_n to_o live_v secure_o and_o uncontrollable_o in_o sin_n such_o person_n know_v it_o to_o be_v their_o interest_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o god_n and_o be_v willing_a to_o take_v shelter_n under_o the_o bold_a expression_n and_o reason_n of_o they_o who_o by_o the_o same_o mean_n have_v harden_v and_o blind_v their_o mind_n into_o such_o foolish_a thought_n but_o the_o most_o rational_a argument_n for_o the_o be_v of_o the_o deity_n will_v never_o prove_v a_o effectual_a cure_n unto_o a_o predominant_a love_n of_o and_o habitual_a course_n in_o sin_n in_o they_o who_o have_v resist_v and_o reject_v the_o mean_n and_o motive_n unto_o that_o end_v declare_v in_o divine_a revelation_n and_o unless_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n be_v cure_v in_o the_o heart_n thought_n in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n will_v not_o be_v fix_v in_o the_o mind_n 2._o there_o be_v those_o of_o who_o also_o it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o god_n be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thaught_n though_o they_o acknowledge_v his_o essence_n and_o be_v for_o they_o be_v not_o practical_o influence_v in_o any_o thing_n by_o the_o notion_n they_o have_v of_o he_o such_o be_v the_o person_n of_o who_o this_o be_v affirm_v psal._n 10.4_o he_o be_v one_o who_o through_o pride_n and_o profligacy_n with_o hardness_n in_o sin_n regard_v not_o god_n in_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o world_n ver_fw-la 4_o 5_o 11_o 13._o such_o be_v the_o world_n fill_v withal_o at_o this_o day_n as_o they_o be_v describe_v tit._n 1.16_o they_o profess_v that_o they_o know_v god_n but_o in_o their_o work_n deny_v he_o be_v abominable_a and_o disobedient_a and_o to_o every_o good_a work_n reprobate_n they_o think_v they_o live_v they_o act_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o if_o there_o be_v no_o god_n at_o least_o as_o if_o they_o never_o think_v of_o he_o with_o fear_n and_o reverence_n and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n we_o need_v not_o seek_v far_o for_o evidence_n of_o their_o disregard_n of_o god_n the_o pride_n of_o their_o countenance_n testify_v against_o they_o psal._n 10.4_o and_o if_o they_o be_v follow_v further_o curse_a oath_n licentiousness_n of_o life_n and_o hatred_n of_o all_o that_o be_v good_a will_v confirm_v and_o evidence_n the_o same_o such_o as_o these_o may_v own_o god_n in_o word_n may_v be_v afraid_a of_o he_o in_o danger_n may_v attend_v outward_o on_o his_o worship_n but_o they_o think_v not_o of_o god_n at_o all_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n he_o be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thought_n 3._o there_o be_v yet_o less_o degree_n of_o this_o disregard_n of_o god_n and_o forgetfulness_n of_o he_o some_o be_v so_o fill_v with_o thought_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o occasion_n of_o life_n that_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v think_v of_o god_n as_o they_o ought_v for_o as_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n in_o prevalent_a degree_n be_v inconsistent_a for_o if_o a_o man_n love_v this_o world_n how_o dwell_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o he_o so_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o like_a degree_n be_v inconsistent_a this_o be_v the_o state_n of_o many_o who_o yet_o will_v be_v esteem_v spiritual_o mind_v they_o be_v continual_o conversant_a in_o their_o mind_n about_o earthly_a thing_n some_o thing_n impose_v themselves_o on_o they_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o duty_n they_o belong_v unto_o their_o calling_n they_o must_v be_v attend_v unto_o some_o be_v suggest_v unto_o their_o mind_n from_o daily_a occasion_n and_o occurrence_n common_a converse_n in_o the_o world_n engage_v man_n into_o no_o other_o but_o worldly_a thought_n love_n and_o desire_v of_o earthly_a thing_n their_o enjoyment_n and_o increase_n exhaust_v the_o vigour_n of_o their_o spirit_n all_o the_o day_n long_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o multitude_n of_o thought_n arise_v from_o these_o and_o the_o like_a occasion_n whilst_o their_o heart_n and_o head_n be_v reak_a with_o the_o steam_n of_o they_o many_o fall_n immediate_o in_o their_o season_n unto_o the_o performance_n of_o holy_a duty_n those_o time_n must_v suffice_v for_o thought_n of_o god_n but_o notwithstanding_o such_o duty_n what_o through_o the_o want_n of_o a_o due_a preparation_n for_o they_o what_o through_o the_o fullness_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o affection_n with_o other_o thing_n and_o what_o through_o a_o neglect_n of_o exercise_v grace_n in_o they_o it_o may_v be_v say_v comparative_o that_o god_n be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thought_n i_o pray_v god_n that_o this_o at_o least_o as_o unto_o some_o degree_n of_o it_o be_v not_o the_o condition_n of_o many_o among_o we_o i_o speak_v not_o now_o of_o man_n who_o visible_o and_o open_o live_v in_o sin_n profane_a in_o their_o principle_n and_o profligate_v in_o their_o life_n the_o prayer_n of_o such_o person_n be_v a_o abomination_n unto_o the_o lord_n neither_o have_v they_o ever_o any_o thought_n of_o he_o which_o he_o do_v accept_v but_o i_o speak_v of_o they_o who_o be_v sober_a in_o their_o life_n industrious_a in_o their_o calling_n and_o not_o open_o negligent_a about_o the_o outward_a duty_n of_o religion_n such_o man_n be_v apt_a to_o approve_v of_o themselves_o and_o other_o also_o to_o speak_v well_o of_o they_o for_o these_o thing_n be_v in_o themselves_o commendable_a and_o praiseworthy_a but_o if_o they_o be_v trace_v home_o it_o will_v be_v find_v as_o to_o many_o of_o they_o that_o god_n be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thought_n as_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v their_o earthly_a conversation_n their_o vain_a communication_n with_o their_o foolish_a design_n do_v all_o manifest_a that_o the_o vigour_n of_o their_o spirit_n and_o most_o intense_a contrivance_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v engage_v into_o thing_n below_o some_o refuse_n transient_a unmanaged_a thought_n be_v sometime_o cast_v away_o on_o god_n which_o he_o despise_v 4._o where_o person_n do_v cherish_v secret_a predominant_a lust_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o life_n god_n be_v not_o in_o their_o thought_n as_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v he_o may_v be_v he_o often_o be_v much_o in_o the_o word_n of_o such_o person_n but_o in_o their_o thought_n he_o be_v not_o he_o can_v be_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n and_o such_o person_n no_o doubt_n there_o be_v ever_o and_o anon_o we_o hear_v of_o one_o and_o another_o who_o secret_a lust_n break_v forth_o into_o a_o discovery_n they_o flatter_v themselves_o for_o a_o season_n but_o god_n oft_o time_n so_o order_n thing_n in_o his_o holy_a providence_n that_o their_o iniquity_n shall_v be_v find_v out_o to_o be_v hateful_a some_o hateful_a lust_n discover_v itself_o to_o be_v predominant_a in_o they_o one_o be_v drunken_a another_o unclean_a a_o three_o a_o oppressor_n such_o there_o be_v ever_o find_v among_o professor_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o in_o the_o best_a of_o time_n among_o the_o apostle_n one_o be_v a_o traitor_n a_o devil_n of_o the_o first_o professor_n of_o christianity_n there_o be_v those_o who_o god_n be_v their_o belly_n who_o end_n be_v destruction_n who_o mind_v earthly_a thing_n phil._n 3.18_o 19_o some_o may_v take_v advantage_n at_o this_o acknowledgement_n that_o there_o be_v such_o evil_n among_o such_o as_o be_v call_v professor_n and_o it_o must_v be_v confess_v that_o great_a scandal_n be_v give_v hereby_o unto_o the_o world_n cast_v both_o they_o that_o give_v it_o and_o they_o to_o who_o it_o be_v give_v under_o a_o most_o dreadful_a woe_n but_o we_o must_v bear_v the_o reproach_n of_o it_o as_o they_o do_v of_o old_a and_o commit_v the_o issue_n of_o all_o thing_n unto_o the_o watchful_a care_n of_o god_n however_o it_o be_v good_a in_o such_o a_o season_n to_o be_v jealous_a over_o ourselves_o and_o other_o to_o exhort_v one_o another_o daily_a whilst_o it_o be_v call_v to_o day_n lest_o any_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n see_v heb._n 12.13_o 14_o 15_o 16_o 17._o and_o because_o those_o with_o who_o it_o be_v thus_o can_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v yet_o be_v there_o some_o difficulty_n in_o the_o case_n as_o unto_o the_o predominancy_n of_o a_o secret_a lust_n or_o sin_n i_o shall_v consider_v it_o somewhat_o more_o distinct_o 1._o we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o a_o time_n of_o
especial_a particular_a lust_n may_v be_v so_o warm_v and_o foment_v by_o man_n constitution_n within_o or_o be_v so_o expose_v unto_o provoke_v exciting_a occasion_n without_o as_o to_o bring_v perpetual_a trouble_n on_o the_o mind_n yet_o this_o may_v be_v where_o no_o sin_n have_v the_o predominancy_n inquire_v after_o and_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o perplex_v solicitation_n of_o any_o corruption_n unto_o sin_n and_o the_o conquer_a prevalency_n of_o it_o lie_v in_o this_o that_o under_o the_o former_a the_o thought_n contrivance_n and_o act_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v general_o dispose_v and_o incline_v unto_o a_o opposition_n unto_o it_o and_o a_o conflict_n with_o it_o how_o it_o may_v be_v obviate_v defeat_v destroy_v how_o a_o absolute_a victory_n may_v be_v obtain_v against_o it_o yea_o death_n itself_o be_v sweet_a unto_o such_o person_n under_o this_o notion_n as_o it_o be_v that_o which_o will_v deliver_v they_o from_o the_o perplex_v power_n of_o their_o corruption_n so_o be_v the_o state_n of_o such_o a_o soul_n at_o large_a represent_v rom._n 7._o in_o the_o other_o case_n namely_o of_o its_o predominancy_n it_o dispose_v of_o the_o thought_n actual_o for_o the_o most_o part_n to_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o fulfil_v it_o in_o the_o lust_n thereof_o it_o fill_v the_o mind_n with_o please_a contemplation_n of_o its_o object_n and_o put_v it_o on_o contrivance_n for_o satisfaction_n yea_o part_n of_o the_o bitterness_n of_o death_n unto_o such_o person_n be_v that_o it_o will_v make_v a_o everlasting_a separation_n between_o they_o and_o the_o satisfaction_n they_o have_v receive_v in_o their_o lusts._n it_o be_v bitter_a in_o the_o thought_n of_o it_o unto_o a_o worldly_a mind_a man_n because_o it_o will_v take_v he_o from_o all_o his_o enjoyment_n his_o wealth_n profit_n and_o advantage_n it_o be_v so_o unto_o the_o sensual_a person_n as_o that_o which_o final_o determine_v all_o his_o pleasure_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o the_o degree_n of_o such_o a_o predominant_a corruption_n in_o some_o it_o taint_v the_o affection_n vitiate_v the_o thought_n and_o work_n over_o the_o will_n unto_o act_n of_o a_o secret_a complacency_n in_o sin_n but_o proceed_v no_o far_o the_o whole_a mind_n may_v be_v vitiate_a by_o it_o and_o render_v in_o the_o multitude_n of_o its_o thought_n vain_a sensual_a or_o worldly_a according_a as_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o prevail_a corruption_n yet_o here_o god_n put_v bound_n unto_o the_o rage_a of_o some_o man_n corruption_n and_o say_v to_o their_o proud_a wave_n thus_o far_o shall_v you_o proceed_v and_o no_o far_o he_o either_o lay_v a_o restraint_n on_o their_o mind_n that_o when_o lust_n have_v full_o conceive_v it_o shall_v not_o bring_v forth_o sin_n or_o he_o set_v a_o hedge_n before_o they_o in_o his_o providence_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a in_o their_o circumstance_n to_o find_v their_o way_n unto_o what_o perhaps_o they_o do_v most_o earnest_o desire_v a_o woeful_a life_n it_o be_v that_o such_o person_n lead_v they_o be_v continual_o torture_v between_o their_o corruption_n and_o conviction_n or_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n and_o fear_v of_o the_o event_n with_o other_o it_o pursue_v its_o course_n into_o outward_a actual_a sin_n which_o in_o some_o be_v discover_v in_o this_o world_n in_o other_o they_o be_v not_o for_o some_o man_n sin_n go_v before_o they_o unto_o judgement_n and_o some_o follow_v after_o some_o fall_n into_o sin_n upon_o surprisal_n from_o a_o concurrence_n of_o temptation_n with_o corruption_n and_o opportunity_n some_o habituate_v themselves_o unto_o a_o course_n in_o sin_n though_o in_o many_o it_o be_v not_o discover_v in_o some_o it_o be_v but_o among_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v any_o spiritual_a light_n and_o make_v profession_n of_o religion_n thereon_o this_o seldom_o fall_v out_o but_o from_o the_o great_a displeasure_n of_o god_n for_o when_o man_n have_v long_o give_v way_n unto_o the_o prevalency_n of_o sin_n in_o their_o affection_n inclination_n and_o thought_n and_o god_n have_v set_v many_o a_o hedge_n before_o they_o to_o give_v bound_n unto_o their_o inclination_n and_o to_o shut_v up_o the_o womb_n of_o sin_n sometime_o by_o affliction_n sometime_o by_o fear_n and_o danger_n sometime_o by_o the_o word_n and_o yet_o the_o bent_n of_o their_o spirit_n be_v towards_o their_o sin_n god_n take_v off_o his_o hand_n of_o restraint_n remove_v his_o hindrance_n and_o give_v they_o up_o unto_o their_o own_o heart_n lust_n to_o do_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o convenient_a all_o thing_n hereon_o suit_v their_o desire_n and_o they_o rush_v into_o actual_a sin_n and_o folly_n set_v their_o foot_n in_o the_o path_n that_o go_v down_o to_o the_o chamber_n of_o death_n the_o uncontrollable_a power_n of_o sin_n in_o such_o person_n and_o the_o greatness_n of_o god_n displeasure_n against_o they_o make_v their_o condition_n most_o deplorable_a those_o that_o be_v in_o this_o state_n of_o either_o sort_n the_o first_o or_o the_o latter_a be_v remote_a from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v nor_o be_v god_n in_o all_o their_o thought_n as_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v for_o 1._o they_o will_v not_o so_o think_v and_o meditate_v on_o god_n their_o delight_n be_v turn_v another_o way_n their_o affection_n which_o be_v the_o spring_n on_o their_o thought_n which_o feed_v they_o continual_o do_v cleave_v unto_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v most_o adverse_a unto_o he_o love_n of_o sin_n be_v get_v to_o be_v the_o spring_n in_o they_o and_o the_o whole_a stream_n of_o the_o thought_n which_o they_o choose_v and_o delight_v in_o be_v towards_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o if_o any_o thought_n of_o god_n come_v in_o as_o a_o faint_a tide_n for_o a_o few_o minute_n and_o drive_v back_o the_o other_o stream_n they_o be_v quick_o repel_v and_o carry_v away_o with_o the_o strong_a current_n of_o those_o which_o proceed_v from_o their_o powerful_a inclination_n yet_o may_v such_o person_n abide_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o outward_a holy_a duty_n or_o attendance_n unto_o they_o pride_n of_o or_o satisfaction_n in_o their_o gift_n may_v give_v they_o delight_n in_o their_o own_o performance_n and_o something_o in_o those_o of_o other_o they_o may_v be_v exceed_o please_v withal_o as_o it_o be_v express_o affirm_v ezek._n 33.31_o 32._o but_o in_o these_o thing_n they_o have_v no_o immediate_a real_a thought_n of_o god_n none_o that_o they_o delight_v in_o none_o that_o they_o seek_v to_o stir_v up_o in_o themselves_o and_o those_o which_o impose_v themselves_o on_o they_o they_o reject_v 2._o as_o they_o will_v not_o so_o they_o dare_v not_o think_v of_o god_n they_o will_v not_o because_o of_o the_o power_n of_o their_o lust_n they_o dare_v not_o because_o of_o their_o gild_n no_o soon_o shall_v they_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o he_o in_o good_a earnest_n but_o their_o sin_n will_v lose_v all_o its_o desirable_a form_n and_o appearance_n and_o represent_v itself_o in_o the_o horror_n of_o gild_n alone_o and_o in_o that_o condition_n all_o the_o property_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n be_v suit_v to_o increase_v the_o dread_a and_o terror_n of_o the_o sinner_n adam_n have_v hear_v god_n voice_n before_o with_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n but_o on_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o same_o voice_n after_o he_o have_v sin_v he_o hide_v himself_o and_o cry_v that_o he_o be_v afraid_a there_o be_v a_o way_n for_o man_n to_o think_v of_o god_n with_o the_o gild_n of_o sin_n upon_o they_o which_o they_o intend_v to_o forsake_v but_o none_o for_o any_o to_o do_v it_o with_o the_o gild_n of_o sin_n which_o they_o resolve_v to_o continue_v in_o wherefore_o of_o all_o these_o sort_n of_o person_n it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o god_n be_v not_o in_o all_o their_o thought_n and_o therefore_o be_v they_o far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v for_o unless_o we_o have_v many_o thought_n of_o god_n we_o can_v be_v so_o yea_o moreover_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n require_v unto_o those_o thought_n which_o we_o have_v of_o god_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o evidence_n of_o our_o be_v so_o 1._o that_o we_o take_v delight_n in_o they_o psal._n 30.4_o sing_v unto_o the_o lord_n o_o you_o saint_n of_o he_o and_o give_v thanks_o at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n the_o remembrance_n of_o god_n delight_v and_o refresh_v the_o heart_n of_o his_o saint_n and_o stir_v they_o up_o unto_o thankfulness_n 1._o they_o rejoice_v in_o what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o whatever_o be_v good_a amiable_a or_o desirable_a whatever_o be_v holy_a just_a and_o powerful_a whatever_o be_v gracious_a wise_a and_o merciful_a and_o all_o that_o be_v so_o they_o see_v and_o apprehend_v in_o god_n that_o god_n be_v what_o he_o be_v be_v the_o matter_n of_o their_o chief_a joy_n whatever_o befall_v
they_o in_o this_o world_n whatever_o trouble_v and_o disquietment_n they_o be_v exercise_v withal_o the_o remembrance_n of_o god_n be_v a_o satisfactory_a refreshment_n unto_o they_o for_o therein_o they_o behold_v all_o that_o be_v good_a and_o excellent_a the_o infinite_a centre_n of_o all_o perfection_n wicked_a man_n will_v have_v god_n to_o be_v any_o thing_n but_o what_o he_o be_v nothing_o that_o god_n be_v real_o and_o true_o please_v they_o wherefore_o they_o either_o frame_v false_a notion_n of_o he_o in_o their_o mind_n as_o psal._n 50.21_o or_o they_o think_v not_o of_o he_o at_o all_o at_o least_o as_o they_o ought_v unless_o sometime_o they_o tremble_v at_o his_o anger_n and_o power_n some_o benefit_n they_o suppose_v may_v be_v have_v by_o what_o he_o can_v do_v but_o how_o there_o can_v be_v any_o delight_n in_o what_o he_o be_v they_o know_v not_o yea_o all_o their_o trouble_n arise_v from_o hence_o that_o he_o be_v what_o he_o be_v it_o will_v be_v a_o relief_n unto_o they_o if_o they_o can_v make_v any_o abatement_n of_o his_o power_n his_o holiness_n his_o righteousness_n his_o omnipresence_n but_o his_o saint_n as_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v give_v thanks_o at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n and_o when_o we_o can_v delight_v in_o the_o thought_n of_o what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o of_o his_o infinite_a excellency_n and_o perfection_n it_o give_v we_o a_o threefold_a evidence_n of_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v 1._o in_o that_o it_o be_v such_o a_o evidence_n that_o we_o have_v a_o gracious_a interest_n in_o those_o excellency_n and_o perfection_n whereon_o we_o can_v say_v with_o rejoice_v in_o ourselves_o this_o god_n thus_o holy_a thus_o powerful_a thus_o just_a good_a and_o gracious_a be_v our_o god_n and_o he_o will_v be_v our_o guide_n unto_o death_n so_o the_o psalmist_n under_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o own_o frailty_n and_o apprehension_n of_o death_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o year_n comfort_n and_o refresh_v himself_o with_o thought_n of_o god_n eternity_n and_o immutability_n with_o his_o interest_n in_o they_o psal._n 102.23_o 24_o 25_o 26_o 27_o 28._o and_o god_n himself_o propose_v unto_o we_o his_o infinite_a immutability_n as_o the_o ground_n whereon_o we_o may_v except_v safety_n and_o deliverance_n mal._n 3.6_o when_o we_o can_v thus_o think_v of_o god_n and_o what_o he_o be_v with_o delight_n it_o be_v i_o say_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o have_v a_o gracious_a covenant_n interest_n even_o in_o what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o which_o none_o have_v but_o those_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v 2._o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o the_o image_n of_o god_n be_v begin_v to_o be_v wrought_v in_o our_o own_o soul_n and_o we_o approve_v of_o and_o rejoice_v in_o it_o more_o than_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n whatever_o whatever_o notion_n man_n may_v have_v of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n holiness_n righteousness_n and_o purity_n they_o be_v all_o but_o barren_a jejune_n and_o fruitless_a unless_o there_o be_v a_o similitude_n and_o conformity_n unto_o they_o wrought_v in_o their_o mind_n and_o soul_n without_o this_o they_o can_v rejoice_v in_o the_o thought_n and_o remembrance_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n wherefore_o when_o we_o can_v do_v so_o when_o such_o meditation_n of_o god_n be_v sweet_a unto_o we_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o we_o have_v some_o experience_n in_o ourselves_o of_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o image_n of_o those_o perfection_n and_o that_o we_o rejoice_v in_o they_o above_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n 3._o they_o be_v so_o also_o in_o that_o they_o be_v manifest_a that_o we_o do_v discern_v and_o judge_v that_o our_o eternal_a blessedness_n do_v consist_v in_o the_o full_a manifestation_n and_o our_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o what_o he_o be_v and_o of_o all_o his_o divine_a excellency_n this_o man_n for_o the_o most_o part_n take_v for_o grant_v but_o how_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o they_o know_v not_o they_o understand_v it_o in_o some_o measure_n who_o heart_n be_v here_o deep_o affect_v with_o delight_n in_o they_o they_o be_v able_a to_o believe_v that_o the_o manifestation_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n will_v give_v eternal_a rest_n satisfaction_n and_o complacency_n unto_o their_o soul_n no_o wicked_a man_n can_v look_v upon_o it_o otherwise_o than_o a_o torment_n to_o abide_v for_o ever_o with_o eternal_a holiness_n isa._n 33.14_o and_o we_o ourselves_o can_v have_v no_o present_a prospect_n into_o the_o fullness_n of_o future_a glory_n when_o god_n shall_v be_v all_o in_o all_o but_o through_o the_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n which_o we_o have_v here_o in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o as_o the_o centre_n of_o all_o divine_a perfection_n i_o will_v therefore_o press_v this_o unknown_a this_o neglect_a duty_n on_o the_o mind_n of_o those_o of_o we_o in_o a_o especial_a manner_n who_o be_v visible_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o eternity_n the_o day_n be_v come_v wherein_o what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o that_o be_v as_o manifest_v and_o exert_v in_o christ_n shall_v alone_o be_v as_o we_o hope_v the_o eternal_a blessedness_n and_o reward_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o any_o thing_n shall_v be_v more_o necessary_a for_o we_o more_o useful_a unto_o we_o than_o to_o be_v exercise_v in_o such_o thought_n and_o contemplation_n the_o benefit_n we_o may_v have_v hereby_o be_v not_o to_o be_v reckon_v some_o of_o they_o only_o may_v be_v name_v as_o 1._o we_o shall_v have_v the_o best_a trial_n of_o ourselves_o how_o our_o heart_n real_o stand_v affect_v towards_o god_n for_o if_o upon_o examination_n we_o find_v ourselves_o not_o real_o to_o delight_v and_o rejoice_v in_o god_n for_o what_o he_o be_v in_o himself_o and_o that_o all_o perfection_n be_v eternal_o resident_a in_o he_o how_o dwell_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o we_o but_o if_o we_o can_v true_o rejoice_v at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n in_o the_o thought_n of_o what_o he_o be_v our_o heart_n be_v upright_o with_o he_o 2._o this_o be_v that_o which_o will_v effectual_o take_v off_o our_o thought_n and_o affection_n from_o thing_n here_o below_o one_o spiritual_a view_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n beauty_n and_o holiness_n will_v have_v more_o efficacy_n to_o raise_v the_o heart_n unto_o a_o contempt_n of_o all_o earthly_a thing_n than_o any_o other_o evidence_n whatever_o 3._o it_o will_v increase_v the_o grace_n of_o be_v heavenly_a mind_v in_o we_o on_o the_o ground_n before_o declare_v 4._o it_o be_v the_o best_a i_o have_v almost_o say_v it_o be_v the_o only_a preparation_n for_o the_o future_a full_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n this_o will_v gradual_o lead_v we_o into_o his_o presence_n take_v away_o all_o fear_n of_o death_n increase_v our_o longing_n after_o eternal_a rest_n and_o ever_o make_v we_o groan_v to_o be_v unclothe_v let_v we_o not_o than_o cease_v labour_v with_o our_o heart_n until_o through_o grace_n we_o have_v a_o spiritual_o sensible_a delight_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o remembrance_n and_o thought_n of_o what_o god_n be_v in_o himself_o 2._o in_o thought_n of_o god_n his_o saint_n rejoice_v at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o what_o he_o be_v and_o what_o he_o will_v be_v unto_o they_o herein_o have_v they_o regard_v unto_o all_o the_o holy_a relation_n that_o he_o have_v take_v on_o himself_o towards_o they_o with_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o covenant_n in_o christ_n jesus_n to_o that_o purpose_n be_v some_o of_o the_o last_o word_n of_o david_n 2_o sam._n 23._o 5._o although_o my_o house_n be_v not_o so_o with_o god_n yet_o he_o have_v make_v with_o i_o a_o everlasting_a covenant_n order_v in_o all_o thing_n and_o sure_a this_o be_v all_o my_o salvation_n and_o all_o my_o desire_n in_o the_o prospect_n he_o have_v of_o all_o the_o distress_n that_o be_v to_o befall_v his_o family_n he_o triumphant_o rejoice_v in_o the_o everlasting_a covenant_n that_o god_n have_v make_v with_o he_o in_o these_o thought_n his_o saint_n take_v delight_n they_o be_v sweet_a unto_o they_o and_o full_a of_o refreshment_n their_o meditation_n of_o he_o be_v sweet_a and_o they_o be_v glad_a in_o the_o lord_n psal._n 104.34_o thus_o be_v it_o with_o they_o that_o be_v true_o spiritual_o mind_v they_o not_o only_o think_v much_o of_o god_n but_o they_o take_v delight_n in_o these_o thought_n they_o be_v sweet_a unto_o they_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o they_o have_v no_o solid_a joy_n nor_o delight_n but_o in_o their_o thought_n of_o god_n which_o therefore_o they_o retreat_n unto_o continual_o they_o do_v so_o especial_o on_o great_a occasion_n which_o of_o themselves_o be_v apt_a to_o divert_v they_o from_o they_o as_o suppose_v a_o man_n have_v receive_v a_o signal_n mercy_n with_o the_o matter_n whereof_o he_o be_v exceed_o affect_v
