BEing in most extreame per­plexity of spirit, and in great outward distresse, all threat­ning uttermost misery, even without any appearance of re­medy; knowing no other way to comfort and settle himselfe, he plyed his prayers, and be­tooke him to Gods promises, submitting to his good pleasure for the issue, especially (by the Lords good grace) he remem­bred these choyce places of Scripture, & they upheld him, he had else fainted utterly.

Who is among you that feareth the Lord? that walketh in dark­nesse, [Page 9]and hath no light, let him trust in the Name of the Lord and stay upon his God, Isa. 50.20.

Alas, for that day is great, so that name is like it, it is even the time of Jacobs trouble, but he shall be saved out of it, Jer. 30.7.

The Lord also will be a refuge son the oppressed, and a refuge no time, of trouble, Psal. 9.9.

God is our strength and refage; a very present helpe, in trouble, therefore we will not feare though the earth be removed, and though the mountaines be carried into the middest of the Sea, Psal. 46.1, 21.

Behold I am the Lord, the God of all flesh, is there any thing too hard for me? Jer. 32.27.

God hath power to help and to cast downe; Amaziah said, but what shall I doe for the 120 Ta­lents? he said, the Lord is able to give thee much more then this, 2 Chron. 23.8, 9.

If the [...] altogether holdest thy [Page 10]Peace at this time, then shall their enlargement and deliverance a­rise from another place, Est. 4.14.

God spake and it was done, he commanded and it stood fast, Ps. 33.9.

He shall deliver the needy when he cryeth, the poore also, and him that hath no helper, Psal. 72.12.

When the poore and needy seeke water and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will heare them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them; I will open Rivers in high places, and Fountaines in the middest of the Valleyes; I will make the Wildernesse a poole of water, and the dry Land springs of water, that they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together; that the hand of the Lord hath done this, Isa. 41.17, 18, 20.

He clave the Rocks in the Wil­dernesse, and gave them drink as out of the great dept is, Psal. 78.15. Numb. 20.11.

And the Lord said unto Moses, is the Lords hand waxed short? thou shalt see now, whether my word shall come to passe unto thee or not, Numb. 11.23.

Prove me now herewith saith the Lord of Hosts, if I will not open you the windowes of Heaven and poure you out a blessing, that there shall not be roome enough to receive it, Mal. 3.10.

Jesus fed 5000. men, besides women and children, with five loaves and two fishes, Matth. 14.17, 21.

With God all things are possible, Mat. 19.26.

I know that thou canst doe all things, Job 42.2.

He performeth the thing that is appointed for me, and many such things are with him, Job 23.14.

The Lord is good, and a strong hold in the day of trouble, and he knoweth them that trust in him, N [...]h. 1.7.

The Lord knoweth how to de­liver the godly out of temptations, 2 Pet. 2.9.

God is faithfull, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation make a way to e­scape, that ye may be able to beare it, 1 Cor. 10.13.

He that spared not his owne Sonne, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him freely give in all things? Rom. 8.32.

Besides, the Lord saith, call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorifie me, Psal. 50.15.

Come unto me all yee that la­bour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest, Mat. 11.28.

Thou which hast showed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up againe from the depths of the earth, Psal. 71.20.

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the God of all comfort, who comfort­eth us in all our tribu latiods, who delivered us from so great a death and doth deliver us, and in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us, 2. Cor. 1.10.

The Lord hath delivered me out of the paw of the Lyon, and out of the paw of the Beare, he will de­liver me out of the hand of this Philistine, 1 Sum. 17.37.

When my spirit was overwhelm­ed within me, then thou knowest my path, I looked on my right hand and beheld, but there was no man that would know me, all refuge failed me, then cryed I un­to the Lord, O Lord, thou art my refuge and my portion, Psal. 142.3, 4, 5.

Why art thou then cast downe O my soule? why art thou disqui­eted within me? hope thou in God for I shall yet prays [...] him, who is [Page 14]the help of my countenance and my God, Psal. 42.11.

My soule, look unto Jesus the Author and finisher of thy faith, consider him that endured such contradictions of sinners against himselfe, least thou be wearied and faint in thy mind, not having yet resisted unto blood, Heb. 12.3, 4.

Reekon that the sufferings of this present time, are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed, Rom. 8.18.

And that though thou be trou­bled on every side, yet not di­stressed, though perplexed not in despaire, persecuted but not for­saken, cast downe but not destroy­ed, though the outward man pe­rish, the inward man is renewed day by day, for my light affliction which is but for a moment, work­eth for thee a farre more excee­ding weight of glory, 2 Cor. 4. [...], 8, 9, 16, 17.

Therefore I will looke unto the Lord, I will wait for the God of my salvation, my God will heare me, reioyce not against me O mine enemy, when I fall I shall arise, when I sit in darknesse the Lord shall be a light unto me, I will beare the indignation of the Lord because I have sinned against him untill he plead my cause and ex­ecute iudgement for me, he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousnesse, Mic. 7.7, 8, 9.

My soule, be content with what thy God hath graciously given thee, and trust him wholly, for he hath said, he will never faile, forsake nor forget thee; so that thou mayest boldly say, the Lord is my helper, and I will not feare what man can doe unto me, or whatsoever shall betide me, Heb. 13.5, 6.

Yea, though I know not what to doe, mine eyes and my heart [Page 16]are upon thee, 2 Chron. 20.12.

Now Lord, though I be unworn thy thou shouldest come under my roofe, speak but, one word and I shall be helped, Mat. 8.8.13.

Lord, if thou wilt thou canst make me cleane; I will, be thou cleane; say thou unto me, and I shall be cleansed, Mat. 8.2, 3.

Lord Jesus speak unto me, that it is thou that will comfort and helpe me, that I be not feared o [...] troubled over much, Mat. 14.27.

Well then, by thy especiall grace O my God in Christ, in the sorrow of my spirit I will poure out my soule before thee O Lord, and ou [...] of the abundance of my complaint and griefe (with Hannah) will I speak, 1 Sam. 1.15, 19.

And untill God shall grant an issue out of my pressing, and even h [...]plesse f [...]are, griefe and di­stresse, I will (with David) con­tinue seeking ease and reliefe from Heaven. 2 Sam. 12.16.23.

And say with him (when he was in greatest misery) If I shall find favour in the eyes of the Lord I shall be belped, but if he thus say, I have no delight in thee, be­hold here I am, let him doe to me as seemeth good unto him, 2 Sam. 15.25, 26.

And according to his exam­ple (even when he had distru­sted God, 1 Sam. 29.1. fled and fell to the enemy, verse 2. when he made shew, promise, and proster of his service against Gods people, ch. 29.2, 8. when in his absence his Towne was surprized, spoyled, pillaged, and burned, and the Wives of his Souldiers captived, and all that he had was lost and carried away by the enemy, when he and his people wept that they could weep no more, when they murmured against him, laid all the blame upon him, and spake of stoning of [Page 18]him; by all which, judge how he was distressed,) I will encou­rage my selfe in the Lord my God, and in all things seek direction and help from him; doubtlesse the Lord (as he did him) will an­swer me graciously, and deliver me effectually, 1 Sam. 30.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 19.

And though as Jacob served twenty yeers ere he could pro­vide for his owne houshold, Gen. 31.38. & 30.30. It hath plea­sed the Lord that I have served many yeers already, and if God spare my life, and please not to work wonderfully for me, am like to serve many yeers more to serve others turnes, to the great prejudice of me & mine; I hope by the good providence of my good God, if he sees it good for me to live the day, at Jacob did, to acknowledge my God hath dealt graciously with me, because he hath vouchsafed [Page 19]a competency and enough unto me, Gen. 33.11.

And although (which mercy I am most unworthy to live to re­ceive of acknowledge) I dare not for conscience sake to help my selfe by indirect meanes in my misery, whereby great losse and prejudice hath befallen me, yet I will trust in this, that the Prophet in the Lords name said to Amaziah (who was trou­bled with the losse of the [...]00 Talents) that the Lord is able, and if he sees it good for me, will give more then this unto me, 2 Chron. [...], 8, 9.

And not to murmure, grum­ble, be impatient and discon­tented with my condition, con­sidering Jobs example of suffe­ring, and the end of the Lord towards him, for the Lord is very pittifall and of tender mercy, James 5.11.

For Job was perfect and up­right, [Page 20]one that feared God and eschewed evill, by the Lords owne testimony, Job 1.1.5.8. chap. 2.3. yet though he looked for good, evill came unto him, and when he waited for light, there came darknesse, Job 30.26. for the thing that he feare greatly came upon him, and that which he was afraid of befell him, he was not in safety neither had he rest, neither wa [...] he quiet, yet trouble came, Jo [...] 3.25, 26. witnesse what fol­lowes.

The Sabeans fell upon h [...] Oxen and took, them away, [...] 1.14, 15. fire fell from Heave [...] and burnt his Sheep and Se [...] ­vants, verse 16. The Caldea [...] fell upon the Camels and ca [...] ­ [...]ied them away, verse 17. [...] Sonnes and Daughters we [...] eating and drinking in the [...] elder Brothers house, and b [...] hold there came a great win [...] [Page 21]and smote the foure corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are all dead, verse 18, 19. Satan gat leave from God to smite his bo­dy all over with fore and loath­some boyles, that he was forst to sit in the ashes and scrape himselfe with a potsheard, chap. 2.6, 7, 8. his wife that should have been his comfort was his heavy crosse, urging him to curse God in this condition, ch. 2. [...]9. and was as a stranger to him, and would hardly know him or come at him, chap. 19.17. his neerest kinred failed him, his familiar friends forgot him, his servants contemned him, his most inward friends abhorred him children despised him, ch. 19.13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19. his most godly friends that should have been his best counsellours & comforters in this his wofull & comfortlesse estate, grieved, [Page 22]censured, and pleaded against, and reproached him, Iob [...]. 1 [...] & ch. 16.20. & 19.21. God made his heart soft, the Almighty trou­bled him, Iob 23.16. and every way seemed to let himselfe a­gainst him, chap. 19.8. to 13. yea, the arrowes of the Almigh­ty stuck within him, perplexity and horrour seized on him, ch. [...]. [...], &c. yet at length the Lord turned away his captivity, and gave him twice as much as he had before, and blessed the lat­ter end of Iob more then the be­ginning, Iob 42.10, 12. and is the same Lord God and helper for ever to them that feare be­fore, call upon, and trust in him. My sweet Saviour grant me as thou advisest and com­mandest me, to possesse my soule in patience, Luke 21.19. and to cast my care upon thee, who takest care for me, 1 Pet. 5.7. and because strict reservednesse [Page 23]keeps concealed my estate and affections, and prevents giving advantage against me, the Lord assisting me, I will follow Mi­cahs counsell, Mac. 7.5. not to trust in a friend, nor to put con­fidence in a guide, but to keep the doore of my mouth from her that lyeth in my bosome.

And with Abrahams servant to hold my peace, to wit, whe­ther the Lord will make my bu­sinesse prosperous or not, Gen. 24.21.

And in these times of generall calamities, (as the Lord wils Baruch upon the like occasions, not to seek great things for my selfe, nor to be overmuch trou­bled with these triviall, perso­nall perplexities and afflicti­ons, but to be humbly and hear­tily content if the Lord please (as he hath done hitherto most remarkably) to give me my life for a prey whethersoever I goe, Ier. 45.4, 5.

To rest assured with Mordecay that God will send help one way or other, if not as I concei­ved or imagine, by some other means undoubtedly, Est. 4.14.

To say as my most blessed Sa­viour did, in his most bitterest passion, O my Father, if it be pos­sible let this Cup passe from me, neverthelesse not as I will, but a thou wilt, Mat. 26.39.

And with Abraham, to hop [...] beyond hope, and to beleev [...] beyond sense, being fully perswaded, that what my God hat [...] promised, he is also able to performe, Rom. 4.18.20, 21.

And never to cast away [...] confidence, which hath great re­compence of reward, He. 10.3 [...]

But as I have great need [...] imbrace patience, that after have done the will of my God (by his grace) I may recei [...] the promise, Heb. 10.36.

Being most confident, that [Page 25]the hatred, envy, unpeaceable­nesse, malice, scorne, cruelty of Iosephs Brethren against him, Gen. 37.4.8.11.19. their pur­pose to kill him, their casting him into the pit, their selling him to the Ismalites, the Isma­lites selling him againe to the Aegyptians, Potiphar, verse 22.24.28.36. the stander of his Mistresse, his hard imprison­ment thereupon, Gen. 39.19, 20. the Butlers, Bakers, Pha­raohs dreames, the extreame dearth, and all things whatso­ever seemed to make never so­much against him, wrought in the end most remarkably for him, Gen. 41.9. & 45.5, 7, 8. & 50.24. so my God without doubt will most fatherly, powerfully, faithfully, seasonably, careful­ly; constantly work in, with and for me (being the same God for ever; for good to his) that all my present and future inward [Page 26]perplexities and outward trou­bles, all that Satan or any of his instruments doe, or may doe against me, all the malice and scorne of evill men, all the op­positions and injuries of any though never so great and ma­ny, all my instant seares, cares, and most hopelesse and help­lesse miseries, yea, my folly, sinne, and misgovernment, my felt, or lookt for shame and losse, my crosses and poverty, yea, even that intolerable hur­then (Lord thou knowest my meaning and necessity) that e­ven overwhelmeth me, and whatsoever doth or may seem to make most against me, that all shall turne remarkably for good unto me, Rom. 8.28. Lord thou hast spoken it and will also bring it to passe, thou hast purposed it and wilt also doe it, and nothing shall let it, Isa. 46.10, 11.

Therefore to conclude as Joseph did, and to say to my selfe (in every crosle and cala­mity, yea, though never so grievous and desperate, even in my present misery) as he did to his Brethren, be not grie­ved nor angry that this or that betides thee, it is God that sends it to thee; and remaines thy most wise and tender-heart­ed Father continually, howsoe­ver he please to afflict thee, and whatsoever by the devil or man may be intended or wrought against thee, thy God intendeth and will work all for thy good undoubtedly, Gen, 45.5.7. & 50.20. Well then my soule, is not all this enough for thee?

See more at large in my col­lection of Promises; these fol­lowing particulars, which will (by Gods blessing) afford more matter of consolation and set­ling in any kind of misery, as in my booke of the Promises, concerning afflictions in gene­rall, page 102 to 112:

• Concerning trouble of mind, pag. 116.
• Concerning a desolate estate, pag. 118
• Concerning any kind of out­ward want, pag. 135
• Concerning Gods blessing, pag. 164.
• [Page 29]Concerning the manner of Gods hearing our prayers, pag. 208.

Oh Lord helpe mine heart to pray, heare my prayers, thy Name shall have the praises.

O Thou that art the onely and alwayes true God, whom a­lone I desire to serve and trust; [...]ternall, al-knowing, every where present, almighty, most wise, mercifull, faithfull and immutable; in Jesus Christ by vertue of thine owne most free and faithfull Covenant, my re­conciled God, most gracious Father, and alone al-sufficient helper; it is thy will I should call upon thee in every need, and hast promised thou wilt de­liver [Page 30]me, that I may glorifie thee, I have never sought thee in vaine, thou hast alwayes heard me, and that most re­markably in greatest extremity, thou hast often done more for me then I desired or expected from thee; behold, as well as I can (though alas at the best ex­ceeding weakly) in the sense of my especiall necessities (fully known to thee with all circum­stances) I set my soule to seeke all help at thy hands onely, de­ [...]ying all other meanes of re­liefe wholly; this in obedience to thy will, in the assistance of thy Spirit, in the name and me­diation of thy deare and onely Sonne, my alone al-sufficient Saviour and continuall inter­cessor Christ Jesus, founding my prayers on thy promises, which I lay before thee, with which I urge thee, flying to thy mercies, building on thy pow­er, [Page 31]submitting to thy will, wis­dome and providence, acknow­ledging all my inward and out­ward welfare past, present and to come, to come onely from thee, or else woe, woe, woe unto me, and nothing could or can availe me; a waiting for thy salvation continually, promi­sing all possible praises to thee onely, for whatsoever grace or good thou hast pleased to vouchsafe, or shalt please to vouchsafe unto me; and now thou that art such a God as I acknowledge thee, and thou hast revealed thy selfe to be in­treated in mercy, as thou hast promised by thy unresistable working, in due season, upon all occasions, especially in greatest extremities, more par­ticularly in my particular pre­sent or future prossing inward and outward necessities, to guide, to prevent, to governe, [Page 32]to restore, to receive, to streng then, to comfort, to support, to establish, to relieve, to protect, to deliver, every way to help and prosper me, notwithstan­ding all my horrible ingrati­tude, most hainous sinfulnesse, exceeding unworthinesse, ex­treame weaknesse, and all other though never so many & great impediments; you, according to all thy great name manife­sted and magnified to thine for good (whereby so freely, plain­ly, plentifully, infallibly, thou hast revealed and assured audi­ence and help to thine) to hear and help me even beyond all that I now, or at any other time can think or aske, that it may appeare, thou Lord hast done all for me, all this, & all else, as may be most to the glory of thy name, the service of thy Zion, the gracing of my Christian pro­fession, the stopping the mouth [Page 33]of prophanenesse, malice, scorn and injury, the preventing my distasting others, or others (e­specially such as most wish, and would be glad of my shame and harme) having advantage a­gainst me, the good of those most neare and deare unto me, my outward credite and com­fort in thy fear with thy favour, my soules present peace and e­verlasting happinesse in Hea­ven with thee, as seemeth best unto thee, wherewithall in all good conscience and Christian considence, make me contented heartily, and it is enough for me, and all the glory shall he thine onely, to whom alone the same is due wholly and continu­ally, Amen.

