The Virgin Saint: OR, A Brief NARRATIVE of the Holy Life, and Christian Death of Mary VVilson.

With some memorable Passages, and occa­sional Speeches a little before her Death added thereunto.

To which is also adjoyned A SERMON, Preached at her Funeral, By Mr. GEO. NICHOLSON.

Together with Several Consolatory Letters, written by divers Ministers, to her Mournful Fa­ther, Mr. RICHARD WILSON of Crosfield in Cumberland.

London, Printed for Jonathan Robinson, at the Golden-Lion in Pauls Church-yard, 1673.

[...]
Jer. 2.2.

Go and cry in the Ears of Jerusalem saying, Thus sayth the Lord, I remember thee, the Kindness of thy Youth, the Love of thine Espou­sals.

Prov. 31.30.

Favour is deceitful, and Beauty is vain, but a Woman that fears the Lord, She shall be prai­sed.

Luke 2.19.

But Mary kept all these Sayings, and pon­dered them in her Heart.

Luke 10.42.

And Mary hath chosen that good Part, which shall not be taken away from Her.

To the Christian Readers: especi­ally to the Members of two Con­gregated Churches in Leathward, Cumberland: Assembling for Publick Worship in their Licen­sed Places, respectively, in Kirkoswold and Hesket Parishes, by his Majesties most gracious Permission, Authority, and Pro­tection; Grace, Mercy, and Peace in Jesus Christ.

Most Dear Christians,

THe woful and tremendous misery of all Mankind by Nature, since the Fall of Adam, is in nothing more manifest, than in their wilful Incredulity, and affected Ignorance thereof, joyned with astupendous Self-conceitedness of possessing, or pursuing a sufficient Happiness, even in all their self­chosen Courses, which they severally steer; accounting no counsel, command, nor restraint Divine or Humane, more cross to their imaginary Felicity, than what is most con­trary to their own conceits and wills.

And so strongly is it rivited into all natural [Page]apprehensions, that if they might but have their own way, and compass their own designs, they should then be, & do as well as they desire. Not knowing that the way of man is not in himself; Jer. 10.23. it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. But their own way is their folly, Psa. 49.13. though their Posterity approve their Sayings. Yea, all are gone out of the way (both of duty and felicity) and there is none that understandeth, Psal. 14. there is none that seeketh after God, in whom only is all Happiness. And this is the common case of all the world in their natural condition, as the Apostle infers and proves, Rom. 3.9-19.

And though all are not of equal Ignorance or Impiety; but some by Nature, Art, and Industry, are of clearer Intellects, and more sublimated Capacities, to know, dis­course, discuss, and determine matters of weighty importance, as well Ecclesiastical and Spiritual, as Natural and Civil; as also by the superaddition of common Influen­ces of the Holy Spirit, in the use and im­provement of Divine Ordinances, are in­duced to walk commendably; not only civil­ly and morally, but also religiously; far above the rank of the vulgar, rude, and dissolute multitude, yea & many real Saints too. Yet through defect of effectual Calling out of Spiritual Darkness into Gods mar­vellous [Page]Light, will be found short of the least of Gods little ones, that believe in his Name, and really in the rank of ignorant and ungodly ones.

Yea, and many, that are no less con­ceited of others Ignorance, than of their own insuperable wisdome and knowledg, as must be supposed; So as any Cadency of insi­nuation to the contrary, is resented a dispa­ragement,Jo. 9.40. Lu. 11.45. to be replied to with an — Are we blind also? and, Thus saying, thou reproachest us also: Being consident that themselves, are guides of the blind, Rom. 2.18, 19, 20. lights of them that are in darkness, instructers of the foolish, teachers of babes, having a form of knowledg, and of the truth, both of the Law and Gospel; but wanting the powerful knowledg of the truth, through want of a saving change of estate, abide, in the midst of all their knowledg,Joh. 3.19 destitute of all saving knowledg. And unless the arm of the Lord be revealed,Isa. 53.1. & 8.11. as well as his truth declared; and himself speak unto them with a strong hand, as well as his Servants cry unto them with a loud voice, they will not believe our report; they will not be in­structed.

Furthermore, There are not a few (as may be justly feared) even in the Churchell of God, who have been convinced, as wes [Page]as exhorted,Act. 2.40. to save themselves from this untoward Generation; have also professed their Conversion before (and to good satis­faction of) many witnesses,2 Pet. 2.18, 20. to have clean escaped from them that live in Error, and from the pollutions of the world, through the knowledg of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. And have solemnly avouched the Lord for their God, and his holy service for the constant duty of their lives,Deut. 26.17. are therefore rightly received into the Commu­nion of Saints, and duly participate in all their Priviledges: who yet are more willing to be reputed holy, than indeed to be so, in all manner of Conversation, as they are called and commanded,1 Pet. 1.15, 16. 1 Jo. 2.15. whose apparent love of the world, and things of the world, bespeaks a defect of the love of the Father; no less than their common careless neglect of secret converse with him; which their own hearts, were they not either too blind, or too partial, could not but accuse them of.

But shall I say,Heb. 6.9. Brethren, That I am perswaded better things of you, and things that accompany Salvation, though I thus speak? Yea I must say with the same Au­thor:Phil. 1.7. It is meet for me to think thus of you all, because I have you in my heart: Inasmuch as both in my frequent Bonds, and in the defence, and confirmation of the [Page]Gospel (against other manifold molestations) [...]e are partakers of [...]; vocat Paulus illam suam captivita­tem, gra­tiam, &c. Piscator in loc. Gratiam vocat qua­si singu­lare a li­quod be­neficium vincula sua, Beza in loc. my Grace. Neither write I these things to shame you, but as my dearly beloved in Christ, I warn you, that I may awaken you to a serious and diligent search and trial of your Spiritual estates. That you rest not in any Profession, Perfor­mances, or Priviledges, whereunto ye have attained, but as forgetting these things which are behind, and reaching forth un­to those things which are before, you press towards the mark for the price of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

And, Beloved, ye are my witnesses, and God also, what the design of my Ministrie among you hath been. Not to seek my worldly gain, nor yours, but you, (yea I have willingly neglected, and greatly ex­hausted mine own Temporals to serve you in Spirituals) that I might beget you,2 Cor. 12.14. & 11.2. and engage you to God, espouse you to one hus­band, and present you, as chaste Virgins, to Christ; from whom I have been earnest with you, and with whom I have been earnest for you, that the match may be really made up between you; which being effected, my la­bour is recompensed, my Errand is accom­plished, my Desire is satisfied, my Joy is fulfilled.

And now that I have this unexpected op­portunity, [Page]of making publick some hints only, of some of the choice desires of my Soul to you, and to the Lord for you; Know ye therefore that they are such as these;

First, That none of you all, who are taught, and do believe and profess the absolute ne­cessity of Regeneration, in order to eternal Salvation, rest satisfied in your Spiritual conditions,Mat. 18.3. 2 Cor. 13.5. Gal. 6.15. Rom. 8.9, 10. without some hopeful evidences, that you are born again, and truly conver­ted; that ye are in the Faith, new creatures in Christ Jesus; And that Christ is in you, and abideth in you; And that you have the Spirit of Christ.

Oh! rest not in uncertainties about your Spiritual and Eternal Felicities: (as you would not about your Temporal) but, give all diligence to make your Calling and Electi­on sure. 2 Pet. 1.10

Secondly, Look that you make good the ground you have got (through Grace) against the World, the Flesh, and the Devil, by a dayly progress in both the parts of Sanctifi­cation, viz. Mortification and Vivificati­on. And beware that you be not again en­tangled and overcome,2 Pet. 2.20. and so your last end be worse than your beginning.Luk. 9.62. Having put your hand to the Plough, look not back, much less be ye of them that draw back unto per­dition: But be ye of them that believe,Heb. 10.39 to the saving of the Soul.

And need I bid you beware of Popery? Rev. 13.3. Iniquitas, sed mistica pietatis & fidelitatis nomine palliata. 1 Cor. 10.12. which is the most Catholick Apostacy, the Mystery of Iniquity: yet palliated with the name (only) of Piety, Antiquity, Univer­sality, &c. yea I say, Let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed lest he fall: as too many have done.

It's operative and strong, though but a Delusion and a Lie, yea it is the Energy, [...], 2 Thess. 2.9, 11. or strong working of Satan (through the just judgment of God) with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, in them that perish, be­cause they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

Popish Seducers are subtile Artists, that have [...]. the sleight of me, [...]. cunning craf­ [...]iness, and [...]. Eph. 4.14. 2 Pet. 2.19 the method of Errour or De­ [...]usion. The Ignorant and Sensual are in greatest jeopardie, they promise others li­berty, whilst themselves are the servants of corruption. The prime piece of their Wor­ship is palpable Idolatry, the whole complex of their common Devotion is Will. worship, Superstition and Formality.