two_o thing_n that_o the_o weak_a sort_n of_o believer_n may_v be_v exercise_v with_o in_o their_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n which_o may_v occasion_v they_o some_o trouble_n 1._o satan_n know_v the_o weakness_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o the_o immediate_a contemplation_n of_o thing_n infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a will_v sometime_o take_v advantage_n to_o insinuate_v blasphemous_a imagination_n in_o opposition_n unto_o what_o we_o will_v fix_v upon_o and_o relieve_v ourselves_o withal_o he_o will_v take_v that_o very_a time_n trust_v unto_o our_o weakness_n and_o his_o own_o method_n of_o subtlety_n to_o suggest_v his_o temptation_n unto_o atheism_n by_o ensnare_a inquiry_n when_o we_o go_v about_o to_o refresh_v our_o soul_n with_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o excellency_n but_o be_v there_o a_o god_n indeed_o how_o do_v you_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n and_o may_v it_o not_o be_v otherwise_o will_v be_v his_o language_n unto_o our_o mind_n for_o from_o his_o first_o temptation_n by_o way_n of_o a_o ensnare_a question_n yea_o and_o have_v god_n say_v it_o you_o shall_v not_o eat_v of_o every_o tree_n of_o the_o garden_n he_o proceed_v still_o much_o in_o the_o same_o method_n so_o he_o do_v with_o our_o saviour_n himself_o if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v there_o a_o god_n how_o if_o there_o shall_v be_v none_o in_o such_o a_o case_n the_o rule_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o apostle_n above_o all_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n whereby_o you_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o quench_v all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o the_o wicked_a eph._n 6.16_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o wicked_a one_o that_o be_v the_o devil_n and_o two_o way_n will_v faith_n act_n itself_o on_o this_o occasion_n 1._o by_o a_o speedy_a rejection_n of_o such_o diabolical_a suggestion_n with_o detestation_n so_o do_v our_o saviour_n in_o a_o case_n not_o unlike_o it_o get_v thou_o behind_o i_o satan_n wherefore_o if_o any_o such_o thought_n be_v suggest_v or_o seem_v to_o arise_v in_o your_o mind_n know_v assure_o that_o they_o be_v no_o less_o immediate_o from_o the_o devil_n than_o if_o he_o personal_o stand_v before_o you_o and_o visible_o appear_v unto_o you_o if_o he_o do_v so_o there_o be_v none_o of_o you_o but_o will_v arm_v yourselves_o with_o a_o utter_a defiance_n of_o what_o he_o shall_v offer_v unto_o you_o it_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a on_o this_o occasion_n when_o you_o may_v feel_v he_o though_o you_o see_v he_o not_o suffer_v not_o his_o fiery_a dart_n to_o abide_v one_o moment_n with_o you_o entertain_v no_o parley_n or_o dispute_v about_o they_o reject_v they_o with_o indignation_n and_o strengthen_v your_o rejection_n of_o they_o with_o some_o pertinent_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n as_o our_o saviour_n do_v if_o a_o man_n have_v a_o granado_n or_o fireball_n cast_v into_o his_o clothes_n by_o his_o enemy_n he_o do_v not_o consider_v whether_o it_o will_v burn_v or_o no_o but_o immediate_o shake_v it_o off_o from_o he_o deal_v no_o otherwise_o with_o these_o fiery_a dart_n lest_o by_o their_o abode_n with_o you_o they_o inflame_v your_o imagination_n unto_o great_a disturbance_n 2._o in_o case_n they_o utter_o depart_v not_o upon_o this_o endeavour_n for_o their_o exclusion_n and_o cast_v out_o return_v immediate_o without_o further_a dispute_n unto_o your_o own_o experience_n when_o the_o devil_n have_v ask_v you_o the_o question_n if_o you_o answer_v he_o you_o will_v be_v ensnare_v but_o if_o thereon_o you_o ask_v yourselves_o the_o question_n and_o apply_v yourselves_o unto_o your_o own_o experience_n for_o a_o answer_n unto_o it_o you_o will_v frustrate_v all_o his_o design_n there_o be_v argument_n to_o be_v take_v as_o be_v say_v from_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o reason_n in_o its_o proper_a exercise_n sufficient_a to_o defeat_v all_o objection_n of_o that_o kind_n but_o these_o be_v not_o our_o proper_a weapon_n in_o case_n of_o our_o own_o temptation_n which_o alone_o be_v now_o under_o consideration_n it_o require_v long_a and_o more_o sedate_v reason_v than_o such_o a_o state_n will_v admit_v of_o nor_o be_v it_o a_o sanctify_a medium_n for_o our_o relief_n it_o be_v what_o be_v suit_v unto_o suggestion_n on_o the_o occasion_n of_o our_o meditation_n that_o we_o inquire_v after_o in_o they_o we_o be_v not_o to_o argue_v on_o such_o principle_n but_o to_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n to_o quench_v these_o fiery_a dart_n and_o if_o on_o such_o occasion_n satan_n can_v divert_v we_o into_o long_a dispute_n about_o the_o be_v of_o god_n he_o have_v his_o end_n by_o carry_v we_o off_o from_o the_o meditation_n on_o he_o which_o we_o do_v design_n and_o after_o a_o while_o he_o will_v prevail_v to_o make_v it_o a_o common_a road_n and_o trade_n that_o no_o soon_o shall_v we_o begin_v to_o think_v of_o god_n but_o immediate_o we_o must_v dispute_v about_o his_o be_v therefore_o the_o way_n in_o this_o case_n for_o he_o who_o be_v real_o a_o believer_n be_v to_o retreat_v immediate_o unto_o his_o own_o experience_n which_o will_v pour_v shame_n and_o contempt_n on_o the_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n there_o be_v no_o believer_n who_o have_v knowledge_n and_o time_n to_o exercise_v the_o wisdom_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o consideration_n of_o himself_o and_o of_o god_n deal_n with_o he_o but_o have_v a_o witness_n in_o himself_o of_o his_o eternal_a power_n and_o godhead_n as_o also_o of_o all_o those_o other_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n which_o he_o be_v please_v to_o manifest_v and_o glorify_v by_o jesus_n christ._n wherefore_o on_o this_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n that_o there_o be_v no_o god_n he_o will_v be_v able_a to_o say_v that_o he_o may_v better_o tell_v i_o that_o i_o do_v not_o live_v nor_o breathe_v that_o i_o be_o not_o feed_v by_o my_o meat_n nor_o warm_v by_o my_o clothes_n that_o i_o know_v not_o myself_o nor_o any_o thing_n else_o for_o i_o have_v spiritual_a sense_n and_o experience_n of_o the_o contrary_a like_v he_o of_o old_a who_o when_o a_o cunning_a sophister_n will_v prove_v unto_o he_o by_o syllogism_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n as_o motion_n he_o give_v no_o answer_n unto_o his_o argument_n but_o rise_v up_o and_o walk_v how_o often_o will_v he_o say_v have_v i_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o power_n and_o presence_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n as_o though_o i_o have_v not_o only_o hear_v of_o he_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o ear_n but_o also_o see_v he_o by_o the_o see_n of_o the_o eye_n how_o often_o have_v he_o put_v forth_o his_o power_n and_o grace_n in_o i_o by_o his_o spirit_n and_o his_o word_n with_o a_o uncontrollable_a evidence_n of_o his_o be_v goodness_n love_n and_o grace_n how_o often_o have_v he_o refresh_v my_o conscience_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n speak_v that_o peace_n unto_o my_o soul_n which_o all_o the_o world_n can_v not_o communicate_v unto_o i_o in_o how_o many_o affliction_n danger_n trouble_n have_v he_o be_v a_o present_a help_n and_o relief_n what_o sensible_a emanation_n of_o life_n and_o power_n from_o he_o have_v i_o obtain_v in_o meditation_n on_o his_o grace_n and_o glory_n as_o he_o who_o have_v be_v blind_a answer_v the_o pharisee_n unto_o their_o ensnare_a captious_a question_n be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v one_o thing_n i_o know_v that_o whereas_o i_o be_v blind_a now_o i_o see_v whatever_o say_v such_o a_o soul_n be_v in_o this_o temptation_n of_o satan_n one_o thing_n i_o know_v full_a well_o that_o whereas_o i_o be_v dead_a i_o be_o alive_a whereas_o i_o be_v blind_a now_o i_o see_v and_o that_o by_o a_o effect_n of_o divine_a power_n this_o shield_n of_o faith_n manage_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o experience_n will_v quench_v the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n and_o he_o will_v fall_v under_o a_o double_a defeat_n 1._o his_o temptation_n will_v be_v repel_v by_o the_o proper_a way_n of_o resistance_n whereon_o he_o will_v not_o only_o desist_v in_o his_o attempt_n but_o even_o fly_v from_o you_o resist_v the_o devil_n say_v the_o apostle_n and_o he_o will_v fly_v from_o you_o he_o will_v not_o only_o depart_v and_o cease_v to_o trouble_v you_o but_o will_v depart_v as_o one_o defeat_v and_o confound_v and_o it_o be_v for_o want_v of_o this_o resistance_n lively_o make_v use_n of_o that_o many_o hang_v so_o long_o in_o the_o briar_n of_o this_o temptation_n 2._o recall_v the_o experience_n we_o have_v have_v of_o god_n will_v lead_v we_o unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v the_o great_a disappointment_n of_o our_o adversary_n 2._o in_o thought_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v and_o existence_n we_o be_v apt_a to_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n to_o be_v as_o it_o be_v overwhelm_v in_o
be_v in_o their_o proper_a exercise_n with_o respect_n unto_o they_o we_o have_v no_o sufficiency_n in_o ourselves_o all_o our_o sufficiency_n must_v be_v of_o god_n there_o be_v no_o truth_n among_o person_n of_o light_n and_o knowledge_n more_o general_o grant_v in_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o than_o this_o that_o of_o ourselves_o we_o can_v do_v nothing_o and_o none_o more_o neglect_v in_o daily_a practice_n man_n profess_v they_o can_v do_v nothing_o of_o themselves_o and_o yet_o go_v about_o their_o duty_n as_o if_o they_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n 3._o remember_v that_o i_o have_v not_o at_o present_a treat_v of_o solemn_a state_v meditation_n concern_v which_o other_o rule_n and_o instruction_n ought_v to_o be_v give_v by_o solemn_a or_o state_v meditation_n i_o intend_v the_o thought_n of_o some_o subject_a spiritual_a and_o divine_a with_o the_o fix_v force_v and_o order_v our_o thought_n about_o it_o with_o a_o design_n to_o affect_v our_o own_o heart_n and_o soul_n with_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o or_o the_o thing_n contain_v in_o it_o by_o this_o design_n it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o study_n of_o the_o word_n wherein_o our_o principal_a aim_n be_v to_o learn_v the_o truth_n or_o to_o declare_v it_o unto_o other_o and_o so_o also_o from_o prayer_n whereof_o god_n himself_o be_v the_o immediate_a object_n but_o in_o meditation_n it_o be_v the_o affect_v of_o our_o own_o heart_n and_o mind_n with_o love_n delight_n and_o humiliation_n at_o present_a i_o have_v only_o show_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v and_o that_o in_o this_o instance_n of_o our_o thought_n as_o they_o proceed_v from_o the_o habitual_a frame_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o affection_n or_o of_o what_o sort_n the_o constant_a course_n of_o our_o thought_n ought_v to_o be_v with_o respect_n unto_o all_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o life_n of_o god_n this_o person_n may_v be_v in_o a_o readiness_n for_o who_o be_v yet_o unskilful_a in_o and_o unable_a for_o state_v meditation_n for_o there_o be_v require_v thereunto_o such_o a_o exercise_n of_o our_o natural_a faculty_n and_o ability_n as_o some_o through_o their_o weakness_n and_o ignorance_n be_v incapable_a of_o but_o as_o unto_o what_o we_o have_v hitherto_o insist_v on_o it_o be_v not_o unattainable_a by_o any_o in_o who_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n for_o it_o be_v but_o the_o frequent_a act_n of_o they_o that_o i_o intend_v wherefore_o do_v your_o heart_n and_o affection_n lead_v you_o unto_o many_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v they_o spring_v up_o in_o you_o as_o water_n in_o a_o well_o of_o live_a water_n be_v you_o ready_a on_o all_o occasion_n to_o entertain_v such_o thought_n and_o to_o be_v conversant_a with_o they_o as_o opportunity_n do_v offer_v itself_o do_v you_o labour_v to_o have_v in_o a_o readiness_n what_o be_v useful_a for_o you_o with_o respect_n unto_o temptation_n and_o duty_n be_v god_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o ordinary_a retreat_n of_o your_o soul_n though_o you_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o carry_v on_o a_o orderly_o state_v meditation_n in_o your_o mind_n yet_o you_o may_v be_v spiritual_o mind_v a_o man_n may_v not_o have_v a_o capacity_n and_o ability_n to_o carry_v on_o a_o great_a trade_n of_o merchandise_n in_o the_o world_n the_o knowledge_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o commodity_n and_o season_n of_o the_o world_n and_o nation_n of_o it_o with_o those_o contrivance_n and_o account_n which_o belong_v unto_o such_o trade_n may_v be_v above_o his_o comprehension_n and_o he_o may_v quick_o ruin_v himself_o in_o undertake_v such_o a_o employment_n yet_o may_v the_o ability_n of_o this_o man_n serve_v he_o well_o enough_o to_o carry_v on_o a_o retail_n trade_n in_o a_o private_a shop_n wherein_o perhaps_o he_o may_v thrive_v as_o well_o and_o get_v as_o good_a a_o estate_n as_o any_o of_o those_o who_o great_a capacity_n lead_v they_o forth_o unto_o more_o large_a and_o hazardous_a employment_n so_o it_o may_v be_v with_o some_o in_o this_o case_n the_o natural_a faculty_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o enable_v they_o unto_o state_v meditation_n they_o can_v cast_v thing_n into_o that_o method_n and_o order_n which_o be_v require_v thereunto_o nor_o frame_v the_o conception_n of_o their_o mind_n into_o word_n significant_a and_o expressive_a yet_o as_o unto_o frequency_n of_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o a_o disposition_n of_o mind_n thereunto_o they_o may_v thrive_v and_o be_v skilful_a beyond_o most_o other_o of_o great_a natural_a ability_n howbeit_o because_o even_o state_v meditation_n be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n yea_o the_o principal_a way_n whereby_o our_o spiritual_a thought_n do_v profitable_o act_v themselves_o i_o shall_v have_v regard_n thereunto_o in_o the_o follow_a direction_n wherefore_o 4._o whatever_o principle_n of_o grace_n we_o have_v in_o our_o mind_n we_o can_v attain_v unto_o a_o ready_a exercise_n of_o it_o in_o a_o way_n of_o spiritual_a meditation_n or_o otherwise_o without_o great_a diligence_n nor_o without_o great_a difficulty_n it_o be_v show_v at_o the_o entrance_n of_o this_o discourse_n that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o this_o grace_n between_o the_o essence_n substance_n or_o reality_n of_o it_o which_o we_o will_v not_o exclude_v man_n from_o under_o many_o fail_n or_o infirmity_n and_o the_o useful_a degree_n of_o it_o wherein_o it_o have_v its_o principal_a exercise_n as_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o life_n natural_a and_o its_o act_n in_o a_o weak_a disease_v sickly_a body_n and_o in_o that_o which_o be_v of_o a_o good_a constitution_n and_o in_o a_o vigorous_a health_n suppose_v the_o first_o the_o reality_n of_o this_o grace_n be_v wrought_v in_o we_o or_o implant_v in_o our_o mind_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o a_o principal_a part_n of_o that_o new_a nature_n which_o be_v the_o workmanship_n of_o god_n create_v in_o christ_n jesus_n unto_o good_a work_n yet_o unto_o the_o growth_n and_o improvement_n of_o it_o as_o of_o all_o other_o grace_n our_o own_o diligent_a care_n watchfulness_n and_o spiritual_a strive_v in_o all_o holy_a duty_n be_v require_v unless_o the_o most_o fruitful_a ground_n be_v manure_v it_o will_v not_o bring_v forth_o a_o useful_a crop_n let_v not_o any_o think_v that_o this_o frame_n of_o a_o spiritual_a mind_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o disposition_n unto_o and_o a_o readiness_n for_o all_o holy_a thought_n of_o god_n of_o christ_n of_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n at_o all_o time_n and_o on_o all_o occasion_n will_v befall_v he_o and_o continue_v with_o he_o he_o know_v not_o how_o as_o good_a it_o be_v for_o a_o poor_a man_n to_o expect_v to_o be_v rich_a in_o this_o world_n without_o industry_n or_o a_o weak_a man_n to_o be_v strong_a and_o healthy_a without_o food_n and_o exercise_n as_o to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v without_o a_o earnest_a endeavour_n after_o it_o it_o may_v be_v inquire_v what_o be_v requisite_a thereunto_o and_o we_o may_v name_v some_o of_o those_o thing_n without_o which_o such_o a_o holy_a frame_n will_v not_o be_v attain_v as_o 1._o a_o continual_a watch_n be_v to_o be_v keep_v in_o and_o on_o the_o soul_n against_o the_o incursion_n of_o vain_a thought_n and_o imagination_n especial_o in_o such_o season_n wherein_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o obtain_v advantage_n if_o they_o be_v suffer_v to_o make_v a_o inroad_n into_o the_o mind_n if_o we_o accustom_v ourselves_o to_o give_v they_o entertainment_n if_o they_o be_v wont_n to_o lodge_v within_o in_o vain_a shall_v we_o hope_v or_o desire_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v herein_o consist_v a_o principal_a part_n of_o that_o duty_n which_o our_o saviour_n so_o frequent_o so_o emphatical_o charge_v on_o we_o all_o namely_o to_o watch_n mark_v 3.37_o unless_o we_o keep_v a_o strict_a watch_n herein_o we_o shall_v be_v betray_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n for_o all_o such_o thought_n be_v but_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh_n to_o fulfil_v its_o desire_n in_o the_o lust_n thereof_o however_o they_o may_v be_v disappoint_v as_o unto_o actual_a sin_n this_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o advice_n give_v we_o in_o charge_n prov._n 4.23_o keep_v thy_o heart_n with_o all_o diligence_n for_o out_o of_o it_o be_v the_o issue_n of_o life_n 2._o careful_a avoidance_n of_o all_o society_n and_o business_n of_o this_o life_n which_o be_v apt_a under_o various_a pretence_n to_o draw_v and_o seduce_v the_o mind_n unto_o a_o earthly_a or_o sensual_a frame_n if_o man_n will_v venture_v on_o those_o thing_n which_o they_o have_v find_v by_o experience_n or_o may_v find_v by_o observation_n that_o they_o seduce_v and_o draw_v off_o their_o mind_n from_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n unto_o that_o which_o be_v contrary_a thereunto_o and_o will_v not_o watch_v unto_o
have_v reject_v prov._n 1.24_o 25_o 31._o our_o affection_n be_v upon_o the_o matter_n our_o all_o they_o be_v all_o we_o have_v to_o give_v or_o bestow_v the_o only_a power_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o if_o we_o may_v give_v away_o ourselves_o from_o ourselves_o and_o become_v another_o other_o faculty_n of_o our_o soul_n even_o the_o most_o noble_a of_o they_o be_v suit_v to_o receive_v in_o unto_o our_o own_o advantage_n by_o our_o affection_n we_o can_v give_v away_o what_o we_o be_v and_o have_v hereby_o we_o give_v our_o heart_n unto_o god_n as_o he_o require_v wherefore_o unto_o he_o we_o give_v our_o affection_n unto_o who_o we_o give_v our_o all_o ourselves_o and_o all_o that_o we_o have_v and_o to_o who_o we_o give_v they_o not_o what_o ever_o we_o give_v upon_o the_o matter_n we_o give_v nothing_o at_o all_o in_o what_o we_o do_v unto_o or_o for_o other_o whatsoever_o be_v good_a valuable_a or_o praiseworthy_a in_o it_o procceds_o from_o the_o affection_n wherewith_o we_o do_v it_o to_o do_v any_o thing_n for_o other_o without_o a_o animate_v affection_n be_v but_o a_o contempt_n of_o they_o for_o we_o judge_v they_o real_o unworthy_a that_o we_o shall_v do_v any_o thing_n for_o they_o to_o give_v to_o the_o poor_a upon_o their_o importunity_n without_o pity_n or_o compassion_n to_o supply_v the_o want_n of_o saint_n without_o love_n and_o kindnesss_n with_o other_o act_n and_o duty_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n be_v thing_n of_o no_o value_n thing_n that_o recommend_v we_o neither_o unto_o god_n nor_o man_n it_o be_v so_o in_o general_n with_o god_n and_o the_o world_n whatsoever_o we_o do_v in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n whatever_o duty_n we_o perform_v on_o his_o command_n whatever_o we_o undergo_v or_o suffer_v for_o his_o namesake_n if_o it_o proceed_v not_o from_o the_o cleave_v of_o our_o soul_n unto_o he_o by_o our_o affection_n it_o be_v despise_v by_o he_o he_o own_v we_o not_o as_o if_o a_o man_n will_v give_v all_o the_o substance_n of_o his_o house_n for_o love_n it_o will_v utter_o be_v coutemn_v cant._n 5._o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v buy_v nor_o purchase_v with_o riches_n so_o if_o a_o man_n will_v give_v to_o god_n all_o the_o substance_n of_o his_o house_n without_o love_n it_o will_v in_o like_a manner_n be_v despise_v and_o however_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o may_v be_v diligent_a industrous_a and_o sedulous_a in_o and_o about_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n yet_o if_o it_o have_v not_o our_o affection_n we_o be_v not_o of_o the_o world_n we_o belong_v not_o unto_o it_o they_o be_v the_o seat_n of_o all_o sincerity_n which_o be_v the_o jewel_n of_o divine_a and_o humane_a conversation_n the_o life_n and_o soul_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a and_o praiseworthy_a whatever_o man_n pretend_v as_o their_o affection_n be_v so_o be_v they_o hypocrisy_n be_v a_o deceitful_a interposition_n of_o the_o mind_n on_o various_a reason_n and_o pretence_n between_o man_n affection_n and_o their_o profession_n whereby_o a_o man_n appear_v to_o be_v what_o he_o be_v not_o sincerity_n be_v the_o open_a avowment_n of_o the_o reality_n of_o man_n affection_n which_o render_v they_o good_a and_o useful_a affection_n be_v in_o the_o soul_n as_o the_o helm_n in_o the_o ship_n if_o it_o be_v lay_v hold_v on_o by_o a_o skilful_a hand_n he_o turn_v the_o whole_a vessel_n which_o way_n he_o please_v if_o god_n have_v the_o powerful_a hand_n of_o his_o grace_n upon_o our_o affection_n he_o turn_v our_o soul_n unto_o a_o compliance_n with_o his_o institution_n instruction_n in_o mercy_n affection_n trial_n all_o sort_n of_o providence_n and_o hold_v they_o firm_a against_o all_o wind_n and_o storm_n of_o temptation_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o hurry_v they_o on_o pernicious_a danger_n such_o a_o soul_n alone_o be_v tractable_a and_o pliable_a unto_o all_o intimation_n of_o god_n will._n all_o other_o be_v stubborn_a and_o obstinate_a stout_a heart_a and_o far_o from_o righteousness_n and_o when_o the_o world_n have_v the_o hand_n on_o our_o affection_n it_o turn_v the_o mind_n with_o the_o whole_a industry_n of_o the_o soul_n unto_o its_o interest_n and_o concern_v and_o it_o be_v vain_a to_o contend_v with_o any_o thing_n that_o have_v the_o power_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o its_o disposal_n it_o will_v prevail_v at_o last_o on_o all_o these_o consideration_n it_o be_v of_o the_o high_a importance_n to_o consider_v a_o right_a how_o thing_n be_v state_v in_o our_o affection_n and_o what_o be_v the_o prevail_a bent_n of_o they_o iron_n sharpen_v iron_n so_o a_o man_n sharpen_v the_o countenance_n of_o his_o friend_n say_v the_o wise_a man_n prov._n 27.17_o every_o man_n have_v his_o edge_n which_o may_v be_v sharpen_v by_o outward_a help_n and_o advantage_n the_o predominant_a inclination_n of_o a_o man_n affection_n be_v his_o edge_n according_a as_o that_o be_v set_v so_o he_o cut_v and_o work_n that_o way_n he_o be_v sharp_a and_o keen_a but_o blunt_a unto_o all_o other_o thing_n now_o because_o it_o must_v be_v that_o our_o affection_n be_v either_o spiritual_a or_o earthly_a in_o a_o prevail_a degree_n that_o either_o god_n have_v our_o heart_n or_o the_o world_n that_o our_o edge_n be_v towards_o heaven_n or_o