O Most holy Lord God, pre­pare every one of our un­prepared hearts, in most holy manner, to seek thy face in eve­ry one of thy most holy Ordi­nances; work effectually with [Page 55]thy most holy spirit upon every one of our hearts, that the meanes of grace may prove ef­fectuall to every one of our most sinfull soules; to the buil­ding of them up in all grace, to our present comfort and eter­nall happinesse in Christ Jesus, Amen.

LORD give me a peaceable, sealed, suffering spirit.

A cercumspect, silent, sober tongue.

A faire, friendly, free carriage

A grave, gracious, gentle con­versation.

Lord make me and every one of mine capable, and partakers of each part of thy covenant of [Page 70]mercy, grace, peace and happi­nesse, and it is enough.

Lord deliver and keep me from unconscionable, contenti­ous and unreasonable men; let none that wish or seek my shame or harme, have their will of me.

Lord cause me to walke more wisely and uprightly that I may walke more boldly and secure­ly; maintaine my cause for thine honours sake, I beseech thee.

Lord put spirit, life and pow­er into my devotions; alwaies forgive, accept and blesse my weake performances.

Lord help me to worship thee seasonably and conscionably; and worke with thy grace mer­cifully, and faithfully, that I [Page 71]may walk with thee watchfully and constantly.

Lord assure me of thy favour and help me out of debt before I dye, I beg of thee.

Lord help me to hold fast my integrity, and to trust thy al­sufficiency in my greatest ex­tremity, let it not be in vaine for me to seek, serve and await upon thee.

Lord whatsoever befals me, let me never be forced to put forth my hand to iniquity; as thou art most true, make good this truth unto me, Psal. 125.3.

Lord poure out the spirit of grace and supplication upon me that I may delight to poure out my heart in prayer before thee daily.

Lord cause me to love the Lord Jesus dearly, to learne o [...] him who is meek & lowely, and to apply his al-sufficient satisfa­ction rightly.

Lord in the sight and sense o [...] my sinnes humble me deeply for those most displeasing [...] thee chiefly; oh discover the [...] unto me clearly, make me t [...] hate and forsake them unfair­edly.

Lord as thou hast expres [...] promised me, Zach. 12.1 [...] cause me to looke upon t [...] Christ my Saviour, whom [...] smnes have pierced, that I m [...] mourne for them, as one mo [...] neth for his onely sonne, a [...] be in bitternesse for him, as [...] the losse of my first borne; [...] let his wounds heale me, [...] blood cleanse me, his spi [...] comfort, and his merits sa [...] me.

Lord give me a good consci­ence, a contented mind, a dis­creet demeanour, a competent estate, and thy fatherly bles­sing, it is enough.

Lord give me an understan­ding, beleeving, penetent, watchfull, upright, wel-orde­red heart, and all shall be well.

Lord settle me in a Christian course of serving thee, and let me find the sweetnesse thereof continually; oh let my wayes please thee; and make my ene­mies at peace with me.

Lord whatsoever betide me, let nothing disgrace my Chri­stian profession of thee, or give those that hate me advantage against me.

Lord help me in wel-doing to commend all to thee, and to [Page 74]trust thee most in my most help­lesse misery.

Lord I crave and expect all mercy, grace, peace, comfort, strength, health, safety, suc­cour, help, deliverance and salvation onely from thee; oh grant each seasonably and effe­ctually unto me.

Lord work all thy works i [...] me, that I may serve thee as [...] ought, and work all my work for me, that I may prosper a thou hast promised.

Lord make me as thou would dest have me, and require wh [...] thou wilt of me, give me which thou seest best for me, and d [...] what thou wilt with me.

Lord be my strength, refuge and ready help at hand, m [...] sufficiency, safety and good suc­cesse, [Page 75]and when, where, and how thou pleasest imploy me.

Lord cleare my innocency, stop the mouth of injury, faith­fully, worthily and in-offensive­ly, make me to discharge each part of my duty.

Lord make me wise, warned, watchfull and well governed by my former folly, rashnesse, weaknesse and misgovernment.

Lord let me no more be con­formable to the sinfull and un­seemly fashions of the world, but reforme my whole man ac­cording to thy will.

Lord forgive and keep me from those sinnes whereby I have most dishonoured thee, disgraced my Christian profes­sion, injured others, clog'd my conscience, terrified my souse, [Page 76]or any way procured my selfe shame or harme.

Lord make me to make, and let me find each part of thy Word my guide and comfort.

Lord direct, governe, restore, comfort, support, establish, in­able, protect, provide for, and blesse me, as every one of my especiall occasions doe or may require of thee.

Lord at one time or other, by one meanes or other, ere we do part hence, work for the effe­ctuall conversion and everlast­ing salvation of every one of mine, and I desire no more for them of thee.

Lord prepare me to meet the ere thy wrath come upon me; in the day of calamity hide me under thine hand till thy indig­nation be over past.

Lord in wisdome, love and faithfulnesse visit me, and deale as thou pleasest with me.

Lord when all is past hope, thou canst most easily help, my case is fully knowne and wholy commended to thee; thou hast helped remarkably, thy hand is not shortned, thy mercy never faileth, thy truth endureth for ever towards me.

Lord let not my hope deceive nor thy help faile me; oh cause me to make, and let me find thy providence my portion continu­ally, so shall I be supplied sea­sonably, and never want any thing thou seest good for me.

Lord prepare me to suffer, to dye, let every thing draw me neerer to thee, let death bring me to life eternall with thee; doe then what thou wilt with [Page 78]me, call then when, where, and how thou pleasest for me.

Lord from sin, shame, harme, in thy feare, in a good repute and peace, preserve me.

Lord how shall I behave my selfe in my present distressed e­state? and how wilt thou there­in deale with me? oh that thou wouldest dispose and dispatch all my businesse for me.

Lord all help faileth me, none cares for me, every thing seem [...] to crosse me, yet help thou and all shall goe well with me.

Lord cause me to goe the right way to work, and to submit to thy disposing wholy.

Lord let it appeare the right way is the best way; never, of never faile, forsake or forget [Page 79]me, let them that now for wel­doing scorn me, see thou fovou­rest and releevest me.

Lord cause me secretly and sensibly to sorrow for my owne sinnes, and to mourne for the abominations of the times, and this uncessantly.

Lord affect me with the affe­ctions of Joseph rightly, dis­pose me to pray for the peace of Zion seriously, in all reforme and pardon me.

Lord give me feeling, feel­ing, feeling, of all the good things I know and utter before thee, thou knowest and I ac­knowledge the same to be ex­treamly wanting in me.

Lord let no thought of my heart nor word of my mouth be in vain for me, but thou that art my [Page 80]strength and my Redeemer, ac­cept all my Meditations, and expressions continually.

Lord carry me with wisdome, patience, comfort and good successe, through all my great occasions.

Lord change my disposition, reform my conversation speedi­ly and powerfully, wherein I am most averse from good, and prone to evill especially.

Lord that thou wouldest in­struct and inable me sincerely and circumspectly to order my lawfull affaires substantially, whatsoever others may thinke, speake or worke against me and that thine owne seasonabl [...] and effectuall working to affor [...] [...]n happy issue, might according to thy mercy and truth appeare towards me.

Lord put me not off with out­ward mercies, but vouchsafe me a portion of thy best blessings.

From sloath, lust and careles­nesse, from tatling, tipling and trifling away time, from put­ting off my private devotions, from discontent and discord, Good Lord deliver me.

It is nothing in respect of what hath been objected against Christ and the godly, for there hath been objected against them grieuous things, ^(a) glut­tony, ^(b) madnesse, ^(c) blas­phemy, ^(d) murder, ^(e) decei­ving, [Page 82] ^(f) rebellion, ^(g) ray­ling, ^(h) babling, idolatry, ⁽ⁱ⁾ bringers of strange things, ^(k) scisme, ^(l) wickednesse of life; ^(m) the abjects abused them, ⁽ⁿ⁾ drankards sang of them, ^(o) the basest derided them; ^(p) they were a reproach of men, ^(q) a by-word, ^(r) a proverbe, ^(s) a wonder, ^(t) gazing-stocks, ^(u) fools, ^(w) insufficient, despised, ^(x) defamed, made as filth and off-scowring; ^(y) great men rayle at them, ^(z) godly men censure them, ^(a) and by slander excommunicate them, ^(b) are most fouly scandalized, ^(c) con­demned by a whole Counsell, ^(d) yea, to suffer as evill doers: ^(e) well, if God condemnes us not, what matters the censures, and reproachfull nick-names of others. ^(f)

If good & bad men both should judge amisse,

Keep conscience cleare, t [...]ou needst not care I wisse.

Alas, this is not to resist, unto blood, ^h my Saviour sayes, Blessed are ye when men shall re­vile you, and shall say all manner of evill falsly for my sake, reioyce [Page 84]and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the Prophets that were before you; ⁱ yea, my most blessed Redeemer, so have they abused thee and all thy dearest Ser­vants; oh then why should I that am not worthy the name of a Servant or Disciple, think to be above my Lord and Master, and better then others, whereas I am the unworthiest and most misgoverned of all other; let it be enough for me to be like, (though not equall,) to thee my Master and Lord, ^k Lord ho­nour me in suffering, prepare me for, inable me to suffer this, or any other way for thee.

Puritane or Round-head; who? what is either? even h [...] that conceits himselfe clean from his corruption, and is not washed from his filthinesse; ^l he [Page 85]that judgeth others uncleane and himselfe more holy, ^m he that will be holier then God will have him, preferring mens traditions before Gods Ordi­nances, ⁿ O my soule come not thou into their secret; ^o thus I never was, nor am, nor by Gods grace never shall be a Puritane or Round-head.

But if to mourne and tremble in the sight and sense of my most hainously sinfull, and ter­ribly accursed condition, by ori­ginall and actuall wickednesse, be to be a Puritane, ^p Lord make and ever continue me a Puritane & Round-head,

If heartily to abhorre, and se­riously to resolve against sinne, ^q be to be a Puritane & Round­head, [Page 86]Lord make, &c.

If inwardly to love, and affe­ctionately to delight in good, ^r be to be, &c.

If to affect Gods; Children dearly, if to cherish and not to grieve them, if to honour and not to scorne them, if to help and not to harme them, ^s be to be, &c.

If unfainedly to purpose, and watchfully to practice the pow­er of godlinesse ^t be to be, &c.

If to turne from, and take heed of the occasions of every thing that is unlawfull and un­comely [Page 87] ^u be to be, &c.

If to have respect unto, and to imbrace the furtherances of whatsoever is warrantable and seemly ^w be to be, &c.

If to labour to be throughly informed and reformed by the written Word of God ^x be to be &c.

If to exercise my selfe to keep the Testimony and peace of a good conscience at all times, and in all things ^y be to be, &c.

If to imbrace the meanes and opportunities seasonably and conscionably, to heare, read, pray, meditate, conferre and sing Psalmes ^z be to be, &c.

If to sanctifie the Lords Sab bath carefully, to receive the Sacrament reverendly, and to fast solemnly ^a be to be, &c.

If to set up Religion in my Family, and to charge mine [...] converse Christianly ^b be to be, &c.

If to performe every publike family and private holy duty i [...] spirit and truth, and not super­stitiously, or in outward shew verbally, formally, customari­ly ^c be to be &c.

If not to feare, neglect or be [Page 89]ashamed to doe well for any by respect ^d be to be, &c.

If to carry ones selfe circum­spectly, diligently, faithfully and worthily in his particular calling ^e be to be, &c.

If to walk humbly with, and uprightly before the Lord ^f be to be, &c.

If to deale justly and equally with others, if to be compassio­nate and helpfull to the distres­sed ^g be to be, &c.

If to be circumspect and sober meek and friendly, free-heart­ed and cheerfull, peaceable and faire-carriaged ^h be to be, &c.

If to suppresse envy and ma­lice, anger and collar, to go­verne filthy lusts and unruly passions ⁱ be to be, &c.

If to part with our most pre­cious pleasures and profits, ra­ther then sinne against o [...] consciences ^k be to be, &c.

If not to dare to drink drunk sweare, lye, cozen, be uncleane or not to frequent or delight in the society of such, ^l be to be, &c.

If not to slander, backbite, judge, censure, injure others, if to speak the best and no evill of the dead or absent ^m be to be, &c.

If, (though to please others,) not to break a jest against Pie­ty, Charity and Chastity ⁿ be to be, &c.

If to mind ones owne businesse and not to meddle in others matters ^o be to be, &c.

If to hold Gods Word to be the only and al-sufficient guide to true happinesse, and to reject the contrary utterly ^p be to be, &c.

If to labour to live by keep­ing [Page 92]peace with God, and setting all in order, that I may be ready to dye daily ^q be to be, &c.

If in well doing to use all law full meanes to serve Gods pro­vidence in my particular occa­sions, and to trust upon God disposing and blessing only ^r be to be, &c.

If to trust God most in great­est extremity, and to be content­ed with his disposing submi­sively ^s be to be, &c.

If in the sense of daily cor­ruptions, sins, wants, failing to be humbled, to confesse, [...] waile, beg pardon for, [...] strength against them, resol­ving and endeavouring to [...] sake them ^t be to be, &c.

If to crave especiall assistance against especiall faults, and more fitnesse to serve God wherein I have most failed ^u be to be, &c.

If to resolve to suffer any shame or harme rather then to sinne wilfully ^w be to be, &c.

If speedily and seriously to dispatch those businesses that concernes my eternall peace, and to slight whatsoever can afford no solid comfort in the time of visitation, or at the hour of death ^x be to be, &c.

If in the sense of any sinne or affliction not to be too much de­jected, [Page 94]if not to despaire of Gods mercies, nor to distrust his promises, nor to doubt of his providence, or not to question Christs al-sufficient merits and perpetuall mediation ^y be to be &c.

If when I think I stand to ta [...] heed least I fall, if to labour a renew my first love, if to string to increase inward grace and outward practice, if to recover from former fals, and bewail of future back slidings, if mo [...] to feare secret sinne then op [...] shame, if in things doubtfull [...] take he surest course, if to pe [...] severe in godlinesse and live [...] hope, if to dye in the feare a [...] favour of my God in Christ ^z be [Page 95]to be, &c.