One would think that no serious Pro­fessors of Christianity, were in any peril of Popery: yet Quakers are an Artificial [...]roduct of it, though they know it not. Love God, the Gespel and your Souls, better than [Page] [...] [Page] [...] [Page]the World and your Bellies,Phil. 3.18, 19. and you are out of the danger of it.

Thirdly, Phil. 1.10. See to it that ye be sincere Con­verts, sincere Saints; that your Faith, Love, Repentance, Obedience, &c. be sin­cere: For if you be sincere, you shall per­severe. But Hypocrifie will end in Aposta­sie. What is sound, is strong and invincible, what is sound is special, and not common Grace. Though common Grace may make a great show, cast a great blaze, yet like the Comet, it consumes of it self, till it be extinguished.1 Joh. 3.9. Mat. 13.31, 32. True Grace is the Seed of God; and though it be little and weak, yet its nature is to grow in stature, and strength; or though it may decay, yet it cannot die. For its the life of God, a Well of living wa­ter, springing up unto Eternal Life. But let its Counterfeiti. e. comon grace., which resembles it so much in all things, make you the of [...]ner and exacter in the use of the Touchstone.

Fourthly, Let your Communion with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ, be frequent and full: Omit no opportunities, nor means thereof. Redeem time from your worldly affairs, for converse with your God, in the Duties of his more solemn Service: Knowing that the Holiness, Comfort and Happiness of your lives consists in such communion.

Use and improve the means for the end. Read, hear, pray, confer, and meditate much: And be loth to leave any duty, till you attain some sensible enjoyment of his Grace and Love. And till your hearts be warmed, your graces excited, your Affecti­ons engaged and your Souls, even make you like the Chariots of Aminadab, Cant. 6.12.

And prize and treasure up your experi­ences of this kind.Neh. 8.10. Retain a lively sense of Divine impressions upon your spirits. And let the joy of the Lord be your strength,Zech. 10.12. to walk up and down in his Name. And la­ment your loss, when you came off from your Duties without success; Take heed of For­mality in them.

Fifthly, And you that are heads of Fa­milies; Take heed to your Families over which the Holy Ghost, even in your private Capacities, hath also made you Overseers: That you should watch for their Souls, as they that must give account; that ye may do it with joy, and not with grief: Deal particularly and closely with them about the estates of their Souls. Labour to convince them of their exceeding sinfulness and misery by Nature. And that they are un­der the Law, and so under the wrath and curse of God, while they continue therein. That they are utterly blind, lame, deaf,Isa. 35.5, 6 [Page]dumb, and dead spiritually, and under the power of Satan immediatly. That their natural Light is spiritual Darkness; their sweet is bitter; their good is evil. Their Moral, Civil and Religious works are all Sins in Gods sight;Prom. 8.8. for being in the flesh, they cannot please God in any thing: but displease him altogether, though they please themselves and others never so much. That they are liable to all Judgments Temporal, and to Death and Damnation Eternal, every moment.

Yet all this notwithstanding, They are to be persuaded, That the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, is become an All­sufficient Saviour of all men, even the worst of Sinners. That he hath purchased Sal­vation for them, offers Salvation to them, and is willing to enter into a Covenant of Salvation with them; if they will but ac­cept him, and be ruled by him, according to the terms of the Gospel. That he hath redeemed them, and will justifie them freely; Pardon them fully, Sanctifie them through­ly, Adopt them graciously, Keep them powerfully, and save them gloriously. That he hath confirmed his Covenant of Salvation with his Oath, and with the Seals of his Blood, Spirit and Sacraments. That he hath ever been mindful of it, taken you into [Page]it, who were as they are: and is especially engaged to your Children, by the tenour of his Covenant with you, That nothing but their own willful refusal, final impenitency, obstinacy, and infidelity can deprive them of his Salvation.

Bewail the Sins of any in your Family, as if they were your own; resist them by In­struction, Admonition, Reproof and Cor­rection, (as the case requires) and pray earnestly against them. Especially, teach all under your charge to eschew evil, and do good, by your own daily Practice and Examples. And be sure you engage them, and train them up in the constant Duties of Gods sacred Worship and Service.

Sixthly; As Religion is your signal Profession, so let your whole Lives, in all the natural and civil actions thereof, be in­fluenced, animated, and (as it were) fer­mented by it. Eat, drink, work, walk, [...]ake, sleep, speak, and be silent, mourn and be merry by the Rules of Religion. And let the lustre of it be conspicuous in all [...]our civil Converses of Buying, Selling, Borrowing, Lending, Giving and Re­ [...]eiving.

Let your Principles, Grounds, Motives [...]nd Ends, be really religious: not carnal, [...]nd selfish: Be true and faithful: Just and [Page]Upright, Sober and Temperate, Chast and Modest, Courteous and Affable, Compassi­onate and Charitable, Meek and Peaceable, Innocent and Patient, Kind and Helpful. Look that your relative Duties to Superiors, Inferiors, and Equals, both in Church and State,Rom. 13. 1 to 7. 1 Tim. 2.12 Tit. 3.1. 1 Pet. 2.13, to v. 18. be religiously discharged and perfor­med: Honour the higher Powers; Pray for them fervently; pay Tribute willingly; And be conscientiously subject, in all true Loyalty; Let his Majestie's Eminent Cle­mency, evident so signally, in our precious Gospel-Liberty, attract, and ingage your Affections to him.

Let your Church-communion be glori­ous in all the holy Effects of mutual Love, Watchfulness and Tenderness. And keep the Unity of the Spirit in the bond of Peace. Eph. 4.3. Let the Splendour of Religion, in your Con­versations, evince the Purity,1 Pet. 2.12 and Power of Religion in your Consciences: that God may be glorified, and men may be edified by you. Let none you live neer, or meet with, lack your possible and seasonable Help, for the good of their Souls that need it, and will but accept it.

And Finally, Rom. 2.4. my Brethen, whilst others despise the Riches of God's Goodness, For­bearance, and Long-suffering; not know­ing, that the Goodness of God leadeth them [Page]to Repentance; But after their Hardness and impenitent Hearts treasure up unto themselves Wrath against the Day of Wrath and Revelation of the righteous Judgment of God; Who will render to every man ac­cording to his Deeds: See that you, by pa­tient Continuance in Well-doing, seek for Glory, Honour, and Immortality: And he will render unto you eternal Life, at the End of this temporal Life. The least glimps and foretaste whereof, how glorious and ravishing it is, they can best tell you, that have had the Experience.

Oh! Let Christ, and all of Christ, his Natures, Person, Attributes, Offices, Obedi­ence (active & Passive) Conflicts, Conquests, Triumphs, and Purchases: and all of God in Christ be precious unto you; for all are yours, if you be his. Let him be the fat and the sweet, the hope, and the help, and the happiness of your whole life and death; whether you live,Rom. 14.8 live to him, or whether you die, die to him: (which only by holy living and dying you shall do) and then whether you live or die, you are his. Though you can but dye once, naturally; yet you may dye dayly, spiritually; i.e. inPhil. 1.21, 23. Affection,Job 14 14. Expectation,Deut. 32.29. Pre­paration,Matth. 26.39. Submission, andPs. 31.5. Act. 20.22, 23, 24. Resigna­tion. I leave you to pick out the matter, [Page]which I have couched in words, for you use, as concisely as I could; that I might not too far transcend the bounds of an E­pistle.

The ensuing Narratives present you with a worthy Example of a dear, deceased Vi [...] ­gin-Saint, once a Member of your Fellow­ship; now translated into the Celestia-Chore. Early living, and timely dying i [...] the Lord, and to the Lord. Not permitte [...] by him to have other Husband than Him­self; in greatest mercy (doubtless) to her­self. Whilst others sought her, He sen [...] for her, and unexpectedly (but not unpre­paredly) took her from all her Relations and Lovers, to marry her in Glory, whom H [...] had espoused in Grace: Whose Piety, Pru­dence, Gravity, Modesty, with other Gif [...] and Ornaments, natural and supernatural, were illustrious in her, above most of her Age and Sex.

But I'le detain you no longer from the Natra­tives themselves. And the seasonable, and useful Sermon preached at her Funeral; with some prom and Consolatory Letters from several Godly Mini­sters, to her disconsolate Father, upon the sad occasion of her Death. All which I commend to your diligent perusal, and to Gods Blessing there­upon, for your Spiritual and Eternal Good, I am, A servent well-wisher oft your Souls prosperity; and your Servant in the Lord for that end.

The Introduction.