towards_o thing_n here_o below_o before_o i_o come_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o opperation_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n i_o shall_v consider_v and_o propose_v some_o of_o those_o argument_n and_o motive_n which_o god_n be_v please_v to_o make_v use_n of_o to_o call_v off_o our_o affection_n from_o the_o desirable_a thing_n of_o this_o world_n for_o as_o they_o be_v wight_o and_o cogent_a such_o as_o can_v be_v neglect_v without_o the_o great_a contempt_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n so_o they_o serve_v to_o press_v and_o enforce_v those_o argument_n and_o motive_n that_o be_v propose_v unto_o we_o to_o set_v our_o affection_n on_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o which_o be_v to_o be_v spiritual_o mind_v first_o he_o have_v in_o all_o manner_n of_o instance_n pour_v contempt_n on_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n in_o comparison_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a all_o thing_n here_o below_o be_v at_o first_o make_v beautiful_a and_o in_o order_n and_o be_v declare_v by_o god_n himself_o to_o be_v exceed_o good_a and_o that_o not_o only_o in_o their_o be_v and_o nature_n but_o in_o the_o use_n whereunto_o they_o be_v design_v they_o be_v then_o desirable_a unto_o man_n and_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o they_o will_v have_v be_v a_o blessing_n without_o danger_n of_o temptation_n for_o they_o be_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n to_o lead_v we_o unto_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o and_o love_n unto_o he_o but_o since_o the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n weherby_o the_o world_n fall_v under_o the_o curse_n &_o into_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n the_o thing_n of_o it_o in_o his_o managment_n be_v become_v effectual_a mean_n to_o draw_v off_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o affection_n from_o god_n for_o it_o be_v the_o world_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o it_o as_o sum_v up_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o joh._n 2.15_o 16_o that_o alone_o strive_v for_o our_o affection_n to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o they_o sin_n and_o satan_n do_v but_o woe_n for_o the_o world_n to_o take_v they_o off_o from_o god_n by_o they_o do_v the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n blind_a the_o eye_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v not_o and_o the_o principle_n way_n whereby_o he_o work_v in_o they_o be_v by_o promise_n of_o satisfaction_n unto_o all_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n with_o a_o proposal_n of_o whatever_o be_v dreadful_a and_o terrible_a in_o the_o want_n of_o they_o be_v now_o in_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n and_o use_v unto_o this_o end_n through_o the_o craft_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o folly_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n god_n have_v show_v by_o various_a instance_n that_o they_o be_v all_o vain_a empty_a unsatisfactory_a and_o every_o way_n to_o be_v despise_v in_o comparison_n of_o thing_n eternal_a first_o he_o do_v it_o most_o eminent_o and_o signal_o in_o the_o life_n death_n and_o cross_n of_o christ._n what_o can_v be_v see_v or_o find_v in_o this_o world_n after_o the_o son_n of_o god_n have_v spend_v his_o life_n in_o it_o not_o have_v where_o to_o lay_v his_o head_n and_o after_o he_o go_v out_o of_o it_o on_o the_o cross._n have_v there_o be_v aught_o of_o real_a worth_n in_o thing_n here_o below_o certain_o he_o have_v enjoy_v if_o not_o crown_n and_o empire_n which_o where_o all_o in_o his_o power_n yet_o such_o good_n and_o posession_n as_o man_n of_o sober_a reason_n and_o moderate_a affeon_n do_v esteem_v a_o competency_n but_o thing_n be_v quite_o otherwise_o dispose_v to_o manifest_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o
predominant_a in_o we_o what_o if_o we_o miss_v in_o our_o measure_n and_o that_o which_o we_o approve_v of_o in_o ourselves_o shall_v be_v disapprove_v of_o god_n we_o be_v cast_v for_o ever_o we_o belong_v unto_o the_o world_n and_o with_o the_o world_n we_o shall_v perish_v it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o if_o it_o be_v so_o difficult_a to_o distinguish_v between_o these_o thing_n namely_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o thing_n here_o below_o and_o their_o abuse_n the_o allowable_a industry_n about_o they_o and_o the_o inordinate_a love_n of_o they_o on_o the_o knowledge_n whereof_o our_o eternal_a condition_n depend_v it_o be_v impossible_a but_o man_n must_v spend_v their_o time_n in_o solicitous_a anxiety_n of_o mind_n as_o not_o know_v when_o they_o have_v aright_o discharge_v their_o duty_n ans._n 1_o i_o press_v these_o thing_n at_o present_a no_o further_o but_o only_o to_o show_v how_o dangerous_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o any_o to_o incline_v in_o his_o affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n wherein_o a_o excess_n be_v ruinous_a and_o hardly_o discoverable_a sure_o no_o wiseman_n will_v venture_v free_o and_o frequent_o unto_o the_o edge_n of_o such_o a_o precipice_n he_o will_v be_v jealous_a of_o his_o measure_n lest_o they_o will_v not_o hold_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o a_o due_a sense_n hereof_o be_v the_o best_a preservative_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o cleave_v inordinate_o unto_o these_o thing_n below_o and_o when_o god_n in_o any_o instance_n by_o affliction_n or_o otherwise_o show_v unto_o believer_n their_o transgression_n herein_o and_o how_o they_o have_v exceed_v job_n 38.8_o 9_o it_o make_v they_o careful_a for_o the_o future_a they_o will_v now_o or_o never_o be_v diligent_a that_o they_o fall_v not_o under_o that_o peremptory_a rule_n 1_o joh._n 2.14_o second_o where_o the_o soul_n be_v upright_o and_o sincere_a there_o be_v no_o need_n in_o this_o case_n of_o any_o more_o solicitousness_n or_o anxiety_n of_o mind_n than_o there_o be_v unto_o or_o about_o other_o duty_n but_o when_o it_o be_v byase_v and_o act_v by_o self-love_n and_o its_o more_o strong_a inclination_n unto_o thing_n present_a it_o be_v impossible_a man_n shall_v enjoy_v solid_a peace_n or_o be_v free_v from_o severe_a reflection_n on_o they_o by_o their_o own_o conscience_n in_o such_o season_n wherein_o they_o be_v awaken_v unto_o their_o duty_n and_o the_o consideration_n of_o their_o state_n nor_o have_v i_o any_o thing_n to_o tender_v for_o their_o relief_n with_o other_o it_o be_v not_o so_o and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v so_o far_o digress_v in_o this_o place_n as_o to_o give_v some_o direction_n unto_o those_o who_o in_o sincerity_n will_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o lawful_a use_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o earthly_a thing_n so_o as_o not_o to_o adhere_v unto_o they_o with_o inordinate_a affection_n first_o remember_v always_o that_o you_o be_v not_o proprietor_n nor_o absolute_a possessor_n of_o these_o thing_n but_o only_a steward_n of_o they_o with_o respect_n unto_o man_n you_o be_v or_o may_v be_v just_a proprietor_n of_o what_o you_o enjoy_v with_o respect_n unto_o he_o who_o be_v the_o great_a possessor_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n you_o be_v but_o steward_n this_o stewardship_n we_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o as_o we_o be_v teach_v in_o the_o parable_n luk._n 16.1_o 2._o this_o rule_n always_o attend_v unto_o will_v be_v a_o bless_a guide_n in_o all_o instancss_n and_o occasion_n of_o duty_n but_o if_o a_o man_n be_v leave_v in_o trust_n with_o house_n and_o large_a possession_n as_o a_o steward_n for_o the_o right_a lord_n owner_n and_o proprietor_n of_o they_o if_o he_o fall_v into_o a_o please_a dream_n that_o they_o be_v all_o his_o own_o and_o use_v they_o according_o it_o will_v be_v a_o woeful_a surprisal_n unto_o he_o when_o he_o shall_v be_v call_v to_o account_v for_o all_o he_o have_v receive_v and_o lay_v out_o whether_o he_o will_v or_o no._n and_o when_o indeed_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o pay_v it_o will_v scarce_o be_v otherwise_o with_o they_o at_o the_o great_a day_n who_o forget_v the_o trust_n which_o be_v commit_v to_o they_o and_o suppose_v they_o may_v do_v what_o they_o will_v with_o what_o they_o call_v their_o own_o second_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o way_n of_o get_v enjoy_v or_o use_v of_o these_o thing_n but_o give_v its_o own_o evidence_n unto_o spiritual_a wisdom_n whether_o it_o be_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o duty_n or_o no._n man_n be_v not_o light_o deceive_v herein_o but_o when_o they_o be_v evident_o under_o the_o power_n of_o corrupt_a affection_n or_o will_v not_o at_o all_o attend_v unto_o themselves_o and_o the_o language_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n it_o be_v a_o man_n own_o fault_n alone_o if_o he_o know_v not_o wherein_o he_o do_v exceed_v a_o due_a examination_n of_o ourselves_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o thing_n the_o frame_n and_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o they_o will_v great_o give_v check_n unto_o our_o corrupt_a inclination_n and_o discover_v the_o folly_n of_o those_o reason_n whereby_o we_o deceive_v ourselves_o into_o the_o love_n of_o earthly_a thing_n or_o justify_v ourselves_o therein_o and_o bring_v to_o light_v the_o secret_a principle_n of_o self-love_n which_o be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o this_o evil_n three_o if_o you_o will_v be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o right_a judgement_n in_o this_o case_n be_v sure_a that_o you_o have_v another_o object_n for_o your_o affection_n which_o have_v a_o predominant_a interest_n in_o your_o mind_n and_o which_o will_v evidence_n itself_o so_o to_o have_v on_o all_o occasion_n let_v a_o man_n be_v never_o so_o observant_a of_o himself_o as_o unto_o all_o outward_a duty_n require_v to_o he_o with_o respect_n unto_o these_o earthly_a thing_n let_v he_o be_v liberal_a in_o the_o disposal_n of_o they_o on_o all_o occasion_n let_v he_o be_v watchful_a against_o all_o intemperance_n and_o excess_n in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o yet_o if_o he_o have_v not_o another_o object_n for_o his_o affection_n which_o have_v a_o prevail_a influence_n upon_o they_o if_o they_o be_v not_o set_v upon_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o one_o way_n or_o other_o it_o be_v the_o world_n that_o have_v the_o possession_n of_o his_o heart_n for_o the_o affection_n of_o our_o mind_n will_v and_o must_v be_v place_v in_o chief_a on_o thing_n below_o or_o thing_n above_o there_o will_v be_v a_o predominant_a love_n in_o we_o and_o therefore_o although_o all_o our_o action_n shall_v testify_v another_o frame_n yet_o if_o god_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n be_v not_o the_o principal_a object_n of_o our_o affection_n by_o one_o way_n or_o other_o unto_o the_o world_n we_o do_v belong_v this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v teach_v we_o so_o express_o by_o our_o saviour_n luk._n 16.9_o 10_o 11_o 12_o 13._o and_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o make_v to_o yourselves_o friend_n of_o the_o mammon_n of_o unrighteousness_n that_o when_o you_o fail_v they_o may_v receive_v you_o into_o everlasting_a habitation_n he_o that_o be_v faithful_a in_o that_o which_o be_v least_o be_v faithful_a also_o in_o much_o and_o he_o that_o be_v unjust_a in_o the_o least_o be_v unjust_a also_o in_o much_o if_o therefore_o you_o have_v not_o be_v faithful_a in_o the_o unrighteous_a mammon_n who_o will_v commit_v to_o your_o trust_n the_o true_a riches_n and_o if_o you_o have_v not_o be_v faithful_a in_o that_o which_o be_v anothert_n man_n who_o shall_v give_v you_o that_o which_o be_v your_o own_o no_o servant_n can_v serve_v two_o master_n for_o either_o he_o will_v hate_v the_o one_o and_o love_v the_o other_o or_o else_o he_o will_v hold_v to_o the_o one_o and_o despise_v the_o other_o you_o can_v serve_v god_n and_o mammon_n four_o labour_v continual_o for_o the_o mortification_n of_o your_o affection_n unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n set_v and_o fix_v on_o they_o nor_o will_v any_o reason_n or_o consideration_n effectual_o divert_v they_o or_o take_v they_o off_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n unless_o they_o be_v mortify_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o cross_n of_o christ._n whatever_o change_v be_v otherwise_o wrought_v in_o they_o it_o will_v be_v of_o no_o advantage_n unto_o we_o it_o be_v mortification_n alone_o that_o will_v take_v they_o off_o from_o earthly_a thing_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n hence_o the_o apostle_n have_v give_v we_o that_o charge_n set_v your_o affection_n on_o thing_n above_o and_o not_o on_o thing_n below_o on_o the_o earth_n col._n 3.2_o add_v this_o as_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v do_v so_o mortify_v therefore_o your_o member_n that_o be_v on_o the_o earth_n v_o 5._o let_v no_o man_n think_v that_o his_o
be_v two_o other_o head_n of_o thing_n that_o offer_v themselves_o unto_o our_o consideration_n first_o the_o way_n mean_n arguing_n and_o enticement_n which_o the_o world_n make_v use_v of_o to_o draw_v keep_v and_o secure_v the_o affection_n of_o man_n unto_o itself_o second_o the_o secret_a powerful_a efficacy_n of_o grace_n in_o take_v off_o the_o heart_n from_o these_o thing_n turn_v and_o draw_v it_o unto_o god_n with_o the_o argument_n and_o motive_n that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n make_v use_v of_o in_o and_o by_o the_o word_n unto_o this_o end_n and_o wherein_o we_o must_v show_v what_o be_v the_o act_n of_o conquer_a grace_n wherein_o the_o heart_n be_v final_o prevail_v on_o to_o choose_v and_o adhere_v unto_o god_n in_o love_n immutable_a but_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v handle_v in_o any_o measure_n according_a to_o their_o nature_n and_o importance_n without_o such_o length_n of_o discourse_n as_o i_o can_v not_o here_o divert_v unto_o i_o shall_v therefore_o proceed_v unto_o that_o which_o be_v the_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a subject_n before_o we_o chap._n xii_o what_o be_v require_v in_o and_o unto_o our_o affection_n that_o they_o may_v be_v spiritual_a a_o threefold_a work_n on_o the_o affection_n describe_v to_o declare_v the_o interest_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o this_o frame_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o what_o they_o contribute_v thereunto_o i_o shall_v do_v these_o three_o thing_n first_o declare_v what_o be_v require_v hereunto_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v be_v spiritual_a wherein_o lie_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o whole_a duty_n second_o what_o be_v their_o act_n when_o they_o be_v so_o spiritual_a three_o what_o be_v the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v keep_v and_o preserve_v in_o that_o frame_n with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n how_o our_o affection_n be_v concern_v in_o or_o do_v belong_v unto_o the_o frame_n of_o mind_n inquire_v after_o have_v be_v before_o declare_v without_o spiritual_a affection_n we_o can_v be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o that_o they_o may_v be_v of_o this_o use_n three_o thing_n be_v require_v first_o their_o principle_n second_o their_o object_n three_o the_o way_n and_o manner_n of_o their_o application_n unto_o their_o proper_a object_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o principle_n first_o as_o unto_o the_o principle_n act_v in_o they_o that_o our_o affection_n may_v be_v spiritual_a and_o the_o spring_n of_o our_o be_v spiritually-minded_n it_o be_v require_v that_o they_o be_v change_v renew_v and_o in-laid_a with_o grace_n spiritual_n and_o supernatural_a to_o clear_v the_o sense_n hereof_o we_o must_v a_o little_a consider_v what_o be_v their_o state_n by_o nature_n and_o then_o by_o what_o mean_v they_o may_v be_v wrought_v upon_o as_o unto_o a_o change_n or_o a_o renovation_n for_o they_o be_v like_a unto_o some_o thing_n which_o in_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v poisonous_a but_o be_v correct_v and_o receive_v a_o due_a temperament_n from_o a_o mixture_n of_o other_o ingredient_n become_v medicinal_a and_o of_o excellent_a use._n first_o by_o nature_n our_o affection_n all_o of_o they_o be_v deprave_v and_o corrupt_v nothing_o in_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o man_n no_o power_n or_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v fall_v under_o great_a disorder_n and_o depravation_n by_o the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n than_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o and_o by_o they_o be_v the_o heart_n whole_o go_v and_o turn_v off_o from_o god_n tit._n 3.3_o it_o be_v a_o long_a work_n to_o set_v forth_o this_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n nor_o do_v it_o belong_v unto_o our_o present_a design_n some_o few_o thing_n i_o shall_v brief_o observe_v concern_v it_o to_o make_v way_n unto_o what_o be_v propose_v concern_v their_o change_n first_o this_o be_v the_o only_a corruption_n and_o depravation_n of_o our_o nature_n by_o the_o fall_v evident_a in_o and_o unto_o reason_n or_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n itself_o those_o who_o be_v wise_a among_o the_o heathen_a both_o see_v it_o and_o complain_v of_o it_o they_o find_v a_o weakness_n in_o the_o mind_n but_o see_v nothing_o of_o its_o darkness_n and_o depravation_n as_o unto_o thing_n spiritual_a but_o they_o be_v sensible_a enough_o of_o this_o disorder_n and_o tumult_n of_o the_o affection_n in_o thing_n moral_a which_o render_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt._n this_o great_o aggravate_v the_o neglect_n of_o they_o who_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o it_o in_o themselves_o see_v it_o be_v discernible_a in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n second_o they_o be_v as_o deprave_v the_o seat_n and_o subject_n of_o all_o lust_n both_o of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n yea_o lust_n or_o evil_a concupiscence_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o irregular_a motion_n and_o act_v of_o our_o affection_n as_o deprave_a defile_v corrupt_a rom._n 7.9_o hence_o no_o one_o sin_n can_v be_v mortify_v without_o a_o change_n wrought_v in_o the_o affection_n three_o they_o be_v the_o spring_n root_n and_o cause_n of_o all_o actual_a sin_n in_o the_o world_n mat._n 15.9_o the_o evil_a heart_n in_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o corrupt_a affection_n of_o it_o with_o the_o imagination_n of_o the_o mind_n whereby_o they_o be_v excite_v and_o act_v gen._n 6.5_o these_o be_v they_o which_o at_o this_o time_n fill_v the_o whole_a world_n with_o wickedness_n darkness_n confusion_n and_o terror_n and_o we_o may_v learn_v what_o be_v their_o force_n and_o efficacy_n from_o these_o effect_n so_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o plague_n be_v most_o evident_a when_o we_o see_v thousand_o die_v of_o it_o every_o week_n four_o they_o be_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o soul_n apply_v itself_o unto_o all_o sinful_a object_n and_o act_n hence_o be_v they_o call_v our_o member_n our_o earthly_a member_n because_o as_o the_o body_n apply_v itself_o unto_o its_o operation_n by_o its_o member_n so_o do_v the_o soul_n apply_v itself_o unto_o what_o belong_v unto_o it_o by_o its_o affection_n rom._n 6.13_o col._n 3.5_o five_o they_o will_v not_o be_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o mind_n its_o light_n or_o conviction_n rebellion_n against_o the_o light_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v the_o very_a form_n whereby_o their_o corruption_n act_v itself_o job_n 24.13_o let_v the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o its_o notion_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n be_v what_o they_o will_v they_o reject_v they_o and_o lead_v the_o soul_n in_o pursuit_n of_o their_o inclination_n hence_o no_o natural_a man_n whatsoever_o do_v in_o any_o measure_n answer_v the_o light_n of_o his_o mind_n or_o the_o conviction_n of_o his_o understanding_n but_o he_o see_v and_o approve_v of_o better_a thing_n follow_v those_o that_o be_v worse_o and_o there_o be_v no_o great_a spiritual_a judgement_n than_o for_o man_n to_o be_v give_v up_o unto_o themselves_z and_o their_o own_o evil_a affection_n rom._n 1.26_o many_o other_o instance_n may_v be_v give_v of_o the_o greatness_n of_o that_o depravation_n which_o our_o affection_n be_v fall_v under_o by_o sin_n these_o may_v suffice_v as_o unto_o our_o present_a purpose_n in_o general_n this_o depravation_n of_o our_o affection_n by_o nature_n may_v be_v reduce_v unto_o two_o head_n first_o a_o utter_a aversation_n from_o god_n and_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o this_o lie_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o that_o dislike_n of_o god_n and_o his_o way_n that_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v fill_v withal_o yea_o they_o do_v not_o only_o produce_v a_o aversation_n from_o they_o and_o dislike_n of_o they_o but_o they_o fill_v the_o mind_n with_o a_o enmity_n against_o they_o therefore_o man_n say_v in_o their_o heart_n unto_o god_n depart_v from_o we_o for_o we_o desire_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thy_o way_n what_o be_v the_o almighty_a that_o we_o shall_v serve_v he_o or_o what_o profit_n shall_v we_o have_v if_o we_o pray_v unto_o he_o job_n 21.14_o 15._o see_v rom._n 1.28_o chap._n 8._o 7_o 8._o second_o a_o inordinate_a cleave_v unto_o thing_n vain_a earthly_a and_o sensual_a cause_v the_o soul_n to_o engage_v into_o the_o pursuit_n of_o they_o as_o the_o horse_n rush_n into_o the_o battle_n while_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o this_o state_n and_o condition_n we_o be_v far_o enough_o from_o be_v spiritually-minded_n nor_o be_v it_o possible_a to_o engage_v they_o into_o a_o adherence_n unto_o or_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o this_o state_n they_o may_v be_v two_o way_n wrought_v upon_o and_o yet_o not_o so_o renew_v as_o to_o be_v serviceable_a unto_o this_o end_n first_o there_o may_v be_v various_a temporary_a impression_n make_v on_o they_o sometime_o there_o be_v so_o by_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n hereon_o man_n may_v hear_v it_o with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o sometime_o it_o be_v so_o by_o