If by true, lively and stedfast faith (at least in un­sained desire and endeavour) to seeke all wisdome, righteous­nesse, sanctification & redemp­tion, all mercy, grace, peace, consolation and happinesse, ac­cording to the free, plain, plen­tifull and faithfull promises of our reconciled God, most gra­cious Father, and alone almigh­ty helper, in covenant with us, onely through the al-sufficient satisfaction and never failing intercession of his most deare and onely Sonne, our alone Sa­viour and Mediator, notwith­standing our most hainous sin­fulnesse in nature, and by life; notwithstanding our daily ma­ny and great wants, failings, doubts and discomforts; not­withstanding [Page 96]our unmeasurable grievous ingratitude, unwor­thinesse, insufficiencies, and all other though never so many and great impediments and impossi­bilities, be to be a Puritane or Round-head, Lord in all these, make and ever continue me to be a Puritane and Round­head: I most humbly, unfain­edly and uncestantly beg, pray, beseech and urge, let then the devill and all his instruments let then who that will, and how they will miscall, nick-name scorne and abuse me with the name of Puritane, with a ful [...] mouth never so fouly; Lord governe and help me. Mark [...] 22. Rom. 3.28. & 4.19, 20. C [...]. 5.1. 1 Cor. 16.13. & 2 Cor 5. [...] Gal. 3.22. Eph. 3.12. & 6.1 [...] Col. 2.5.7. & 1 Tim. 1.5. [...] Heb. 10.22. & 11. Chapt. 1 Cor. 1.30. Mat. 15.22. 1 Tim. 1. [...] Gal. 6.16. 2 Cor. 1.3, 4, 5, 6, [Page 97]2 Thes. 2.16, 17. Heb. 6.17, 18, Acts 4.12. Ezek. 36.22. Gal. 3, 12. Hos. 14.4. Psal. 86.5. & 130 7. 1 Cor. 1.9. & 10.13. 1 Thes. 5 24. & 2.3. 3 Heb. 2.17. & 10, 23. 2 Cor. 1.20. Rom. 5.10 2 Cor, 5.18, 20. Col. 1.21. Psal. 86 15, & 111.4. & 145.8. 2 Cor. 1.3, Dan. 3.17. 2 Tim. 1.12. Heb. 2 18 & 7, 25, Rom. 4, 21, Psal, 46, 1, Jer, 31, 33, Heb, 8, 10, Col, 3, 11 1 Cor, 3, 21, 22, 23, Isa, 53, chap, Rom, 4, 25, & 3, 24, 25, 1 John 2, 1, Rom, 8, 34, Gal, 3, 19, Heb, 8, 6, & 9, 15, & 12, 24, Mat. 3, 17, John 3, 16, Heb. 11, 17, Hos, 13, 4, 2 Tim, 2, 5, Ezek, 36, 22, 23, Hos, 14, 4, Isa, 58, 11, Psal. 73, 24,

IN regard of Gods worship, be­cause every holy duty cannot wel be every day performed with out great hast and hinderance, & so with little power & profit, I conceive it most convenient and comfortable, no day to neg­lect the most necessary, as pray­er and reading the Scriptures, and for the rest to redeem the time, to performe them as we may also; howsoever, let every holy duty be performed with solemne preparation and sensi­ble affection, at least with an [Page 99]holy bewailing the want of the same, and that the Lord will please to work the same in us.

In his ordinary course at home and abroad, upon all oc­casions, in all his words, beha­viour and actions, out of con­science to God, and by his go­vernment to demeane himselfe circumspectly, plainly, faith­fully, freely, soberly and friendly, without any by-re­spect, or troubling himself with trifles, or with what he cannot thereby prevent or remedy: in his greatest perplexities and troubles (using onely the law­full meanes to serve Gods pro­vidence) to commend all to hi [...] dispossing and blessing wholy, and so to rest content with his good pleasure, who in wisdome, love and faithfulnesse, will as­suredly cause all to goe well, goe all how it will: Amen, my heavenly Father in Christ Je­sus, [Page 100]in mercy as thou hast pro­mised, be I never so ugworthy, and whatsoever opposeth, Amen.

• Be Pious and Patient,
• Be Just and Quiet,
• Be Temperate and Peaceable,
• Be Direct and Sober,
• Be True and Provident,
• Be Faithfull and Contented
• Be Chaste and Wary,
• Be Modest and Grave,
• Be Watchfull and Reserved,
• Be Retired and Compassi­onate,
• Be Secret and Charitable
• Be Silent and Liberall,
• Be Humble and Inoffensive
• Be Meeke and Teachable
• Be Friendly and Constant,

• be not Prophane nor Impatient,
• be not Unjust nor Captious,
• be not Excessive nor Contenti­ous,
• be not Double nor Passionate,
• be not False nor Prodigall,
• be not Faithlesse nor Male-content,
• be not Filthy nor Rash,
• be not Wanton nor Light,
• be not Carelesse nor Loose,
• be not Gadding nor Cruell,
• be not Open. nor Mercilesse,
• be not Lavish nor Covetous,
• be not Proud nor Oftensive,
• be not Highmind­ed nor Wilfull,
• be not Surly nor Wavering.

Every one that shewes a smooth face, or gives faire words is not a faithfull friend; there­fore [Page 102]take heed what you say, and whom you trust.

Trust no man with that which if it ever be discovered, may any way prejudice you, for he that is now for you, may here­after faile, discover or oppose you; neither speake ill of him that doth not now befriend thee, his mind may change to­wards thee, and then it will re­pent thee.

Be friendly to, and speak well of those that have wronged, or doe not regard, or have spoken slightly of thee; beleeve me it will work strangely in gain­ing much affection, respect, credit and contentment to thee, whereas a sowre countenance, harsh carriage, bitter language and distastfull dealing, will but encrease their hatred and con­tempt, and thy disgrace and disquiet: make tryall, and take my word another time; I may [Page 103]truly say, experientiâ docet.

Hold it unchristian, coward­ly and uncomely, needlesse, eaflesse and foolish, to perplex thy selfe with that thou canst neither prevent nor help, and avoid it: in all good conscience with an holy carelesnesse, cast all thy care on God, who taketh care for thee, and hath promi­sed never, never to faile, for­sake or forget thee.

It is a worthy part and well done, neither slavishly to feare, nor wilfully to distest any, con­verse cheerfully (and with com­linesse) carelesly; but as thou lovest to keepe thy friends re­spect, and thine owne peace reservedly.

Let not thine owne words, countenance or doings disco­ver, and who can contemne, or have advantage against thee.

By and by thou art absent from those whom now thou ac­companiest [Page 104]with, let thy desire to please for the present procure no future inward discontent, therefore hold thee close to those godly and morall Max­imes which may best governe thee now, and most satisfie thee afterward; to this end forget not former good or misgovern­ment, and thereupon, peace or vexation.

So to regard as to strive to sa­tisfie every ones humour, shews a foolishly flattering dispositi­on, questions worth and gets scorne: to keep gravity, to dis­course sparingly and solid­ly, though it humour not, forces them at least in acknow­ledgement secretly to say, there is wisdome, honesty and good government; and so it ought to be.

It is a most miserable mistake and arises from Ignorance, floath or prophanenesse, when [Page 105]we think it is an hinderance to our outward proceedings, if we first ply our private devotions, whereas to begin with them, is the right way to prosper; o­therwise, though we imagine we have made all sure, the Lord many times by one meanes or other, crosses our courses, sends us losses, and makes us smart for such foolish­nesse: Lord grant me first to seek thy Kingdome, and I shall have share in the rest assuredly, as thou seest best for me.

In a certaine case of disse­rence, he advised either to sup­presse or help them throughly, so either to oblige them to help, or else disable them to hurt you; but by no meanes trust their discretion or good nature, who dare say, if they had, they would use their advantage a­gainst you, even now when they cannot harme you; espec Ily [Page 106]when ingratitude, pride, ambi­tion and conceited cause of re­venge, transports them; thus as a polititian.

But as a Christian, he advi­seth to assist them seasonably and competently, yet warily a­gainst their common enemy, that themselves may have no leasure nor pretence, nor the other no time nor power to trouble you; and as a Christian polititian, in the same case he thus speaks his mind plainly and freely, be provided to pre­vent the worst their might can, or their malice may attempt a­gainst you, for some speake strangely of you, and their pre­sent usage declares the affe­ction and respect they beare you: this for that.

To be malicious, scornfull and injurious, is unchristian, uncivill and unseemly, and commonly comes from a high [Page 107]conceited, villifying, quarel­ling disposition in ones selfe; and from a soft, suffering, and therefore from a supposed cow­ardly disposition of another; yet often it fals out, the man un­willing to contend escapes with credite, and the shame and mis­chief fals on his head that sought it.

Maintaine your owne right, but doe another no wrong, and suffer stilly what you can by no good meanes remedy.

If thou doest well, speak not thine owne praises, if it be nor with thee as thou wouldest, say nothing; for I have observed, the good is concealed, and the rest lightly revealed.

By making ohers as wise as thy selfe, in matters wherein they before were ignorant, will get them credite by thy luffi­ciency, and then they will slight thee; answer civilly, out [Page 108]answer not fully (I meane hear worldly affaires, onely) keep somewhat in till afterward, so shall respect be preserved; de­ny out of judgement and reason not out of pride and selfe con­ceit, hold thine owne and give no distaste

His God, his Conscience, his Country, his owne honour, the memory of his dead, and repu­tation of his living friend, he would not should, nor can he suffer them to be wronged.

He held it more for a wishing that it were so, then holy feare it should be so in some who say, England must have its turne too, so much can passion more then piety doe.

O poore England, so extream­ly envied for the peace thy God grants thee, be thou humbly thankfull, truly penitent, and trust thy God unfainedly, so shalt thou still prosper by his [Page 109]mercy, and thy malicers shall nor harme thee, nor rejoyce in thy misery.

O England, England, lay to heart, the long and lamentable calamities of Gods Church in Germany; goe to Shiloh, see what the Lord hath done there, and he will spare thee, else, woe, woe, woe unto thee.

Why should blest England be blamed, that preferres a war­rantable peace before a bloody war; those therein ingaged, would if they knew how (as thou art) be gladly freed, but not knowing how to be releas­ed, would have thee as them­selves, intangled; and for their owne advantage, would laugh if thou wert ruined; feare, serve, trust thy God, be wary; oh for ever mayest thou be secured.

This was written before the bloody Warres, Lord pardon our [Page 110]sinnes, and heale the Land for thy Christs, for thy mercie sake.

Warre-wishers never felt nor know the miseries therof, or on­ly seek to please their own am­bitious and covetous humours: I am sure such as desire or re­joyce therein, long after, and are glad of the greatest plague upon earth, and I say, God send them sorrow that love it; if it made them smart in their owne persons, wives, children, friends, houses or goods, they would soon be weary of it; for doubt­lesse none but fools or mad men (or those that are farre enough from it) can take delight in it, Give peace in our time O Lord.

True, the calling is lawfull, honourable and necessary, when the causes urging are just, and the ends good, and he that then declines it is base in extremity, but not to be attempted rashly [Page 111]out of passion, or to please com­mon fancy fondly; for the wise man sayes, With good advice make warre.

The haire-braind foole cryes peace with thee Lord, and war with all the world; the sober Christian prayes peace with thee Lord, and with all men as farre as is possible.

Caussesse suspitions troubles a mans mind, and blemish his vertues.

Let not too much confidence darken foresight.

Things openly slighted may be seriously intended.

Where conscience is not in­formed clearly and reformed throughly, men are misled with by-respects, and blinded with humane policy.

He is a good counsellour and a true friend, who as he seconds tempers our humour.

Be to friends friendly, con­stant [Page 112]and just, but not open.

Be not proud, but keep di­stance, admit none a full ap­proach to thy power or secrets.

Triviall envies, emulations, censures, oppositions regard not, but goe substantially about thine owne businesse.

Though thou intendest not his hurt, prevent him that would doe thee hurt.

Chiefes in commotions, and such as have accusing conscien­ces are commonly but half-cou­raged men.

He that is valiant and active, loves and seeks peace without feare or softnesse.

Make so good use of things commendable in others, that they may be praysed in thy selfe; but be reall in them, else thou wilt be scorned.

Christian circumpection may timely and easily prevent trou­bles, when much care and la­bour [Page 113]can hardly, if ever deliver from them.

A man may be outward­ly (at times) friendly, yet want respect towards thee inwardly, this appeares by often crosse and slighting carriage.

Birds are intangled by their seet, and men by their tongues.

Take heed where, when, to whom and of what thou speak­est, alwaies let thy tongue first consult with thy braines.

Speake not at all where thy words are not heard, beleeved or regarded; shew by thy si­lence and countenance, thou art sensible of being slighted.

Forbeare sometimes to tell strange things, though true, least thou beest counted and called an over-reacher.

Never interrupt another in speaking, first heare him out, then answer, there is time e­nough for both.

In discoursing goe not farre about, bring in no needlesse cir­cumstances or parenthesis, but declare the businesse advisedly, deliberately, plainly, freely, truly with a low voyce and affa­blenesse, without interruption, faultring, flattering, distaste or conceitednesse, and regard not how thou art censured.

Let thy countenance to every one be grave, setled curteous, take heed of lightnesse, distra­ction, harshnesse; accustome thy selfe hereto, it is gracefull, and will cause respect, by con­stancy herein wipe away the re­membrance of former misgo­vernment.

Envy not that some are pray­sed undeservedly, or more then they merit, thou knowest feare, flattery, hope of gaine or the like, causeth it.

Distaste not that others slight deserved prayses or thy friend, [Page 115]if thou canst not help it, onely speak a word or two, to shew thou takest notice of it, and take a more convenient time to question more fully about it.

Be more friendly and lesse free, opennesse causeth con­tempt, but curtesie commenda­tion, and reservednesse respect.

HAving renewed his resoluti­ons in the new yeare (by the grace of God) to lead a new life; he bethought himselfe of this course, for the consciona­ble worshipping of, and walking with the Lord, which according to his disposition of mind, and condition of life, he conceived was most fitting for, and would (by Gods blessing) be most com­fortable for him; in all having respect to the warrant of Gods word, and Christian convenien­cy, O Lord grant hereto thy grace and blessing I beseech thee.

The Lord sayes, Isa. 1.16, 17. Cease to doe evill, learne to do [...] w [...]ll, &c. well then, my soule, in the strength of the Almighty, from henceforth resolve, pray, watch against all sinne in go­nerall, and against thy especi­all corruptions (as sloath, neg­lect, or customary performing [...] holy duties, habituall distracti­ons in them, worldly-mindel-nesse, distrust, discontent, pass on, lust, intemperance and fol­lowing vain customes, &c: more especially, resolve, pray watch, endeavour to imbrac [...] and practice the contrary du­ties, and every way according to the restimony of a well in formed conscience, to walk pi­ously, righteously, soberly, di­creetly and unblamably in this present evill world; more par­ticularly for his more solem [...] and setled seeking the Lord i [...] his private devotions (beside [Page 117]his publike & family duties) to observe this course every day constantly, & at such time of the day as may be with least hinde­rance and most fitnesse, viz. with premeditation to frame his prayer (as briefly and substan­tially as he can) after this man­ner, inserting in their proper places new occasions of con­fessions, Supplications or thanksgivings, &c. the summe of the prayer then to be this.

First, confession of especiall sinnes, with their especiall cir­cumstances.

2 Acknowledgment of especi­al judgments due, justly inflict­ed, yet graciously mittigated.

3 Self-deniall, renewing re­solutions to amend.

4 Craving pardon and re­conciliation in Christ.

5 Deprecation of Gods judgements feared, and for a lanctified use of all present and future susterings.

6 Begging conversion and reformation, especially in es­peciall sinnes and failings, with restauration, increase and per­severance.

7 Also godly sorrow, true faith, with peace and comfort.

8 To be prepared to dye.

9 Prayer for continuance of common blessings, and for es­peciall direction and help in e­speciall occasions and necessi­ties.

10 For sincerity, confidence, patience and contentation at all assayes.

11 Thanksgiving for gene­rall and especiall, inward and outward blessings.

12 Prayer for the estate of Gods Children, in generall and particular.

13 For his family.

14 And for all such as he is any way bound to pray for.

Thus for his daily private prayer.

Next, to read three Chapters in the Bible every day, with a briefe prayer before and after, and holy meditation thereupon; yea, labouring to turne the chiefe observations thereout in­to solemne prayer for conscio­nable practice.

Thirdly, seriously to read in some good book, and because these following books and wri­tings are of singular use for his edification, and that he cannot every day read in each, he con­ceives it best to read onely in one, and in another the next day, &c. as for example.

On the Sabbath day affecti­onately calling to mind some of Gods especiall mercies, record­ed by him.

On Munday, solemnly re­membring some of his holy Vowes written by him.

On Tuesday, cheerfully ha­ving recourse to some of Gods [Page 120]Promises collected by him.

On Wednesday, attentively reading somewhat in Master By fields Marrow of the Oracles of God.

On Thursday, somewhat in the Practice of Piety.

On Friday, the like in the Christians daily Sacrifice, or in the Observations and Advises.

On Saturday, serious Exami­nation by some part of the true Watch and Rule of life.