THe Saints of God (most Christian Reader) are to be honoured both living, dying, and after death; though not with the ho­nour of Invocation, which finds no letter of Command or Direction, no letter of Promise or Acceptation, no letter of Example or Practice in the whole Word of God; but is a reproach to the Saints, and a dishonour to God, whose Name and incommunicable Title is, The God hearing Prayers, and therefore to him shall the desires of all flesh come; and if all to him, then none to Saints; yet with the honour of benediction and imitation of their Vertues and Graces; They, they only, are the most magnificent, illustrious, noble, ex­cellent ones in the world, Psal. 16.3. They are more noble than others, Acts 17.11. They are Kings and Priests, Rev. 1.6. They are more excellent than their neighbours, Prov. 12.26.

More excellent in regard of their Descent and Stock, as having God for their Father; In re­gard of their Inheritance, Heirs of Heaven and Earth, 1 Cor. 3.20, 21. In regard of their Food, they are fed with heavenly Manna, they eat An­gels [Page 2]food; eat the Flesh, and drink the Blood of Christ; and in regard of their Cloathing, their Cloathing being of imbroidered Gold, Psal. 45.13. They have put on the Wedding-Garment, the Gar­ments of Salvation, the white Robes of Christs Righteousness, the white linnen, yea Christ himself.

Whereas the unjust are men of no name, vile persons, though never so great, Dan. 11.21. To be contemned and despised, Psal. 15.4. They de­serve not the name of men, Jerem. 5.1. They are not to be honoured in some Cases so much as with a Look, or with a Word, or with a Bow, 2 King 3, 14. Luk. 23.9. Esth. 3.2. But the Godly, are men of renown, they want nothing that can make any truly honorable and noble; they are admitted into the King of Heavens Ser­vice, Servants of the great King, Gods Atten­dants and Courtiers, employed in the most ho­nourable work and service; They are the Work­manship of God, created in Christ Jesus, Eph. 2.10. They bear the Image of Christ, are made par­takers of Gods Holiness, Heb. 12.11. And of the divine Nature, 2 Pet. 1.4. they have holy and gracious Practices, imitators of God as dear Children. Now can there be to the Sons of Men a greater honour, than to hold semblance with the Majesty of God? Glorious is that Image of God wherein they were created, whereto they are renewed, into which they are transformed from glory to glory, 2. Cor. 3.18. Which also [Page 3]Saints manifest by their actings of Grace, and [...]acious holy Practices; Godliness is God-like­ [...]ss, and Holiness is the Saints honour, 1 Thess. [...].4. Humility and lowliness of mind decks [...]d adorns the Saints, 1 Pet. 5.5. That the [...]race of God, how vilified soever amongst men, [...]et it makes Saints glorious in the sight of God; [...]oliness and Grace makes persons the most con­ [...]derable and weighty, Hast thou considered my [...]rvant Job? it makes them heavy, ponderous [...]nd weighty, and to have substance in them, [...]nd therefore worthy to be reverenced, esteemed, [...]nd honoured; all others are light in the Bal­ance, and therefore to be contemned, vilified [...]nd slighted; but chaff, lighter than vanity, [...]sal. 1.4. and 62.4. Pro. 10.20. the word in [...]e Hebrew for honour and glory, comes from a [...]ot which signifies heavy, or ponderous; because [...]hat which we honour and respect, we look upon [...] as a thing that hath weight and substance in it: [...]he Apostle calls that most glorious state of the [...]aints in Heaven, a weight of Glory, 2 Cor. 4.17. Honour is a mans weight in the esteem of others.

Sin makes wicked men light, and then lightest of all when they make light of Sin: But Holi­ness addes honour and weight to the persons of [...]he Saints. Holiness towards God makes vene­table amongst Men. Hitherto then turn the [...]tream of your ambition to grow honourable by [...]oly and gracious practices. Be ambitious to [Page 4]live holily, as Paul was, That you may be honour­able in the eyes of God, and accepted of him, 2 Co­rinth. 5.4.

The old World would build them a Tower to get them a name, and to win them fame a­mongst men, Gen. 11.4. The ambition o [...] Worldlings is, to call their Houses by their own Names, to perpetuate their Memories, Psal. 49.11. to erect Monuments of costliest Fabrick, to per­pecuate their remembrance. For this end and use men use to set up the most lasting materials Pillars of Marble, and Pyramids, of Stone: But these, or any other things besides Grace and Ho­liness, as Riches, Dignity, Power, Credit Learning Wisdome, &c. which men hope to be remembred by, and become famous in the world, are but as Ashes, mean and of no con­sistence, Job 13.12. Though men lay them by and esteem them as Monuments to Posterity, o [...] as Memorials to preserve their Names to all Gen [...] ­rations, yet they are ordinarily scattered lik [...] ashes in the air, or spilt like water upon th [...] ground, which cannot be gathered up; and s [...] will all that, whatever it is, which vain me frame or fancy to themselves to make them me­morable and renowned amongst posterity or suc­ceeding Ages: But Grace is the only Glory, an [...] gracious and holy ac [...]ings the best Monument [...] perpetuate our memo [...]y. There is more glory in the least Grace, than in all earthly glory [Page 5]the least degree of Grace is more glorious than all the glorious Advancements that the world can afford us.

Holiness and Grace is the beauty of Men and Angels, yea of God himself; it makes Saints beautiful and honourable in themselves, in the eyes of God, and in the eyes of all good Men while living, when dead, and after death, yea, for ever. The Righteous shall be had in everla­sting remembrance, Psal. 112.6.

Because the Saints are precious in Gods sight, therefore they are honourable, Isa. 43.4. honour­able both in the sight of God and all good men; God's eyes and heart are upon them: The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, saith David, they have respect to all Gods Commandments, Psal. 119.6. and God hath respect to them in all their Con­cernments, Exod. 2. ult. They honour him, and he honours them, 1 Sam. 2.30. For any service done for him, he will honour them, John 12.26. what ever they do well, shall be sure to receive a fair testimony from God; They need not blow a Trumpet in their own praise when they have done well, as the Pharisees did: For what they have done well, the Lord himself (for their honour) will report to all the world, as he did Job's holy carriage in doing and suffering, both in the whole course of his life, and in that par­ticular passage of the loss of his Cattle and Chil­dren, Job [...].21, 22.

They that carry themselves well, either i [...] Suffering or working for God, shall have glo­ry, honour, and peace from God, Rom. 2.10. And when they do any new or further service for God, God will add some further honour an [...] respect to them, as he did to Job, when he ha [...] done a piece of new service, Job 2.3. He hold fast his integrity. He was described before in th [...] first Chap. as an holy man, now he is described a a tried man, as an approved Souldier, Job ob­tains this honour in the Combate with Satan, a glorious addition to his character. As Job's gra­ces increased, so did God's testimony increase concerning him; God will not conceal any of the graces, nor the improvements of the grace of his people: Nay, if they speak but a good word for God, they shall hear of it again; God takes it and pens it down, Malac. 3.19.

As it is usual with Kings, for great Service done them (especially in Wars and Battels) to make additions to their Titles of Honour, to give some new Mottoes, or put some new Devices in the Coat-Armour of those who serve them; So the Lord doth to his Saints. Thus Jacob in pre­vailing by Prayers and Supplications (the Am­munition and Armes of the Saints) with the Angel, is called Israel, a prevailer with God. God honours the Saints while living, he call them his Friends, Abraham the Friend of God, John 15.14, 15. What a great honour [Page 7]was it to Noah, that God himself, when they were all got into the Ark, would shut the door? Gen. 7.16.

He honours them and prizes them in their Death, their Death is precious, Psal. 116.15. He honours them when Dead; It was an ho­nour to Moses, that the Lord buried him, Deut. 34.6. Though its true, there was ano­ther reason, why the place of his Burial was kept secret, lest they should superstitiously adore him and worship him, yet 'twas a real respect and honour that he buried him.

The Lord puts white Garments of Glory upon them, that they may walk with him in them, Revel. 3.4. Yea, He puts a weighty Crown of Glory upon their Heads, 2 Cor. 4.17. A Crown of Glory that fades not away.

And as they are honourable in the sight of God, so in the eyes of his Saints; the Citizen of Zion is described amongst other Qualificati­ons, by this also, that He is a man that ho­nours them that fear the Lord, Psal. 15.4. They honour them while living; and when dead, by an honourable Interment; and after Death, by honourable Thoughts of them, by honoura­ble Speech in the mention of them, and by the Imitation of their Vertues and Graces: and thus the memory of the just is blessed, Prov. 10.7. When persons in After-ages shall remember them, and the things memorable in them, they [Page 6] [...] [Page 7] [...] [Page 8]shall bless them and highly esteem them; they shall not be so much as mentioned or spoke [...] without praise or benediction; This is Honour to their Memories.