because_o this_o be_v a_o enquiry_n of_o great_a importance_n and_o be_v of_o great_a use_n to_o be_v state_v in_o other_o case_n as_o well_o as_o that_o before_o we_o i_o shall_v treat_v of_o it_o by_o itself_o in_o the_o ensue_a chapter_n that_o the_o reader_n may_v the_o more_o distinct_o comprehend_v it_o both_o in_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o doctrine_n concern_v it_o and_o in_o the_o place_n it_o hold_v in_o our_o present_a discourse_n chap._n xv._n delight_n of_o believer_n in_o the_o holy_a institution_n of_o divine_a worship_n the_o ground_n and_o reason_n thereof_o the_o evidence_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n thereby_o etc._n etc._n that_o all_o true_a believer_n who_o mind_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v have_v a_o singular_a delight_n in_o all_o the_o institution_n and_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v full_o evident_a both_o in_o the_o example_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o the_o scripture_n and_o their_o own_o experience_n which_o they_o will_v never_o forego_v for_o this_o have_v be_v the_o great_a cause_n of_o their_o suffer_a persecution_n and_o martydom_n itself_o in_o all_o age_n of_o the_o primitive_a christian_n under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o pagan_a emperor_n or_o the_o witness_n for_o christ_n under_o the_o antichristian_a apostasy_n will_v or_o can_v have_v omit_v the_o observance_n if_o they_o according_a to_o the_o advice_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o gnostic_n they_o may_v have_v escape_v the_o rage_n of_o their_o adversary_n but_o they_o love_v not_o their_o life_n in_o comparison_n unto_o that_o delight_n which_o they_o have_v in_o the_o observance_n of_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n as_o unto_o the_o duty_n of_o evangelical_n worship_n david_n give_v we_o frequent_o a_o instance_n hereof_o in_o himself_o psal._n 42.1_o 2_o 3_o 4._o as_o the_o hart_n pant_v after_o the_o water-brook_n so_o pant_v my_o soul_n after_o thou_o o_o god_n my_o soul_n thirst_v for_o god_n for_o the_o live_a god_n when_o shall_v i_o come_v and_o appear_v before_o god_n my_o tear_n have_v be_v my_o meat_n day_n and_o night_n while_o they_o continual_o say_v unto_o i_o where_o be_v thy_o god_n when_o i_o remember_v these_o thing_n i_o pour_v out_o my_o soul_n in_o i_o for_o i_o have_v go_v with_o the_o multitude_n i_o go_v with_o they_o to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n with_o the_o voice_n of_o joy_n and_o praise_n with_o a_o multitude_n that_o keep_v holiday_n psal._n 63.1_o 2_o 3_o 4_o 5._o o_o god_n thou_o be_v my_o god_n early_o will_v i_o seek_v thou_o my_o soul_n thirst_v for_o thou_o my_o flesh_n long_v for_o thou_o in_o a_o dry_a and_o thirsty_a land_n where_o no_o water_n be_v to_o see_v thy_o power_n and_o thy_o glory_n so_o as_o i_o have_v see_v thou_o in_o thy_o sanctuary_n because_o thy_o love_a kindness_n be_v better_a than_o life_n my_o lip_n shall_v praise_v thou_o thus_o will_v i_o bless_v thou_o while_o i_o live_v i_o will_v lift_v up_o my_o hand_n in_o thy_o name_n my_o soul_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v as_o with_o marrow_n and_o fatness_n and_o my_o mouth_n shall_v praise_v thou_o with_o joyful_a li_n psal._n 84.1_o 2_o 3_o 4._o how_o amiable_a be_v thy_o tabernacle_n o_o lord_n of_o host_n my_o soul_n long_v yea_o even_o faint_v for_o the_o court_n of_o the_o lord_n my_o heart_n cry_v out_o for_o the_o live_n god_n yea_o the_o sparrow_n have_v find_v a_o house_n and_o the_o swallow_v a_o nest_n for_o herself_o where_o she_o may_v lay_v her_o young_a even_o thy_o altar_n o_o lord_n of_o host_n my_o king_n and_o my_o god_n blessed_n be_v they_o that_o dwell_v in_o thy_o house_n they_o will_v be_v still_o praise_v thou_o selah_n but_o a_o great_a than_o david_n be_v here_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n himself_o do_v upon_o all_o occasion_n declare_v his_o delight_n in_o and_o zeal_n for_o all_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n which_o be_v then_o in_o force_n by_o virtue_n of_o divine_a institution_n and_o command_n for_o although_o he_o severe_o reprove_v and_o reject_v whatever_o man_n have_v add_v thereunto_o under_o the_o pretence_n of_o a_o supererogate_a strictness_n or_o outward_a order_n lay_v it_o all_o under_o that_o dreadful_a sentence_n every_o plant_n which_o my_o heavenly_a father_n have_v not_o plant_v shall_v be_v pluck_v up_o and_o so_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n yet_o as_o unto_o what_o be_v of_o divine_a appoinment_n his_o delight_n therein_o be_v singular_a and_o exemplary_a unto_o all_o his_o disciple_n with_o respect_n hereunto_o be_v it_o say_v of_o he_o that_o the_o zeal_n of_o god_n house_n have_v eat_v he_o up_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o affliction_n which_o he_o have_v in_o his_o spirit_n to_o see_v the_o worship_n of_o it_o neglect_v pollute_a and_o despise_v this_o cause_v he_o to_o cleanse_v the_o temple_n the_o seat_n of_o divine_a worship_n from_o the_o pollutor_n and_o pollution_n of_o it_o not_o long_o before_o his_o suffering_n in_o the_o face_n and_o unto_o the_o high_a provocation_n of_o all_o his_o adversary_n so_o with_o earnest_a desire_n he_o long_v for_o the_o celebration_n of_o his_o last_o passeover_n luk._n 22.15_o with_o desire_n have_v i_o desire_v to_o eat_v this_o passeover_n with_o you_o before_o i_o suffer_v and_o it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o spirit_n and_o practice_n of_o his_o disciple_n afterward_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o duty_n of_o evangelical_n worship_n by_o his_o appointment_n that_o the_o apostle_n give_v it_o as_o a_o assure_a token_n of_o a_o unsound_a condition_n and_o that_o which_o tend_v to_o final_a curse_a apostasy_n when_o any_o fall_n into_o a_o neglect_n of_o they_o heb._n 10.25_o 26_o 27._o these_o thing_n be_v manifest_a and_o unquestionable_a but_o our_o present_a enquiry_n be_v only_o what_o it_o be_v which_o believer_n do_v so_o delight_v in_o in_o the_o ordinance_n and_o institution_n of_o divine_a gospel_n worship_n and_o what_o it_o be_v that_o engage_v their_o heart_n and_o mind_n into_o a_o diligent_a observance_n of_o they_o as_o also_o how_o and_o wherein_o they_o do_v exercise_v their_o love_n and_o delight_n and_o i_o say_v in_o general_a that_o their_o delight_n in_o all_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n as_o be_v evident_a in_o the_o testimony_n before_o produce_v be_v in_o christ_n himself_o or_o god_n in_o christ._n this_o alone_o be_v that_o which_o they_o seek_v after_o cleave_v unto_o and_o be_v satisfy_v withal_o they_o make_v use_v of_o the_o stream_n but_o only_o as_o mean_n of_o communication_n from_o the_o spring_n when_o man_n be_v real_o renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o their_o mind_n it_o be_v so_o their_o regard_n unto_o ordinance_n and_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v as_o they_o be_v appoint_v of_o god_n a_o bless_a mean_n of_o communion_n and_o intercourse_n between_o himself_o in_o christ_n and_o their_o soul_n by_o they_o do_v christ_n communicate_v of_o his_o love_n and_o grace_n unto_o we_o in_o and_o by_o they_o do_v we_o act_v faith_n and_o love_n on_o he_o it_o be_v the_o treasure_n hide_v in_o the_o field_n which_o when_o a_o man_n have_v find_v he_o purchase_v the_o whole_a field_n but_o it_o be_v that_o he_o may_v enjoy_v the_o treasure_n which_o be_v hide_v therein_o mat._n 13.14_o this_o field_n be_v the_o gospel_n and_o all_o the_o ordinance_n of_o it_o this_o man_n do_v purchase_v sometime_o at_o a_o dear_a rate_n even_o with_o the_o loss_n of_o all_o they_o enjoy_v but_o yet_o if_o they_o obtain_v nothing_o but_o the_o field_n they_o will_v have_v little_a cause_n to_o rejoice_v in_o their_o bargain_n it_o be_v christ_n the_o treasure_n alone_o that_o pearl_n of_o price_n that_o will_v eternal_o enrich_v the_o soul_n the_o field_n be_v to_o be_v use_v only_o as_o to_o find_v and_o dig_v up_o the_o treasure_n that_o be_v in_o it_o it_o be_v i_o say_v christ_n alone_o that_o in_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n renew_v affection_n do_v cleave_v unto_o as_o the_o treasure_n and_o unto_o all_o other_o thing_n according_a as_o their_o relation_n be_v unto_o he_o or_o they_o have_v a_o participation_n of_o he_o wherefore_o in_o all_o duty_n of_o religion_n in_o all_o ordinance_n of_o worship_n their_o enquiry_n be_v after_o he_o who_o their_o soul_n do_v love_n cant._n 1.7_o but_o yet_o we_o must_v treat_v more_o particular_o and_o distinct_o of_o these_o thing_n those_o who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v do_v love_n adhere_v unto_o and_o delight_n in_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a service_n and_o duty_n of_o worship_n on_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n ensue_v first_o in_o general_n they_o do_v so_o as_o they_o find_v faith_n and_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n excite_v and_o act_v in_o and_o by_o they_o this_o be_v their_o first_o and_o immediate_a end_n in_o their_o institution_n it_o be_v a_o pernicious_a
mistake_n to_o suppose_v that_o any_o external_a duty_n of_o worship_n as_o hear_v the_o word_n prayer_n or_o the_o sacrament_n be_v appoint_v for_o themselves_o or_o accept_v for_o themselves_o such_o thought_n the_o jew_n of_o old_a have_v concern_v their_o sacrifice_n namely_o that_o they_o be_v appoint_v for_o their_o own_o sake_n and_o be_v acceptable_a service_n unto_o god_n mere_o on_o their_o own_o account_n wherefore_o god_n to_o deliver_v they_o from_o this_o pernicious_a mistake_n affirm_v ofttimes_o that_o he_o never_o appoint_v they_o at_o all_o that_o be_v for_o any_o such_o end_n jer._n 7.22_o 23._o isa._n 1.12_o 13_o 14_o etc._n etc._n and_o now_o under_o the_o gospel_n sundry_a thing_n destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n have_v proceed_v from_o such_o a_o supposition_n some_o hereon_o have_v always_o satisfy_v and_o content_v themselves_o with_o the_o external_a observance_n of_o they_o without_o desire_v or_o endeavour_v any_o holy_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o they_o or_o by_o they_o this_o constitute_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n mention_v rev._n 3.1_o and_o by_o follow_v this_o tract_n the_o generality_n of_o christian_n do_v wander_v out_o of_o the_o way_n they_o can_v leave_v they_o nor_o do_v know_v how_o to_o use_v they_o unto_o their_o advantage_n until_o they_o come_v whole_o unto_o that_o woeful_a state_n isai._n 29.13_o and_o some_o to_o establish_v this_o deceit_n have_v teach_v that_o there_o be_v much_o more_o in_o the_o outward_a work_n of_o these_o duty_n than_o ever_o god_n put_v into_o they_o and_o that_o they_o be_v sanctify_v mere_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o work_v wrought_v but_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o commandment_n as_o be_v all_o institute_v ordinance_n of_o worship_n be_v but_o mean_v to_o express_v and_o exercise_v those_o of_o the_o first_o as_o faith_n love_n fear_v trust_v and_o delight_n in_o god_n the_o end_n of_o they_o all_o be_v that_o through_o they_o and_o by_o they_o we_o may_v act_v those_o grace_n on_o god_n in_o christ_n where_o this_o be_v not_o attend_v unto_o when_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n do_v not_o apply_v themselves_o unto_o this_o exercise_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o let_v they_o be_v never_o so_o solemn_a as_o to_o their_o outward_a performance_n be_v attend_v unto_o with_o diligence_n be_v perform_v with_o earnestness_n and_o delight_n they_o be_v neither_o acceptable_a unto_o god_n nor_o beneficial_a unto_o themselves_o isai._n 1.11_o this_o therefore_o be_v the_o first_o general_a spring_n of_o the_o love_n of_o believer_n of_o they_o who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v unto_o the_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o their_o delight_n in_o they_o they_o have_v experience_n that_o in_o and_o by_o they_o their_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v excite_v unto_o a_o gracious_a exercise_n of_o themselves_o on_o god_n in_o christ._n and_o when_o they_o find_v it_o otherwise_o with_o they_o they_o can_v have_v no_o rest_n in_o their_o soul_n for_o this_o end_n be_v they_o ordain_v sanctify_v and_o bless_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o be_v effectual_a mean_n of_o it_o when_o their_o efficacy_n be_v not_o defeat_v by_o unbelief_n and_o those_o who_o have_v no_o experience_n hereof_o in_o their_o attendance_n unto_o they_o do_v as_o have_v be_v say_v fall_v into_o pernicious_a extreme_n some_o continue_v their_o observance_n with_o little_a regard_n unto_o god_n in_o curse_a formality_n so_o they_o make_v they_o a_o mean_n of_o their_o ruin_n by_o countenance_v of_o they_o in_o their_o security_n other_o utter_o reject_v they_o at_o least_o the_o most_o solemn_a of_o they_o and_o therein_o both_o the_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n and_o authority_n of_o god_n by_o who_o they_o be_v appoint_v because_o through_o the_o power_n of_o their_o own_o unbelief_n they_o find_v nothing_o in_o they_o this_o be_v the_o immediate_a end_n of_o all_o divine_a institution_n this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v give_v glory_n unto_o god_n in_o their_o observance_n which_o be_v their_o ultimate_a end_n in_o this_o world_n &_o this_o be_v the_o design_n in_o general_n of_o believer_n in_o that_o obedience_n they_o yield_v unto_o the_o lord_n christ_n in_o their_o diligent_a observation_n of_o they_o we_o may_v consider_v how_o in_o what_o way_n and_o by_o what_o mean_v those_o who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v do_v and_o aught_o to_o apply_v their_o mind_n and_o soul_n unto_o their_o observance_n and_o we_o may_v consider_v herein_o first_o what_o they_o do_v design_n and_o than_o what_o they_o endeavour_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o exercise_n and_o practice_n of_o in_o their_o use_n and_o enjoyment_n first_o they_o come_v unto_o they_o with_o this_o desire_n design_n and_o expectation_n namely_o to_o be_v enable_v direct_v and_o excite_v by_o they_o unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a faith_n and_o love_n when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o any_o where_o there_o be_v not_o this_o design_n they_o do_v in_o various_a degree_n take_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o vain_a in_o their_o observance_n these_o be_v approximationes_n dei_fw-la the_o way_n of_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o god_n as_o they_o be_v every_o where_o call_v in_o scripture_n to_o suppose_v that_o a_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o god_n may_v consist_v mere_o in_o the_o outward_a performance_n of_o duty_n whatever_n be_v its_o solemnity_n be_v to_o reject_v all_o due_a reverence_n of_o he_o forasmuch_o say_v the_o lord_n as_o this_o people_n draw_v near_o i_o with_o their_o mouth_n and_o with_o their_o lip_n do_v honour_n i_o but_o have_v remove_v their_o heart_n far_o from_o i_o therefore_o i_o will_v proceed_v against_o they_o isaiah_n 29.13_o the_o mouth_n and_o lip_n be_v put_v by_o a_o synecdoche_n for_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o outward_a worship_n and_o honour_n these_o man_n may_v use_v diligent_o attend_v unto_o while_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o god_n that_o be_v when_o they_o do_v not_o draw_v nigh_o to_o he_o by_o faith_n and_o love_n but_o all_o this_o worship_n be_v reject_v of_o god_n with_o the_o high_a token_n of_o his_o displeasure_n and_o indignation_n against_o it_o first_o our_o soul_n then_o have_v no_o way_n of_o approach_n unto_o god_n in_o duty_n of_o worship_n but_o by_o faith_n no_o way_n of_o adherance_n or_o cleave_v unto_o he_o but_o by_o love_n no_o way_n of_o abide_v in_o he_o but_o by_o fear_n reverence_n and_o delight_n when_o ever_o these_o be_v not_o in_o excercise_n outward_a duty_n of_o worship_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v a_o mean_n of_o such_o a_o approach_n unto_o he_o as_o that_o they_o set_v we_o at_o a_o great_a distance_n from_o he_o than_o we_o be_v before_o at_o least_o be_v utter_o useless_a and_o fruitless_a unto_o we_o so_o indeed_o they_o be_v unto_o the_o most_o who_o come_v unto_o they_o they_o know_v not_o why_o and_o behave_v themselves_o under_o they_o they_o care_v not_o how_o nor_o be_v there_o any_o evil_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o way_n of_o man_n whereof_o god_n complain_v more_o in_o his_o word_n as_o that_o which_o be_v accompany_v with_o the_o high_a contempt_n of_o he_o and_o because_o these_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n be_v mean_n which_o the_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n have_v appoint_v unto_o this_o end_n namely_o the_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o divine_a faith_n and_o love_n and_o therefore_o do_v sanctify_v and_o bless_v they_o thereunto_o i_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o they_o have_v any_o delight_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n nor_o do_v design_n growth_n in_o they_o by_o who_o these_o great_a mean_n of_o they_o be_v despise_v or_o neglect_v and_o although_o i_o have_v see_v those_o valley_n of_o public_a worship_n forsake_v either_o on_o pretence_n of_o high_a attainment_n in_o faith_n light_n and_o love_n than_o to_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o they_o any_o more_o or_o on_o a_o foolish_a opinion_n that_o they_o cease_v upon_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o to_o make_v they_o useful_a and_o effectual_a or_o on_o some_o provocation_n that_o have_v be_v give_v unto_o some_o man_n or_o which_o they_o have_v take_v unto_o themselves_o which_o they_o have_v think_v they_o can_v revenge_v by_o a_o neglect_n of_o public_a administration_n or_o through_o slavish_a peace_n and_o negligence_n in_o time_n of_o difficulty_n as_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o some_o who_o forsake_v the_o assembly_n of_o the_o saint_n heb._n 16.25_o yet_o i_o never_o see_v but_o it_o issue_v in_o a_o great_a decay_n if_o not_o in_o a_o utter_a loss_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o sometime_o in_o open_a profaneness_n for_o such_o person_n contemn_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n which_o god_n in_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n have_v appoint_v for_o their_o exercise_n and_o increase_n and_o this_o shall_v
in_o they_o and_o disesteem_n the_o chief_a benefit_n which_o be_v to_o be_v obtain_v by_o they_o whence_o shall_v zeal_n for_o they_o delight_n in_o they_o or_o diligence_n in_o attendance_n unto_o they_o arise_v let_v not_o any_o please_v themselves_o under_o the_o power_n of_o such_o decay_n they_o be_v indication_n of_o their_o inward_a frame_n and_o those_o infallible_a such_o person_n will_v grow_v cold_a careless_a and_o negligent_a as_o unto_o the_o duty_n of_o public_a worship_n they_o will_v put_v themselves_o neither_o to_o charge_v nor_o trouble_v about_o they_o every_o occasion_n of_o life_n divert_v they_o and_o find_v ready_a entertainment_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o when_o they_o do_v attend_v upon_o they_o it_o be_v with_o great_a indifferency_n and_o unconcernedness_n yet_o will_v they_o have_v it_o think_v that_o all_o be_v still_o well_o within_o as_o ever_o it_o be_v they_o have_v as_o good_a a_o respect_n unto_o religion_n as_o any_o but_o these_o thing_n open_o discover_v a_o ulcerous_a disease_n in_o the_o very_a soul_n of_o man_n as_o evident_o as_o if_o it_o be_v write_v on_o their_o forehead_n what_o ever_o they_o pretend_v unto_o the_o contrary_a they_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o woeful_a decay_n from_o all_o due_a regard_n unto_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a thing_n and_o i_o will_v avoid_v the_o society_n of_o such_o person_n as_o those_o who_o carry_v a_o infectious_a disease_n about_o they_o unless_o it_o be_v to_o help_v on_o their_o cure_n but_o herein_o it_o be_v that_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v do_v manifest_v themselves_o when_o we_o do_v delight_n in_o and_o value_v the_o duty_n of_o god_n worship_n because_o we_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o they_o be_v and_o have_v be_v unto_o we_o mean_n of_o communicate_v a_o sense_n and_o renew_v pledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o all_o the_o benefit_n and_o privilege_n which_o depend_v thereon_o then_o be_v our_o affection_n renew_v in_o and_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n second_o they_o come_v for_o supply_n of_o internal_a sanctify_a strengthen_v grace_n this_o be_v the_o second_o great_a design_n of_o believer_n in_o their_o approach_n unto_o god_n in_o his_o worship_n the_o want_n hereof_o as_o unto_o measure_n and_o degree_n they_o find_v in_o themselves_o and_o be_v sensible_a of_o it_o yea_o therein_o lie_v the_o great_a burden_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o world_n all_o that_o we_o do_v in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n may_v be_v refer_v unto_o two_o head_n first_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o obedience_n and_o second_o the_o conflict_n with_o and_o conquest_n over_o temptation_n about_o these_o thing_n be_v we_o continual_o exercise_v hence_o the_o great_a thing_n which_o we_o desire_v labour_n for_o and_o pant_v after_o be_v spiritual_a strength_n and_o ability_n for_o the_o discharge_v of_o ourselves_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o thing_n this_o be_v that_o which_o every_o true_a believer_n groan_v after_o in_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o which_o he_o prefer_v infinite_o above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n so_o he_o may_v have_v grace_n sufficient_a in_o any_o competent_a measure_n for_o these_o end_n let_v what_o will_v befall_v he_o he_o desire_v no_o more_o in_o this_o world_n god_n in_o christ_n be_v the_o only_a fountain_n of_o all_o this_o grace_n there_o be_v not_o one_o drachm_n of_o it_o to_o be_v obtain_v but_o from_o he_o alone_o and_o as_o he_o do_v communicate_v it_o unto_o we_o of_o his_o own_o sovereign_a goodness_n and_o pleasure_n so_o the_o ordinary_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o he_o will_v do_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n isaiah_n 40.28_o 29_o 30_o 31._o have_v thou_o not_o know_v have_v thou_o not_o hear_v that_o the_o everlasting_a god_n the_o lord_n the_o creator_n of_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n faint_v not_o neither_o be_v weary_a there_o be_v no_o search_v of_o his_o understanding_n he_o give_v power_n to_o the_o faint_a and_o to_o they_o that_o have_v no_o may_v he_o increase_v strength_n even_o the_o youth_n shall_v faint_v and_o be_v weary_a and_o the_o young_a man_n shall_v utter_o fail_v but_o they_o that_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n shall_v renew_v their_o strength_n they_o shall_v mount_v up_o with_o wing_n as_o eagle_n they_o shall_v run_v and_o not_o be_v weary_a they_o shall_v walk_v and_o not_o faint_a all_o grace_n and_o spiritual_a strength_n be_v original_o seat_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n v_o 28._o but_o what_o relief_n can_v that_o afford_v unto_o we_o who_o be_v weak_a feeble_a faint_a he_o will_v act_v suitable_o unto_o his_o nature_n in_o the_o communication_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o power_n v_o 29._o but_o how_o shall_v we_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o this_o grace_n in_o these_o opperation_n wait_v on_o he_o in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o his_o worship_n v_o 31._o the_o word_n as_o preach_v be_v the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o god_n administer_v growth_n and_o strength_n unto_o they_o joh._n 17.17_o 1_o pet._n 2.23_o desire_v say_v he_o the_o sincere_a milk_n of_o the_o word_n that_o you_o may_v grow_v thereby_o but_o what_o encouragement_n have_v we_o thereunto_o if_o so_o be_v say_v he_o you_o have_v taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a if_o in_o and_o by_o the_o dispensation_n of_o this_o word_n you_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o the_o grace_n the_o goodness_n the_o kindness_n of_o god_n unto_o your_o soul_n you_o can_v but_o desire_v it_o and_o delight_n in_o it_o and_o otherwise_o you_o will_v not_o do_v so_o when_o man_n have_v fate_n some_o good_a while_n under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o other_o ordinance_n without_o taste_v in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a they_o will_v grow_v weary_a of_o it_o and_o they_o wherefore_o prayer_n be_v the_o way_n of_o his_o appointment_n for_o the_o application_n of_o our_o soul_n unto_o he_o to_o obtain_v a_o participation_n of_o all_o needful_a grace_n which_o therefore_o he_o have_v propose_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o promise_v of_o the_o covenant_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o to_o ask_v and_o how_o to_o plead_v for_o it_o in_o the_o sacrament_n the_o same_o promise_n be_v seal_v unto_o we_o and_o the_o grace_n represent_v in_o they_o effectual_o exhibit_v meditation_n confirm_v our_o soul_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n about_o it_o and_o be_v the_o especial_a open_v of_o the_o heart_n unto_o the_o reception_n of_o it_o by_o these_o mean_n i_o say_v do_v god_n communicate_v all_o supply_n of_o renew_v strengthen_v and_o sanctify_a grace_n unto_o we_o that_o we_o may_v live_v unto_o he_o in_o all_o holy_a obedience_n and_o be_v able_a to_o get_v the_o victory_n over_o our_o temptation_n under_o this_o apprehension_n do_v believer_n approach_v unto_o god_n in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o his_o worship_n they_o come_v unto_o they_o as_o the_o mean_n of_o god_n communication_n unto_o their_o soul_n hence_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o with_o delight_n so_o far_o as_o their_o affection_n be_v renew_v so_o the_o spouse_n testify_v of_o herself_o i_o sit_v down_o under_o his_o shadow_n with_o great_a delight_n cant_n 2.3_o in_o these_o ordinance_n be_v the_o protect_a refresh_a presence_n of_o christ._n this_o she_o rest_v in_o with_o great_a delight_n as_o they_o come_v unto_o they_o with_o these_o design_n and_o expectation_n so_o they_o have_v experience_n of_o the_o spiritual_a benefit_n and_o advantage_n which_o they_o receive_v by_o they_o which_o more_o and_o more_o engage_v they_o unto_o they_o in_o their_o affection_n and_o delight_n all_o these_o thing_n those_o who_o have_v a_o change_v wrought_v in_o their_o affection_n but_o not_o a_o spiritual_a renovation_n be_v stranger_n unto_o they_o neither_o have_v the_o design_n before_o mention_v in_o come_v to_o they_o nor_o the_o experience_n of_o this_o efficacy_n now_o propose_v in_o their_o attendance_n on_o they_o but_o these_o benefit_n be_v great_a as_o for_o instance_n when_o man_n find_v the_o worth_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o word_n preach_v on_o their_o soul_n in_o its_o enlighten_v refresh_a strengthen_v transform_a power_n when_o they_o find_v their_o heart_n warm_v their_o grace_n excite_v and_o strengthen_v the_o love_n of_o god_n improve_v their_o disponding_n spirit_n under_o trial_n and_o temptation_n relieve_v their_o whole_a soul_n gradual_o more_o and_o more_o conform_v unto_o christ_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o by_o it_o extricate_v out_o of_o snare_n doubt_n fear_n temptation_n and_o bring_v unto_o satisfaction_n and_o rest_n they_o can_v but_o delight_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o it_o and_o rejoice_v in_o it_o as_o the_o food_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o it_o be_v a_o great_a hindrance_n unto_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o