And when God please in con­tinuance of time, he shall have by this constant course ended any of these, to begin againe, &c. alwayes turning what he reads into humble and unfained prayer, for application and per­formance, a little at a time, and that well is better, and will be more profitable then much customarily and insensibly slubbered over.

Fourthly, every day to sing a [Page 121]Psalme, or part, understand­ingly and feelingly.

Thus for his private practice of pious duties every day.

Now for his other spare time that it be not mispent, to im­ploy it in Christian conversing with good men, or in reading usefull morall Histories, and quoting thereout needfull ob­servations, or in some other lawfull, necessary, seemly, pro­fitable businesse or recreations.

Lord settle me in such a christian course of serving thee as may be most acceptable to thee, and comfortable to my conscience continually.

One that had power, com­manding him, more out of ma­lice then reason, upon a peri­lous imployment, he said, Gods strength is my sufficiency and protection, my safety; so I goe, and shall prosper spite of your ill meaning towards me.

One that sees and uncharita­bly censures, or sharply repre­hends his faults, not knowing or regarding his repentance, compassionates not, or will not take notice of his sorrowes.

Be alwayes silent where rea­son is not regarded, and truth is but distastefull.

Suppresse pride, peevishnesse, passion, discontent and discord, as most unbeseeming a wise and worthy mans mind.

This for that, now of some­what else.

Wrath is cruell, and anger is outragious, but who can stand be­fore envy, Pro. 27.4.

Men oft times speak evill of us, because they cannot speak well; not because we deserve it, but they are accustomed to it, and therefore cannot leave it, especially when they will not be perswaded they doe evill in it.

There are some Dogs of that nature, that they barke rather upon custome then curstnesse, and some so currish, they bite before they bark; he hath met with both sorts, but thanks to the Lord, neither their bark­ing nor biting have been able to fright or hurt him.

Desire no imployment upon vain-glory, refuse none for feare; Lord guide and strength­en me, to shew my selfe carefull and resolute in action.

By vertue in valiantly doing his duty, and by modesty, in sparingly speaking thereof, a man may best escape envy, and obtaine glory.

Provoke not a suffering na­ture too much, least it turne to your owne shame and harme at length, though loath, he dares both speak and doe.

He that is honest is bold, he that does well would not be wronged, and may be provoked beyond his power, no coward is he that will not, base coward is he that dares not fight; let the feare of God not of man re­straine thee, where conscience warrants shew it by doing wor­thily.

It ought to be enough for us [Page 125]if we have, by Gods assistance, behaved our selves so, that no man can tax us justly; if we de­serve praise, it is onely malice keeps it from us, and a lying tongue that would disgrace us.

I dare trust any mans judge­ment of me, but not every mans affection towards me.

Some whose consciences must commend us, malice forces in their speeches to condemne us, though we know and find it, we may have comfort in it.

It is meer folly, great weak­nesse and extreame vanity, to trouble our minds with those things, that thereby can neither be prevented nor helped.

One said (beleeve me, not to boast or justifie himself vainly, but to vindicate his worth and innocency, which hath by ma­lice and untruth suffered unde­servedly) who that knowes me can tax me with carelesnesse, or [Page 126]any kind of unworthy carriage justly? and if they would speak plainly as they are perswaded of me, must they not confesse the contrary?

If you heare or conceive a­misse of me, if there be consci­ence, reason, charity or com­mon honesty in you, first con­vince, then censure, else spare me, or else I wil protest you bely me, and of meere malice detract from me, perhaps because your owne wayes have not been so worthy, and therefore must not escape your envy; this is base­nesse in you, and doth not ble­mish but settle me; for wise and worthy men will judge rightly.

Tell me of my faults but doe not blaze them; think of your owne, and mine will seeme the lesse unto you.

Would I were as wise, honest and worthy as some thinke themselves, and would be e­steemed, [Page 127]whose carriage but lit­tle shew they deserve it.

Of all beasts, I hate an injuri­ous scoffer, I cannot abide a contentious companion, nor to have to doe with one of a distastfull disposition, or that is of a proud and disdainfull demeanour.

Injurious speeches from a man in authority, are most harmfull and unseemly, oftentimes wrong and grieve extreamly; by these the innocent and worthy must suffer and know no redresse; complain they may not, contend they dare not, grieving helps not: O poore revenge! con­quest or passion, art thou in au­thority, avoid it, it loses love, lessons respect towards thee, procures ill will unto, and hard words of thee, and is a treat dis­grace and blemish to thee.

Envy no mans honour, wish every one as much as he desires or deserves, but in advancing [Page 128]his owne, let him not impaire another mans.

Doe well, speak truth, boast not, so win honour and weare it, else, look for shame instead of credite.

If he might have his desire he would choose those (if he knew them) that have the worst opi­nion of him and best of them­selves to be either actors with him, or spectators of him in the most perilous imployments; where God sayes goe, for then he is sure (live or dye, in the strength of his God) to force their acknowledgement of his wel-doing, and to stop their in­jurious mouths against him.

Why cannot some men give such their due praise, whose personall service they especial­ly desire in greatest occasion and danger, this their necessity forces that their envy smo­thers.

In my conscience the greatest boasters are the poorest doers; yet I have observed, he that hath mouthed it most, hath been thought to doe best.

I am sure some that lookt big and swore by no small ones, were the first that flinched.

There is no notable service hath fallen out in their time, but there are some that will assure you they have beene at it, though truth is, they were farre enough from it; it is a mad world when some get more credite by lying and eracking, then others by truth and well­doing.

He held it neither wit, hone­sty nor valour (out of conceited honour) to endanger himselfe or others without or beyond command or warrant.

He is to be esteemed more base then basenesse it selfe, that in his place dares not out-dare danger & death.

• 1 HE never speaks well of a­ny, except for [...]re or [Page 132]flattery, or some by-respect of his owne.
• 2 He alwayes takes and makes every thing worse then it is.
• 3 He will invent, divulge, aggravate, swallow any manner of untruth against you, rather then you shall-escape his envy.
• 4 Yet dares justifie nothing if you call him in question.
• 5 His scoffes leave behinde them an aspersion of in jury, un­derstand them how you wil, and this he delights in.
• 6 If he see you troubled, he triumphs the more over you, laughs the more at you, and speaks the more against you.

By these among the rest you shall know him, take heed of him, good God blesse me from him.

A noble disposition thinks, speaks, hopes the best, and gives each his due praise, is suffering, longs for a good occasion to stop [Page 133]the mouth of injury; and then out of conscience, in the strength of the Almighty, does worthily; he abhorres untruth, boasting and vain-glory, he la­bours to give the Lord onely all the honour for any thing he hath done well, or that hath gone well; my heart loves, I dare trust such a one: Lord be my guide and strength, my safety and good successe, I pray thee.

Simplicity without circum­spection is folly.

Circumspection without sim­plicity is cunning.

Simplicity with circumspe­ction is true wisdome.

Anothers scornfull humour may be profitable, though di­stastfull, if we watch to walke so as we give no cause of con­tempt against us, but then if he continues scornfull to us, away with him from us.

Word it with no man, but ob­serve, be silent, and learn bet­ter government.

Wherein you can well satisfie your selfe, aske not another, least you needlesly discover your disposition, which it will after grieve you to have made knowne, and so fall into caussesse cavilling, which will more afflict.

Keep silence and gravity, and the most strict observer shall not discover you, nor your greatest maligner shall have no advantage against you.

Why feare we him, we need not respect if our conscience be cleere, and cause good? surely it is a weaknesse we would con­demne in others, and il-becomes us; away with such needlesse, childish, unworthy perplexi­ties.

These maine reasons among the rest most highly obligeth [Page 135]me to most humble thankful­nesse for former assistance re­ceived, and to most earnest prayer for future help from Heaven, to deale directly, whatsoever envy, scorne or hin­derance I may have hereby: that my conscience is comfort­ed, my mind quieted, an honest repute maintained, boldnesse to stand before, and speak unto the strictest authority gained, and the best accusations of vile persons not feared, prevented, contemned, also the assurance of a mercifull blessing from the hand of God, promised and ex­pected.

Reveale no secret to him that thou knowest to affect others more then thy selfe, for he can­not conceale it from them.

That which thou wouldest not have told to others, tell no body, for if thou canst not, why shouldest thou thinke another [Page 136]wil conceal what concerns thee.

Say, not it is true, and I dare justifie it, yet I pray speak not of it; rather speak not at all of it, and surely no trouble will come of it.

Trust not him againe that hath once betrayed thee.

A man is in the opinion of o­thers (in regard of his owne sa­tisfaction) not as they esteem of him, but as himselfe conceits he is esteemed of by them.

Labour to bring thy heart to such a temper, that no man may have a worse conceit of thee then thou hast of thy self, and a will the lesse trouble thee if others dis-esteem thee.

Our hidden griefs about mens opinions of us, neither make them better or worse towards us, walke christianly and in-of­fensively, and never thinke or respect what others think or say of thee, it wil procure great con­tentment to thee.

Doe good unto, but never trust a reconciled enemy, except sure signes of grace more then shewn of friendship perswade thee.

• Not to aske or answer questi­ons rashly.
• Not to enquire after or relate newes hastily.
• Not to meddle in others mat­ter needlesly.
• Not to dispute or cavil vainly
• Not to apprehend cause given too deeply.
• Not to remember forepast in­juries continually.
• Not to speake of our owne doings boastingly.
• Not to rehearse others acti­ons slightingly.
• Not to command with many words harshly.
• Not to receive commands dis­putingly.
• Not to use men of worth (though meane) unkindly.
• Not to carry our selves to­wards [Page 138]any proudly.
• Not to show we thinke of our selves conceitedly.
• Not to be in countenance sowre and surly.
• Not to converse with others dis-respectively.
• Not to discover our businesse and affections unadvisedly.
• Not to live in Gods sight pro­phanely.
• Not to deale with men un­faithfully.
• Not to lay open our selves la­vishly. Not to talk of state mat­ters or great persons lightly.

Is the way to live honestly, peaceably, and praise-worthy.

Sloath breeds lust, lust feeds floath, vigilancy and tempe­rance will strangle both.

One said, he could hardly brook him whom he observed to laugh at what he said; were it his weaknesse, custome or scorn, yet it was a means to make him [Page 139]most carefully to avoid whatso­ever he was perswaded might move laughter in the most ridi­culous, or a malicious contemner

One that is self-conceited, favours nothing but what suits that humour, but scornes you e­ven for things lawfull and in­different; truly I am of Solo­mons mind, there is more hope of a foole then of him, and let him think what he will, he is no better.

Reserved resolute words and carriage, damps perhaps may informe him.

Freenesse to a Servant, equall or inferiour, procures familiar­nesse, sawcinesse and contempt hardly to be redressed.

Freenesse to thy better makes him mislikes thee, be weary of thee and flight thee.

Towards such use respect, use no complement, be not trouble­some, visit not often, speak lit­tle.

Towards the other be grave, strict and setled, above all by thy words and carriage keepe such distance, that they may neither discover nor abuse thee.

Though a man be trusty and does what I bid him, yet if he be ill natured, does not kindly re­spect me, but is self-conceited and scornfull, he does not con­tent me: I may beare with and forbeare him a while to serve mine owne turne, or for some other ingagement, but as soon as I can I will rid my selfe of him; and while I must use him, to doe it in such things where­in I cannot misse him, and to be as much as may be from him; still I say there is no way better to awe him, as by forbearing questioning with him, discove­ring your mind to him, and to be constantly silent and setled towards him.

Hypocriticall honesty is dou­ble impiety.

He liked not, nor loved to have to doe with him that (unknown) listens to his discourses, that too captiously censures his free and harmlesse speeches, that steales time to pry into his papers, that screwes himself in, to search in­to his secrets, that needlesly meddles with his matters, and thrusts himselfe (unsought) in­to his businesses; that judgeth of his proceedings by his owne conceited fancyes, without knowing or weighing his rea­sons; in a word, he will keepe himselfe as close from him as he can, for not quiet, but much vexation is gotten by him.

The harshnesse of a Father, the unkindnesse of a brother, falsnesse or bitternesse in a friend, and a divine or noted professor that mock goodnesse, are grievous to my Soule, and trouble me extreamly.

Whether Courtiers or great [Page 142]men frowne or laugh upon me, is all one to me, so my consci­ence cleare me.

His resolutions (by Gods assi­stance) in his businesses with some that may use him harshly, and for their owne ends seeke and catch at advantage against him. In generall, to demeant himselfe advisedly, soberly, re­servedly, gravely, and that con­stantly; and to avoid rashnesse, passion, opennesse, lightnesse, and unsetlednesse.

Wherein he shall heare or ob­serve just cause of former di­staste, or present discontent, to passe the same by without notice taking thereof, discreetly and meekly; and to be in speech, countenance and carriage (even unto such) cheerfull, loving and friendly; yet to free himselfe from such places, persons and occasions, with wisdome, speed and secrecy, as if he had never [Page 143]received cause of discontent­ment given him.

To use onely pre-considerate, solid and few speeches, and those to the purpose, with all moderation, lownesse, truth and plainnesse; to watch against, and cut short unadvised, frothy and superfluous discourses, also all hasty, loud, double, and cir­cumstantiall expressions.

To shew a solemne, setled, seemly behaviour in looks and resture, and to eschew loosnesse, distemper and uncomelinesse to the contrary.

Not to listen to, regard, or be troubled with others con­ceits, or their opposing speeches for their owne ends; to forbear answering of them, with a silent tongue and staid countenance to turne from them, so without distasting of them to show he mislikes them, and to goe con­scionably and substantially a­bout [Page 144]his own businesse, notwith­standing them.

Commending all to the Lord first, and that often and earnest­ly; to aske counsell of wise, ho­nest and worthy men, delibe­rately, seasonably and judici­ously; to the uttermost to take heed of discovering his conditi­on, affections, or intentions to any, without very good assu­rance of secrecy, or forced by necessity.

To resolve and doe (with warrant from Heaven) that which may afford him the freest use of what God in mercy hath given him, without obligation to, or dependance on others; but if there be no remedy, ra­ther to trouble a friend then a brother.

All in the only assistance and relying alone upon the wonted most wise, mighty, mercifull, and faithfully promised dispo­sing [Page 145]and blessing of my heaven­ly Father in Christ Jesus, A­men.

BEing exceedingly troubled between hope of credit and profit, and feare of shame and losse (in a businesse that exceed­ingly concerned him) he resol­ved (by Gods government) howsoever it went not to disco­ver himself to any, not to break out into folly or passion, if the worst he feared should befall him; but even then to be the more circumspect and sober­minded, not to yeeld to dejecti­on and distemper, but the more to look to the hand of, and to de­pend [Page 146]upon the Lord, 2 Chron. 20, 12. Who assuredly will cause help to come by some o­ther meanes, if not by this, Est. 4.14. and will cause even the shame and sorrow (which he might justly suffer for his folly and sinne) to turne remarkably to his good in the end, Gen. 19.20. to rest his mind contented in the assurance of his Gods most wise, gracious, mighty and faithfull disposing of all to this end; and because inward discontent, or outward discove­ring his crosses and affections doth not redresse, but make worse the businesse, and gives the more cause of talke, and keeps the same the longer in o­thers memory, and would give such as would joy in his misery the more advantage to vex and scorne him; whereas his owne strict and constant reserved­nesse, secrecy, & outward slight­ing [Page 147]the businesse will mittigate if not suppresse the tarling tongue and malicious mouth of curiosity, contempt or injury; but if God please the businesse goe well with him, discreetly and christianly to triumph in Gods truth and mercy; howso­ever, until the issue, to commend all to the Lords disposing and blessing, 2 Sam. 12.16. and then with a quiet heart, chear­full countenance and well-or­dered carriage, to await the Lords leisure and good pleasure towards me, 1 Sam. 1.18. Lord governe and work for me.

Whatsoever businesse ever so much hereafter may inwardly trouble me, by no meanes in word, countenance or carriage, to shew the same outwardly; then whatsoever thoughts trou­ble him, his case is undiscove­red to others, and no advantage is given against him: Besides, [Page 148]keeping silence gaines time to overweigh how best to behave ones selfe, whereas if a thing be once out and knowne, it is too late to recall it.

O Lord God send me good speed I pray thee, cause me to hold my peace, to wit, whether thou my God wilt make my bu­sinesse prosperous or no, Gen. 24 12, 21.

A foole uttereth all his mind, but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards, Prov. 29.11.