The end therefore of the following Narrative of the holy Life of Mary Wilson (next to the Glory of God, the Edification of the Church i [...] general, the use and benefit of that Body where of she was a Member, and the profit and com­fort of her Parents, and other near and dea [...] Relations surviving) is the advancement of he [...] Memory, and an encouragement for others imi­tation, who often follow Patterns more tha [...] Precepts; And to present, as exemplary, th [...] the Piety and Holiness of her that is deceased for that end.

When persons that dye are persons of known worth and usefulness, 'tis not fit that their Graces should die with them, and that Vertue should be defrauded of its publique honour. And because God honours them that honour him, the Church has been alwaies careful to preserve and embalm their Memories: And so is that Promise made good, and the Will of God served therein, whose mind it is, That the Memory of the Jus [...] should be blessed, Prov. 10.7. and kept from rotting; whereas the Name of the wicked ro [...] together with their Carcases.

And if the Authors of the ensuing Narrative, [Page 9]with its adjuncts, had only designed in the Pub­lication thereof to continue the Memory and Christian Example of that precious Saint and [...]ervant of Christ, whose Death gave occasion to [...]hem, nothing had been done unworthy a Chri­ [...]tian aim; Praise and Publick honour, being a Debt that is owed to the righteous; a debt, saith Nazianzen in one of his Funeral Orations, that of all debts is most just. And as the antient Church was wont to preserve the Memory of the Saints [...] those famous Dyptichs; So might they seek [...] continue the Memory of her Graces in this [...]ublick Record, that though being dead, she [...]ight yet speak. She really deserves both glory, raise, and honour: Glory, that she be accoun­ted vertuous and gracious: Praise, an honorable [...]ention of her for her vertues: and Honour, viz. a [...]estification of the former good opinion by some [...]utward signs, as Commendation, erecting of [...]tatues, or Pillars, &c. — It's said of Ab­ [...]lom, that in his life-time he had taken and reared [...]p for himself a Pillar, and called it after his own [...]ame, because he had no son to keep his name in [...]emembrance, 2 Sam. 18.18. Yet that Remem­brance of his, as Job saith, proved like ashes. The [...]ollowing Narrative will be a far better Monu­ment to preserve the Memory of her Name, and [...]he name of her Parents.

It hath ever been the custome of the Church [...] God, to write the story of the Lives of eminent [Page 10]and well-deserving persons and it's pity th [...] such Memorials should be lost, and condemn [...] to an obscure privacy, both for their own use­fulness, and for her sake that was the occasion [...] them. Certainly God's Worthies deserve so [...] publique Monument to continue their Memo [...] and Example; for the imitation of the Good, an [...] the reproof of the Bad. The Apostle tells u [...] That dead Saints may yet speak, Hebr. 11.4. th [...] is, Preach by their Example: But then the [...] must be some to continue the memory of th [...] example, or else how should it speak ought o [...] instruction to future Ages.

Therefore the Apostle observes of Abel, in th [...] forenamed place, [...] He obtained witness that he was righteous; which may be referred to the publick witness and testi­mony of the written Word, where his usual tit [...] and stile is righteous Abel, Matt. 23.35. And [...] had said before of all the Patriarchs, v. 2. [...], They obtained a good report (to wit, [...] the Church) by the Scriptures. Now since th [...] Canon of Faith was closed up, there is no reason that the Memory of the Saints should be lost; an [...] therefore God hath in every Age stirr'd up some that can handle the pen of the Writer, by some publick Record, to consign their Example to the use of the Church; though 'tis true, it's confesse [...] that many have been forgotten, who were other [...] ­wise [Page 11]famous in their generations, for want of [...]are in this kind.

Besides, the Lord hath not only given us his Word for a Rule, but he hath given us Examples also as a Rule to walk by; he hath given us his own Example to imitate, Ephes. 5.1. 1 Pet. 1.15, 16. And his Sons Example, 1 John 2.6. Heb. 12.2, 3. 1 Pet. 2.21. Mat. 11.24. Learn of me

But besides these leading, unerring Examples, the Examples of the Saints are to be commended to our Imitation, both in Doing and Suffering; Whatsoever was written aforetime, was written for our Learning, Rom. 15.4. And Examples are written: we are bidden To go forth by the foot­steps of the Flock, Cant. 1.8. Why hath the Holy Ghost set the Pens of so many on work to write the Lives of the Saints? Why hath he kept a Record of them in his own Book, but for Instruction and Direction of his People in after­time? The Lord hath not registred one act of the Saints, but it is useful for us; The acts of the Saints are full of Practical Divinity, and their sufferings and troubles are full of Pathetical Di­vinity, as the Exhortation of St. James doth more than intimate, Jam. 5.10. Hence those antient Saints and Believers in Hebr. 12.1. are called a cloud of Witnesses; because there is a directive and leading vertue in them: As there was a Cloud that went before the Children of Israel in the [Page 12]Day, to lead them; So this cloud of witness [...] leads us up and down the wilderness of our Sor­rows, and in the dark night of our Sufferings.

That the gracious, pious, and holy actings [...] the fornamed deceased Saint, may be an addition to this Cloud for your direction and conduct, [...] in part the design of the following Narrative with the Additionals. Read it, and imitate Live, as she, in the Fear of God and Faith [...] Christ, and you shall dye, as she, in his favour and everlastingly partake of that Felicity, which she is now possessing in Heaven.

The EXPERIENCES of Mrs Ma­ry Wilson, as they were taken from her own mouth, in the fifteenth year of her Age, which was in the year of our Lord, 1667.

AT that time when my Father was at London (which was in the Year aforesaid) it was the good pleasure of God to draw out my Affections to the Lord, and after the means of Grace; So that I often thought it long after one opportunity of Grace passed, till another came to be enjoyed. And at that time, when I had any thoughts about the pre­sent Troubles that we were under, (meaning the [Page 28]Troubles about her Father's Estate, which the [...] depended upon a Trial in the High Court of Chancery) I then thought, that I could freely sub­mit to the good pleasure of the Lord, whatever he had a mind to do in it. And I had then very longing Desires to read some good Books; where­upon I was happily cast upon Mr. Brooks his Book entituled, Apples of Gold, &c. By the reading of which, especially some Motives to stir up young one [...] to fear the Lord, the Lord was pleased to make them of Use, for the good of my Soul; As First, The Consideration that Christ died for us be­times, and why should not we live to him be­times? O give not Christ cause to say, that I died for you betimes, why should not you have lived to me betimes, &c. Who but Souls much left of God, and blinded by Satan, can hear the Lord Jesus say, I laid down a Ransom for some betimes, &c. I satisfied Divine Justice betimes, I pacified my Fathers wrath betimes. Who can hear Christ reckon up all what he hath done for Souls, and not fall in Love and League with Christ, and for ever to be united to Christ, and for ever be one with Christ? And I thought the reading of these, and other Motives did more and more engage my heart to Christ. And then I con­sidered, That though I had made Conscience before of committing the least Sin, that I knew to be a Sin, yet I had not given up my self to the Lord, in that serious manner that I ought to have done: [Page 29]for I was too vain (as I now see) both in my Thoughts, Words and Actions, and went on se­curely, and did not at all question my Estate and Condition; nor did I see any thing of the evil of mine own heart, till the Lord was pleased to disco­ver it to me. And when I did endeavour to set my self to any Duty, or to have my Meditations upon any thing that was good; then I found the starting up of Sin in my Heart, and a woful Aversness and Backwardness in my heart to any thing that was good. And though I was sensible of something that was my Duty to do, which (as I thought) I would have willingly done, yet when I came to it, it seemed burdensome to me. Afterwards I read Mr. Shepheards Sincere Convert, by which the Lord was pleased to let me see, from whence all that backwardness in my heart did spring, the cause of which was that Original Sin that I brought into the world with me; And then it was the grief of my heart, that I could not be humbled for that Sin, as I ought to be: And it did the more grieve me, in that I had known it before by Questions that my Father had asked me about it, and yet it did but swim in my brain. I did not think that it was mine own Case in particular, nor did I apply it to mine own Heart; wherefore I did mourn, be­cause I could not mourn enough for, and under such an oppressing evil as this was to me. Whereupon the Lord gave me in these supporting Scriptures, Isai. 53.7. Let the wicked forsake his way, and [Page 30]the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abun­dantly pardon. Mat. 11.28. Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you Rest. Then I thought these were very sweet Scriptures, but I had something to ob­ject against my self, that they did not belong unto me; because I felt not the weight and burden of Sin, in that degree and measure, as I ought. Though I was sensible of Sin lying upon me, yet I thought Sin, as Sin, was not so real a burthen to me, as it ought to have been: And therefore I concluded, that I had no Right to such Promises, but put them often away from me, till it pleased the Lord to set home that other Scripture upon my heart, Mat. 12.20. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoaking slax shall he not quench: till he send forth judgment unto Victory. And providentially reciting Mr. Love's Different De­grees of Grace, I found that same place opened sweetly, which told me to my encouragement, That though there was much smoak of Infirmity, yet if there was but the least breathings of Grace, the Lord would not quench it, but breath upon it, and increase it: And that he would not despise the Day of small things. And by these things I was much encouraged and refreshed. After that hearing Mr. Nicholson upon Math. 7.21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord shall [Page 31]enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; From which was observed, That it is not a bare, naked, and [...]mpty Profession of Religion, though never so [...]ealously maintained, that is sufficient to save any [...]an. In his Discourse upon this point, he came [...] shew how easie a thing it was to mistake about a [...]od Profession and a bad one.