obstruction_n unto_o fruitfulness_n thrnkfulness_n and_o consolation_n when_o we_o be_v negligent_a in_o our_o meditation_n about_o the_o benefit_n that_o we_o receive_v by_o the_o word_n and_o the_o advantage_n which_o we_o have_v thereby_o for_o while_o it_o be_v so_o with_o we_o we_o can_v neither_o value_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o grant_v we_o this_o inestimable_a privilege_n nor_o perform_v any_o duty_n with_o respect_n unto_o it_o in_o a_o right_a manner_n this_o render_v it_o a_o especial_a object_n of_o our_o affection_n as_o spiritual_o renew_v that_o secret_a love_n unto_o and_o heavenly_a delight_n in_o the_o statute_n and_o testimony_n of_o god_n which_o david_n express_v psal_n 119._o arise_v from_o the_o spiritual_a benefit_n and_o advantage_n which_o he_o receive_v by_o they_o as_o he_o constant_o declare_v and_o the_o sole_a reason_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n why_o man_n grow_v so_o careless_a negligent_a and_o cold_a in_o their_o attendance_n unto_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n be_v because_o they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o any_o spiritual_a benefit_n or_o advantage_n by_o it_o they_o have_v be_v bring_v unto_o it_o by_o one_o mean_n or_o another_o most_o by_o conviction_n of_o their_o duty_n their_o mind_n have_v be_v various_o affect_v with_o it_o unto_o a_o joy_n in_o the_o hear_n of_o it_o and_o readiness_n unto_o sundry_a duty_n of_o obedience_n but_o after_o a_o while_n when_o a_o sense_n of_o those_o temporary_a impression_n be_v wear_v off_o find_v no_o real_a spiritual_a benefit_n by_o it_o they_o lose_v all_o delight_n in_o it_o and_o become_v very_o indifferent_a as_o unto_o its_o enjoyment_n the_o frame_n which_o such_o person_n at_o length_n arrive_v unto_o be_v describe_v mal._n 1.13_o and_o 3.14_o and_o none_o can_v give_v any_o great_a evidence_n of_o the_o decay_n of_o all_o manner_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o or_o of_o their_o be_v destitute_a of_o all_o saving-grace_n than_o when_o they_o apostatise_v from_o some_o degree_n of_o zeal_n for_o and_o delight_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n with_o such_o a_o curse_a indifferency_n as_o many_o be_v overtake_v withal_o it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o for_o see_v this_o be_v a_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o grace_n it_o will_v not_o be_v neglect_v but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o decay_n of_o all_o grace_n however_o man_n may_v please_v themselves_o with_o other_o pretence_n and_o when_o they_o be_v thus_o ensnare_v every_o foolish_a prejudice_n every_o provocation_n every_o wanton_a opinion_n and_o imagination_n will_v confirm_v they_o in_o and_o increase_v their_o gradual_a backslide_n and_o as_o it_o be_v with_o believer_n as_o unto_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n in_o general_n so_o it_o be_v as_o unto_o the_o degree_n of_o advantage_n which_o they_o find_v by_o it_o when_o man_n have_v enjoy_v the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n spiritual_a and_o effectual_a if_o they_o can_v be_v content_a to_o forego_v it_o for_o that_o which_o be_v more_o cold_a and_o lifeless_a provide_v it_o possess_v the_o same_o time_n and_o outward_a form_n with_o the_o other_o it_o be_v no_o great_a evidence_n that_o their_o soul_n do_v prosper_v it_o be_v therefore_o those_o alone_a who_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o word_n on_o their_o soul_n and_o conscience_n unto_o all_o the_o holy_a end_n of_o it_o who_o cleave_v unto_o it_o with_o spiritual_a love_n and_o delight_n they_o continual_o remember_v what_o holy_a impression_n it_o have_v make_v on_o they_o what_o engagement_n it_o have_v bring_v their_o soul_n into_o what_o encouragement_n unto_o faith_n and_o obedience_n it_o have_v furnish_v they_o withal_o and_o long_o after_o renew_v sense_n of_o its_o enjoyment_n when_o we_o do_v not_o find_v in_o ourselves_o this_o foundation_n of_o spiritual_a delight_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n we_o can_v have_v no_o great_a evidence_n that_o our_o affection_n be_v renew_v so_o also_o it_o be_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o meditation_n when_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o believer_n have_v have_v experience_n of_o the_o communion_n which_o it_o have_v have_v with_o god_n in_o they_o or_o either_o of_o they_o of_o the_o spiritual_a refreshment_n which_o it_o have_v have_v from_o they_o of_o the_o benefit_n and_o mercy_n which_o be_v obtain_v by_o they_o in_o recovery_n from_o temptation_n snare_n despondency_n in_o victory_n over_o sin_n and_o satan_n in_o spiritual_a impression_n work_v it_o unto_o a_o holy_a watchful_a frame_n which_o have_v abode_n with_o it_o in_o other_o way_n and_o occasion_n with_o the_o like_a advantage_n wherewith_o fervent_a and_o effectual_a prayer_n and_o sincere_a heavenly_a meditation_n be_v accompany_v it_o can_v but_o have_v love_n unto_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o but_o if_o indeed_o we_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o these_o thing_n if_o we_o find_v not_o these_o advantage_n in_o and_o by_o these_o duty_n they_o can_v but_o be_v a_o burden_n unto_o we_o nor_o do_v serve_v unto_o any_o other_o end_v but_o to_o satisfy_v conviction_n he_o who_o have_v the_o benefit_n of_o a_o serene_a and_o wholesome_a air_n in_o a_o recovery_n from_o many_o disease_n and_o distemper_n with_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o health_n so_o obtain_v will_v love_v it_o and_o prize_v it_o and_o so_o will_v he_o these_o duty_n who_o have_v be_v partaker_n of_o any_o of_o these_o save_v mercy_n and_o privilege_n wherewith_o they_o be_v accompany_v some_o have_v be_v deliver_v from_o the_o worst_a of_o temptation_n and_o the_o near_a approach_n of_o their_o prevalency_n as_o to_o destroy_v themselves_o by_o a_o sudden_a remembrance_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o the_o intimation_n of_o god_n love_n in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o prayer_n at_o such_o a_o time_n some_o have_v have_v the_o same_o deliverance_n from_o temptation_n unto_o sin_n when_o they_o have_v be_v carry_v away_o under_o the_o power_n of_o their_o corruption_n and_o all_o circumstance_n have_v concur_v under_o the_o apprehension_n of_o it_o a_o sudden_a thought_n of_o such_o a_o prayer_n or_o meditation_n with_o the_o engagement_n they_o make_v of_o themselves_o therein_o unto_o god_n have_v cause_v all_o the_o weapon_n of_o sin_n to_o fall_v out_o of_o its_o hand_n and_o all_o the_o beauty_n of_o its_o allurement_n to_o disappear_v when_o other_o have_v be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o such_o dispondency_n and_o disconsolation_n as_o that_o no_o present_a tender_n of_o relief_n can_v approach_v unto_o they_o they_o have_v be_v sudden_o raise_v and_o refresh_v by_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o intimate_a love_n and_o kindness_n between_o christ_n and_o their_o soul_n that_o have_v evidence_v itself_o in_o former_a duty_n multitude_n in_o fear_n distress_n and_o temptation_n have_v find_v relief_n unto_o their_o spirit_n and_o encouragement_n unto_o their_o faith_n in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o return_v they_o have_v have_v unto_o former_a supplication_n in_o the_o like_a distress_n these_o be_v ground_n of_o spiritual_a delight_n in_o these_o duty_n heartless_n lifeless_a wordy_a prayer_n the_o fruit_n of_o conviction_n and_o gift_n or_o of_o custom_n and_o outward_a occasion_n however_o multiply_v and_o whatever_o devotion_n they_o seem_v to_o be_v accompany_v withal_o will_v never_o engage_v spiritual_a affection_n unto_o they_o when_o these_o thing_n be_v absent_a when_o the_o soul_n have_v not_o experience_n of_o they_o prayer_n be_v but_o a_o lifeless_a form_n a_o dead_a carcase_n which_o it_o will_v be_v a_o torment_n unto_o a_o soul_n spiritual_o alive_a to_o be_v tie_v unto_o there_o may_v be_v a_o season_n indeed_o when_o god_n will_v seem_v to_o hide_v himself_o from_o believer_n in_o their_o prayer_n so_o as_o they_o shall_v neither_o find_v that_o life_n in_o themselves_o which_o they_o have_v do_v former_o nor_o be_v sensible_a of_o any_o gracious_a communication_n from_o he_o but_o this_o be_v do_v only_o for_o a_o time_n and_o principal_o to_o stir_v they_o up_o unto_o that_o fervency_n and_o preseverance_n in_o prayer_n as_o may_v recover_v they_o into_o their_o former_a or_o a_o better_a estate_n than_o yet_o they_o have_v attain_v unto_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v concern_v all_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n or_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n four_o believer_n who_o affection_n be_v spiritual_o renew_v do_v delight_n great_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o divine_a worship_n because_o they_o be_v the_o great_a institute_v way_n whereby_o they_o may_v give_v glory_n unto_o god_n this_o be_v the_o first_o and_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o religion_n as_o they_o respect_v divine_a appointment_n namely_o to_o ascribe_v and_o give_v unto_o god_n the_o glory_n that_o be_v his_o due_n for_o in_o they_o all_o acknowledgement_n be_v make_v of_o all_o the_o glorious_a excellency_n
a_o signal_n contempt_n of_o the_o love_n grace_n faithfulness_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o give_v of_o we_o such_o promise_n of_o grace_n to_o make_v we_o to_o increase_v thrive_v and_o grow_v how_o can_v it_o be_v do_v more_o effectual_o than_o by_o such_o a_o neglect_n of_o his_o promise_a grace_n second_o a_o evidence_n that_o such_o person_n love_v not_o care_v not_o for_o grace_n or_o holiness_n for_o their_o own_o soul_n but_o mere_o to_o serve_v their_o turn_n at_o present_a as_o they_o suppose_v nor_o do_v desire_v the_o least_o of_o grace_n or_o privilege_n by_o christ_n without_o which_o they_o can_v have_v any_o hope_n to_o get_v to_o heaven_n this_o sufficient_o discover_v man_n to_o be_v whole_o under_o the_o power_n of_o self-love_n and_o to_o centre_n therein_o for_o if_o they_o may_v have_v so_o much_o grace_n and_o mercy_n as_o may_v save_v they_o they_o care_v for_o no_o more_o three_o it_o be_v repugnant_a unto_o the_o honour_n of_o gospel_n grace_n as_o though_o it_o will_v carry_v we_o so_o far_o and_o no_o far_o in_o the_o way_n to_o glory_n for_o it_o must_v be_v know_v that_o this_o sort_n of_o person_n who_o sit_v down_o in_o their_o present_a measure_n and_o attainment_n either_o real_o have_v no_o true_a grace_n at_o all_o or_o that_o which_o be_v of_o the_o low_a mean_a and_o most_o imperceptible_a size_n and_o degree_n for_o if_o any_o one_o have_v attain_v any_o considerable_a growth_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n in_o heavenly-mindedness_a it_o be_v utter_o impossible_a but_o that_o ordinary_o he_o will_v be_v press_v forward_o towards_o far_a attainment_n and_o far_a degree_n of_o spiritual_a strength_n in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n so_o the_o apostle_n declare_v it_o in_o his_o own_o example_n phil._n 3.10_o 11_o 12_o 13_o 14._o what_o thought_n can_v these_o person_n have_v concern_v the_o glory_n power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o gospel_n grace_n which_o they_o suppose_v they_o have_v receive_v if_o they_o measure_v they_o by_o the_o effect_n which_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o either_o as_o unto_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n or_o strength_n unto_o and_o delight_n in_o duty_n of_o holiness_n or_o as_o unto_o spiritual_a consolation_n they_o can_v see_v no_o excellency_n nor_o beauty_n in_o they_o for_o they_o do_v not_o manifest_v themselves_o but_o in_o their_o success_n as_o they_o transform_v the_o soul_n daily_o into_o the_o image_n of_o christ._n four_o it_o be_v that_o which_o have_v lose_v the_o reputation_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n and_o therein_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o gospel_n itself_o for_o the_o most_o of_o professor_n do_v take_v up_o with_o such_o measure_n as_o put_v no_o lustre_n upon_o it_o as_o give_v no_o commendation_n unto_o the_o religion_n they_o profess_v for_o their_o measure_n allow_v they_o such_o a_o conformity_n unto_o the_o world_n in_o their_o way_n word_n and_o action_n in_o their_o gesture_n apparel_n and_o attire_n as_o that_o they_o be_v no_o way_n visible_o to_o be_v distinguish_v from_o it_o yea_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n why_o the_o most_o do_v rest_n in_o their_o present_a measure_n be_v because_o they_o will_v not_o be_v further_o difference_v from_o the_o world_n this_o have_v great_o lose_v the_o glory_n honour_n and_o reputation_n of_o religion_n among_o we_o and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o all_o visible_a professor_n will_v endeavour_v continual_o to_o grow_v and_o thrive_v in_o spirituality_n of_o mind_n and_o heavenlyness_n of_o affection_n with_o fruit_n suit_v thereunto_o it_o will_v bring_v a_o conviction_n on_o the_o world_n that_o there_o be_v a_o secret_a invisible_a power_n accompany_v the_o religion_n they_o profess_v transform_v they_o daily_o into_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o god_n five_o whatever_o be_v pretend_v unto_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o all_o solid_a peace_n of_o conscience_n for_o so_o such_o thing_n be_v promise_v unto_o any_o who_o live_v in_o such_o a_o contempt_n of_o divine_a promise_n nor_o be_v it_o attainable_a but_o by_o the_o diligent_a exercise_n of_o all_o those_o grace_n which_o lie_v neglect_v under_o this_o frame_n few_o man_n be_v able_a to_o judge_v whether_o they_o have_v real_a eternal_a abide_v peace_n or_o no_o unless_o it_o be_v in_o case_n of_o trial_n and_o temptation_n at_o other_o season_n general_a hope_n and_o confidence_n do_v or_o may_v supply_v the_o want_n of_o it_o in_o their_o mind_n but_o when_o any_o fear_n danger_n trial_n or_o word_n of_o conviction_n befall_v they_o they_o can_v but_o inquire_v and_o examine_v how_o it_o be_v with_o they_o and_o if_o they_o find_v their_o affection_n cold_a dead_a earthly_a carnal_a wither_a not_o spiritual_a or_o heavenly_a there_o will_v be_v a_o end_n of_o their_o suppose_a peace_n and_o they_o will_v fall_v into_o woeful_a disquietment_n and_o they_o will_v then_o find_v that_o the_o root_n of_o all_o this_o evil_a lie_n in_o this_o frame_n and_o disposition_n they_o have_v be_v so_o far_o satisfy_v with_o their_o present_a measure_n or_o attainment_n in_o religion_n as_o that_o the_o utmost_a of_o their_o endeavour_n have_v be_v but_o to_o preserve_v their_o station_n or_o not_o to_o forfeit_v it_o by_o open_a sin_n to_o keep_v their_o soul_n alive_a from_o the_o severe_a reflection_n of_o the_o word_n and_o their_o reputation_n fair_a in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n spiritual_o to_o thrive_v to_o prosper_v in_o their_o soul_n to_o wax_v fat_a and_o flourish_a in_o the_o inward_a man_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n as_o age_n increase_v to_o press_v towards_o perfection_n be_v thing_n they_o have_v not_o design_v nor_o pursue_v hence_o it_o be_v that_o so_o many_o among_o we_o be_v visible_o at_o a_o unthrifty_a stand_n in_o the_o world_n that_o where_o they_o be_v one_o year_n there_o they_o be_v another_o like_o shrub_n in_o the_o wilderness_n not_o like_o the_o plant_n in_o the_o garden_n of_o god_n not_o as_o vine_n plant_v in_o a_o very_a fruitful_a hill_n yea_o though_o many_o be_v sensible_a themselves_o that_o they_o be_v cold_a lifeless_a and_o fruitless_a yet_o will_v they_o not_o be_v convince_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o make_v a_o daily_a progress_n in_o spirituality_n and_o heavenly-mindedness_a whereby_o the_o inward_a man_n may_v be_v renew_v day_n by_o day_n and_o grace_n augment_v with_o the_o increase_n of_o god_n this_o be_v a_o work_n as_o they_o suppose_v for_o they_o who_o have_v nothing_o else_o to_o do_v not_o consistent_a with_o their_o business_n calling_n and_o occasion_n not_o necessary_a as_o they_o hope_v unto_o their_o salvation_n nor_o it_o may_v be_v to_o be_v attain_v by_o they_o if_o they_o shall_v set_v themselves_o about_o it_o this_o apprehension_n of_o imagination_n upon_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o declension_n and_o decay_v of_o christian_a religion_n in_o the_o many_o cast_v of_o all_o holiness_n and_o devotion_n unto_o a_o sort_n of_o man_n who_o undertake_v to_o retire_v themselves_o utter_o out_o of_o the_o world_n among_o who_o also_o the_o substance_n of_o religion_n be_v quick_o lose_v and_o a_o cloud_n or_o meteor_n of_o superstition_n embrace_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o but_o this_o folly_n be_v ominous_a unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n those_o who_o have_v make_v the_o great_a progress_n in_o the_o conformity_n of_o their_o affection_n unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a know_v most_o of_o its_o necessity_n excellency_n and_o desireableness_n yea_o without_o some_o progress_n in_o it_o these_o thing_n will_v not_o be_v know_v such_o will_v testify_v that_o the_o more_o they_o attain_v herein_o the_o more_o they_o see_v there_o be_v yet_o to_o be_v attain_v and_o the_o more_o they_o do_v desire_v to_o attain_v what_o be_v behind_o forget_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v behind_o they_o reach_v forth_o unto_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v yet_o before_o they_o like_o man_n run_v in_o a_o race_n who_o prize_n and_o reward_n be_v yet_o before_o they_o phil._n 3.13_o 14._o it_o be_v a_o comely_a thing_n to_o see_v a_o christian_a wean_v from_o the_o world_n mind_v heavenly_a thing_n green_a and_o flourish_a in_o spiritual_a affection_n and_o it_o be_v the_o more_o lovely_a because_o it_o be_v so_o rare_a the_o generality_n of_o they_o take_v up_o with_o those_o measure_n which_o neither_o glorify_v god_n nor_o bring_v in_o durable_a peace_n into_o their_o own_o soul_n that_o which_o man_n pretend_v and_o complain_v of_o herein_o be_v the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o work_n they_o can_v as_o they_o suppose_v preserve_v their_o present_a station_n but_o to_o press_v forward_o to_o grow_v in_o grace_n to_o thrive_v in_o their_o affection_n this_o be_v too_o hard_a for_o they_o but_o this_o complaint_n be_v unequal_a and_o unjust_a and_o add_v unto_o the_o guilt_n of_o
and_o a_o great_a valuation_n of_o earthly_a thing_n with_o their_o care_n about_o they_o and_o converse_v in_o they_o they_o abate_v and_o decay_v in_o their_o spiritual_a affection_n every_o day_n they_o will_v abide_v in_o their_o profession_n but_o have_v lose_v their_o first_o love_n it_o be_v a_o shame_n and_o folly_n unutterable_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o with_o any_o who_o make_v profession_n of_o that_o religion_n wherein_o there_o be_v so_o many_o incomparable_a excellency_n to_o endear_v and_o engage_v they_o to_o it_o more_o and_o more_o but_o why_o shall_v we_o hide_v what_o experience_n make_v manifest_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o sun_n and_o what_o multitude_n proclaim_v concern_v themselves_o wherefore_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o great_a evidence_n if_o not_o absolute_o of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o grace_n yet_o of_o the_o life_n and_o growth_n of_o it_o when_o man_n as_o they_o grow_v up_o in_o age_n do_v grow_v in_o a_o undervaluation_n of_o present_a thing_n in_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n in_o duty_n of_o charity_n and_o bounty_n and_o decay_v not_o in_o any_o of_o they_o but_o i_o say_v it_o be_v usual_a that_o the_o entrance_n of_o man_n profession_n of_o religion_n and_o conversation_n unto_o god_n be_v attend_v with_o vigorous_a active_a affection_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n of_o they_o who_o real_o and_o sincere_o believe_v it_o be_v say_v that_o on_o their_o believe_v they_o rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n and_o of_o those_o who_o only_o have_v a_o work_n of_o conviction_n on_o they_o improve_v by_o temporary_a faith_n that_o they_o receive_v the_o word_n with_o joy_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n glad_o in_o this_o state_n do_v many_o abide_v and_o thrive_v until_o their_o affection_n be_v whole_o transform_v into_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o thing_n above_o but_o with_o many_o of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v not_o so_o they_o fall_v into_o woeful_a decay_n as_o unto_o their_o affection_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o consequent_o in_o their_o whole_a profession_n and_o conversation_n their_o moisture_n become_v as_o the_o drought_n in_o summer_n they_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o the_o life_n and_o act_n of_o they_o in_o themselves_o nor_o any_o comfort_n or_o refreshment_n from_o they_o they_o honour_v not_o the_o gospel_n with_o any_o fruit_n of_o love_n zeal_n or_o delight_n nor_o be_v useful_a any_o way_n unto_o other_o by_o their_o example_n some_o of_o they_o have_v have_v seem_v recovery_n and_o be_v yet_o again_o take_v into_o a_o lifeless_a frame_n warning_n afliction_n sickness_n the_o word_n have_v awaken_v they_o but_o they_o be_v fall_v again_o into_o a_o dead_a sleep_n so_o as_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v tree_n who_o fruit_n wither_v without_o fruit_n twice_o dead_a pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n some_o thing_n must_v be_v speak_v unto_o this_o woeful_a condition_n in_o general_n as_o that_o which_o be_v direct_o opposite_a unto_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a and_o contrary_a unto_o and_o obstructive_a of_o the_o growth_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n in_o a_o assimulation_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n and_o what_o shall_v be_v speak_v may_v be_v apply_v unto_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o these_o decay_n though_o all_o of_o they_o be_v not_o alike_o dangerous_a or_o perilous_a first_o there_o may_v be_v a_o time_n of_o temptation_n wherein_o a_o soul_n may_v apprehend_v in_o itself_o not_o only_o a_o decay_n in_o but_o a_o utter_a loss_n of_o all_o spiritual_a affection_n when_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o as_o believer_n may_v apprehend_v and_o judge_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v forsake_v and_o forget_v they_o when_o he_o have_v not_o do_v so_o isaiah_n 49.14_o 15._o so_o they_o may_v under_o their_o temptation_n apprehend_v that_o they_o have_v forsake_v god_n when_o they_o have_v not_o do_v so_o as_o a_o man_n in_o the_o night_n may_v apprehend_v he_o have_v lose_v his_o way_n and_o be_v in_o great_a distress_n when_o he_o be_v in_o his_o proper_a road._n for_o temptation_n bring_v darkness_n and_o amazement_n and_o lead_v into_o mistake_v and_o a_o false_a judgement_n in_o all_o thing_n they_o find_v not_o it_o may_v be_v grace_n work_v in_o love_n joy_n and_o delight_n as_o former_o nor_o that_o activity_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n in_o holy_a duty_n which_o spiritual_a affection_n give_v unto_o they_o but_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v the_o same_o grace_n work_v in_o godly_a sorrow_n by_o mourn_v humiliation_n and_o self-abasement_n no_o less_o effectual_o nor_o less_o acceptable_o unto_o god_n such_o as_o these_o i_o separate_v from_o the_o present_a consideration_n second_o there_o may_v be_v a_o decay_n in_o affection_n themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o act_n towards_o any_o object_n whatever_o at_o least_o as_o unto_o the_o outward_a symptom_n and_o effect_n of_o they_o and_o on_o this_o ground_n their_o opperation_n towards_o spiritual_a thing_n may_v be_v less_o sensible_a so_o man_n in_o their_o young_a day_n may_v be_v more_o ready_a to_o express_v their_o sorrow_n by_o tear_n and_o their_o joy_n by_o sensible_a exaltation_n and_o motion_n of_o their_o spirit_n than_o in_o ripe_a year_n and_o this_o may_v be_v so_o when_o there_o be_v no_o decay_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o affection_n as_o renew_v but_o 1_o when_o it_o be_v so_o it_o be_v a_o burden_n unto_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v they_o can_v but_o mourn_v and_o have_v a_o godly-jealousy_n over_o themselves_o lest_o the_o decay_v they_o find_v shall_v not_o be_v in_o the_o outward_a but_o the_o inward_a not_o in_o the_o natural_a but_o the_o spiritual_a man._n and_o they_o will_v labour_v that_o in_o all_o duty_n and_o at_o all_o time_n it_o may_v be_v with_o they_o as_o in_o day_n of_o old_a although_o they_o can_v attain_v strength_n in_o they_o that_o vigour_n of_o spirit_n that_o life_n joy_n peace_n and_o comfort_n which_o any_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o second_o there_o will_v be_v in_o such_o person_n no_o decay_n in_o holiness_n of_o life_n nor_o as_o unto_o diligence_n in_o all_o religious_a duty_n if_o the_o decay_n be_v real_o of_o grace_n in_o the_o affection_n it_o will_v be_v accompany_v with_o a_o proportionable_a decay_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n wherein_o the_o life_n of_o god_n be_v concern_v but_o if_o it_o be_v only_o as_o unto_o the_o sensible_a act_n of_o natural_a affection_n no_o such_o decay_n will_v ensue_v three_o grace_n will_v in_o this_o case_n more_o vigorous_o act_v itself_o in_o the_o other_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o the_o judgement_n and_o the_o will_n in_o their_o approbation_n of_o and_o firm_a adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o four_o when_o man_n find_v or_o may_v find_v their_o affection_n yet_o quick_a active_a and_o intent_n on_o other_o thing_n as_o the_o lawful_a enjoyment_n and_o comfort_n of_o this_o life_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a for_o they_o to_o relieve_v themselves_o that_o the_o decay_v they_o find_v be_v in_o their_o affection_n as_o natural_a and_o not_o as_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v gracious_a if_o we_o see_v a_o man_n in_o his_o old_a age_n grow_v more_o in_o love_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n and_o less_o in_o love_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o through_o the_o weakness_n of_o nature_n but_o through_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n on_o these_o and_o it_o may_v be_v some_o other_o the_o like_a occasion_n there_o may_v be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o a_o decay_n in_o spiritual_a affection_n when_o it_o may_v not_o be_v so_o at_o least_o not_o unto_o the_o degree_n that_o be_v apprehend_v but_o when_o it_o be_v so_o real_o as_o it_o be_v evident_o with_o many_o i_o have_v almost_o say_v with_o the_o most_o in_o these_o day_n it_o be_v a_o woeful_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o never_o enough_o to_o be_v lament_v it_o be_v that_o which_o lie_v in_o direct_a contradiction_n unto_o that_o spiritual-mindedness_a which_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n it_o be_v a_o consumption_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o threaten_v it_o with_o death_n every_o day_n it_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o design_n to_o treat_v of_o it_o in_o particular_a yet_o i_o can_v let_v it_o pass_v without_o some_o remark_n upon_o it_o it_o be_v a_o evil_a almost_o epidemical_a among_o professor_n and_o prevalent_a in_o some_o unto_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v utter_o forsake_v of_o all_o power_n of_o spiritual_a life_n now_o beside_o all_o that_o folly_n and_o sin_n which_o we_o before_o discover_v as_o the_o cause_n of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o growth_n of_o our_o affection_n in_o spirituality_n and_o heavenliness_n which_o in_o this_o case_n of_o their_o decay_n be_v more_o abominable_a there_o be_v a_o multiplication_n of_o evil_n wherewith_o this_o state_n of_o heart_n and_o