Lord thou knowest my mean­ing, my former folly, my exceeding weaknesse; oh par­don what is past, pitty what is present, and governe me for time to come.

• 1 BY urging the Lord with his promises hereof, Rom. 6.14. 2 Cor. 12.9.
• [Page 174]2 With his oath, Heb. 6, 17, 18 Isa. 14.24, &c.
• 3 With his power, Mat. 28, 18. Mark 14.36.
• 4 With his Covenant, Ezek. 36, 27, 29.
• 5 With his Sabbaths which he hath given us to be signes that he will sanctifie us, Exo. 31 13. Ezek. 20, 12, 20.
• 6 With our baptisme, wherby we are assured of the vertue of Christs death, to kil sin in us.
• 7 With the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, wherein the same thing is sealed unto us.
• 8 And that he hath pleased to strengthen us in some mea­sure heretofore.
• 9 By urging him with his superabundant grace, Joh, 1, 16 Rom, 5, 20.

Thus in all humility and ear­nestnesse, to beseech, and urge our God to have respect unto his own glory, in every one of [Page 175]these, taking head of the occasi­ons of sin; by his blessed help, we shall be kept from grosse of­fences; and get power over our secret & strongest corruptions, through Christ Jesus, Amen.

DEath and life are in the pow­er of the tongue, Pro. 18, 21.

If any man offend not in word the same is a perfect man, Ia. 3.2

Lord, no man offends so often and shamefully with the tongue as I doe.

I said I will take heed to my wayes, that I sinne not with my tongue; I will keep my mouth a bridle, Psal. 39.1. yea, I have and am purposed, my mouth shall not transgresse, Psa. 17.3.

But the tongue can no man [Page 176]tame, Jam. 3, 8. it is an vnruly evil, ful of deadly poyson, idem.

Therefore set thou a watch before my mouth, and order thou the door of my lips, O my God, Psal. 141.3.

Such resolutions as most con­cerne himselfe in this respect, viz.

1 GOD commands it.

He hath shewed thee O [Page 182]man what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to doe justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? Micah 6.8.

Thus saith the Lord, stand yee in the wayes and see, aske for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, Jer. 6.16.

2. Examples of Obedience.

And Enoch walked with God: Noah was a just man, and Noah walked with God, Ge. 5.24. & 6.9

3 Neglect hereof must be ac­knowledged.

Neither have we obeyed the voyce of the Lord our God to walk in his lawes, &c. Dan. 9.10.

4 And our ignorance, indis­position and insufficiency here­unto.

O Lord I know that the way of man is not in himselfe, it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps, Jer. 10.23.

Not that we are sufficient of our [Page 183]selves to think any thing as of our selves, but our sufficiency is of God, 2 Cor. 3.5.

Without me ye can doe nothing, John 15.5.

5 We must crave pardon for all these.

And now Lord what wait I for? my hope is in thee, deliver me from all my transgressions, and forgive all my sinnes, Psal. 39.7, 8. & 25 18.

6 We must ask a way of God in generall.

Thus saith the Lord, stand ye in the wayes and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, Jer. 6, 16.

7 Yea, this by solemne hu­miliation.

Then I proclaimed a Fast, that we might afflict our selves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us. Ezra 8.21.

We must beseech him to grant us these particulars.

1 Knowledge of the good way.

Shew me thy paths, O Lord, teach me thy Statutes, make me understand the way of thy pre­cepts, Psal. 25.4, & 119, 27.

Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my soule to thee, Psal. 143, 8.

2 An heart disposed to walke therein.

Incline my heart unto thy testi­monies, Psa. 119.36.

He will teach us his wayes, and we will walk in his paths, Isa. 2, 3.

3 Ability thereto.

Make me to goe in the path of thy Commandements, Psal. 119, 35.

4 Restauration out of former errors relapsed into.

Renew a right spirit within me, restore unto me the joy of thy sal-vation, Psal. 11, 10, 12.

5 To be sincere herein:

I am God al-sufficient walk be­fore me, and be thou perfect, Gen. 17, 1.

Let integrity and uprightnesse preserve me, Psal. 25, 21.

Let my heart be sound in thy sta­tutes, Psal. 19, 80.

6 To be watchfull hereto.

Hold thou me up and I shall be safe, and I will have respect un­to thy Statutes continually, Psal. 119, 117.

Keep thy heart with all dili­gence, ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy wayes be establish­ed, turne not to the right hand nor to the left, Prov. 4, 23, 26, 27.

7 That we may encrease in all these.

Being fruitfull in every good work, and encreasing in the know­ledge of God, Col. 1, [...]0.

8 And be established.

Uphold me with thy free spirit, Psal. 51, 12.

Uphold me according to thy [Page 186]Word, that I may live, and let me not be ashamed of my hope, Psal. 119, 116.

9 And to persevere.

Teach me O Lord the way of thy Statutes, and I will keep it unto the end, Psal. 119, 33.

I have inclined my heart to per­forme thy Statutes alway, unto the end, Psal. 119, 112.

10 We must pray to be freed and preferved from every evill way, in opinion and practice.

The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the Congregation of the dead, Prov. 21, 16.

The wicked have laid a snare for me, yet I erred not from thy precepts, Psal. 119, 110.

Remove from me the way of ly­ing, I have refrained my feet from every evill way, Ps. 119.29.101.

Incline not my heart to any e­vill thing, to practice wicked works, Psal. 14, 4.

We must lay to heart, rely upon, urge God to reforme, a­wait his leasure, till he please to make good his word unto us in every particular we have thus sought him for in generall.

Thy Word have I hid in my heart, Psal. 119.11.

I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy wayes, I will not forget thy Word, v. 15 16.

In God will I prayes his Word, in the Lord will I prayse his Word, Psal. 56.10.

Remember thy word unto thy servant, on which thou hast caus­ed me to hope, this is my comfort in my affliction, for thy Word hath quickned me, Psal. 119, 49, 50.

Let I pray thee, thy mercifull kindnesse be for my comfort, ac­cording to thy Word unto thy ser­vant, Psal, 119, 76.

Therefore I will look unto the Lord, I will wait for the God of [Page 188]my salvation, my God will heare me, Micah 7, 7.

O my Father, neverthelesse not as I will, but as thou wilt, Mat. 26, 39.

In the particulars following. 1 In that we have acknowldged our neglects and defects.

The Lord saith, he that con­fesseth and forsaketh his sinnes, shall have mercy, Prov. 28, 13.

If we acknowledge our sinnes, he is faithfull and just to forgive us our sinnes, and to cleanst as from all unrigteousnesse, 1 John 1, 9.

2 In that we have craved par­don. The Lord saith, I will save you from all your unclean­nesses, &c. yet will I for this be enquired of to doe it, Ezek. 36, 29, 37.

3 In that we have asked a my of God: He sayes, Ask, and it shall be given you, Mat. 7.7.

We besought our God for this, and [Page 189]he was intreated of us, Ezr. 8, 23

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way that thou shalt go, and I will guide thee with mine eye, Psal. 32, 8.

4 To the desire of knowledge, the Lord saith, If thou callest af­ter knowledge, and cryest for un­derstanding, thou shalt find the knowledge of God, Prov. 2, 3, 5.

5 To the desire of a good dis­position: Thus a new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, Ezek. 36, 2 [...].

6 And of ability to walk with God: He promiseth thus, I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walke in my Statutes, and yee shall keep my judgements and doe them, Ezel. 36, 2 [...].

For it is he that worketh in you both to will and to doe of his good pleasure, Phil. 2, 13.

7 If we desire restauration: He restoreth my soule, and lead­eth [Page 190]me into the paths of righteous­nesse, Psal. 23, 3.

8 If we desire (herein) san­ctity: Yee shall keep my Statutes and doe them; I am the Lord which sanctifieth you, Levit, 20, 8, 24.

9 Watchfulnesse: I will heark­en what the Lord God will say, for he will speake peace unto his people, and to his Saints, that they returne not againe to folly, Psal. 85, 8.

10 Encrease: Call unto me and I will answer thee, and show thee great things and mighty, that thou knowest not, Jer. 33, 3.

I am the Lord thy God, which doeth teach thee to profit, and lead thee in the way that this shouldest goe, Isa. 48, 17.

11 Establishment: But the Lord is faithfull which will esta­blish you, and keep you from evill, 2 Thes. 3, 3.

12 Perseverance: I will not [Page 191]turne away from them to doe them good, but I will put my feare in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me; I will give them one heart and one way, that they may feare me for ever, Jer. 32, 39 40.

I am perswaded of this same thing, that he that hath begun this good work, will performe it untill the day of Jesus Christ, Phil. 1, 6.

13 Having prayed to be kept from erring out of the right way in judgement or life: The Lord sayes, Thine eares shall heare a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walke ye in it; when thou turnest to the right hand and when thou turnest to the left, Isa. 30, 21.

They that erred in spirit, shall come to understanding, Isa. 29, 24.

And an high way shall he there, and it shall be called the way of [Page 192]holinesse, the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not erre there­in, Isa. 35, 8.

For one prevailing motive (a­mong many) to a conscinable walking with God; consider god­linesse is profitable to all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come, 1 Tim. 4, 8. and the con­trary course a cause of all misery and mischife here, and eternally.

This concerning our furthe­rance for walking with God.

AVoid overmuch sleep; and rise timely, redeem thy [...] and walk wisely, worship [...] God in private, in thy Family and in publike, seasonably, con­scionably, [Page 193]and that daily.

Avoid impurity and passion, discontent, uncharitablenesse and excesse; converse chastly, soberly, peaceably, charitably, and temperately.

Shut up every evening with private prayer.

WHich of us does not think, and dares not say God loves me, Christ is my Saviour and Heaven my hope? whereas if we would examine our hearts and wayes, seriously and im­partially, many among us [Page 234]should see our selves shameful­ly deceived, and not to [...] about, doth not our preserring our pleasing and profitable [...]s before the will of God, our love to Carise, and walking in the way of life, give us the lye to our faces? Wherefore it con­cernes us highly, to labour effe­ctually for some good measure of those infallible marks, which may undoubtedly assure us we are in covenant with God, doe love the Lord Jesus dearly, and shall be saved everlastingly; unto which end, I commend Master By fields Marrow of the Oracles of God, as an especiall help (by Gods blessing,) and because my soule desires we may not deceive our selves, and lose our labour in this maisie matter, that so much concerne our true peace here, and happi­nesse for evermore: I take the boldnesse, in zeale to my God, [Page 235]in good will towards you (my Fellow-Officers of our own na­tion especially) freely and plainly to beseech, warne and charge you, as I doe mine owne soule, to lay to heart somewhat I have to declare unto you, that instead of those favours God hath pleased to promise to his, we bring not upon our owne heads the contrary curses; let us then lay this as an infallible founda­tion, that it is altogether in vain for us to look for any good from the Lord, so long as we dare to live in any one knowne sinne with allowance, and with­out repentance, which is ac­companied with a desire, reso­lution and endeavour to break off the same, and to doe no more so; for all unregerate men who live in their sinnes without re­pentance, are strangers from the Covenant of Promise, ha­ving no part in the Testiment, [Page 236]they have no hope, but are with­out God in the world, Eph. 2.12 Mat. 7.6. & 15.26.

But it may be said, this is faire and farre off, we know we are all sinners, and trust the Lord will have mercy on us, &c. Well, excuse me, I meane no harme, the next will come neer­er home, even into our secret bosomes; againe I say, what I say to any I say to mine own soule: The Lord saith, Ier. 7.9, 10, 19. Will you steale, murder, com­mit adultery, and sweare falsly, and come and stand before me, and say we are delivered, al­though ye doe all these abomi­nations? you provoke the Lord to anger to the confusion of your owne faces: I pray then what shall we gaine but all mi­sery and mischiefe? judge ye; now let us make application for what the Lord sayes concern­ing some, his meaning is con­cerning [Page 237]any other sinne, as if it were there mentioned.

Well then, dare you drinke drunk, whore, sweare, quarrell, shed blood, and as prophane Beasts, make a mock of God and goodnesse, scorne and abuse good men, and because the Lord yet suffers thee and seems to be silent, thinkest thou that God is like unto thee, and a patron of iniquity? Oh horrible impiety! he will reprove thee, and set all thy sinnes in order before thee, Psal. 50.18, 19, 20, 21. then wo, wo, wo unto thee, Ier. 13.15, 27.

Will you, dare you by your selves or others, for your selves or others, flatter, insinuate, slander, bribe, lye, be bri­bed, sweare, cozen, oppresse, forsweare, mince, geld, dally, and play with an Oath, make others lye, sweare and forsweare themselves for your base profit? They bend their tongues like their [Page 238]bowes for lies, but they have no courage for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evill to worse, and they have not known me, saith the Lord, Jer. 9.3. Let every one take heed of his neigh­bour, and trust you not in any bro­ther, for every brother will use deceit, and every friend will dealt deceitfully, and every one will de­ceive his friend, and will not speak the truth, for they have taught their tongues to speak lyes, and take great pains to doe wick­edly, Jer. 9.5. and is it not just thus among us, tell me, will God suffer this? he will not, shall I not visit for these things saith the Lord? and shall not my soule be avenged on such a Nation as this? Psal 50.21. Ier. 5.9.

Will you, dare you grind the faces of the poore ( Isa. 3.15.) Souldiers? flay the skins from their backs? suck the marrow [Page 239]out of their bones, blood out of their veins, and pull the hearts out of their bodies, by cutting, off, and with-holding their due, by forcing them to take their off-reckonings at unreasonable rates, or by giving them none at all, or by halves, by making them subscribe all is paid, when they never received the fifth part; by detaining all or most part of their due for their passes, by compelling them to runne away through extream, hard and most unjust usage? Oh consider this yee that for­get God, least I teare you in pieces, and there be none to de­liver you, saith the Lord, Psal. 50.22.

Will you, dare you by your unlawfull courses and unrigh­teous gaines (to serve your co­vetousnesse, lust, pride and ex­cesse) highly displease and dishonour God, grievously [Page 240]wound (by sinning against the light of your consciences,) be­tray the cause for which you serve, and wrong the State in which you serve? and he that doth not so, will you abhor, de­ride and harme him? the Lord sees it and it displeaseth him, Isa. 59.15.

Will you, dare you doe all these, and many more like un­to these? which (to hide your shame) I shame to reveale; for I say little of your most detesta­ble, most accursed false attesta­tions, whereby all parties are grievously guilty of horri­ble perjury; of your men of loose mearies, of those you make use of only for a muster, of your passavotants, of your false bil­lets, and mustering some or whom you give no meanes, b [...] a present reward for that base service, and then turn them o [...] of your mustering others in the [Page 241]names of those long dead or a­way, or in false names, or pas­sing Souldiers of other Compa­nies in yours, &c. Oh Mystery of iniquity! and yet flatter your selves, that all is well and shall be well? Or doe you think that God esteems or will spare you for your pride of heart, bra­very in apparell, courtly be­haviour, high looks, big words, height in place, greatnesse of power? No; or will he accept of your childish, foolish, wick­ed, vaine excuses, pretences, extenuations? neither [...] for there be no circumstance can make an unlawfull thing lawfull, Rom. 3.8. neither regardeth he any mans person, Rom. 2.11. doe not deceive your selves, is God God? and will he be mocked? Gal. 6.7. is Gods Word truth? which declareth the hainous­nesse and danger of these things? and dare you live in, [Page 242]and plead for them? let Baal plead for himselfe, Judg. 6.31. I plead for my God, who hath a controversie with you, Hos. 4.1. Oh how farre are all these courses from Saint Iohns do­ctrine to Souldiers, doe violence to no man, neither accuse any fals­ly, and be content with your wa­ges, Luke 3.14.

Away, away then with this dung and filth, this worse and lesse then nothing, if you at all esteem that inestimable Jewell of Gods Word, if you know, beleeve in, love, feare, and serve, and trust in God (as you would be thought) let not these more then base, most shame­full and harmefull courses, which he hates, forbids, threat­ens, hath plagued and will plague, Mal. 1.6. Ier. 2.19. & 4.18. for a little bitter, sweet, short pleasure, for a little pal­try pelfe, Iam. 5.1, 2, 3. rusty [Page 243]riches, or the like trash (which the very Heathens in respect of vertue abhorred & rejected) so farre hood-wink, befool, mislead you, that for the love of them, Rom. 6.23. you should run the hazard of losing, of damning your poore soules, your preci­ous soules, 1 Cor. 6.9, 10. and shut your selves out of Heaven. Oh what shall it profit a man if he gained the whole World, and should lose his soule?