First, From the nearness of their resemblance [...]ch to other. The lamps of the five foolish Vir­gins, were like to the lamps of the five wise Virgins.

Secondly, By comparing our selves at present, [...]th what we had been before; a man may be [...]other Creature, and yet not a new Creature.

Thirdly, We may mistake, by comparing our [...]ves with others that are worse (in appearance) [...]an our selves.

Fourthly, By some superficial Touches, and [...]ward Flashes of Conscience; a man may pro­ [...] from Conviction, as well as from Conversion. By the hearing of this I was again discouraged, [...]d brought again to fear, that all this time I [...]d but been under some superficial Touches upon [...] Affections; and I thought my Profession was [...] good, or (at least) I might be mistaken about [...] because it was an easie thing to mistake it. But [...]erwards he came to distinguish betwixt a good [...]fession and a bad, and shewed;

First, That a true Profession of Religion, it [...]aies respects Christ, as the Fountain and [...]der of it.

Secondly, It leads to Christ, as the mark and end of it.

Thirdly, It ariseth from such a principle [...] Grace within, as puts down the Creature in it own eyes, but lifts up Christ and his Grace.

Fourthly, It is alwaies attended with an high valuation of Christ.

Fifthly, It maketh much of Christ in the wor [...] of times, Christ's Cross is as really dear, as h [...] Crown. But on the other hand, A false Pro­fession of Christ springs from self, directs [...] self, exalts self, and doth but make a stalking horse of Christ at best.

These things (through the Blessing of God) ten [...] much to my Satisfaction and Comfort; for by th [...] marks, I thought I could truly say, That [...] sired to go to Christ, as my Fountain and Feed [...] and could do no further than I had Christ to be [...] fountain & feeder. And I thought I could truly s [...] that I desired the end of my life might be the Gl [...] of Christ. But after this (through my Corruption & Weaknesses) these things did slide out of my mi [...] Then Fears began to arise again, That all [...] not right with me, finding especially the avers [...] of my heart to the performance of every Duty: [...] the wonted evils that were in my heart remain [...] And many Fears possessed my Soul, that all [...] depart from me again, and it proved so. T [...] Scripture being often upon my Spirit, If thou [...] [Page 33]g [...]ard Iniquity in thine heart, the Lord will not [...]ear thy Prayer; Whereupon I concluded that [...]here was nothing but Iniquity in my heart, and so [...] would give over Praying. And I did give it [...]ver for many Days, except at some single times, [...]nd then I found not the Presence of God (as [...]eretofore) and so found it to be but liveless Duty, [...]at I performed. And thus continuing for some [...]me in the neglect of Duty, and my Heart grow­ing vain and light, yet not considering from [...]hence I was fallen all this while.

But after a while, I began to consider, that I [...]d suffered woful decays in my Affections; and [...] thought I would endeavour to get my heart into [...] better frame against another time, but when [...] at time came that I pitched upon, then I was [...] far off as ever. And then woful Fears began [...]arise in my Heart, That all the Profession that [...]ad made, had not been of God, but from some [...]f-design; For if it had been a work of God, [...] would not have decayed: And therefore I [...]red, that God had given me up to the plague [...] an hard heart, and would never own me more. [...]t it pleased the Lord to bring me to the hearing [...] another Sermon that Mr. Nicholson preached [...]m Gen. 17.1. I am the Almighty God, walk [...]ore me, and be thou perfect. From which [...]s observed, In that God is an All-sufficient [...]d, it is an abundant encouragement unto his [Page 34]People in times of their distressed estates and conditions. In the Improvement of which point he came to press to the improvement of God All sufficiency in several estates and conditions.

First, In times of Temptation, Gods People should make use of God's power, in their tempting and tempted Seasons: The reason why Tempta­tion takes such hold is, because poor Souls ta [...] no better hold of God, that is able to delive from Temptation, to succour in it, and to d [...] liver out of it.

Secondly, In times of the working of Cor­ruption, Gods All-sufficiency should be impro­ved against the strength and filth of Sin. Ma [...] honest hearts cannot get vain thoughts laid by or stave off such a growing Corruption; beca [...] they draw not in an All-sufficient God, to ma [...] them help.

Thirdly, In times of the weakness of Gra [...] when we cannot believe, hope, exercise Pati­ence, &c. Gods Almighty Power should [...] leaned upon, and eyed, and made use of [...] underprop weak Grace.

Fourthly, In times of Duty, active and [...] sive Obedience, many faint, Because they [...] not on him that is able to help, and carry [...] and in, and through every Duty.

By these things the Lord helped me to see, [...] I had relyed upon mine own strength, and not [...] proved Gods All-sufficiency. And it pleased [...] [Page 35]Lord to turn this to my encouragement, that I had an All-sufficient God to go unto. Whereupon I resolved to step into the presence of God, to bread my Condition before him again. But when I did attempt this: and came with resolution to have spoken unto the Lord, then it was cast into [...]ny Thoughts, Durst I pray unto the Lord, that [...]ad neglected to pray unto him so long? Then I [...]hought, well were it for me if I could but discover [...]ny condition unto my father, that he might pray [...]or me: But through the temptation of Satan, I [...]uld not do it. But considering again of the All-sufficiency of God, I thought it was a great thing: [...]ut alas! I knew not, nor could I find, that [...]od had ever made over himself in any Promise [...] me, seeing I had so wofully declined from Him. [...]ut it pleased the Lord to give me in that Scri­pture, Isai. 40.31. But they that wait upon [...]e Lord shall renew their strength: they [...]all mount up with wings as Eagles; they shall [...]n, and not be weary, and they shall walk [...]d not faint. Then I thought and resolved, [...]ough the Lord should please to keep me in the [...]rk all my Days, and never discover more of [...]imself to me, yet would I wait upon him all my [...]ys.

That Text also in Revel. 2.5. Remember [...]erefore from whence thou art fallen, and re­ [...]nt, and do the first works, &c. was set upon [...], whereby I did gather, that it was a Call from [Page 36]the Lord to me, to repent of my Relapses and De­clinings from him; which I desired to set about, and beg Grace for the performance and discharge thereof. And then I made bold to step again i [...] the presence of the Lord, and found my He [...] more drawn forth to Christ, than I did before; [...] did enjoy more Communion with the Lord th [...] formerly. And reading that Scripture in H [...] sea 13.9. O Israel, thou hast destroyed th [...] self, but in me is thine help: Hereby I was com­forted to think, that though I had gone on in path that would have led me to mine own destruct [...] on, yet my help was not in my self, but in t [...] Lord.

Then afterward hearing Mr. Davies up [...] Mal. 4.2. But unto you that fear my Nam [...] shall the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing in his wings, and ye shall go forth, and gro [...] up as Calves in the stall. From which he shewn (among many other things delivered,) Th [...] Grace might grow in poor Souls, and they [...] know how it grew: As for instance, Trees [...] Winter they grow, and yet not discernable ho [...] they grow; So poor Souls, though they cannot discern how they grow, yet after some time they are able to experience that they are grown From which I began to be encouraged to thing that though I could not witness how I had grown yet that there was a Change upon me.

Then he came to give some Directions, H [...] [Page 37]grow in Grace? One of which was this, Such as would grow in Grace, must get into the House of God; and that it ought to be but as the Valley [...]f Bacha o us, a House of Mourning, till we be [...] the House of God, Psal. 92.13, 14. Those [...]hat be planted in the House of the Lord, shall [...]ourish in the Courts of our God. They shall [...]ill bring forth fruit in old Age: they shall be [...]t and flourishing. The Consideration of which, [...]d very much incline my Heart to join in Fellow­ship with the Lords People.