warn_v it_o be_v and_o this_o arise_v from_o hence_o that_o they_o have_v not_o as_o yet_o be_v overtake_v with_o any_o enormous_a sin_n which_o have_v fill_v their_o conscience_n with_o terror_n and_o disquietment_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o for_o every_o decay_n be_v dangerous_a especial_o such_o as_o the_o mind_n be_v ready_a to_o plead_v for_o and_o to_o countenance_v itself_o in_o second_o they_o be_v prone_a to_o suppose_v that_o this_o decay_n do_v not_o arise_v from_o themselves_o and_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o own_o heart_n but_o from_o their_o circumstance_n business_n present_a occasion_n and_o state_n of_o life_n which_o when_o they_o be_v free_v from_o they_o will_v at_o least_o return_n unto_o their_o former_a love_n and_o delight_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o rule_n heb._n 3.12_o let_v man_n circumstance_n and_o occasion_n of_o life_n be_v what_o they_o will_v all_o their_o departure_n from_o god_n be_v from_o a_o evil_a heart_n of_o unbelief_n three_o they_o judge_v it_o no_o hard_a matter_n to_o retrieve_v themselves_o out_o of_o this_o state_n but_o that_o which_o they_o can_v easy_o do_v when_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o it_o but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a notion_n also_o recovery_n from_o backslide_v be_v the_o hard_a task_n in_o christian_a religion_n and_o which_o few_o make_v either_o comfortable_a or_o honourable_a work_n of_o in_o this_o state_n i_o say_v man_n be_v apt_a by_o such_o false_a reason_n to_o deceive_v themselves_o unto_o their_o eternal_a ruin_n which_o make_v the_o consideration_n of_o it_o the_o more_o necessary_a wherefore_o i_o say_v last_o upon_o the_o whole_a that_o who_o so_o find_v themselves_o under_o the_o power_n of_o this_o wretched_a frame_n who_o be_v sensible_a in_o themselves_o or_o at_o least_o make_v it_o evident_a unto_o other_o that_o they_o be_v under_o a_o decay_n in_o their_o spiritual_a condition_n if_o they_o rest_v in_o that_o state_n without_o groan_v labour_a endeavour_v for_o deliverance_n from_o it_o they_o can_v have_v no_o well_o ground_v hope_n in_o themselves_o of_o life_n and_o immortality_n yea_o they_o be_v in_o those_o path_n which_o go_v down_o unto_o the_o chamber_n of_o death_n i_o can_v let_v this_o pass_n without_o something_o of_o advice_n unto_o they_o who_o find_v themselves_o under_o such_o decay_n be_v sensible_a of_o they_o and_o will_v be_v deliver_v from_o they_o and_o i_o shall_v give_v it_o in_o a_o few_o word_n first_o remember_v former_a thing_n call_v to_o mind_n how_o it_o be_v with_o you_o in_o the_o spring_n and_o vigour_n of_o your_o affection_n and_o compare_v your_o present_a state_n enjoyment_n peace_n and_o quiet_a with_o what_o they_o be_v then_o this_o will_v be_v a_o great_a principle_n of_o return_n to_o god_n hos._n 2.7_o and_o to_o put_v a_o little_a weight_n upon_o it_o we_o may_v consider_v first_o god_n himself_o make_v it_o on_o his_o part_n a_o ground_n and_o reason_n of_o his_o return_n unto_o we_o in_o a_o way_n of_o mercy_n and_o of_o the_o continuance_n of_o his_o love_n jer._n 2.2_o even_o when_o a_o people_n be_v under_o manifold_a decay_n while_o yet_o they_o be_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o god_n covenant_n and_o mercy_n he_o will_v remember_v their_o first_o love_n with_o the_o fruit_n and_o act_n of_o it_o in_o trial_n and_o temptation_n which_o move_v his_o compassion_n towards_o they_o and_o the_o way_n to_o have_v god_n thus_o remember_v it_o be_v for_o we_o to_o remember_v with_o delight_n and_o longing_n of_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v with_o we_o as_o in_o those_o day_n of_o old_a when_o we_o have_v the_o love_n of_o espousal_n for_o god_n in_o christ_n jeremiah_n 31.18_o 19_o 20._o second_o it_o be_v the_o way_n whereby_o the_o saint_n of_o old_a have_v refresh_v and_o encourage_v themselves_o under_o their_o great_a despondency_n so_o do_v the_o psalmist_n in_o many_o place_n as_o for_o instance_n psal._n 42.6_o o_o my_o god_n my_o soul_n be_v cast_v down_o within_o i_o therefore_o will_v i_o remember_v thou_o from_o the_o land_n of_o jordan_n and_o of_o the_o hermonite_n from_o the_o hill_n missar_n david_n in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o persecution_n by_o saul_n when_o he_o wander_v up_o and_o down_o in_o desert_n wilderness_n and_o solitude_n have_v under_o his_o fear_n distress_n and_o exercise_n great_a holy_a spiritual_a communion_n with_o god_n as_o many_o of_o his_o psalm_n compose_v on_o such_o occasion_n do_v testify_v and_o the_o great_a his_o distress_n be_v the_o more_o fervent_a be_v his_o affection_n in_o all_o his_o address_n unto_o god_n and_o he_o be_v never_o in_o great_a than_o when_o he_o escape_v out_o of_o the_o cave_n at_o adullam_n and_o go_v thence_o unto_o mizpheh_n of_o moab_n to_o get_v shelter_n for_o his_o parent_n 1_o sam._n 22.13_o then_o be_v he_o in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o hermonite_n the_o hill_n hermon_n be_v the_o boundary_a eastward_o of_o the_o israelite_n possession_n next_o to_o moab_n deut._n 3.8_o 9_o there_o no_o doubt_n david_n have_v a_o bless_a exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o of_o all_o his_o affection_n towards_o god_n wherein_o his_o soul_n find_v great_a refreshment_n be_v now_o in_o great_a distress_n and_o disconsolation_n of_o spirit_n among_o other_o thing_n under_o a_o sense_n that_o god_n have_v forget_v he_o vers_n 9_o he_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o bless_a experience_n he_o have_v of_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o hermonite_n wherein_o he_o now_o find_v support_n and_o refreshment_n so_o at_o other_o time_n he_o call_v to_o remembrance_n the_o day_n of_o old_a and_o in_o they_o his_o song_n in_o the_o night_n or_o the_o sweet_a refreshment_n he_o have_v in_o spiritual_a converse_n with_o god_n in_o former_a time_n i_o have_v know_v one_o in_o the_o depth_n of_o distress_n and_o darkness_n of_o mind_n who_o go_v through_o temptation_n to_o destroy_v himself_o be_v relieve_v and_o deliver_v in_o the_o instant_n of_o ruin_n by_o a_o sudden_a remembrance_n that_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o in_o such_o a_o place_n he_o have_v pray_v fervent_o with_o the_o engagement_n of_o all_o his_o affection_n unto_o god_n wherefore_o you_o that_o be_v sensible_a of_o these_o decay_n or_o aught_o so_o to_o be_v take_v the_o advice_n of_o our_o saviour_n remember_v whence_o you_o be_v fall_v call_v to_o mind_n the_o former_a day_n consider_v if_o it_o be_v not_o better_o with_o you_o than_o now_o when_o in_o your_o lie_v down_o and_o your_o rise_n up_o you_o have_v many_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o they_o be_v sweet_a and_o precious_a unto_o your_o soul_n when_o you_o rejoice_v at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o holiness_n when_o you_o have_v zeal_n for_o his_o glory_n delight_n in_o his_o worship_n and_o be_v glad_a when_o they_o say_v let_v we_o go_v to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n together_o when_o you_o pour_v forth_o your_o soul_n with_o freedom_n and_o enlarge_v affection_n before_o he_o and_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o visit_n and_o refreshment_n of_o his_o love_n remember_v what_o peace_n what_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n what_o joy_v you_o have_v while_o it_o be_v so_o with_o you_o and_o consider_v what_o you_o have_v get_v since_o you_o have_v forsake_v god_n in_o any_o measure_n or_o degree_n dare_v to_o deal_v plain_o with_o yourselves_o be_v not_o all_o wherein_o you_o have_v now_o to_o do_v with_o god_n either_o form_n custom_n and_o selfishness_n or_o attend_v with_o trouble_n disquietment_n and_o fear_n do_v you_o true_o know_v either_o how_o to_o live_v or_o how_o to_o die_v be_v you_o not_o sometime_o a_o terror_n unto_o yourselves_o it_o must_v be_v so_o unless_o you_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n what_o have_v all_o your_o lover_n do_v for_o you_o that_o you_o have_v entertain_v in_o the_o room_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n speak_v plain_o have_v they_o not_o defile_v you_o wound_v you_o weaken_v you_o and_o bring_v you_o into_o that_o condition_n that_o you_o know_v not_o what_o you_o be_v nor_o to_o who_o you_o do_v belong_v what_o be_v your_o thought_n when_o you_o be_v most_o awake_a when_o you_o be_v most_o yourselves_o do_v you_o not_o sometime_o part_v within_o yourselves_o and_o say_v o_o that_o it_o be_v with_o we_o as_o in_o former_a day_n and_o it_o you_o can_v be_v no_o way_n affect_v with_o the_o remembrance_n of_o former_a thing_n then_o one_o of_o these_o two_o great_a evil_n you_o be_v certain_o under_o for_o either_o 1_o you_o never_o have_v a_o true_a and_o real_a work_n on_o your_o soul_n whatever_o you_o profess_v and_o so_o never_o have_v true_a and_o real_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o any_o duty_n
you_o have_v only_o a_o temporary_a work_n which_o excite_v your_o affection_n for_o a_o season_n which_o now_o it_o be_v wear_v off_o leave_v no_o sweet_a remembrance_n of_o itself_o upon_o your_o mind_n have_v your_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v sincere_a in_o what_o you_o do_v it_o be_v impossible_a but_o that_o the_o remembrance_n of_o their_o act_n in_o some_o especial_a instance_n shall_v be_v sweet_a and_o refresh_n unto_o you_o or_o else_o 2_o you_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n and_o there_o be_v no_o way_n leave_v to_o give_v a_o sense_n or_o impression_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n upon_o your_o mind_n you_o have_v true_o nothing_o leave_v in_o religion_n but_o the_o fear_n of_o hell_n and_o trouble_v of_o duty_n i_o speak_v not_o to_o such_o at_o present_a as_o unto_o those_o unto_o who_o this_o frame_n be_v a_o burden_n there_o be_v no_o more_o effectual_a mean_n to_o stir_v they_o unto_o endeavour_n for_o deliverance_n than_o a_o continual_a remembrance_n of_o former_a thing_n and_o experience_n they_o have_v have_v of_o holy_a intercourse_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n this_o will_v revive_v quicken_v and_o strengthen_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v and_o beget_v a_o self-abhorrency_a in_o they_o in_o consideration_n of_o that_o woeful_a frame_n and_o temper_n of_o mind_n which_o by_o their_o sin_n and_o negligence_n they_o have_v bring_v themselves_o into_o 2_o consider_v that_o as_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n dreadful_o pronounce_v in_o the_o scripture_n against_o backslide_v and_o backslider_n in_o heart_n as_o it_o be_v with_o you_o yet_o also_o there_o be_v especial_a call_n and_o promise_v give_v and_o propose_v unto_o those_o in_o your_o condition_n and_o know_v assure_o that_o upon_o your_o compliance_n or_o noncompliance_n with_o they_o depend_v your_o everlasting_a blessedness_n or_o woe_n consider_v both_o call_n and_o promise_v in_o that_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n jer._n 3.12_o 13_o 14._o go_v and_o proclaim_v these_o word_n towards_o the_o north_n and_o say_v return_v thou_o backslide_v israel_n say_v the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v not_o cause_v my_o anger_n to_o fall_v upon_o you_o for_o i_o be_o merciful_a faith_n the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v not_o keep_v anger_n for_o ever_o only_o acknowledge_v thy_o iniquity_n that_o thou_o have_v transgress_v against_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n and_o have_v scatter_v thy_o way_n to_o the_o stranger_n under_o every_o green_a tree_n and_o you_o have_v not_o obey_v my_o voice_n say_v the_o lord_n turn_v o_o backslide_a child_n say_v the_o lord_n for_o i_o be_o marry_v unto_o you_o and_o i_o will_v take_v you_o one_o of_o a_o city_n and_o two_o of_o a_o family_n and_o i_o will_v bring_v you_o to_o zion_n add_v thereunto_o this_o bless_a promise_n hos._n 14.4_o i_o will_v heal_v their_o backslide_n i_o will_v love_v they_o free_o for_o my_o anger_n be_v turn_v away_o from_o they_o if_o you_o design_v to_o live_v and_o not_o die_v it_o must_v be_v by_o yield_a obedience_n unto_o this_o call_v and_o plead_v this_o promise_n before_o god_n mix_v it_o with_o faith_n your_o return_n must_v be_v by_o the_o word_n isai._n 57.18_o 19_o here_o lie_v your_o great_a encouragement_n and_o direction_n herein_o lie_v your_o only_a relief_n as_o you_o value_v your_o soul_n defer_v not_o the_o duty_n you_o be_v call_v unto_o one_o moment_n you_o know_v not_o how_o soon_o you_o may_v be_v without_o the_o reach_n of_o call_n and_o promise_v and_o he_o that_o can_v hear_v they_o without_o stir_v up_o himself_o in_o sincerity_n to_o comply_v with_o they_o have_v make_v already_o a_o great_a progress_n towards_o that_o length_n 3_o as_o unto_o those_o who_o on_o these_o and_o the_o like_a consideration_n do_v not_o only_o desire_v but_o will_v endeavour_v also_o to_o retrieve_v themselves_o from_o this_o condition_n i_o shall_v give_v no_o advice_n at_o present_a but_o this_o be_v in_o good_a earnest_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v in_o another_o case_n if_o you_o will_v return_v return_v and_o come_v make_v through_o work_n of_o it_o you_o must_v do_v so_o at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o or_o you_o will_v perish_v why_o not_o now_o why_o be_v not_o this_o the_o best_a season_n who_o know_v but_o it_o may_v be_v the_o only_a time_n you_o will_v have_v for_o it_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o multiply_v all_o sort_n of_o argument_n unto_o this_o purpose_n trifle_a endeavour_n occasional_a resolution_n and_o attempt_n like_o the_o early_a cloud_n and_o morning_n dew_n shift_v with_o warning_n and_o conviction_n by_o renew_a duty_n until_o their_o impression_n be_v wear_v out_o will_v ruin_v your_o soul_n unless_o there_o be_v universal_a diligence_n and_o permanency_n in_o your_o endeavour_n you_o be_v undo_v then_o shall_v you_o know_v the_o lord_n if_o you_o follow_v on_o to_o know_v he_o but_o now_o to_o return_v these_o thing_n i_o say_v through_o our_o sloth_n negligence_n and_o sin_n may_v befall_v we_o as_o unto_o our_o spiritual_o renew_a affection_n their_o progress_n in_o conformity_n unto_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n may_v be_v slow_a imperceptible_a yea_o total_o obstruct_v for_o a_o season_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o they_o may_v fall_v under_o decay_n and_o the_o soul_n therein_o be_v guilty_a of_o backslide_v from_o god_n but_o this_o be_v that_o which_o they_o be_v capacitate_v for_o by_o their_o renovation_n this_o be_v that_o whereby_o the_o grace_n wherewith_o they_o be_v renew_v do_v lead_v unto_o this_o be_v that_o which_o in_o the_o diligent_a use_n of_o mean_n they_o will_v grow_v up_o unto_o whereon_o our_o comfort_n and_o peace_n do_v depend_v namely_o a_o holy_a assimulation_n unto_o those_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n which_o they_o be_v set_v and_o fix_v on_o wherein_o they_o be_v renew_v and_o make_v more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a every_o day_n chap._n xviii_o it_o remain_v only_o as_o unto_o this_o head_n now_o speak_v unto_o that_o we_o brief_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o state_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n thus_o daily_o exercise_v and_o improve_v and_o this_o we_o shall_v do_v by_o show_v 1_o what_o be_v their_o pattern_n 2_o what_o be_v their_o rule_n 3_o what_o be_v their_o measure_n or_o whereunto_o they_o may_v attain_v first_o the_o pattern_n which_o we_o ought_v continual_o to_o bear_v in_o our_o eye_n whereunto_o our_o affection_n ought_v to_o be_v conform_v be_v jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o affection_n of_o his_o holy_a soul_n the_o mind_n be_v the_o seat_n of_o all_o our_o affection_n and_o this_o be_v that_o we_o ought_v continual_o to_o design_n and_o endeavour_v namely_o that_o the_o same_o mind_n be_v in_o we_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n phil._n 2.5_o to_o have_v our_o mind_n so_o affect_v with_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o grace_n nor_o do_v i_o think_v that_o any_o man_n can_v attain_v any_o considerable_a degree_n in_o spiritual_a mindedness_n who_o be_v not_o much_o in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o same_o mind_n in_o christ_n 2_o cor._n 3.18_o to_o this_o purpose_n ought_v we_o to_o furnish_v our_o mind_n with_o instance_n of_o the_o holy_a affection_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o their_o bless_a exercise_n on_o all_o occasion_n the_o scripture_n make_v a_o full_a representation_n of_o they_o unto_o we_o and_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v conversant_a in_o our_o meditation_n on_o they_o what_o glorious_a thing_n be_v speak_v of_o his_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o delight_n in_o he_o whence_o also_o he_o delight_v to_o do_v his_o will_n and_o his_o law_n be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o bowel_n psal._n 40.8_o seat_v in_o the_o throne_n of_o his_o affection_n what_o pity_n and_o compassion_n have_v he_o for_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n yea_o for_o whole_a humane_a kind_a in_o all_o their_o suffering_n pain_n and_o distress_n how_o be_v all_o his_o affection_n always_o in_o perfection_n of_o order_n under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n thence_o be_v his_o self-denial_n his_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n his_o readiness_n for_o the_o cross_n to_o do_v or_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n if_o this_o pattern_n be_v continual_o before_o we_o it_o will_v put_v forth_o a_o transform_a efficacy_n to_o change_v we_o into_o the_o same_o image_n when_o we_o find_v our_o mind_n liable_a unto_o any_o disorder_n cleave_v inordinate_o unto_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n move_v with_o intemperate_a passion_n vain_a and_o frothy_a in_o conversation_n darken_v or_o disturb_v by_o the_o fume_n of_o distemper_a lust_n let_v we_o call_v thing_n to_o a_o account_n and_o ask_v of_o ourselves_o whether_o this_o be_v the_o frame_n of_o mind_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n this_o therefore_o be_v a_o evidence_n
which_o a_o well_o dispose_v appetite_n find_v unto_o savoury_a meat_n as_o the_o full_a soul_n loathe_v the_o hony-comb_n so_o a_o mind_n under_o the_o power_n of_o carnal_a affection_n have_v a_o aversation_n unto_o all_o spiritual_a sweetness_n but_o spiritualise_v affection_n desire_v they_o have_v a_o appetite_n unto_o they_o ready_o receive_v they_o on_o all_o occasion_n as_o those_o which_o be_v natural_a unto_o they_o as_o milk_n be_v unto_o newborn_a babe_n 2_o affection_n so_o dispose_v constant_o find_v a_o gust_n a_o pleasant_a taste_n a_o relish_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n they_o do_v in_o they_o taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a 1_o pet._n 2.3_o to_o taste_v of_o god_n goodness_n be_v to_o have_v a_o experience_n of_o a_o savoury_a relish_n and_o sweetness_n in_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o person_n who_o affection_n be_v thus_o renew_v and_o thus_o improve_v do_v taste_v a_o sweet_a savour_n in_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n some_o of_o they_o as_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n be_v sometime_o as_o it_o be_v too_o hard_o for_o they_o and_o overpower_v they_o until_o they_o be_v sick_a of_o love_n and_o do_v rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o of_o they_o however_o condit_v with_o affliction_n or_o mortification_n but_o it_o be_v sweet_a unto_o they_o prov._n 27.7_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v wholesome_a food_n that_o be_v good_a nourishment_n though_o it_o be_v but_o bitter_a herb_n be_v sweet_a to_o he_o that_o be_v hungry_a and_o when_o by_o our_o affection_n we_o have_v raise_v up_o in_o we_o a_o spiritual_a appetite_n unto_o heavenly_a thing_n however_o any_o of_o they_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n or_o in_o their_o dispensation_n may_v be_v bitter_a to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n as_o be_v all_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o cross_n they_o be_v all_o sweet_a unto_o we_o and_o we_o can_v taste_v how_o gracious_a the_o lord_n be_v in_o they_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o earthly_a thing_n the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n or_o when_o the_o appetite_n be_v lose_v by_o spiritual_a sickness_n or_o vitiate_v and_o corrupt_v by_o any_o prevalent_a sin_n heavenly_a thing_n be_v unsavoury_a and_o sapless_a or_o as_o job_n speak_v like_o the_o white_a of_o a_o egg_n wherein_o there_o be_v no_o taste_n there_o may_v be_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n a_o taste_n or_o please_a relish_v give_v unto_o the_o fancy_n there_o may_v be_v so_o unto_o the_o notional_a understanding_n when_o the_o affection_n find_v no_o complacency_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o but_o unto_o they_o who_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a unto_o the_o degree_n intend_v they_o be_v all_o sweet_a savoury_a pleasant_a the_o affection_n taste_v they_o immediate_o as_o the_o palate_n do_v meat_n 3_o they_o be_v a_o just_a repository_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o therein_o the_o treasury_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n who_o formal_a direct_a residence_n be_v in_o the_o understanding_n and_o the_o will_n as_o faith_n itself_o and_o therein_o be_v all_o other_o grace_n radical_o comprise_v they_o grow_v from_o the_o root_n howbeit_o the_o most_o of_o they_o have_v their_o principal_a residence_n in_o the_o affection_n in_o they_o be_v they_o preserve_v secure_a and_o ready_a for_o exercise_n on_o all_o occasion_n and_o when_o they_o be_v due_o spiritual_a there_o be_v nothing_o that_o tend_v to_o their_o growth_n or_o improvement_n to_o their_o cherish_n or_o quicken_a which_o they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o continual_o and_o which_o god_n have_v make_v provision_n for_o in_o his_o word_n but_o they_o reaedy_o receive_v it_o lay_v it_o up_o keep_v and_o preserve_v it_o hereby_o they_o come_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o grace_n with_o all_o grace_n for_o there_o be_v room_n in_o they_o for_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o inhabit_v and_o do_v ready_o comply_v with_o the_o light_n and_o direction_n of_o faith_n unto_o their_o exercise_n when_o faith_n discern_v and_o determine_v that_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v or_o suffer_v in_o a_o way_n of_o duty_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o affection_n thus_o dispose_v do_v not_o shut_v up_o or_o stifle_v the_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o they_o but_o chcareful_o offer_v they_o unto_o their_o proper_a exercise_n there_o be_v some_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o our_o affection_n conform_v unto_o heavenly_a thing_n will_v attain_v unto_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o affection_n spiritual_o renew_v by_o be_v fix_v on_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a they_o be_v more_o and_o more_o conform_v unto_o they_o make_v like_o they_o and_o become_v more_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a themselves_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o with_o they_o who_o affection_n have_v only_o a_o occasional_a change_n