Oh let Gods glory, his Churches good, your soules welfare, be preferred before your unlawfull gaines; for soul lost and all lost, and these are the high-wayes to hell, Rev. 22.15. or are you yet so ignorant and so obstinate that you wil not Beleeve this? Behold ye trust in lying words that cannot profit, Jer. 7.8. take Gods owne word for it, which will not flatter, which cannot deceive you, your [Page 244]condition is and shall be most miserable; He that getteth rich­es, and not by right, shall leave them in the middest of his dayes, and at his end shall be a fool, Jer. 17.11. and though you doe evill with both hands earnestly, so that the Prince asketh, and the Iudg. asketh for a reward, and the great man he uttereth his mischievous desire, and so ye wrap it up, Mic. 7.3. yet wo unto you that devise iniquity, and work evill upon your beds, when the morning is light ye practise it, because it is in the power of your hand, Mic. 2.1. yea, though hand joyne in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished, Prov. 11.21.

Apply among many more these following most plaine and powerfull places to this pur­pose, then if you dare goe on, devise by your selves, consult with others, abuse your wit and [Page 245]power to doe evill; what then? woe and punishment shall be your portion: for further proof of this, I beseech and admonish you, read, lay to heart, and jest not with what followeth out of Gods owne Word expresly.

Woe to the wicked (be they who they will, be their wicked­nesse what it will) it shall be evill with him, evill of sorrow, of shame, of fearfull plagues here, of horrible destruction for evermore shall be upon him, for the reward of his hands shall be given him, Isa. 3.11. Loe it is a day of trouble, and of ruine, and of perplexity by the Lord God of Hosts, Isa. 22.5. & 23.9. Behold the Day of the Lord commeth, cruell, with wrath and fierce anger, and he shall destroy the sinners out of the earth, Isa. 13.9. This day you say, is not come, it may be you conceit it [Page 246]will not come, or not upon you, and so put that day farre from you, but you see God saith, you see it commeth, it shall surely come, and what will you doe now in the day of visitation and destruction? to whom will you flee, for help? and where will yee leave your glory? the pri­viledges you presumed on will not secure you, or whatsoever you gloried in shall nothing availe you, Isa. 10.3. for if you refuse and be rebellious (though you thus long have escaped) you shall be devoured with the sword, a bullet shall meet with your head or heart when you little think of it, and then it will be too late, beleeve it; goe the right way to work to pre­vent it, for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it, Isa. 1.20. infinite wayes hath God to find out thy iniquities; feare, and the pit, and the snare are upon thee, [Page 247]Isa. 24.17. see Jer. 35.2, 5, 6. & 16.4, 6. & 19.15. Deut. 18.16. destruction upon destruction is cryed, for my people is foolish, they have not known me, they are fool­ish children and have none under­standing, they are wise to doe evill, but to doe good they have no knowledge, Jer. 4.20, 22. the time will come, that thy wayes and thine inventions shall pro­cure these things unto thee; such is thy wickednesse, therefore it shall be bitter (though it now seem sweet) therefore it shall pierce to thine heart (which thou now makest so much of) Jer. 4.18. neither will it help that you have sought deep (by plotting and councelling) to hide your councells from the Lord, although they were in darknesse (never so secretly contrived and practised) that you have said, who seeth us, who knoweth of it? Isa. 29.15. [Page 247]Therefore the Lord saith; Be­hold, I will bring a plague up­on you which you shall not be able to escape, and that which will be worst of all, though you cry unto me I will not heare you, Jer. 11.11. because when I called, you refused, Prov. 1.24. to 31. verse; read and remem­ber for your soules safeties sake I beseech you, yea, heare and give eare, be not proud, for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it, Jer. 13.15. oh may not the Lord justly say to us as he said Jer. 6.15. were they ashamed when they had committed abomi­nation? nay, they were not asha­med, no, neither could they have any shame; and as is Chap. 8.6. I hearkned & heard, but none spake aright, no man repented him of his wickednesse, saying, what have I done? for many of us thinke and dare say, it is shame for such as doe otherwise, and in­stead [Page 249]of repenting, most impu­dently say, we have not sinned; but these are rebellious people, lying children, and children that would not heare the Law of the Lord, Isa. 30.9. remember this and be ashamed, bring it againe to mind, O you trans­gressors, Isa. 46.8. the like pla­ces exceeding many; oh then plead not, plead not against the Lord, be not high minded, but feare, Rom. 9.20. be not decei­ved, God cannot, will not be mocked, Gal. 6.7. these things were written to admonish us, 1 Cor. 10.6. and if we turne not, the fierce wrath of the Lord shall not returne, untill he hath done, untill he hath performed the intents of his heart; hereaf­ter you shall understand it, and if you take not heed, smart for it, for the Lord of hosts hath de­termined it, and sworne to it, it shall come to passe who shall [Page 250]disanull it? his hand is stretch­ed out, who shall turne it away [...] it is he hath consulted, it shall stand, he hath spoken it, and will bring it to passe, he hath purposed it, and will also doe it; the word (and this is the word) that goeth out of his mouth shall not returne voyd, and shall accomplish that which he will, Isa. 14.24, 27. & 46.11. & 55.11. Dare we contend with God? oh farre be it from us, or else woe unto us, for he is stronger then we, 1 Cor. 10. [...]. and we shall find it a most fear­full thing to fall into his hands when he is angry: For our God is a consuming fire, Hebr. 12.29.

How then? what remedy? oh provoke the Lord God (most mighty, just and jealous) no more, no longer to wrath; but I most humbly for Gods sake, and most earnestly for your owne sake, beseech thee (who­soever [Page 251]thou art) let this my councell be acceptable unto thee, break off thy sinnes by righteousnesse, and thy iniqui­ties by shewing mercy unto, and dealing justly with the poore, especially under thy command, Dan. 4.24. and pitty thine own poore soule, by confessing and forsaking all secret and open wayes of deceit and violence, Pro. 28.13. make peace with the Lord & be at one with him, Isa. 27.5. it will be far the wisest & surest course, for then the Lord hath promised thee, all shall be wel with thee, Is. 3.10. God hath shewed thee O man what is good, and what the Lord requireth of thee; surely to doe justly, to love mercy, to humble thy selfe, to walk with God, Micah 6.8. now therefore without any longer delay, Psal. 95.7. amend your wayes and your works, and hear the voyce of the Lord you [...] [Page 252]God, Jer. 26.13. that the Lord may repent him of the plague that he hath pronounced a­gainst you: Cease to doe evill, learne to doe well, come now, saith the Lord, and let us reason toge­ther, though your sinnes were as Crimson, they shall be made white as Snow, though they were red like Scarlet, they shall be as wools if you consent and obey, you shall eat the good things of the Land, you shall prosper here and for ever Isa. 1.16, 17, 18, 19. 1 Tim. 4.8.

But if when a man heareth the words of the curse, he bles­seth himselfe in his heart, say­ing, I shall have peace although I walk according to the stub­bornnesse of mine owne heart, thus adding drunkennesse to thirst, the Lord will not be mer­cifull unto him; but when the wrath of the Lord, and his jea­lousie shall smoak against that man, and every curse that is [Page 253]written in this book shall light upon him, and the Lord shall put out his name from under Heaven; and every sicknesse, and every plague, which is not written in the book of this law will the Lord heap upon thee untill thou beest destroyed, Deut. 29.19, 20, 21. & 28.6. Behold, I have set before thee life and good, death and evill, choose, Deut. 30.15. heare and feare, and doe no more so.

Oh consider the snortnesse of life, and the certainty of death, the suddennesse of judgement, the plainnes of hell, the terrour of that great day of account, the meere nothingnesse of all worldly excuses, and conceited priviledges, 1 Sam. 12.21. and despise not the riches of Gods bountifulnesse, patience and long-suffering; consider that the goodnesse of God ought to lead thee to repentance, doe [Page 254]not after the hardnesse of thy heart, and impenitent dispositi­on, treasure up unto thy selfe wrath against the day of wrath, and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who will ren­der to every man according to his deeds, Rom. 2.4, 5, 6. yea, the Lord will seperate thee un­to evill, Deut. 29.21. for al­though sentence against an evill work be not executed speedily, and that therfore the heart of the chil­dren of men is fully set in them to doe evill, yea, though a sinner doe evill an hundred times, and God prolong his dayes, yet shall it not he well with him. Eccle. 8.11, 12, 13. for sinne lyeth at his doore, Gen. 4.7. he hath, nei­ther can, or ever shall have true peace, continuing so, Isa. 57.21. his owne wickednesse, Num. 32.23. and Gods hand will find him out, Jer. 2.19. and know for all these things, God will [Page 255]bring thee to judgement, Eccl. 11.9.

But some will say, I have ta­ken too much upon me, and medled with that which doeth not concerne me; I might have been more generall, covert and sparing: you see I brought my warrant with me, which makes me thus bold with you, and as to you I speak, to my selfe also, therefore you may not teare this out; what if you should tear them out hence, you dare not teare the ground of these things out of Gods booke, you cannot teare the truth and remem­brance of them out of your own consciences, Rom. 2.15. neither shall you teare Gods remem­brance of them out of his book of accounts at that great and terrible day of judgement, when he will set them all in or­der before you, Psal. 50.21. when even the chiefe Captains [Page 256]shall say to the Mountains, fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the Throne, and from the wrath of the Lambe, for the great day of his wrath is come, & who shalbe able to stand? What then shall availe you? what then shall deliver you? Rev. [...]6.15, 16, 17. besides, though I have been plaine and open, I name none, neither doe I accuse or aime at any in parti­cular, the innocent are not wronged, the faulty deserve reproofe and warning; such faults there are, in whom they are, they know best that are guilty of them; would God there were none such, though I herein were made a lyar; our consciences will accuse or ex­cuse us, although their mouthy sometimes be stopped never much, Rom. 2.15. I will [...] you further, for mine own pa [...] I look for little thanks for my [Page 257]labour, in being thus honestly free, but rather expect (though there be no reason if I were rightly understood) to get no­thing but hatred, contempt, re­proach, jeers, scorns, revilings, ill will and injury from the world and hers, John 15.18, 19, 20. if such smile upon me, it is but to deceive me, but I care not; and what need I? for such were never, nor never will be my friends but in words and shew, never did, nor never will doe me good, Jam. 4.4. but have been, are, and will be my enemies for speaking the truth, Gal. 4.16. what then? must the truth be with-held in unrighte­ousnesse? God forbid, Rom. 1.18. my cause is with my God, he will maintaine it unto the ut­termost, Isa. 49.4. I feare the face of no man, and why should I? the Lord himselfe hath pro­mised to comfort, strengthen, [Page 258]and preserve me, Isa. 51.12, 13 & 41.10, 13, 14. who? or which of you then can discourage, hinder, or harme, he hath been is, & hath assured me, he will be more for me, then all the world that can be against me, Rom. 8. I (you see) am armed, be you but warned, or the words that I have written shall not onely ac­cuse you, but encrease your con­demnation at the last day, John 12.48. and I shall (by Gods good grace and al-sufficient help) have wherewith to answer him, that for this will call me to account.

But me-thinks I heare some say, you are too hasty with us, first heare us, and answer these few Objections throughly, then goe on in reprehending sharp­ly, else revoke your opinion, and be more gentle we pray you.

Obiect. 1. Every man (at le [...] [Page 259]the most) doe so, and would you have us (as you seem) to be sin­gular?

Answ. If there be not war­rant for what we doe (as there is hone from God for this) the more that doe so, so much the worse, for so much the more is God dishonoured and provoked and iniquity is the more back­ed; therefore thou shalt not follow a multitude to doe evill, Exod. 23 [...]

2 Great ones doe so, and why not others as well as they?

Answ. It is true, Gods Word and common experience de­clares it, but what is that for our warrant? their greatnesse with­out goodnesse is nothing to the Lord, who is greater then they, and he that is higher then the highest here, regardeth; and there be higher then they, Eccl. [...].8. and if thou follow their finnes and perish with them for [Page 260]company, what can their great­nesse availe thee? when thou art a dying, let thy wofull ex­perience answer me.

3 Such as have no small shewes of Sanctity, such as have a great name, and talk much of Religion, and in other things to the world walk unblamably doe so, viz. such and such, &c.

Answ. This I confesse hath been often cast in my teeth, and hath not a little grieved, though never a whit unsetled me, con­fidering their examples (if they be faulty) can no more warrant me to do so, then Noahs drunk­ennesse, Lots incest, Abraham, Isaaks and Jacobs dissembling, Moses distrust, Aarons and Mi­riams envy, Davids adultery and murther, Peters deniall of Christ, and the like, ought to warrant me to commit the like offences, which the most igno­rant [Page 261]of us (I imagine) will not averre; besides, we must walk by Gods precepts, and not by unwarrantable examples, the fals of Gods children be as sea-markes and ship-wracks, to give us warning that we miscar­ry not in like manner; my soul wisheth for the greater glory of our God, and more gracing our Christian profession, for the re­moving away this scandall, and stopping the mouth of iniquity, for the fuller testimony to o­thers, and more assurance to their owne consciences, that they are true Christians, to cut off these cutting reproaches, which are often cast in the teeth of honest men, and for the more comfort of Gods children, that such among us (especially) who would be esteemed sincere Chri­stians would depart from such iniquities, 2 Tim. 2.19.

4 The States force us here­unto [Page 262]by their evill paiment, for heretofore the most of us have, and many of us yet doe give ever proper pay, for the paying of their companies, and if we doe not thus help our selves we cannot live, but must runne in debt, or spend our own meanes if we have any, and so prejudice if not undo our selves and ours, besides, we desire to help our selves no more then they take from us, and they know it well enough and wink at us; is not the Labourer worthy of his hire, who goeth to warfare at his owne charge? he that serves the Altar must live of the Al­tar.

What say you to this? this is Seripture too, and we beleeve you do not as you say, & should doe; if you can, answer to these, and then tell us what you would have us doe.