Yet again, these two Scriptures were cast into [...]y thoughts, that caused these scruples to arise in [...]y Spirit, That I was not a new creature; nor [...]ld I satisfactorily find, That Christ was formed [...] me, 2 Cor. 5.17. If any man be in Christ, [...] is a new creature. and 2 Cor. 13.5. And [...]ow ye not your selves, how that Christ Jesus [...]in you, except ye be Reprobates? Yet it [...]ased the Lord to answer these Objections, and [...]move these Scruples in a great measure, which [...]ded no little comfort to me, from a Sermon [...]eached by Mr. Nicholson, out of Numb. 14.24. [...]ut my servant Caleb, because he had another [...]rit with him, &c. In that Sermon he came to [...] down some marks and signs of this other Spirit, [...]. Where this other Spirit is, there is new [...]ght, new Taste, new Affections, new Desire, [...]ve, Joy, Delight, Sorrow, Fear, &c. new [...]ays, Rules, End, Aims, Designs new Com­pany, [Page 38]new Comforts, &c. with many others. All which did abundantly comfort me, in that [...] could experience much of what was said in the particular. And I then thought, that this w [...] given in unto me, to remove those Scruples bef [...] mentioned.

Then the Lord was pleased to set that Scriptu [...] upon me, 2 Cor. 8.5. But first gave their o [...] selves to the Lord, and unto us by the Will [...] God.} From which place, I did humbly concei [...] it to be my Duty to propound my self unto th [...] Church, to walk with the Members of it in t [...] Order of the Gospel, if so I may be thought [...] any measure fit for such a Communion.

A SERMON Preached at the Funeral of Mrs. MARY WILSON.
Psal. 103.14, 15, 16, 17, 18 verses were sung.

By George Nicholson, Minister of the Gospel.
Luke 12.40.

Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of Man cometh at an hour, when ye thin [...] not.

WHile the Lord Jesus was at his Set­mon, there started up a certain Person out of the Auditory, that moved an unseasonable suit [...] Him, v. 13. Master, speak to my Brother, that he divide the Inheritance with me: (Like many) poor Creatures, that when they come to he [...] [Page 51]the Word of God, they have their Hearts so stuffed up with the World, as that the Word of God takes no place with them, nor finds no [...]oom in them, such was this poor man now men­ [...]ioned, that while Christ was Preaching, he was proling for the world.) Well! His unsea­ [...]nable request, though it did interrupt Christ [...]n his present Discourse, yet occasioned new, pro­ [...]table matter to flow out of his mouth; For [...]ster the Lord Christ had given him a particular [...]heck for such a Proposal, together with a denial [...] gratifie him in such a request. Ver. 14. He [...]eth on, and delivereth a seasonable and ne­ [...]ssary Caution, v. 15. Take heed, and beware of [...]ovetousness; the which he backeth with a [...]ong Argument in the same verse, For a mans [...]e consisteth not in the abundance of the things [...]at he possesseth.

And to make the Caution to take hold of his [...]arers, He gives an instance by way of Parable, [...] a certain rich man, that was covetously bent [...]er the world, who whilst he was racking his [...]ains about his worldly Profits, his life was cut [...], his Soul required, and he a Fool for his [...]ins, from v. 16. to the 20. v. The Applica­ [...]n of which Parabolical instance, ye have in [...] 21. So is he that layeth up Treasure for him­ [...]f, and is not rich towards God. Well, in his [...]lowing Discourse, he applieth himself unto [...] Disciples, from ver. 22. to the 30. where­in [Page 52]in he useth several Arguments with them, to setch them off from the love of the world; All which lye dispersed in the aforementioned verses, which I cannot now stand to draw forth, but must leave them for you to cull out at your lei­sure. And that he may effectually take them off from the world, he setteth before them, and proposeth to them, greater and better objects than the world could present them with; As i [...] he should say, If ye will lay out your selve, and spend your strength and spirits about thing [...] Behold here are excellent things that are worth your pursuing after, and labouring for; Her [...] is the Kingdom of God, the Righteousness o [...] God, Bags that wax not old, and Treasure i [...] Heaven that faileth not, v. 31, 32, 33. Math. [...] 33. Let your Hearts be taken up with th [...] things, and never fear but all other things ( [...] far as they are necessary for you) shall be add [...] unto you. And that they may receive th [...] Kingdom, and Treafure which faileth not, [...] The Lord Christ directeth them to be ready [...] waiting for the coming of Christ, v. 35, 3 [...] And this he presseth upon them by two con [...] ­derable Arguments:

The First is drawn from that honourable a [...] happy Welcome which such shall have at [...] coming of Christ, v. 37. Blessed are those S [...] ­vants whom the Lord, when he cometh, [...] find watcki [...]g: Verily I say unto you, that [...] [Page 53]shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

The Second Argument is drawn from the un­certainty of the time of Christ's coming, which is laid down by a familiar Comparison, of a Thief's coming to break up a House, when the Good-man of the House is off his watch, v. 39. And this know, that if the good-man of the house had known what hour the Thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken thorow. From which com­parison of the Thief's sudden and unexpected coming, the Lord Jesus presseth them to be rea­dy; For as the Thief, so he himself cometh at in hour, when men think not. Be ye there­fore ready also; for the Son of Man cometh at an your, when ye think not.

The words are a serious Exhortation delivered to his Disciples, and his then present Auditory, wherein we may take notice of these two general parts. First, An important Duty enjoined, Be [...]e therefore ready also; Secondly, A plain, yet [...]owerful Argument to press this Duty upon [...]hem: For the Son of Man cometh at an hour, [...]hen ye think not.

The words are so very plain, as that we need [...]ot spend much time about their Explication, [...]or shall we make knots where there are [...]one.

The word ( [...],) that is here translated, [Page 54] ready, signifieth generally Preparation, or Rea­diness, according to the subject matter, that it hath relation to; so that be ye ready here, is be ye prepared for the coming of Christ.

But that which will need a little unfolding, is, What we are to understand by this coming of Christ in the Text?

Answer. There is a twofold coming of Christ. First, There is his coming to the particular Day of Judgment, and that is at the Death of every Person; For it is in the power of his own hand alone, to fetch away the Souls of Men: The Souls of Men are brought before Christ imme­diately upon the Death of the Bodies of Men, to receive their Doom, or Judgment, Heb. 9.27. It is appointed unto men once to die, and after this the Judgment.

Secondly, There is Christ's coming to the [...] Judgment, which is at the end of the World and the Resurrection of the Bodies of Men. Th [...] I grant, is called signally The coming of Christ his Second coming, Acts 1.11. 1 Thes. 4.1 [...] Heb. 9. last. I know some Expositors would have this coming of Christ to the last Judgment to be intended here; But I rather think it to [...] meant of his Coming to the particular Judgment and that for this reason: Because his Disciple [...] and the then Auditory to whom he spoke, we [...] not like to live to see Christ's last Coming Therefore we must necessarily understand it [...] [Page 55]his Coming to the particular Day of Judgment, to judg every Person when he dieth; At least it cannot but be included herein.

The words offer two Points of Doctrine fairly to our Consideration.

Doct. 1. That it is the great concern of all Men that would be saved, to make ready against the coming of Christ.

Doct. 2. That the uncertain time of Christ's certain coming, should make all men to prepare, and get ready for his coming.

The first Doctrine is that which we shall main­ly insist upon, as suiting the present sad occasion, and the condition of all our Souls. For the prosecution whereof, three things shall be done.

First, I shall shew you, what it is to make ready against the coming of Christ? or, wherein this readiness doth consist?

Secondly, Why it is the great concern of all that would be saved, to make ready for the coming of Christ?

Thirdly, Make Application of the Point.

First, What it is to be ready against the coming of Christ? or, Wherein this Readiness doth consist? I know that men generally think [...]t no great business to get ready for Christ's [...]oming; Some think it is easily done: And o­thers think it is already done: And a Third think, that it matters not whether it be done or not, for Mercy will save them, whether they be [Page 56]ready or not. But let all these consider, That there is a Twofold Readiness that all must be found in, that look for Salvation.

First, There is a Fundamental Readiness Secondly, There is an Actual Readiness.

First, There is a Fundamental Readiness, and this is also twofold.

First, Negative. Secondly, Positive.

First, There is a Negative-Fundamental Rea­diness, and this lieth in putting off, concerning the former conversation, the old man, which is corrupt, according to the deceitful Lusts, E­phes. 4.22. The Scripture phraseth it several waies, as, To deny all ungodliness and worldly Lusts, Tit. 2.12. former part. To put away the evil of your doings, To cease to do evil, Isa. 1.16, 17. To lay aside every weight, and that Sin which doth so easily beset us, Heb. 12.1. To pluck out the right Eye, and cast it from us; to cut off the right hand and cast it from us, Mat. 5.29, 30. And many more such Phrases are to be found scattered up and down the Scriptures; But these may suffice to teach us thus much, That all that must be done, before any man can be funda­mentally prepared to meet the Lord Jesus.