wrought_v upon_o they_o by_o the_o mean_v before_o describe_v but_o be_v not_o spiritual_o renew_v yea_o on_o the_o contrary_a such_o person_n do_v design_n to_o debate_v spiritual_a thing_n to_o bring_v down_o heavenly_a thing_n into_o a_o conformity_n with_o their_o affection_n which_o however_o change_v be_v not_o spiritual_a but_o carnal_a to_o evince_v this_o we_o may_v observe_v 1_o these_o affection_n be_v under_o the_o light_n and_o conduct_v of_o such_o notion_n in_o the_o mind_n and_o understanding_n as_o do_v not_o give_v a_o clear_a distinct_a representation_n of_o they_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n unto_o they_o for_o where_o they_o be_v not_o themselves_o spiritual_o renew_v there_o the_o mind_n itself_o be_v carnal_a and_o unrenewed_a and_o such_o a_o mind_n discern_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n nor_o can_v do_v so_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v they_o can_v be_v discern_v aright_o in_o their_o own_o beauty_n and_o glory_n but_o in_o and_o by_o a_o spiritual_a save_a light_n which_o the_o mind_n be_v devoid_a of_o and_o where_o they_o be_v not_o thus_o represent_v the_o affection_n can_v receive_v or_o cleave_v unto_o they_o as_o they_o ought_v nor_o will_v ever_o be_v conform_v unto_o they_o 2_o those_o notion_n in_o such_o person_n be_v ofttimes_o various_o influence_v and_o corrupt_v by_o fancy_n and_o imagination_n they_o be_v mere_o puff_v up_o in_o their_o fleshly_a mind_n that_o be_v they_o be_v fill_v with_o vain_a foolish_a proud_a imagination_n about_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v col._n 2.18_o 19_o and_o the_o work_n of_o fancy_n in_o a_o fleshly_a mind_n be_v to_o raise_v up_o such_o image_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n as_o may_v render_v they_o suitable_a unto_o natural_a unrenewed_a affection_n 3_o this_o in_o the_o progress_n of_o it_o produce_v superstition_n false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n for_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o a_o attempt_v to_o represent_v spiritual_a thing_n in_o a_o way_n suit_v unto_o carnal_a unrenewed_a affection_n hence_o man_n suppose_v themselves_o to_o be_v excite_v by_o they_o unto_o love_n joy_n fear_v delight_n in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o when_o they_o all_o respect_n that_o false_a representation_n of_o they_o whereby_o they_o be_v suit_v unto_o they_o as_o carnal_a these_o have_v be_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n first_o the_o mind_n and_o affection_n have_v be_v change_v and_o tincture_v with_o devotion_n by_o some_o of_o the_o mean_n we_o have_v before_o insist_v on_o herein_o they_o will_v one_o way_n or_o other_o be_v exercise_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o receive_v impression_n from_o any_o thing_n that_o superstition_n can_v impose_v upon_o they_o second_o they_o be_v by_o error_n and_o false_a information_n set_v at_o liberty_n from_o the_o only_a rule_n of_o their_o act_n and_o exercise_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n man_n satisfy_v themselves_o that_o so_o their_o affection_n be_v engage_v about_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a it_o be_v no_o matter_n at_o all_o whether_o the_o way_n of_o their_o exercise_n be_v direct_v by_o the_o scripture_n or_o no._n have_v thus_o lose_v their_o guide_n and_o their_o way_n every_o igâ—u_n fatuus_fw-la every_o wander_a meteor_n allure_v they_o to_o follow_v its_o conduct_n into_o foolish_a superstition_n nothing_o almost_o be_v so_o ridiculous_a nothing_o so_o horrid_a and_o difficult_a that_o they_o will_v not_o embrace_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a three_o the_o carnal_a mind_n of_o man_n have_v no_o proper_a distinct_a apprehension_n and_o notion_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n do_v endeavour_n to_o present_v they_o under_o such_o â—otions_n and_o image_n as_o may_v suit_v they_o unto_o their_o carnal_a unrenewed_a affection_n for_o it_o be_v implant_v a_o most_o indelible_o upon_o they_o that_o the_o end_n of_o all_o knowledge_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v to_o propose_v they_o unto_o the_o embrace_n of_o
power_n of_o vile_a affection_n fill_v the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n with_o tumult_n disorder_n fear_v and_o shame_v where_o man_n be_v not_o utter_o profligate_v so_o as_o that_o the_o mind_n thought_n and_o conscience_n of_o person_n under_o their_o power_n be_v a_o very_a hell_n for_o confusion_n and_o trouble_n so_o spiritual_a affection_n due_o exercise_v on_o their_o proper_a object_n do_v preserve_v all_o thing_n in_o order_n in_o the_o whole_a soul_n they_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n all_o thing_n be_v quiet_a and_o secure_a in_o the_o mind_n there_o be_v order_n and_o peace_n in_o the_o whole_a soul_n in_o all_o its_o faculty_n and_o all_o their_o operation_n while_o the_o affection_n be_v in_o a_o due_a prevail_a manner_n fix_v upon_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o hence_o many_o person_n after_o great_a turmoiling_n in_o the_o world_n after_o they_o have_v endeavour_v by_o all_o mean_n to_o come_v to_o rest_n and_o satisfaction_n therein_o have_v utter_o renounce_v all_o concernment_n in_o earthly_a thing_n and_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o contemplation_n of_o thing_n above_o and_o that_o only_o many_o i_o confess_v of_o they_o be_v mistake_v as_o to_o the_o practical_a part_n of_o their_o devotion_n have_v various_a superstition_n impose_v on_o their_o mind_n by_o the_o craft_n of_o other_o but_o they_o miss_v it_o not_o in_o the_o principle_n that_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n be_v attainable_a only_o in_o set_v our_o affection_n upon_o thing_n above_o jam._n 4.1_o from_o whence_o come_v war_n and_o fight_n among_o you_o come_v they_o not_o hence_o even_o of_o your_o lust_n that_o be_v in_o your_o member_n whence_o be_v all_o the_o disorder_n in_o your_o mind_n your_o vexation_n and_o disquietment_n your_o passion_n break_v forth_o sometime_o into_o unseemly_a brawling_n be_v they_o not_o from_o hence_o the_o question_n be_v put_v unto_o yourselves_o and_o your_o own_o conscience_n namely_o from_o your_o lust_n that_o be_v the_o disorderly_a affection_n that_o tumultuate_v in_o you_o do_v but_o search_v yourselves_o and_o you_o will_v quick_o see_v whence_o all_o your_o trouble_n and_o disquietment_n do_v arise_v your_o lust_n or_o corrupt_v and_o inordinate_a affection_n do_v war_n in_o you_o continual_o incline_v you_o to_o thing_n earthly_a or_o sensual_a hence_o many_o be_v best_a and_o most_o at_o quiet_a when_o they_o be_v in_o the_o world_n worst_a when_o at_o home_o in_o their_o family_n but_o never_o be_v they_o in_o such_o confusion_n as_o when_o they_o be_v force_v to_o retire_v into_o themselves_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o our_o affection_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n have_v quite_o another_o tendency_n and_o effect_n it_o so_o unite_v the_o mind_n unto_o they_o it_o so_o bring_v they_o unto_o it_o and_o give_v they_o such_o a_o subsistance_n in_o it_o as_o that_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o it_o be_v in_o a_o progress_n towards_o their_o perfection_n see_v 2_o cor._n 7.1_o true_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n with_o soundness_n of_o judgement_n in_o eternal_a thing_n in_o the_o mind_n holiness_n in_o the_o affection_n themselves_o liberty_n in_o the_o will_n power_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o peace_n in_o the_o conscience_n do_v in_o their_o measure_n all_o ensue_v hereon_o whatever_o taste_v we_o may_v have_v of_o these_o thing_n whatever_o temporary_a experience_n we_o have_v of_o they_o they_o will_v not_o flourish_v in_o we_o they_o will_v not_o abide_v with_o we_o in_o any_o constancy_n unless_o we_o be_v thus_o spiritual_o mind_a four_o in_o the_o future_a enjoyment_n of_o the_o present_a object_n of_o our_o spiritual_a affection_n do_v our_o eternal_a blessedness_n consist_v all_o man_n who_o be_v convince_v of_o a_o future_a eternal_a condition_n do_v desire_v when_o they_o depart_v hence_o to_o enter_v in_o blessedness_n and_o glory_n howbeit_o what_o that_o blessedness_n even_o as_o unto_o the_o general_a nature_n of_o it_o be_v they_o know_v nothing_o at_o all_o and_o if_o they_o do_v they_o will_v not_o know_v how_o to_o desire_v it_o for_o heaven_n or_o blessedness_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o what_o we_o be_v here_o to_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o above_o all_o of_o that_o which_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n as_o spiritual_o renew_v herein_o have_v they_o neither_o interest_n nor_o concern_v but_o this_o be_v that_o which_o give_v life_n unto_o the_o affection_n of_o believer_n they_o know_v that_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n their_o eternal_a blessedness_n do_v consist_v how_o this_o be_v their_o happiness_n and_o glory_n how_o it_o will_v give_v they_o a_o everlasting_a overflow_a satisfaction_n and_o rest_n they_o understand_v in_o the_o first_o fruit_n of_o it_o which_o they_o here_o receive_v and_o this_o be_v the_o ultimate_a object_n of_o their_o affection_n in_o this_o world_n and_o they_o go_v forth_o unto_o all_o other_o spiritual_a thing_n in_o order_n thereunto_o the_o more_o therefore_o their_o affection_n be_v fix_v on_o they_o the_o more_o they_o be_v keep_v up_o unto_o that_o due_a exercise_n the_o near_a approach_n they_o make_v unto_o this_o bless_a state_n when_o their_o mind_n be_v possess_v with_o this_o persuasion_n when_o it_o be_v confirm_v in_o they_o by_o daily_a experience_n of_o that_o sweetness_n rest_v and_o satisfaction_n which_o they_o find_v in_o cleave_v unto_o god_n with_o fervent_a love_n and_o delight_n in_o vain_a shall_v any_o other_o object_n rise_v up_o in_o competition_n to_o draw_v they_o off_o unto_o themselves_o the_o more_o we_o love_v god_n the_o more_o like_a we_o be_v unto_o he_o and_o the_o more_o near_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o chap._n xx._n have_v consider_v the_o nature_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n as_o renew_v by_o grace_n and_o those_o notion_n of_o their_o object_n under_o which_o they_o cleave_v unto_o they_o it_o remain_v only_o that_o we_o inquire_v into_o the_o way_n of_o the_o soul_n application_n of_o itself_o unto_o those_o object_n by_o its_o affection_n which_o belong_v also_o unto_o our_o be_v spiritually-minded_n and_o i_o shall_v give_v a_o account_n hereof_o in_o some_o few_o particular_n with_o brief_a observation_n on_o they_o first_o it_o be_v require_v that_o our_o adherence_n unto_o all_o spiritual_a thing_n with_o love_n and_o delight_n be_v firm_a and_o stable_a the_o affection_n be_v the_o power_n and_o instrument_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o it_o make_v application_n unto_o any_o thing_n without_o itself_o and_o cleave_v unto_o it_o this_o be_v their_o nature_n and_o use_n with_o reference_n unto_o thing_n spiritual_a transient_a thought_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n with_o vanish_v desire_n may_v rise_v out_o of_o present_a conviction_n as_o they_o do_v with_o they_o who_o cry_v out_o unto_o our_o saviour_n lord_n give_v we_o evermore_o of_o this_o bread_n and_o immediate_o leave_v he_o such_o occasional_a thought_n and_o desire_n be_v common_a unto_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n yea_o the_o worst_a of_o they_o let_v i_o die_v the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o let_v my_o end_n be_v as_o he_o fade_v satisfaction_n with_o joy_n and_o delight_n do_v often_o befall_v man_n in_o their_o attendance_n on_o the_o word_n who_o yet_o never_o come_v to_o have_v it_o root_v in_o their_o heart_n there_o be_v sundry_a thing_n want_v unto_o the_o sincerity_n of_o these_o affection_n 1_o those_o in_o who_o they_o be_v never_o have_v a_o clear_a spiritual_a view_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n which_o they_o pretend_v to_o be_v affect_v withal_o 2_o they_o have_v not_o a_o sincere_a love_n unto_o they_o and_o delight_n in_o they_o for_o their_o own_o sake_n but_o be_v only_o affect_v with_o some_o outward_a circumstance_n and_o concernment_n of_o they_o 3_o they_o find_v not_o a_o suitableness_n in_o they_o unto_o the_o roll_a principle_n of_o their_o mind_n they_o do_v not_o practical_o they_o can_v true_o say_v the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n be_v easy_a and_o his_o burden_n be_v light_a his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a or_o with_o the_o psalmist_n oh_o how_o do_v i_o love_v thy_o law_n 4_o their_o affection_n be_v transient_a unstable_a vanish_v as_o unto_o their_o exercise_n and_o operation_n they_o be_v on_o and_o off_o now_o please_v and_o anon_o displease_v earnest_n for_o a_o little_a while_n and_o then_o cold_a and_o indifferent_a hence_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o seem_v to_o effect_v have_v no_o transform_a efficacy_n upon_o their_o soul_n they_o dwell_v not_o in_o they_o in_o their_o power_n but_o where_o our_o affection_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v sincere_a where_o they_o be_v the_o true_a genuine_a application_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o adherence_n unto_o they_o they_o be_v firm_a and_o stable_a love_n and_o delight_n be_v keep_v up_o unto_o such_o a_o constant_a exercise_n as_o render_v they_o immovable_a this_o be_v that_o which_o we_o
unto_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n from_o which_o we_o be_v secure_v by_o this_o peace_n which_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a the_o first_o be_v offence_n there_o be_v nothing_o of_o who_o danger_n we_o be_v more_o warn_v in_o the_o gospel_n than_o of_o offence_n wo_n to_o the_o world_n say_v our_o saviour_n because_o of_o offence_n all_o age_n all_o time_n and_o season_n be_v fill_v with_o they_o and_o they_o prove_v pernicious_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o many_o such_o be_v the_o scandalous_a division_n that_o be_v among_o christian_n the_o endless_a difference_n of_o opinion_n and_o diversity_n of_o practice_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n the_o fall_v and_o sin_n of_o professor_n the_o fearful_a end_n of_o some_o of_o they_o the_o reproach_n that_o be_v cast_v on_o all_o that_o engage_v into_o any_o peculiar_a way_n of_o holiness_n and_o strictness_n of_o life_n with_o other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n whereby_o the_o soul_n of_o innumerable_a person_n be_v disquiet_v subvert_v or_o infect_v be_v to_o be_v reckon_v unto_o this_o head_n against_o any_o hurtful_a or_o noxious_a influence_n on_o our_o mind_n from_o these_o thing_n against_o disquietment_n dejection_n of_o spirit_n and_o disconsolation_n be_v we_o secure_v by_o this_o peace_n so_o the_o psalmist_n assure_v we_o psal._n 119.165_o great_a peace_n have_v they_o that_o love_v thy_o law_n and_o nothing_o shall_v offend_v they_o the_o law_n or_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a way_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o will_n unto_o we_o and_o the_o only_a outward_a way_n and_o rule_n of_o our_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o wherefore_o to_o love_v the_o law_n be_v the_o principal_a part_n of_o our_o be_v heavenly_a mind_a yea_o virtual_o that_o which_o comprehend_v the_o whole_a for_o such_o as_o do_v so_o nothing_o none_o of_o the_o thing_n before_o mention_v nor_o any_o other_o of_o the_o like_a nature_n shall_v be_v a_o offence_n a_o stumble_a block_n or_o cause_n of_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o they_o have_v such_o a_o experience_n in_o themselves_o of_o the_o truth_n power_n efficacy_n and_o holiness_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o that_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o man_n under_o a_o profession_n of_o it_o shall_v never_o be_v unto_o they_o a_o occasion_n of_o fall_v or_o be_v offend_v at_o christ._n and_o i_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o sign_n of_o a_o very_a evil_a frame_n of_o heart_n when_o man_n be_v concern_v in_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o some_o that_o have_v make_v profession_n whereby_o they_o be_v it_o may_v be_v damage_v in_o their_o outward_a concern_v so_o as_o that_o they_o be_v surprise_v into_o reflection_n on_o that_o religion_n which_o they_o profess_v profess_v the_o same_o themselves_o 2_o the_o second_o be_v affliction_n persecution_n and_o suffering_n of_o all_o sort_n it_o be_v know_v by_o all_o it_o be_v well_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o well_o know_v what_o disquietment_n dejection_n and_o disconsolation_n these_o thing_n be_v apt_a to_o fill_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n withal_o what_o fear_n trouble_n sorrow_n they_o reflect_v upon_o they_o against_o all_o these_o effect_n of_o they_o this_o peace_n intend_v give_v we_o security_n it_o make_v we_o to_o preserve_v a_o peaceable_a yea_o a_o joyous_a life_n in_o our_o conflict_n with_o they_o see_v joh._n 16.33_o both_o these_o as_o here_o join_v together_o life_n and_o peace_n do_v comprise_v a_o holy_a frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n wherein_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n do_v find_v rest_n quietness_n refreshment_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o temptation_n affliction_n offence_n and_o suffering_n it_o be_v the_o soul_n composure_n of_o itself_o in_o god_n in_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n jesus_n so_o as_o not_o great_o to_o be_v put_v out_o of_o order_n to_o be_v cast_v down_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v befall_v it_o but_o afford_v man_n cheerfulness_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o themselves_o though_o they_o walk_v sometime_o in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n such_o person_n have_v that_o in_o they_o abide_v with_o they_o as_o will_v give_v they_o life_n and_o peace_n under_o all_o occurrence_n 2_o our_o next_o enquiry_n be_v how_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n be_v life_n and_o peace_n or_o what_o it_o contribute_v unto_o they_o how_o it_o produce_v the_o frame_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o express_v and_o this_o it_o do_v several_a way_n 1_o it_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n on_o our_o part_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o it_o as_o shed_v abroad_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o first_o and_o only_a foundation_n of_o all_o durable_a comfort_n such_o as_o will_v support_v and_o refresh_v we_o under_o all_o opposition_n and_o distress_n that_o be_v of_o life_n and_o peace_n in_o our_o soul_n in_o any_o condition_n this_o god_n communicate_v by_o a_o act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n for_o the_o most_o part_n without_o any_o preparation_n for_o it_o in_o ourselves_o he_o create_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o lip_n peace_n peace_n but_o although_o divine_a love_n be_v in_o itself_o unchangeable_a and_o always_o the_o same_o yet_o this_o sense_n of_o it_o may_v be_v lose_v as_o it_o be_v in_o david_n when_o he_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v restore_v unto_o he_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n psal._n 51.12_o and_o so_o many_o other_o have_v find_v it_o by_o woeful_a experience_n to_o insist_v upon_o all_o that_o be_v require_v on_o our_o part_n that_o we_o may_v retain_v a_o gracious_a refresh_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n after_o it_o be_v once_o grant_v unto_o we_o belong_v not_o unto_o my_o present_a purpose_n but_o this_o i_o say_v there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v more_o concern_v for_o to_o be_v careful_a and_o diligent_a in_o than_o as_o unto_o what_o belong_v to_o that_o end_n for_o man_n who_o by_o a_o mere_a act_n of_o sovereign_a grace_n have_v taste_v herein_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n who_o have_v have_v the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o it_o to_o be_v negligent_a in_o the_o keep_n and_o preserve_v it_o in_o their_o soul_n be_v a_o provocation_n that_o they_o will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o be_v sensible_a of_o there_o be_v nothing_o do_v more_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n than_o to_o have_v his_o especial_a work_n whereby_o he_o seal_v we_o unto_o the_o day_n of_o redemption_n neglect_v or_o despise_v and_o it_o argue_v a_o mighty_a prevalency_n of_o some_o corruption_n or_o temptation_n that_o shall_v cause_v man_n willing_o and_o by_o their_o own_o sloth_n to_o forfeit_v so_o inestimable_a a_o grace_n mercy_n and_o privilege_n and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o there_o be_v but_o few_o of_o we_o who_o have_v not_o reason_n to_o bewail_v our_o folly_n in_o every_o intimation_n of_o divine_a love_n be_v a_o inestimable_a jewel_n which_o if_o safe_o treasure_v up_o in_o our_o heart_n add_v unto_o our_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o be_v lose_v will_v at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o affect_v we_o with_o sorrow_n and_o i_o be_o afraid_a that_o many_o of_o we_o be_v very_o negligent_a herein_o unto_o the_o great_a prejudice_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o spiritual_n state_n many_o such_o intimation_n be_v give_v we_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o the_o word_n which_o we_o take_v little_a notice_n of_o either_o we_o know_v not_o the_o voice_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o or_o do_v not_o hearken_v unto_o he_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n or_o refuse_v a_o compliance_n with_o he_o when_o we_o can_v but_o know_v that_o he_o speak_v unto_o we_o see_v cant._n 5.2_o 3._o or_o if_o we_o receive_v any_o impression_n of_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o they_o we_o quick_o lose_v they_o not_o know_v how_o much_o the_o life_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v concern_v therein_o and_o what_o use_n of_o they_o we_o may_v have_v in_o our_o follow_a temptation_n trial_n and_o duty_n now_o the_o great_a mean_n of_o retain_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o only_a spring_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n unto_o our_o soul_n be_v this_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n this_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o duty_n for_o 1_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n preserve_v of_o itself_o in_o a_o frame_n meet_v to_o receive_v and_o retain_v this_o sense_n of_o god_n love_n what_o other_o way_n can_v there_o be_v on_o our_o part_n but_o that_o our_o mind_n which_o be_v so_o to_o receive_v it_o and_o retain_v it_o be_v spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a always_o prepare_v for_o that_o holy_a converse_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o which_o he_o