Answ. I confesse cur conditi­on [Page 263]by their ill payment is ex­treame hard and uncomfortable that puts upon us a necessity of doing ill to help our selves, or to suffer much in our outward estate for wel-doing; yet their forcing us thus, can no more warrant me to wrong the Land then another mans stealing from me can warrant me to steale from him or others; be­sides, the States will say, we have the eighth day to help us, which we enjoy rather of cu­stome, and by connivance (up­on this consideration) then of right, (but Sir John Ogle hath fully given reasons for the Cap­taines receiving the profit of the eighth day, both how ne­cessary and fitting the same is) further I say, we are bound in conscience to God to preferre the worst of suffering before the best of sinne, and if we be bound, if God call us for well­doing [Page 264]to suffer death, how much more these losses? Alas, this is not to resist unto blood, and it is a signe we are more like the Gadarens then true Christians, if rather to part with our [...] lawfull helps, we will part with Christ and his comforts. Again, be assured if we dye in well be­ing, trust God, he would assu­redly help one way or other neither hath he any need of our indirect courses to serve his providence, as if he could not or would not help us otherwise, whereas indeed although we consider it not, his curse secret­ly consumes, or openly crossed us for doing thus, for we see ve­ry few the richer thereby, [...] by gaming, gay cloaths, whoor­ing, drinking, debauching, live and dye miserably poore, yet in a worse condition, that other that have not followed such courses; then for my part [...] [Page 265]there be no other remedy, if I must needs dye poore, I would rather dye poore and honest, and leave a good repute, then dye miserable and wicked, and [...]ink in the esteem and report of others; or if some seem to grow rich by these wayes, I dare boldly say, such ill gotten goods shall not long prosper, but ei­ther they or theirs shall find Gods hand one way or other against them; and why should we not be perswaded the Lord can as easily and remarkably help us as he hath helped o­thers and ours (though many) as if they were but one, and ou [...] of the most and greatest trou­bles, as if they were never so few and small? for it is all on: with him, to whom nothing is impossible; if we but as consci­onable Christians depend upon his fatherly providence; oh it is cur propanenesse and distrust [Page 266]that with-holds his fatherly help from us: Further, there are I feare, but very few among us that will take no more by ill meanes, then the States by ill payment take from us, witnesse if the profit of twelve men would make good that charge, the profit of thirty men will not serve our turne, and this makes them say, if we would allow the Captaines tenne or twelve dead payes they would cozen us ne­verthelesse, therfore why should they have that allowance; true, the States know they are co­zened, but know not precisely who cozens them, or by what meanes, and although forcing­ly they conive at, they doe not approve of it, witnesse their strict forbidding, and if they find any faulty, their sharp pu­nishing of it; howsoever, if the meanes I use be forbidden by God, as the very best of these [Page 267]are (being at least lying and de­ceiving) I cannot see that any conivance or other circum­stance, can warrant me to use them. I acknowledge againe ingeniously, that Captaines in these Countries serve in a most uncomfortable and unhappy condition, who by the ill pay­ment, are forced to live theeves or dye beggars, or spend their owne meanes; and that it is ex­tream hard, that in recompence of all our labour and danger, (which our calling is subject to more then others) we and our wives and children cannot ear bread except it be the bread of deceit and violence, which though it seem sweet for the present, will choake us in the end; neither can I see any rea­son or equity in them that are the cause of such our extremi­ties, and if they can, doe not re­dresse, neither doe I see how au­thority [Page 268]will ever be able to an­swer it before Gods judgement sear, that they have not remo­ved the cause of such unrighte­ous dealings, whereby (I dare averre it for experientiâ doeet) it is now come to that passe, that it is impossible to serve the Land truly, and hold fast our integrity, are we not then in a fine case? and is not the Lands service come to a fine passe? and are we not like to prosper, when we that are imployed in the service, serve in a course of unrighteousnesse, or ruine our selves and ours without reme­dy? and for those places, the labourer is worthy of his hire, &c. they shew what ought to be and not what alwayes is, for another Scripture sayes, woe to them that detaine the Labourers hire, so indeed we ought to have out appointed pay, or else how can we be content with our wa­ges; [Page 269]yet for all this we have no warrant to follow any unlaw­full wayes forbidden and ac­cursed by God, as is proved be­fore. Grant I doe not as I say, the truth remaines truth, and if I dare doe otherwise, the same will turne to my greater con­demnation, knowing and say­ing so much as I doe, and this is that above all I abhor and con­demn in the discourses of others concerning these things, that because they doe not as they ought, they dare justifie what they do, yea, some dare say they hold it no sin to do so, and they do it & will do it: Oh horrible presumption! it is too much we doe ill, would God we were sen­sible thereof, and we would not so plead therefore; but to justi­sie our selves therein, as if we not onely faultlesse, but did well, is too too bad; oh, if we doe no more, let us at least give [Page 270]God his glory thus farre, as to acknowledge we doe amisse, do­ing so fouly amisse. Take this in good part in some part of an­swer to these Objections, which I vvish with my soule may sa­tisfie others as they doe me.

To conclude, I freely, friend­ly and faithfully give this coun­sell in this case.

Take this as an infallible ground, there is no circum­stance whatsoever can make an unlawfull thing lawfull.

That the worst of suffering is to be chosen before the best of sinne.

That it is better to live in misery then in iniquity.

That in the day of visitation, and at the houre of death (which sooner or later will come upon every one of us) these courses cannot any whit comfort, but if we dye not stupid, impenitent Beasts will torment us.

That God hath no need of our sinnes to serve his provi­dence towards us.

That this our prophanenesse and distrust hinders his help and blessing from us.

That the right way is the best way, procuring inward content­ment, boldnesse before the stri­ctest authority, a good repute, freedome from the base accusa­tions of vile persons, all which our crooked wayes mislead us from; proove the Lord by trust­ing him in wel-doing, rather, then thou shalt want conveni­ent help, he will work wonders for thee, Mal. 3.10. and will doe more for us then we can lose thereby, 2 Chron. 25.9.

Let us with all due respect seeke to authority for redresse joyntly.

Let us be humbled for what is amisse hitherto, confesse, crave pardon for, resolve to forsake, [Page 272]labor against, pray for strength to overcome our forepast evils in this kind, and that unfained­ly and constantly, and beseech God to work upon the heart of authority, and that we may pre­ferre the generall good of Gods cause before our private profit seriously, and we shall find a re­markable change and all shall goe well; for Piety hath the pro­mise undoubtedly, 1 Tim. 4.8.

And here I end this matter.

IT is written Acts 24.16. here­in doe I exercise my selfe to have alwayes a good consci­ence voyd of offence towards [Page 273]God and towards men, Ps. 119. then shall I not be asnamed; when I have respect unto all thy Commandements, and ver. 101. I have refrained my feet from every evill way.

THe proud, peevish, jest m [...] and vexing humour of a Preacher is most offensive and unseemly.

An humble, quiet, grave and friendly carriage does much good, and is most comely.

Hate thy sinne as well as know it, forsake it, as well as beg pardon for it, if thou my self practice it, it little availes thee to reprove it.

Doe well, trust God and be merry, whosoever mislikes it.

There is no fence, against the ungrounded suspitions, o [...] the slanderous, spitefull, inju­rious, uncharitable speechs o [...] others, which thou knowest not [Page 291]of; in this case approve thy heart to God, give no cause of offence and care not, for harme shee they shall not.

Parents must not be tyrants, nor children masters.

To be temperate in eating and drinking.

To make a covenant with our eyes.

To be more watchfull, sober and wise in speaking.

To rise every morning time­ly.

To premeditate before holy [...]uties.

To strive against deadnesse, wearinesse, customarinesse in performing them.

To labor for an holy & harm­lesse carriage, furthers inward quier, and prevents outward scandall.

Avoid all by-respects, all e­vill thoughts, all misgovern­ment of the tongue, all unscem­ly [Page 292]behaviour, and all sinfull actions.

Endeavour Gods glory in all things, to entertaine god [...] thoughts, to strive to govern the tongue, to embrace a co [...] ­ly behaviour, to walk always as in Gods presence, to appr [...] our hearts to him, helps forw [...] in holinesse.

Pray, pray, pray, that God would shew thee the right way:

• 1 Because he requires it, Jer. 6.16.
• 2 Because he hath promised to shew it, Psal. 32.8. Jer. 33.3.
• 3 And to cause us walk in [...] Ezek. 26.37. Hos. 14.19.
• 4. And that we shall perseven therein, Psal. 66.9.
• 5 And because the Lord hath promised his blessing to all that walk in it, Ps. 1. & 50.23. & 119. Gal. 6.16.

BEcause God requires it, Jer. [Page 300]22.30. complaines of the neg­tect of it, Isa. 52.16. & 63. [...]. markes those for his, and pre­serves them in times of generall judgements that doe it, Ezek. 9.4, 6. and will be intreated by them, as by Moses, &c. there­fore let us seriously ponder them, and the judgements due unto them, and acknowledge them, craving an heart to be touched with godly sorrow, and awfull feare, bceause of them, eschewing them in our selves, suppressing them in others ill we can, begging pardon for, and reformation of them, vex­ing our soules seeing or hearing of them, desiring the Lord to keep his judgements from us, that are due for them; so sigh­ing to the Lord sensibly because of them.

THe Lord God, ^(a) whom I alone, ^(b) and alwayes ^(c) desire to serve, ^(d) and trust, ^(e) and in whose name, ^(f) fear, ^(g) presence ^(h) and assistance, ⁽ⁱ⁾ I desire to order all my wayes, ^(k) and from whom one­ly I look for all grace ^(l) and good, ^(m) is God the Father, ⁽ⁿ⁾ God the Son ^(o) and God the holy Ghost, ^(p) three Per­sons, ^(q) but one, ^(r) onely ^(s) true ^(t) and most wonder­full ^(v) Lord God, ^(w) who by his Word alone, ^(x) most wise­ly, ^(y) powerfully, ^(z) graci­ously, ^(a) hath created all things of nothing, ^(b) who in like manner preserved, doeth [Page 302]and will preserve, ^(c) and dis­pose all the vvorks of his hands ^(d) for his owne glory ^(e) and his childrens vvelfare, ^(f) vvhat­soever opposeth, ^(g) vvho is the eternall, ^(h) everliving, ⁽ⁱ⁾ e­verlasting, ^(k) most glorious, ^(l) great, ^(m) tearful, ⁽ⁿ⁾ invisi­ble, ^(o) invincible, ^(p) uncon­ceivable, ^(q) un-utterable, ^(r) incomprehensible, ^(s) inac­cessible, ^(t) incorruptible, ^(v) infinitely vvise, ^(w) most holy, ^(x) just, ^(y) jealous, ^(z) righteous, ^(a) Almighty, ^(b) al-sufficient, ^(c) every where present, ^(d) alknowing, ^(e) most blessed ^(f) and onely Potentate, ^(g) most gracious, ^(h) good, ⁽ⁱ⁾ free, ^(k) bountifull, ^(l) most patient, ^(m) long-suftering, ⁽ⁿ⁾ compassionate, ^(o) pittifull ^(p) most loving, ^q faire, ^r pure, ^s comely, ^t beautifull, ^v most mercifull, ^w faithfull, ^x im­mutable, ^y and never enough [Page 303]to be admired Majesty: ^z my Lord, ^a my God, ^b my Fa­ther, ^c my Redeemer, ^d my Intercessor, ^e my Sanctifier, ^f my Comforter, ^g my Guide, ^h my Sufficiency, ⁱ my safety, ^k my Deliverer, ^l my good suc­cesse, ^m my life, ⁿ my health, ^o my strength, ^p my succour, ^q my chiefe good, ^r my all in all for good, ^s my onely helper at all assayes, ^t in greatest ex­tremities most remarkably, ^v in whom I have all, ^w without whom I have nothing, ^x nor can doe nothing, ^y of whom alone I have received, ^z by whom alone I doe enjoy, ^a from whom alone I crave ^b and ex­pect ^c all good ^d for this and a better life; ^e yea, whom I desire above all things, ^f and to whom onely in all, above all, alwayes be glory, ^g Amen. ^g

FIrst, to walk circumspectly: and that, [Page 306]

• 1 In dividing the times aright for the duties of Religion, the works of my calling, and other lawfull imployments, that them be no confusion, that the lesser be not hinderances, but help to the greater.
• 2 By serious consideration that I have warrant out of the Word of God for all my pro­ceedings.

Secondly, what religious du­ties be performed daily with Christian conveniency.

• 1 Prayer for my selfe, min [...] Gods people.
• 2 Reading the Scripture, and somewhat in a good books.
• 3 Meditation.
• 4 To sing out of the Psalms.
• 5 To imbrace all occasions for Gods publike worship.

In each of these to seek the Lord conscionably.

• 1 Labouring for preparation, revetence, sincerity, feeling, [Page 307]chearfulnesse and faith.
• 2 Striving against careles­nesse, coldnesse, drousinesse, hypocrisie and customary ser­vice.
• 3 When any urgent businesse of my calling causeth the defer­ring any of these duties, to take a more convenient time, yea, to redeem the time for the perfor­mance thereof.

Thirdly, concerning the du­ties of my particular calling.

• 1 In generall to walk faith­fully, diligently and wisely.
• 2 In particular, towards Supe­nours in all things lawfull, obediently; towards those I command gravely, towards equals friendly:
• 3 When I am commanded, to pursue my businesse earnestly, and chearfully till the same be effected.
• 4 In commanding others, to doe all distinctly, throughly, [Page 308]plainly and impartially, to se [...] the same effected accordingly, to check and punish neglect sharply.
• 5 If joyned with other in command, to seek and follow the best counsell and commend­ablest course.
• 6 Not to despise the good ad­vice of any, though never so meane, but by all good meanes to grow more fit for service.
• 7 For better furnishing him­selfe with ability to listen to others discourses, to observe what others doe commendably in this or that occasion, to con­sider the use of things with si­lent application.

Fourthly, what company to avoid; viz. of swearers, drunk­ards, quarrellers, gamsters, whore-masters, filthy talkers, scoffers at goodnesse, &c. to im­brace the society of honest men though meane.

Fiftly, what places to avoid, as of uncleannesse, excesse, play­ing, &c. though inticed or pro­voked thereto, and to frequent such places where good is to be gotten.

Sixtly, what especiall sinnes to strive against.

• 1 In heart, unadvised anger, remembring injuries, desire of revenge, hatred, envy, impure lusts.
• 2 In words; brawling, rail­ing, reviling, scoffing, indis­creet, superfluous, obscene boasting, unnecessary, selfcon­ceited, censuring, ungracious, familiar, blasphemous, spee­ches.
• 3 In behaviour, lightnesse, lumpishnesse, pride, familiar­nesse.
• 4 In looks; wandrings, wan­tonnesse, lustfulnesse.
• 5 In action; hard dealing, impurity, secret or open intem­perance, [Page 310]all sinne, folly, and disorder.

Seventhly, to entertaine these contrary vertues.

• 1 In heart, watchfulnesse, sobriety, putting up wrong [...], forgetting injuries, passing by offences without taking notice of them (if God be not disho­noured or my selfe disabled, else, to use all good meanes to stand for the truth, and cleare my innocency) and quietnesse.
• 2 In words; that they be wise, few, seasonable, to the purpost, charitable, true, meek, gracious.
• 3 In behaviour; gravity, mo­desty, humility, curtesie, seem­linesse, to make a covenant with mine eyes not to behold vanity with delight.
• 4 In action, to shew tender­lie artednesse, to live chastly, temperately, thriftily, and to deale justly.

Eightly, in case of justice and [Page 311]judgement:

• 1 Not to condemne the inno­cent, or justifie the offender.
• 2 Nor to accept persons for any respect.
• 3 To examine the cause throughly.
• 4 To heare both parties deli­berately.
• 5 To hate bribes unfainedly.
• 6 To helpe the afflicted a­gainst the rich and mighty.
• 7 To execute justice rightly.
• 8 To pronounce sentence ac­cording to warrant, gravely, boldly, briefly, impartially, substantially, how many, who, whatsoever opposeth.

Ninthly, for convenient main­tainance, according to place and calling.

• 1 To live within compasse.
• 2 To weare plaine, service­able and decent apparrell.
• 3 To avoyd running into debt, and to pay debts by all [Page 312]good meanes possible.
• 4 Not to live at anothers Table
• 5. Not to lay out on thin [...] superfluous.
• 6 To allow what is fitting for my Family.
• 7. In weldoing to depend [...] Gods providence.

Tenthly, in more espe [...] imployments in my plate:

To propound in each Go [...] glory, to have respect to hi [...] Cause, to be affected, to hi [...] Church, to order all affaires [...] judgement, where my calling requires, though never [...] gerous, to be willing; forward couragious; bould, industrio [...] fearelesse to the death, [...] mending my self into the [...] of God wholly, for helpe, [...] and good successe.

To avoyd and strive aga [...] rash adventures without a war­rantable calling, foolish cu [...] ­osity, ostentation, unwilling­nesse, [Page 313]sloathfulnesse, backward­nesse, frivolous excuses, cow­ardlinesse, fear, flying, distrust of Gods help for sufficiency and protection for safety and bles­sing for a good issue.

Eleventhly and lastly, con­cerning lawfull recreation.

• 1 To take such time for them, that things of more consequence [...] the same time be not hinder­ed by them.
• 2 To use such exercises as are manly, comely, and fittest for my calling, place and age.
• 3 With nien most free from offence, and of a good report.
• 4 All with moderation; not spending too much time, labour or cost therein.
• 5 Especially to spend some spare time in reading in some good morrall Author, as Plu­tarks Lives, Caesars Co [...]enta­ries, &c. and to ride abroad to view the Trench, Works, &c. [Page 314]both for better enabling him to doe service.

To endeavour all in a consci­nable manner, seeking in all Gods glory chiefly, by the help of his holy Spirit onely, spite of all oppositions, trusting through his grace in sincerity to testifie obedience; and in all unwilling failings, not to doubt of his most mercifull forgive­nesse, gracious acceptation, and favourable blessing, in the face of Christ Jesus, in whose name (my Father) I beg a disposition and ability to discharge each part of my duty, seasonably, wisely, uprightly, and con­stantly, according to what I have purposed and expressed before thee, that thou in mercy [...]ccording to thy truth in him [...]ayest please at all times, & in [...] things, to be with me for [...]d, Amen.

FIrst, be fully assured it is the Cause of God, else it is sinful and shall not be blessed; but undoubtedly it is the Cause of God, because his pure worship accooding to his Word is stood for, because we have been, and are grievously persecuted by tyrannous Idolaters for the same; and that neverthelesse the Lord for his great names sake, according to his truth, in great mercy, hath many and miracu­lously delivered and preserved us, and still doth, as at this day.