I know, there are many men in the world, that make Gods Mercy the only pillow to bolst [...] themselves up in their wickedness; that think they shall have peace, though they add Drun­kenness to Thirst; that is, Though they make [Page 57]provision for the flesh, to fulfil it in the Lusts of it: But let such know, That if ever they be saved, they must look to this Negative-funda­mental Readiness, that is, Cast away all their Ini­quities, for bear to walk in the forbidden path of Sin; for the Scripture assureth us, That such as walk in crooked paths, shall be led forth with the Workers of Iniquity, that is, They shall be [...]ed to the place of Execution with such ungodly Sinners, Psal. 125.5.

Secondly, There is a Positive-fundamental Readiness, which lyeth in being born again, Joh. 3.3. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Ex­cept a man be born again, be cannot see the King­dom of God. The Scripture also phraseth this several waies; as, To put on the new man, which of to God, is created in Righteousness and true Hosiness Ephes. 4.24. To be renewed in the Spirit of our mind, Ephes. 4.23. To be born of the Water and of the Spirit, Joh. 3.5. To be be­gotten again, 1 Pet. 1.3. Jam. 1.18. To be [...]onverted, Math. 18.3. To repent, Luk. 13.3, [...]. Act. 2.38. and 3.19. To believe in the Lord Jesus, Act. 16.31. To be a new Creature, 2 Cor. [...].17. To learn to do well, Isa. 1.17. To rash and make clean, Isa. 1.16. To make you a [...]ew heart, and a new spirit, Ezek. 18.31. To [...]ve godly, righteously and soberly in this present [...]vil world, Tit. 2.12. And several other waies his Positive-fundamental Readiness is expressed [Page 58]in the Scriptures; But I have given you these, to let you see, that all this you must be, and do, before you can be said to be ready, to meet the Lord Jesus. What ever the mad, doting world dreameth of, yet must men be brought to see, That if ever they inherit Eternal Life, they must go thorow this Regeneration-work. They must become new Creatures, and all old things must be done away, and all things must become new. Look to this all you that talk of Heaven, and say you are marching up through the wilderness of this World, to the eternal good Land of Canaan: If you be deceived here­in, you are undone eternally.

Secondly, There is an Actual Readiness that all must endeavour after that expect Salvation, and this consisteth in these Seven Particulars.

First, This Actual Readiness lyeth in the ex­ercise of that Grace, that is already wrought i [...] the heart of any man; and this supposeth a fundamental or habitual Readiness, of which we have but now spoken. If once the Habit [...] Grace be infused, and seated in the Soul, there must be the acting of it, which is the drawing o [...] it forth into exercise. If a man hath Faith, h [...] must live by Faith; if he hath the root of Holi­ness within him, it must blossom and bud.

There is no Actual fitness for meeting of the [Page 59]Lord Jesus, where there is no exerting and put­ting forth of the acts of Grace, Luk. 12.35. Let [...]our loins be girded about, and your lights burning, and ye your selves like unto men that wait for their Lord, v. 36. where it is implied, That [...]hose Souls are not in a fit posture for Christ's [...]oming, that have not their loins girded, and their lights burning; that is, That are not actu­ally applying themselves to the exercise of Grace, or trimming their lamps, as the Phrase is, Mat. 25.6, 7. Believe it, Christian, Thou art [...]ot actually ready to meet the Lord Jesus, if thou [...]rt not living by Faith, and labouring to keep live the breathings of the Holy Ghost in thy [...]oul. The Apostle Peter sheweth us, what Posture men should be in, that are looking for salvation by Jesus Christ, they should be actu­ally bent to the acting of Grace, 1 Pet. 1.13. [...]herefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end, for the Grace that is to be [...]rought unto you at the Revelation of Jesus [...]hrist.

Secondly, This Actual Readiness lies in mak­ [...]ng new Additions of Grace, to that Grace that [...] already received; To be coming forward in [...]oliness, and increasing with the increase of God. To sit down with the Grace that thou [...]ast already received, is to remain under great [...]efects, and gross Neglects; which is nothing [...]se but plain and down-right actual Unprepa­redness [Page 60]to meet the Lord Jesus. The Scriptures tell us of Additions of Grace to be made to out Grace, not only additions of Grace to Grace, [...] mean, of one Grace unto another; but of de­grees of Grace to the same Grace that is already received. The former is plain from 2 Pet. 1.5, 6, 7, 8. Add to your Faith, vertue, &c. The latter is as plain from those Scriptures that en­join the increase of particular Graces upon us, 2 Pet. 3.18. But grow in Grace, and in the Knowledg of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude v. 20. But ye Beloved, Building up your selves in your most holy Faith. 1 Thes. 4.10. We beseech ye [...] Brethren, that ye increase more and more, that is in love. Jam. 1.4. But let patience have he perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. And many more such instan­ces might be given. Now till this be done, thou art not actually ready to meet the Lord Jesus. There is a certain measure of Grace as­signed, and the period of time fixed, for every Saint to come up to it in, Ephes. 4.13. and t [...] this be done, we are not compleatly ready.

Thirdly, Actual Readiness consisteth in this To have your Evidences clear for Heaven; T [...] be able to prove to your own Souls, that you are in a state of Grace. Till you be come up t [...] this length, you are not so ready as you should be; The Apostle enjoineth Saints, To give [...] diligence to make their Calling and Election sun [...] [Page 61]2 Pet. 1.10. that is, sure to themselves: And when you have done this, then are you ready for the Bridegroom's coming. When you can say with Paul, and the other Apostles, 2 Co­rinth. 5.1. We know that if our earthly house of this Tabernacle were dissolved, we have a build­ing of God, an house not made with hands, eter­nal in the Heavens; then are you actually ready and prepared for the Coming of the Lord. O then try your own selves, your states and con­ditions, to see whether Christ be in you or not; Never think that you can be ready in any good measure, till you understand something of this. Can a man be ready to meet Christ, that know­eth not whether he belongeth to Heaven or Hell, to Salvation or Destruction? Alas! Such an one is yet short of that degree of readiness that should be attained, in order to Christ's coming.

Fourthly, There is also this in Actual Readi­ness to meet the Lord Jesus, viz. A compleating of the work that God hath given us to do. E­very man hath his Generation-work set him of God to do and finish; and till this be done, no man is ready for the coming of the Lord. It is said of David, Act. 13.46. That after he had served his Generation, he fell asleep. When a man hath done all his Generation-work, he is then fit for Death, and ready for Christ. St. Paul foreseeing his Death, hath these Expressions, 2 Tim. 4.6, 7. I am now ready to be offered, and [Page 62]the time of my Departure is at hand; I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the Faith. Mark, Paul saith he is ready to be offered, as our Translation hath it (though I know the Greek word may be tran­slated otherwise): But how proves St. Paul that he is ready? Why? For (saith he) I have finished my course, &c. As if he had said, I have done all my Generation-work, and there­fore I am ready. O Souls, then, and not till then, are you ready to meet the Lord Jesus, till you have done all the work which God hath gi­ven you to do in the world. Most men (God knoweth) spend their time for very Vanity, not considering that they have their task to do, & yet they think, when they have lived as long as they can, then there is no more but dying and en­tring into Glory. Poor mistaken Soul! Thou hast thy Generation-work to mind, and also to compleat; And if thou hast not set about it; and brought it to its period, thou art far from the Kingdom of God, and consequently very unfit to die, and unready to meet the Lord Je­sus. Be not deceived, There is much to do be­fore thou canst be ready for Christ. Try then what thou hast done this way, Hast thou wrought out thine own Salvation with fear and trembling? Phil. 2.12. Hast thou filled up thy time with Duty? Hast thou done all the work of thy Place, Condition, and Relation? [Page 63]If not, thou art not yet ready enough to meet the Lord Jesus.