be_v please_v to_o grant_v we_o through_o jesus_n christ._n and_o 2_o it_o will_v fix_v our_o thought_n and_o affection_n upon_o the_o grace_n and_o love_n of_o god_n communicate_v such_o a_o inestimable_a mercy_n unto_o we_o as_o be_v a_o sense_n of_o his_o love_n which_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o a_o relish_n of_o it_o in_o our_o heart_n he_o who_o be_v in_o this_o frame_n of_o mind_n will_v remember_v call_v over_o and_o ruminate_v upon_o all_o such_o gracious_a pledge_n of_o divine_a favour_n as_o david_n be_v often_o remember_v and_o call_v over_o what_o he_o receive_v in_o such_o place_n as_o in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o hermonite_n and_o at_o the_o hill_n missar_n psal._n 42._o this_o be_v the_o great_a way_n whereby_o this_o treasure_n may_v be_v preserve_v 3_o a_o person_n so_o mind_v and_o he_o alone_o will_v have_v a_o due_a valuation_n of_o such_o intimation_n and_o pledge_n of_o divine_a love_n those_o who_o be_v full_a of_o other_o thing_n who_o affection_n cleave_v unto_o they_o do_v never_o esteem_v heavenly_a mercy_n and_o privilege_n as_o they_o ought_v the_o full_a soul_n loathe_v the_o honeycomb_n and_o god_n be_v well_o please_v when_o a_o high_a valuation_n be_v put_v upon_o his_o kindness_n as_o he_o be_v great_o provoke_v by_o the_o contrary_a frame_n which_o indeed_o nothing_o but_o infinite_a patience_n can_v bear_v withal_o it_o be_v a_o high_a provocation_n of_o god_n when_o man_n be_v regardless_o of_o and_o unthankful_a for_o outward_a temporal_a mercy_n when_o they_o receive_v they_o and_o use_v they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v their_o own_o that_o they_o be_v lord_n of_o they_o at_o least_o that_o they_o be_v due_a unto_o they_o much_o more_o be_v he_o provoke_v with_o our_o regardlesness_n of_o the_o least_o of_o those_o mercy_n which_o be_v the_o peculiar_a purchase_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o his_o son_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o eternal_a love_n and_o grace_n he_o alone_z who_o be_v spiritually-minded_n value_v prize_v and_o lay_v up_o these_o ininestimable_a jewel_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n 4_o such_o person_n only_o know_v how_o to_o use_v and_o improve_v all_o communication_n of_o a_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n these_o thing_n be_v not_o grant_v unto_o we_o to_o lie_v by_o we_o without_o any_o use_n of_o they_o they_o be_v gracious_a provision_n wherewith_o we_o be_v furnish_v to_o enable_v we_o unto_o all_o other_o duty_n conflict_n and_o trial_n on_o all_o occasion_n be_v they_o to_o be_v call_v over_o for_o our_o spiritual_a relief_n and_o encouragement_n hereby_o be_v they_o safe_o retain_v for_o in_o the_o due_a improvement_n of_o they_o they_o grow_v more_o bright_a in_o our_o mind_n every_o day_n and_o be_v ready_a for_o use_v in_o which_o posture_n they_o be_v safe_o preserve_v but_o these_o thing_n will_v yet_o be_v far_o manifest_v in_o the_o instance_n that_o ensue_v 2_o this_o frame_n of_o mind_n cast_v out_o all_o principle_n and_o cause_n of_o trouble_n and_o disquietment_n which_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o life_n and_o peace_n there_o be_v in_o we_o by_o nature_n principle_n of_o contrariety_n and_o opposition_n unto_o spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n with_o sundry_a thing_n who_o abide_v and_o prevalency_n in_o we_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o they_o i_o shall_v give_v only_o one_o or_o two_o instance_n hereof_o 1_o it_o will_v cast_v out_o all_o filthiness_n and_o superfluity_n of_o naughtiness_n from_o our_o mind_n without_o this_o we_o can_v receive_v no_o benefit_n by_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n nor_o perform_v any_o duty_n in_o a_o right_a manner_n jam._n 1.27_o this_o be_v that_o which_o stand_v in_o direct_a immediate_a opposition_n and_o contrariety_n unto_o our_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a so_o as_o they_o can_v have_v no_o consistency_n in_o the_o same_o person_n and_o they_o expel_v on_o another_o like_a heat_n and_o cold._n and_o where_o there_o be_v this_o filthiness_n and_o superfluity_n of_o naughtiness_n there_o be_v neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n unclean_a lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n or_o of_o the_o spirit_n work_v tumultuate_a act_v themselves_o in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n will_v not_o suffer_v either_o the_o life_n of_o holiness_n to_o flourish_v in_o they_o or_o any_o solid_a peace_n to_o abide_v with_o they_o the_o soul_n be_v weaken_v by_o they_o as_o unto_o all_o spiritual_a act_n and_o make_v like_o a_o trouble_a sea_n that_o can_v rest_v who_o water_n cast_v up_o mire_n and_o dirt_n where_o they_o be_v absolute_o predominant_a there_o be_v a_o hell_n within_o of_o darkness_n confusion_n and_o enmity_n against_o god_n prepare_v man_n for_o a_o hell_n of_o punishment_n without_o unto_o eternity_n and_o according_a as_o they_o remain_v or_o have_v any_o prevalency_n in_o we_o so_o be_v spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n impair_v and_o obstruct_v by_o they_o now_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o its_o universal_a exercise_n be_v suit_v to_o the_o cast_v out_o of_o all_o the_o relic_n of_o this_o filthiness_n and_o supersfluity_n of_o naughtiness_n it_o bring_v in_o a_o principle_n into_o the_o mind_n direct_o contrary_a unto_o that_o from_o whence_o they_o do_v proceed_v all_o the_o act_n of_o it_o which_o we_o have_v describe_v lie_v in_o direct_a tendency_n unto_o the_o extirpation_n of_o these_o cause_n of_o filthiness_n which_o ruin_n life_n and_o peace_n nor_o will_v they_o by_o any_o other_o way_n be_v cast_v out_o if_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o spiritual_a it_o will_v be_v carnal_a if_o it_o mind_v not_o thing_n above_o it_o will_v not_o fix_v itself_o inordinate_o on_o thing_n below_o 2_o that_o disorder_n which_o be_v by_o nature_n in_o the_o affection_n and_o passion_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o be_v direct_o opposite_a unto_o spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n be_v cast_v out_o or_o cure_v hereby_o it_o be_v a_o bless_a promise_n of_o the_o time_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n of_o the_o kingdom_n and_o rule_n of_o christ_n that_o through_o the_o efficacy_n of_o gospel_n grace_n the_o lion_n shall_v lie_v down_o with_o the_o lamb_n and_o the_o leopard_n with_o the_o kid_n isaiah_n 11.6_o person_n of_o the_o most_o intemperate_a and_o outrageous_a passion_n shall_v be_v make_v meek_a and_o lovely_a where_o this_o be_v not_o in_o some_o measure_n effect_v according_a unto_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o prevalency_n of_o such_o passion_n in_o we_o we_o have_v not_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o evangelical_n grace_n it_o be_v a_o easy_a task_n to_o demonstrate_v how_o the_o disorder_n of_o our_o affection_n and_o passion_n be_v destructive_a of_o spiritual_a life_n and_o peace_n the_o contrariety_n that_o be_v in_o they_o and_o contradiction_n unto_o one_o another_o their_o violence_n impetuousness_n and_o restlessness_n their_o readiness_n to_o receive_v and_o take_v in_o provocation_n on_o all_o occasion_n and_o frequent_o on_o none_o at_o all_o but_o what_o imagination_n present_v unto_o they_o be_v sufficient_a evidence_n hereof_o can_v we_o think_v that_o life_n and_o peace_n do_v inhabit_v that_o soul_n wherein_o anger_n wrath_n envy_n excess_n in_o love_n unto_o earthly_a thing_n no_o dwell_v and_o on_o all_o occasion_n exert_v themselves_o there_o where_o there_o be_v a_o continual_a tumult_n fight_v and_o rebellion_n as_o there_o be_v where_o the_o passion_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o under_o the_o conduct_n of_o reason_n nor_o of_o grace_n the_o nature_n and_o principal_a effect_n of_o this_o spiritual_a mindedness_n be_v to_o bring_v all_o the_o affection_n and_o passion_n of_o our_o mind_n into_o that_o holy_a order_n wherein_o they_o be_v create_v this_o be_v that_o uprightness_n wherein_o god_n make_v we_o namely_o the_o whole_a bless_a order_n of_o all_o the_o power_n faculty_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o all_o their_o operation_n in_o order_n unto_o our_o live_n unto_o god_n and_o this_o be_v restore_v unto_o we_o by_o this_o grace_n this_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritual_o mind_a and_o wherein_o it_o fall_v short_a of_o that_o perfection_n which_o we_o have_v original_o for_o the_o remainder_n of_o that_o disorder_n which_o befall_v we_o by_o sin_n will_v still_o in_o part_n continue_v it_o be_v recompense_v by_o the_o act_n of_o that_o new_a principle_n of_o gospel_n grace_n which_o be_v exercise_v in_o it_o for_o every_o act_n of_o of_o our_o affection_n towards_o god_n in_o the_o power_n of_o grace_n exceed_v and_o be_v of_o another_o nature_n above_o that_o we_o can_v do_v or_o attain_v unto_o in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n uncorrupted_a hereby_o be_v life_n and_o peace_n bring_v into_o our_o soul_n and_o preserve_v in_o they_o 3_o it_o be_v that_o whereby_o our_o heart_n and_o mind_n be_v take_v off_o from_o the_o world_n and_o all_o inordinate_a love_n thereunto_o where_o this_o be_v in_o prevalent_a degree_n there_o be_v neither_o life_n nor_o peace_n and_o every_o
be_v exhort_v unto_o 1_o cor._n 15_o 58._o therefore_o my_o belove_a brethren_n be_v you_o steadfast_a unmoveable_a always_o abound_v in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n forasmuch_o as_o you_o know_v that_o your_o labour_n be_v not_o in_o vain_a in_o the_o lord_n transient_a affection_n with_o their_o occasional_a operation_n deceive_v multitude_n oft_o time_n they_o be_v pregnant_a in_o their_o act_n as_o those_o that_o be_v most_o sincere_a and_o many_o effect_n in_o joy_n in_o mourning_n in_o complaint_n they_o will_v produce_v especial_o when_o excite_v by_o any_o outward_a affliction_n sickness_n and_o the_o like_a but_o their_o goodness_n be_v like_o the_o early_a cloud_n or_o morning_n dew_n let_v none_o therefore_o please_v themselves_o with_o the_o operation_n of_o transient_a affection_n with_o respect_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v they_o never_o so_o urgent_a or_o so_o pleasant_a or_o so_o frequent_a in_o their_o return_n those_o that_o be_v sincere_a be_v at_o all_o time_n firm_a and_o stable_a 2_o that_o the_o soul_n do_v find_v a_o spiritual_a relish_n and_o savour_n in_o the_o thing_n which_o it_o so_o adhere_v unto_o the_o affection_n be_v the_o palate_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o it_o taste_v of_o all_o thing_n which_o it_o receive_v or_o refuse_v and_o it_o will_v not_o long_o cleave_v unto_o any_o thing_n which_o they_o find_v not_o a_o savour_n and_o relish_v in_o something_o be_v speak_v before_o of_o that_o sweetness_n which_o be_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o the_o taste_n of_o they_o consist_v in_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o their_o suitableness_n unto_o the_o affection_n inclination_n and_o disposition_n of_o the_o mind_n hence_o they_o have_v no_o relish_n unto_o man_n of_o carnal_a mind_n whoever_o therefore_o will_v know_v whether_o his_o affection_n do_v sincere_o adhere_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n let_v he_o examine_v what_o relish_n what_o sweetness_n what_o savour_n he_o find_v in_o they_o when_o he_o be_v please_v with_o they_o as_o the_o palate_n with_o suitable_a and_o proper_a food_n when_o he_o find_v that_o he_o receive_v nourishment_n by_o they_o in_o the_o inward_a man_n then_o do_v he_o adhere_v unto_o they_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n this_o spiritual_a taste_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o experience_n it_o be_v not_o what_o we_o have_v hear_v or_o understand_v only_o but_o what_o we_o have_v try_v and_o taste_v whereof_o we_o have_v experience_n this_o make_v we_o long_o for_o what_o we_o have_v former_o enjoy_v and_o strengthen_v faith_n as_o unto_o what_o we_o pray_v for_o and_o expect_v in_o every_o darkness_n in_o every_o damp_n of_o spirit_n under_o every_o apprehension_n of_o dreadness_n or_o the_o withdraw_n of_o the_o sense_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o soul_n know_v what_o it_o want_v and_o what_o it_o do_v desire_v oh_o say_v such_o a_o one_o that_o it_o be_v now_o with_o i_o as_o in_o former_a day_n i_o know_v he_o who_o then_o give_v i_o such_o refresh_a taste_n of_o his_o own_o goodness_n who_o make_v every_o thing_n of_o himself_o sweet_a and_o pleasant_a unto_o i_o can_v renew_v this_o work_n of_o his_o grace_n towards_o i_o he_o can_v give_v i_o a_o new_a spiritual_a appetite_n and_o relish_n and_o he_o can_v make_v all_o spiritual_a thing_n savoury_a unto_o i_o again_o as_o a_o man_n under_o a_o languish_v sickness_n or_o when_o he_o be_v chastened_a with_o strong_a pain_n so_o as_o that_o his_o soul_n abhor_v bread_n and_o his_o daily_a meat_n can_v remember_v what_o appetite_n he_o have_v with_o what_o gust_n and_o relish_v he_o be_v wont_a to_o take_v in_o his_o food_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o health_n which_o make_v he_o to_o know_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o condition_n and_o to_o desire_v a_o return_n unto_o it_o so_o be_v it_o with_o a_o sin_n sick_a soul_n it_o can_v find_v no_o relish_n no_o gust_n no_o sweetness_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n he_o find_v no_o savour_n in_o the_o bread_n of_o the_o word_n nor_o any_o refreshment_n in_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o yet_o in_o themselves_o be_v daily_a meat_n a_o feast_n of_o fat_a thing_n and_o of_o wine_n well_o refine_v yet_o do_v it_o remember_v former_a day_n when_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v sweet_a unto_o he_o and_o if_o he_o have_v any_o spark_n of_o spiritual_a life_n yet_o remain_v it_o will_v stir_v he_o up_o to_o seek_v with_o all_o diligence_n after_o a_o recovery_n how_o be_v it_o with_o you_o who_o be_v now_o under_o spiritual_a decay_n who_o find_v no_o taste_n nor_o relish_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n unto_o who_o the_o word_n be_v not_o savoury_a nor_o other_o ordinance_n powerful_a call_v to_o mind_v how_o it_o have_v be_v with_o you_o in_o former_a day_n and_o what_o you_o find_v in_o these_o thing_n if_o so_o be_v say_v the_o apostle_n that_o you_o have_v taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a if_o you_o have_v not_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o you_o have_v never_o yet_o have_v the_o least_o sincere_a love_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n for_o where_o that_o be_v it_o will_v give_v a_o spiritual_a relish_n of_o they_o if_o you_o have_v how_o be_v it_o you_o can_v give_v yourselves_o rest_v one_o moment_n without_o a_o endeavour_n after_o the_o heal_n of_o your_o backslide_n 3_o it_o be_v require_v that_o our_o affection_n be_v so_o set_v on_o spiritual_a thing_n so_o as_o to_o be_v a_o continual_a spring_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o meditation_n no_o man_n can_v be_v so_o forsake_v of_o reason_n as_o to_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v any_o sincere_a affection_n for_o what_o he_o think_v little_o on_o or_o not_o at_o all_o or_o that_o he_o can_v have_v a_o true_a affection_n for_o any_o thing_n which_o will_v not_o stir_v up_o and_o ingenerate_a in_o he_o continual_a thought_n about_o it_o let_v man_n try_v themselves_o as_o unto_o their_o relation_n or_o their_o enjoyment_n or_o the_o object_n of_o their_o predominant_a lust_n and_o they_o will_v find_v how_o thing_n be_v state_v in_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o therefore_o whereas_o all_o man_n pretend_v to_o love_n god_n and_o christ_n and_o the_o way_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o know_v in_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o they_o little_o think_v of_o they_o or_o meditate_v upon_o they_o both_o their_o pretence_n and_o religion_n be_v vain_a where_o our_o affection_n be_v due_o place_v on_o heavenly_a thing_n so_o as_o that_o we_o be_v indeed_o spiritual_o mind_a they_o will_v be_v a_o constant_a spring_n of_o spiritual_a thought_n and_o meditation_n but_o this_o also_o have_v be_v before_o speak_v unto_o four_o when_o our_o affection_n be_v thus_o apply_v unto_o spiritual_a thing_n they_o will_v be_v prevalent_a and_o victorious_a against_o solicitation_n unto_o the_o contrary_a or_o allurement_n to_o draw_v they_o off_o unto_o any_o other_o object_n the_o work_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a adversary_n be_v to_o solicit_v and_o tempt_v our_o affection_n to_o divert_v they_o from_o their_o proper_a object_n there_o be_v some_o temptation_n of_o satan_n that_o make_v a_o immediate_a impression_n on_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n such_o be_v his_o injection_n of_o diabolical_a blasphemous_a thought_n concern_v god_n his_o be_v nature_n and_o will_v and_o the_o distress_n which_o he_o reduce_v man_n unto_o in_o their_o conscience_n through_o darkness_n and_o misrepresentation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o goodness_n but_o the_o high_a road_n and_o constant_a practice_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a adversary_n be_v by_o the_o solicitation_n of_o our_o affection_n unto_o object_n that_o be_v in_o themselves_o or_o in_o the_o degree_n of_o our_o affection_n towards_o they_o evil_a and_o sinful_a of_o the_o first_o be_v all_o sensual_a pleasure_n of_o the_o flesh_n in_o drunkenness_n uncleanness_n gluttony_n chamber_v and_o wantonness_n with_o all_o sort_n of_o sensual_a pleasure_n of_o the_o latter_a be_v all_o our_o inordinate_a love_n unto_o self_n our_o family_n and_o the_o whole_a world_n or_o the_o thing_n of_o it_o unto_o this_o end_n every_o thing_n in_o the_o whole_a world_n that_o may_v make_v provision_n for_o lust_n be_v make_v use_n of_o herein_o consist_v the_o nature_n and_o efficacy_n of_o most_o of_o those_o temptation_n which_o we_o have_v to_o conflict_n withal_o solicitation_n they_o be_v of_o our_o affection_n to_o draw_v they_o off_o from_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a and_o to_o divert_v they_o unto_o other_o thing_n hereby_o do_v our_o enemy_n endeavour_n to_o beguile_v we_o as_o the_o serpent_n beguile_v eve_n with_o fair_a and_o false_a representation_n of_o other_o belove_n that_o our_o heart_n be_v not_o preserve_v as_o a_o chaste_a virgin_n in_o all_o their_o affection_n for_o christ._n and_o it_o be_v almost_o incredible_a how_o apt_a we_o be_v to_o be_v beguile_v by_o the_o specious_a pretence_n wherewith_o we_o be_v solicit_v that_o our_o
affection_n in_o the_o degree_n treat_v about_o suppose_v of_o love_n unto_o the_o world_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o it_o be_v lawful_a and_o allowable_a be_v one_o of_o the_o sophism_n and_o artifices_fw-la wherewith_o many_o be_v delude_v hereon_o provide_v they_o run_v not_o out_o into_o scandalous_a excess_n they_o approve_v of_o themselves_o in_o such_o a_o worldly_a frame_n of_o mind_n and_o act_v according_a unto_o it_o as_o render_v they_o fruitless_a useless_a senseless_a and_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o that_o prevail_a adherence_n of_o affection_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n that_o aught_o to_o be_v in_o we_o other_o be_v delude_v by_o a_o pretence_n that_o it_o be_v in_o one_o instance_n only_o they_o will_v be_v spare_v it_o be_v but_o this_o or_o that_o object_n they_o will_v give_v out_o the_o embrace_n of_o their_o affection_n unto_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n they_o will_v be_v entire_a for_o god_n the_o vanity_n of_o which_o pretence_n we_o have_v speak_v unto_o before_o other_o be_v ruin_v by_o give_v place_n unto_o their_o solicitation_n with_o respect_n unto_o any_o one_o affection_n whatever_o as_o suppose_v it_o be_v that_o of_o fear_n in_o time_n of_o danger_n for_o profession_n multitude_n have_v lose_v all_o their_o affection_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n through_o a_o fear_n of_o lose_v that_o which_o be_v temporal_a as_o their_o life_n their_o liberty_n their_o good_n and_o the_o like_a when_o once_o satan_n or_o the_o world_n have_v get_v as_o it_o be_v the_o mastery_n of_o this_o affection_n or_o a_o prevalent_a interest_n in_o it_o they_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o draw_v all_o other_o into_o a_o defection_n from_o christ_n and_o the_o gospel_n he_o that_o love_v his_o life_n shall_v lose_v it_o wherefore_o it_o be_v no_o ordinary_a nor_o easy_a thing_n to_o preserve_v our_o affection_n pure_a entire_a and_o steady_a in_o their_o vigorous_a adherence_n unto_o spiritual_a thing_n against_o all_o these_o solicitation_n watchfulness_n prayer_n faith_n in_o exercise_n and_o a_o daily_a examination_n of_o ourselves_o be_v require_v hereunto_o for_o want_v of_o a_o due_a attendance_n unto_o the_o these_o thing_n and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o this_o end_n namely_o the_o preservation_n of_o our_o spiritual_a affection_n in_o their_o integrity_n many_o even_o before_o they_o be_v aware_a die_v away_o as_o to_o all_o power_n and_o vigour_n of_o spiritual_a life_n five_o affection_n thus_o fix_v upon_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a will_v give_v great_a relief_n against_o the_o remainder_n of_o that_o vanity_n of_o mind_n which_o believer_n themselves_o be_v oft_o time_n perplex_v withal_o yea_o i_o do_v not_o know_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v a_o great_a burden_n unto_o they_o nor_o which_o they_o more_o groan_n for_o deliverance_n from_o the_o instability_n of_o the_o mind_n its_o readiness_n to_o receive_v impression_n from_o thing_n vain_a and_o useless_a the_o irregularity_n of_o their_o thought_n be_v a_o continual_a burden_n unto_o many_o nothing_o can_v give_v the_o soul_n any_o relief_n herein_o nothing_o can_v give_v bound_n unto_o the_o endless_a vanity_n of_o foolish_a imagination_n nothing_o can_v dry_v up_o the_o spring_n from_o whence_o they_o arise_v or_o render_v the_o soil_n wherein_o they_o grow_v barren_a as_o unto_o their_o production_n and_o maintenance_n but_o only_o the_o growth_n of_o spiritual_a affection_n with_o their_o continual_a vigorous_a act_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n for_o hereby_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n will_v be_v so_o unite_v unto_o they_o that_o which_o the_o psalmist_n prayer_n for_o psal._n 86.11_o as_o that_o they_o will_v not_o be_v ready_a to_o depart_v from_o they_o and_o give_v entertainment_n unto_o vain_a empty_a foolish_a imagination_n thought_n of_o other_o thing_n great_a and_o better_a than_o what_o this_o world_n can_v contain_v will_v be_v continual_o arise_v in_o the_o mind_n not_o to_o be_v lay_v aside_o by_o any_o solicitation_n of_o vanity_n for_o he_o that_o be_v wise_a can_v but_o know_v and_o consider_v that_o the_o spiritual_a thing_n which_o it_o exercise_v its_o thought_n about_o have_v substance_n in_o they_o be_v durable_a profitable_a always_o the_o same_o that_o the_o advantage_n peace_n rest_v riches_n and_o reward_v of_o the_o soul_n lie_v in_o they_o but_o other_o imagination_n which_o the_o foolish_a mind_n be_v apt_a to_o give_v entertainment_n unto_o be_v vain_a empty_a fruitless_a and_o such_o as_o end_v in_o shame_n and_o trouble_n again_o the_o vanity_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o a_o indulgence_n unto_o foolish_a imagination_n arise_v from_o or_o be_v animate_v and_o increase_v by_o that_o gust_n and_o relish_v which_o it_o find_v in_o earthly_a thing_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o they_o whether_o lawful_a or_o unlawful_a hence_o on_o all_o occasion_n yea_o in_o holy_a duty_n it_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o turn_v aside_o and_o take_v a_o taste_n of_o they_o and_o sometime_o to_o take_v up_o with_o they_o like_o a_o tipple_a traveller_n who_o though_o he_o be_v engage_v in_o a_o journey_n on_o the_o most_o earnest_a occasion_n yet_o he_o can_v but_o be_v bibbing_a here_o and_o there_o as_o he_o pass_v by_o and_o it_o may_v be_v at_o length_n before_o he_o come_v to_o his_o journey_n end_v lodge_v himself_o in_o a_o nasty_a alehouse_n when_o man_n be_v engage_v in_o important_a duty_n yet_o if_o they_o always_o carry_v about_o they_o a_o strong_a gust_n and_o relish_v of_o earthly_a thing_n they_o will_v ever_o and_o anon_o in_o their_o thought_n divert_v unto_o they_o either_o as_o unto_o such_o real_a object_n as_o they_o be_v accustom_v unto_o or_o as_o unto_o what_o present_a circumstance_n do_v administer_v unto_o corrupt_a affection_n or_o as_o to_o what_o they_o fancy_n and_o create_v in_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o sometime_o it_o may_v be_v after_o they_o have_v make_v they_o a_o few_o short_a visit_n they_o take_v up_o with_o they_o and_o lose_v whole_o the_o work_n they_o be_v engage_v in_o nothing_o as_o be_v say_v will_v give_v relief_n herein_o but_o the_o vigorous_a and_o constant_a exercise_n of_o our_o affection_n on_o heavenly_a thing_n for_o this_o will_v insensible_o take_v off_o that_o gust_n and_o relish_v which_o the_o mind_n have_v find_v in_o thing_n present_a earthly_a and_o sensual_a and_o make_v they_o as_o a_o sapless_a thing_n unto_o the_o whole_a soul_n they_o will_v so_o place_v the_o cross_n of_o christ_n in_o particular_a on_o the_o heart_n as_o that_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v crucify_v unto_o it_o lose_v all_o that_o brightness_n beauty_n and_o savour_n which_o it_o make_v use_v of_o to_o solicit_v our_o mind_n unto_o thought_n and_o desire_n about_o it_o moreover_o this_o frame_n of_o spirit_n alone_o will_v keep_v we_o on_o our_o watch_n against_o all_o those_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o vanity_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v excite_v and_o maintain_v such_o be_v the_o wander_a and_o rove_a of_o the_o outward_a sense_n the_o sense_n especial_o that_o of_o the_o eye_n be_v ready_a to_o become_v purveyor_n to_o make_v provision_n for_o the_o vanity_n and_o lust_n of_o the_o mind_n hence_o the_o psalmist_n pray_v turn_v away_o my_o eye_n from_o behold_v vanity_n if_o the_o eye_n rove_v after_o vain_a object_n the_o mind_n will_v ruminate_v upon_o they_o and_o another_o affirm_v that_o he_o have_v make_v a_o covenant_n with_o his_o eye_n to_o preserve_v they_o from_o fix_v on_o such_o object_n as_o may_v solicit_v lust_n or_o corrupt_a affection_n and_o it_o be_v a_o useful_a labour_n will_v this_o place_n admit_v of_o it_o to_o discover_v the_o ready_a serviceableness_n of_o the_o outward_a sense_n and_o member_n of_o the_o body_n unto_o sin_n and_o folly_n if_o not_o watch_v against_o rom._n 6.13_o 19_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n be_v the_o incessant_a work_v of_o the_o fancy_n and_o imagination_n which_o of_o itself_o be_v evil_a continual_o and_o all_o the_o day_n long_o this_o be_v the_o food_n of_o a_o vain_a mind_n and_o the_o vehicle_n or_o mean_n of_o conveyance_n for_o all_o temptation_n from_o satan_n and_o the_o world_n beside_o sundry_a occasion_n of_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v usual_o turn_v or_o abuse_v unto_o the_o same_o end_n exciting_a and_o exercise_v of_o the_o vanity_n of_o the_o mind_n wherever_o our_o affection_n be_v fix_v on_o spiritual_a thing_n our_o mind_n will_v constant_o be_v under_o a_o warn_v or_o charge_v to_o keep_v diligent_a watch_n against_o all_o these_o thing_n whereby_o that_o vanity_n which_o it_o so_o abhor_v which_o it_o be_v so_o burden_a withal_o be_v maintain_v and_o excite_v nor_o without_o this_o prevalency_n in_o the_o mind_n will_v ever_o a_o work_n of_o mortification_n be_v carry_v on_o in_o the_o soul_n col._n 3.2_o 4_o 5._o chap._n xxi_o have_v declare_v wherein_o this_o duty_n of_o be_v spiritually-minded_n do_v consist_v that_o which_o remain_v in_o compliance_n with_o