Secondly, therfore as all good Christians are strictly bound, so I my self must endeavour to doe my best to maintaine this his Cause, and that because

• 1 The Lord requires it.
• 2 And curseth bitterly such as helpe him not against the mighty.
• 3 And hath plagued such for their neglect.
• 4 Because I have the warrant­able examples of Gods chil­dren, who willingly ventured their lives for this Cause.
• 5 The commendations in Scripture of such, is also a spur hereunto.
• 6 And the blessings of the Lord upon them, both which we may look for.
• 7 We are Fellow-helpers with the Lord in his Worke against his enemies, an accepta­ble work.

Thirdly, the manner how to [Page 317]performe this commanded, war­rantable, commendable, blessed and acceptable work.

• 1 Zealously; and that
  • 1 Because the glory of the great name of the eternall God, of which he is so jealous, is the thing we fight for, the Cause being his.
  • 2 The preservation of his holy Word, and pure worship among us, which is an especiall token of his favour to us, being the meanes to save our soules.
  • 3 And that if the enemy should prevaile, we should not onely lose these blessings, but they should be scofft at, pro­phaned and trodden under foot by them, and their abominati­ons set up, to the exceeding greeat dishonour of our blessed God, and the Losse of innume­rable soules.
• 2 Couragiously; and that
  • 1 Because it is the Cause of [Page 318]God Almighty, who is able to defend and deliver us in the middest of the greatest perils, and if none apparent were nigh unto us.
  • 2 Who governeth all things in all places, that no bullet can fly, or any other instrument of warre move but according to his especiall disposing, nor doe any hurt to me, but by his expresse commission, and according to his good pleasure.
  • 3 That he who is most faith­full in remembring and keep­ing his word, hath abundantly promised he will preserve and deliver me, as he sees best for me.
  • 4 That he hath preserved and delivered others, even prophane persons, who have shewed little care to obey seek or trust him, and that in extreamest dan­gers.
  • 5 That he hath often and [Page 319]most remarkably done the like to others of his, and to me (the most helplesse and unworthy) formerly.
  • 6 That many through feare seeking to avoyd danger, have the sooner hurt and slaine, and others who have been warranta­bly and worthily valiant, have by Gods protection, escaped.
  • 7 That divers have been slain in a Tent, hut, or house, or in o­ther places where they thought themselves secure, have been hurt or slaine, when others in the trench or battell have been safe.
  • 8 That if the Lord please I shall be safe, be the perils ne­ver so many and great, for he can preserve from the greatest as well as the least, from many as well as any.
  • 9 If he please I end my dayes in fight against his foes, I dye a Martyr, and the very instru­ment [Page 320]of my death is a meanes to send me Heaven.
  • 10 If we be fearfull and in­sufficient in our selves to doe our duty valiantly, let us seek courage and ability from the Lord, he will in some good mea­sure undoubtedly grant it, be­cause he hath expresly promised it.
• 3 Faithfully, because the Lord hateth eye service, and all unfaithfulnesse, and loveth a faithfull carriage in our cal­lings.
• 4 Diligently and vigilantly, because
  • 1 By sloathfulnesse, negli­gence and backwardnesse, much time is lost, much evill may en­sue to the businesse, and much shame, disfavour, scorne and harme may come upon our selves.
  • 2 Because time is redeemed, the Cause advanced, and we [Page 321]shall be commended, and be the better trusted with imploy­ment.
• 5 Circumspectly, that is, to pursue all lawfull imployments of our calling, seasonably for time, place and manner, with good advice worthily, weigh­ing all circumstances through­ly.
• 6 Conscionably, propound­ing Gods glory chiefly, the goodnes of the Cause seriously, and our sincere obedience to his Majesty, and to testifie we are Christians indeed, that lay his Cause to heart deeply.
• 7 In faith, resting fully per­swaded that our good God, of his great mercy, for the worthi­nesse of the Lord Jesus will gra­clously accept our endeavours, though never so full of unwor­thinesse, and will assuredly blesse us.
• 8 Wi [...]h humble, instant and [Page 322]earnest prayer especially,
  • 1 That the Lord will supply with fitting gifts for his ser­vice.
  • 2 That our endeavours may be blessed, for the maintainance of the Cause.
  • 3 That he will please by all meanes, in all places, continu­ally to maintaine the same, and oppose the contrary.

Thirdly, divers motives to stirre up by all meanes to help (to our uttermost) to maintaine the Cause of God.

• 1 Such as have respect to the Lord most blessed for ever­more, as he is our God in foure respects, among many more:
  • 1 That he is our Creator, and hath made us for his own glory, and that we cannot any way better answer the end of our creation, then by offering our service, yea, to the death (if he thinks sit) for his names sake.
  • [Page 323]2 That he is our Father, ther­fore it were an unnaturall, cow­ardly and shamefull part, to stand still and look on, when other of our Christian brethren are abused, smitten and slaine.
  • 3 That he is our Lord, then were it a base, uncivill, hate­full part in us to be quiet, when others of our deare and loving fellow-servants are wronged and persecuted.
  • 4 That he is our chiefe good, from whom we have received and doe expect all good, there­fore we are bound to testifie our thankfulnesse in this respect e­specially.
• 2 Such as have respect to the Lord Jesus Christ our Redeem­er; as
  • 1 As he is our Redeemer and dyed for us, we should not suffer his Crosse to be defaced, his blood to be trodden under foot, as is done by Idolaters, against [Page 324]whom we must in this case con­tend to the uttermost.
  • 2 Because he is persecuted and fought against in his Church; should we not take his part, who hath done and suffe­red so much for us that were his enemies? and with holy wrath and indignation, and deep de­sire of godly revenge for the wrongs done to him, fight and doe all we can?
  • 3 Because he saith, he that seeketh to save his life (and that not for him) loseth it, and he that loseth his life for his sake, shall find it.
  • 4 And because he protesteth, if we be ashamed of him here, he will be ashamed of us before his heavenly Father; and what greater shame for us, then not to take his part against the sub­tle, cruell, mighty wicked ene­mies of his and our fellow­members.
• [Page 325]3 Such as have respect to God the holy Ghost, our San­ctifier and Comforter.
  • 1 He sanctifying us, how should we not help them whom he hath sanctified together with us also?
  • 2 And labour to maintaine the meanes of our sanctification even his Ordinances, which these his enemies would be­reave us of.
  • 3 As he is our comforter, would we be comforted by him, and should we not be a meanes as well as we and all we may, to comfort others comfortlesse and afflicted?
  • 4 Because he worketh in us all that are his, one faith, one hope, one way, alike desires and affections, and sealeth unto us the assurance of that onely and eternall happinesse, and that to this end chiefly, the more to ob­lidge us to love and help one [Page 326]another, which can no way be better manifested then in this manner.
• 4 Such motives hereunto as may be drawne from the consi­deration of the disposition and demeanour of those his and our enemies, as
  • 1 They blaspheme the name of our God by their abominable idolatries.
  • 2 They rob him of his honour and give that to their idola­tries.
  • 3. They mock our prayers too, and serving of God.
  • 4 They deride our trust in his name.
  • 5 They reproach and revile our holy profession.
  • 6 They have defiled, do and will defile the places of Gods worship, where they have the upper hand.
  • 7 They banish, imprison, torment and kill the sevants of [Page 327]God, and will serve us so if they prevaile.
  • 2 They ravish and defile Wives and Maidens, yea, before their Husbands and Parents fa­ces, and we must look for no lesse if they overcome.
  • 9 They devour, rob and spoile all your goods, and by inhumaine tortures, would in­force you to confesse what you know not, and give what you have not.
  • 10 They take the bread out of your and your childrens mouthes, bereave you of all meanes of sustenance, and leave you and yours to famish.
  • 11 They burne your dwel­lings, and it may be your selves in them, or reserue you for more misery.
  • 12 They keepe no promise with us further then to serve their owne turnes, therefore never trust them but with sword [Page 328]in hand, for it is their irreligi­ous maxime in their Religion, keep no faith with Infidels.
  • 13 Though you submit unto them, and condition with them the best you can, yet they will by one meanes or other ruine you; yea, though you should turne to their Religion (to your soules destruction, you shall perhaps be favoured with a more honourable death, for dye you must: thus they have done to divers, and I doubt of, and would be loath to trust them, their malice is so mortall.
  • 14 They binde mens consci­ences with mens traditions, and so seek destruction of soule and body.
  • 15 All their inveterate ha­tred is against us, because we maintaine truth and oppose er­rour, which they insatiably long and labour to revenge.
  • 16 They would rejoyce and [Page 329]triumph in our overthrow, and ask us where is our God, as if he could not, or would not, or had forgot to help us.
  • 17 And be hardned in their idolatries, as if their Cause were good and ours bad, theirs ha­ving so many, and ours so few to help it.
  • 18 And have the more free­dome and might to oppresse true professors.
  • 19 And will change all Church and civill government, and dis­place good, and preferre evill governours.
  • 20 And every way overthrow our priviledges and peace.
• 5 Such Motives to this end, as have especiall respect to our selves:
  • 1 That if we help not and so they overcome, we should not onely not publikely use, but most dearly buy the most pri­vate use of the very least means [Page 330]grace, yea, the keeping of a good book by us with continu [...] all feare and danger, yea, with the hazard of our heart blood.
  • 2. That this our particula [...] free, peaceable and happy esta [...] shall be by them turned upside downe.
• 6 And lastly, Motives which have respect unto our brethre [...] which doe suffer:
  • 1 That if we were in like case, how gladly would we be relieved, and how would we think others of our brethren bound to doe their best to that end.
  • 2 We are bound in conscience to help and deliver them all we can, as they were bound to doe the like for us, if our conditions were changed.
  • 3 Being all members of one body, it were against nature not to have a fellow-feeling of, and to doe all we can to succour one another.
  • [Page 331]4 If God vouchsafe them freedome, by Gods blessing on our endeavours, how shall their [...]aises abound to the glory of our God? and how will their distressed estates be relieved, [...]nd poore hearts be refresh­ed?
  • 5 The same will be one in­fallible testimony to our con­sciences, that we are true mem­bers of that mysticall body, wherof Christ Jesus is the head; and the contrary prove us to be but dead and unprofitable members thereof, fittest to be out off and fired, what name so­ever we have, what shew soever we make, how great soever our owne or others opinions be of our selves, in the Church of Christ.

Oh ought not then all these and the like, cause us to detest and fight against these most hatefull and harmfull enemies [Page 332]of our God and his beloved peo­ple, and by all possible meane [...] we can to oppose those, and su [...] ­cour these: Now Lord we be­seech thee affect us herewith throughly, enbale us here [...] rightly, and blesse from Heaven abundantly; Amen, Amen, I pray thee.

ALL must study it, and that

• 1 From the necessity of it; and that
  • 1 In regard of Gods com­mand.
  • 2 In regard of the danger that will else ensue, and that
    • 1 In suffering our selves to be Satans slaves, &c.
    • [Page 333]2 And Gods enemies.
    • 3 Grieving Gods Spirit.
    • 4 Interrupting our communi­ [...] with God.
    • 5 Committing grosse sinnes.
    • 6 Procuring sore afflictions.
• 2 From the good will follow [...]e doe it, as
  • 1 Great peace.
  • 2 Patience and joy in afflicti­ [...]ns.
  • 3 Certaine freedome from [...]sse sinnes.
  • 4 Good esteem from men.
• 3 From the equity of the duty
  • 1 For sinne in Gods enemy.
  • 2 A murther of Christ.
  • 3 A breaker of our Vowes:
  • 4 An unseasonable thing, as
    • 1 Being contrary to all right [...]d reason:
    • 2 A meer cozener.
    • 4 From the good successe [...]ein, as
      • 1 We shall lose nothing ther­ [...] that is worth having.
      • [Page 334]2 Our endeavour herein shall be accepted.
      • 3 And he will reward o [...] paines taken in this.
      • 4 We shall surely overcome
• 2 The degrees of mortificati­on in this life.
  • 1 The least degree we c [...] have, if we have any, is
    • 1 To forbeare the usuall pra­ctice of any grosse sinne.
    • 2 And the allowance of the least sinne.
  • 2 The highest degree of mor­tification, is
    • 1 To be ever kept from any grosse sinne.
    • 2 To be freed from any set led liking of an ill motion.
• 3 The meanes of mortificati­on, as
  • 1 Naturall, as
    • 1 Moderation in things indifferent.
    • 2 Shunning the occasions [...] sinne.
  • 2 Spirituall, as
    • 1 Frequent and fervent prayer, as
      • 1 Confession of the sins and [...]rruptions we are most guilty [...]
      • 2 Requests for strength a­ [...]inst them, urging the Lord [...]th such promises as he hath [...]de to subdue our iniquities, [...].
      • 3 Thanksgiving for any [...]ngth received against our [...]ruptions.
    • 1 Spirituall meanes. 1 Me­ditation.
      • 1 Of Gods holy nature.
      • 2 His terrible judgements.
      • 3 His gracious Promises.
      • 4 Of Christs sufferings.
    • 2 Spirituall meanes, feare of our selves.
    • 3 Watchfulnesse over all the powers of our soules and mem­b [...]rs of our bodies.
• 4 In what manner we must [Page 336]use all the helps of mortificati­on:
  • 1 Seasonably, when sinne begins to arise, or any motions or inclinations thereto.
  • 2 Constantly; that is,
    • 1 Every where.
    • 2 Continually.
  • 3 Orderly, setting upon our master-sinne first.
  • 4 Spiritually.
    • 1 Not resting on the means, or our owne strength.
    • 2 But relying on the mighty power of God.
• 5 And lastly, generall Uses of all.
  • 1 Examination of our selves in regard of the time past, how we have performed this duty?
  • 2 Humiliation, that we have not performed this duty at all, or not in due measure.
  • 3 Exhortation to reforme the former negligence hereafter.
  • 4 Consolation to such as have [Page 337]been, and are painfull herein.

A Lwayes when he found him­selfe so decay in zeale and care to pray, his conscience checkt him for unthankfulnesse for former assistance in pray­ing, or for depending too much upon his prayers, whereupon he felt a deadnesse to all other good duties, a yeelding to the motions and occasions of sinne, an inward puffing up, a care­lesnesse and self-presuming, yea a miserable distemper in all things; and then he conceived himselfe to be neare some sore temptation, foule fall, grievous inward dejection, or great out­ward calamity; therefore he held it his instantly to fall to prayer, that the Lord would [Page 347]please to restore unto him the spirit of prayer, to work in him a willingnesse to all other holy exercises, to give him strength to resist and overcome the pro­vocations, to evill, to humble him deeply in the sense of his former faults and present cor­ruptions, to make him truly thankfull and watchfull, and in the strength of the Almighty, onely out of conscience to doe his duty, to bring all into good order, and to keep all so con­stantly, and most graciously powerfull and faithfully, to prevent the sinnes, perplexities and troubles he feares, merits and hath cause to expect to be left unto, and which he else by no means can escape; so await­ing the Lords leasure, and sub­mitting to his good pleasure, goe all how it will, all shall goe well. Amen, my Father in Christ, of thine owne meere [Page 346] [...] [Page 347] [...] [Page 348]mercy, be I never so unworthy, as thou hast promised, whatso­ever opposeth, Amen, Amen, even so be it, Amen.

• 1 COncerning government of the mind, page 349
• 2 Of the tongue, p. 351
• 3 Of the conversation, page 361
• 4 Of passion and sobriety, p. 368
• 5 Of pride and humility, p. 374
• 6 Of strise and peace,
• [Page 349]7 Of envy and charity,
• 8 Of discontent and quiet,
• 9 Of medling and reserved­nesse,
• 10 Of sullennesse and chear­fulnesse.

NOw I pray let us againe at this time in the feare & assi­stance of the Lord our God, as in his presence, who is through­ly acquainted with all our ways as well as we can, though alas we cannot as we ought, in sincere obedience to his will, set our souls reverendly & attentively to seek him in his holy ordinan­ces; so depending upon, await­ing for, comforting our selves in the assurance of his most merci­ful [Page 380]and faithfully promised forgivenes, acceptation & blessing through Christ Iesus, Amen. But as for me and my house [...] Will serve the Lord, Iosh, 24, 2 [...] Green the Church that is in then house, Rom. 16.5.

Then to read a chapter in the Bible reverendly: To observe some plain & profitable lessons out of the same discreetly: To read somewhat in a good book distinctly: to pray humbly: to sing part of a psalm understan­dingly: all every morning and evening constantly.