Fifthly, This Actual Readiness lies also in this, viz. To have the Affections in subjection, and under command, and (as it were) brought under ones feet; That when the Lord Jesus cometh with a Summons for the Souls appear­ance, then the Soul to have so much power over it self, as to say, Arise, let me go hence: So that there needeth no more but Christ's Call, and the Soul is ready to set forward, and to take sits march to meet him, this now is actual Rea­diness. It is said of Abraham, that when he was called to go into a place that he should afterwards receive for an Inheritance, he obeyed, Heb. 11.8. So when Christ giveth the Soul a Call to go from hence, for the Soul then to have its Affections so subdued, and so under com­mand, as forthwith to obey the Lord's Call, this [...]s Readiness indeed. It is also said, That the Witnesses, upon a voice crying from Heaven to them, Come up hither, ascended to Heaven in a Cloud, Rev. 11.12. So when Christ's voice from Heaven biddeth the Soul come up hither, and the Soul upon the call ascendeth to Heaven, this is Readiness (in multis gradibus, in many legrees) to meet the Lord Jesus. We read that when the Lord shall give the poor Jews a Call to return, that they shall be so ready in their Affections to make answer to their Call, as that [Page 64]they shall forthwith make this Reply, Behold, we come unto thee for thou art the Lord our God, Jer. 3.22. So when Christ saith, Return ye Children of Men, and we answer, Behold we come unto thee, then are we in a proportionable measure prepared to meet the Lord Jesus. The Centurion told Christ, That his Servants were so under his Authority, that if he bid one of them go, he goeth; and if another come, he cometh; and if he bid the third do this, he doth it, Mat. 8.9. So if our Affections (like the Centurion's Servants) be so under Christ's and our Authority, that if they be bid go, they gp or come, they come; or do this, they do it. This is to be fitted for the coming of Christ. B [...] on the other hand now, If the Affections be [...] unruly, unsubdued, and masterful, as that the [...] will not bend to the Call of Christ, when eve [...] he summoneth any of us to appear before H [...] we are not yet ready to meet the Lord Jesus Many Souls (I know) will pretend, that if th [...] be to be ready, then they are already prepared for they are (as they pretend) willing to depa [...] from hence, when ever the Lord shall call the [...] But alas! How far are such mistaken, for let b [...] Christ Call for their Souls, and they wou [...] (whatever they pretend to the contrary) petit [...] for a Respite, like the poor man in the Fa [...] that wished for Death, when he was overbuy thened with his sticks; but when Death a [...] [Page 65]peared, the man gets up with his Burden, and away goeth he. Poor men! whatever they think or pretend, they would find their Affecti­ons lime-twig'd with something or other, that they cannot yet be ready to meet the Lord Jesus: [...] Sixthly, There is this also in Actual Readi­ness to meet the Lord Jesus, and that is, To have the Affections elevated and upon the wing [...]o meet the Lord Jesus. The Affections are truly [...]aid to be, Alae Animae, The wings of the Soul; for they are the wings that carry the Soul after as desired Object; Now when the Soul is [...]eady to take its Flight to meet the Lord Jesus, and mounteth upwards to meet him in the [...]ay, as if it would prevent Christ of the pains to [...]me and fetch it, this is Actual Readiness with [...] Accent, or Preparedness in summo gradu, in [...]e highest degree that man is capable of, to [...]eet the Lord Jesus. We read of Elijah's [...]cending to Heaven in a fiery Chariot; so when [...]e Soul hath its Affections, like so many fiery [...]hariots, to carry it swistly on to meet the Lord [...]sus, here is Readiness indeed. So we find [...]. Paul thus setting forth his desire to be with thrist, Phil. 1.23. [...], having a [...]hement hot and flagrant Affection to be with [...]hrist, which is best of all.

Seventhly, To be Actually ready for the Com­ing of the Lord Jesus, Is to have a suitable [...]ame and temper of Spirit for a Dying Hour: [Page 66]Thou art not prepared to meet Christ, till thou art prepared to die.

Now I will shew you when a man is of a suitable frame of Spirit for a dying hour, and take it in these Four Particulars.

First, When a man is freely willing to b [...] disposed of by God, this is a suitable frame [...] Spirit for a Dying Hour. When God sender his Messenger, Death, to summon a man to ap­pear before the Lord, and the man then is able to say, Good is the Will of the Lord concerning me, and let him do with me as seemeth good in h [...] sight. Here is a man of a suitable frame of Spi­rit for a Dying Hour, and consequently ready (in a good degree) to meet the Lord Jesus. Thus the Man Christ Jesus shewed his readine [...] for dying in this suitable frame, when he said Not my Will, but thine be done, Mat. 26.39, 43. And good old Eli, 1 Sam. 3.18. It is the Lord let him do what seemeth him good. And Davi [...] 2 Sam. 15.26. Behold, here am I, let him d [...] me as seemeth good unto him.

Secondly, When a man can take complacence in God's so disposing of him, this is to be of suitable frame of spirit for a Dying hour. Th [...] is, as I may say, the highest pitch in this spiri­tual frame. When a man cometh to this length as to take pleasure in God's taking him off b [...] Death, this is to rise high in this Heaven [...] frame: This I grant is rarely attained, unto [Page 67]by those that are come up to some considerable legrees of Assurance, that they are already pas­sed from death to life. Thus we find it was with Paul, and those Saints of whom he speak­eth, 2 Cor. 5.1. We know (saith he) that if our earthly house of this Tabernacle were dissolved, [...]e have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens: here is his and their Assurance. Now mark what follow­eth; For in this we groan earnestly, desiring to be [...]athed upon with our house, which is from Hea­ven. Paul and the rest of these Saints with him, [...]ere so straitned in the Body, as that they were [...], summo amore complectentes, em­ [...]acing with the greatest delight (as an hungry [...]an his food, or a naked man his cloaths) their [...]use which they were waiting for from Heaven. [...]ut how were they to come to be cloathed upon [...]ith their house from above? No other way ordinarily) but by being uncloathed of the [...]uses of their Bodies. But could they be [...]eased to have their cloathing of Flesh stript off [...]em? Not simply as such, for this was against [...]e Law of Nature, which is for the preservation [...] it self; but yet as the Bodies uncloathing was [...]e way and means to bring them to be cloathed [...]th Immortality, so they could take pleasure [...]d delight in it. This is no more than what [...]ul hath elsewhere expressed, Phil. 1.23. Having desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is [Page 68]far better; The word [...], that is here translated to depart, signifieth properly to be dis­solved, or to have the cords of Nature loosened, the bands between the Soul and Body untied. Now St. Paul saith, It is his desire, or as th [...] word is, his fervent desire to be dissolved: No that he simply took pleasure in the dissolution [...] his compositum, or union between his Soul and Body; but as his dissolution would be the wa [...] to bring him to Christ, which he so much longe [...] for, so he took pleasure, or (as Beza expound it) contended in his desire to be dissolved. So those Martyrs we read of in Heb. 11.39 would not accept of deliverance, though the [...] were tortured, or as the word is, stretched form upon the Rack, that they might obtain a be [...] Resurrection. They would not thank their Adversaries for saving their lives, or be behol­den to them for their sparing mercy, but rath [...] took pleasure in so cruel a Death (as ordered [...] them by the Almighty) that they might obtain better Resurrection. It is said of Aaron, th [...] he received a commandment from the Lord [...] die in Mount Hor, Numb. 33.38. But h [...] did he die? Did he take complacency in th [...] disposal of the Almighty? Yes, as appeared from Numb. 20.23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28. where [...] is said, That Moses stripped Aaron of his Gar­ments (not against the will of Aaron, but with the free consent of Aaron) as appeareth by [...] [Page 69]freeness and readiness, without the least re­luctancy intimated, to go with Moses unto Mount Hor to die there.

Aaron (as far as we can gather any thing from the letter of the Text) made no more of dying, than a man doth of putting off his cloaths to go to Bed, or of having them taken off, that he may go to his rest, which (ordinarily) is an act of complacency and delight to a man, after his weariness and toilsome labour. The same may be gathered from Moses himself, Deut. 32.48, 49, 50. with Deut. 34.5. compared, which is in excellent frame of Spirit for a Dying-hour.

Thirdly; When a man can hang loose from, and freely part with all his worldly comforts and enjoyments; this is an excellent frame of Spirit for a Dying hour. For a man to set his earthly comforts at his back, and have only Heaven be­fore his face, this is a blessed temper of Spirit. It is said of Abraham, That when he went to sacrifice up his Son Isaac to God, he left his Young men with the Ass behind him, Gen. 22.5. to when a man sacrificeth up his life to God, for him then to leave all at the foot of the hill, this [...] a suitable frame of spirit for a dying hour. It [...] said of those Worthies in Heb. 11.15. That [...]hey were not mindful of the Countrey from whence they came out: They did not (like Israel in the Wilderness) think of Egypt, or look [...]ack (like Lot's wife) towards Sodom; but they [Page 70]hung loose from the world, and only fixed and fastened their Affections upon Heaven. How did several of our famous English Martyrs in Q. Ma­ries daies hang loose from their dearest comforts and Relations, That when they were set before them (sometimes for a Temptation, or Aggrava­tion of their sorrows and torments) could easily overlook them, and go on in their Suffering down to the Valley and Shadow of Death, with the greatest chearfulness imaginable. O blessed frame! when a man is so dead to his Life, Rela­tions, and all other worldly enjoyments, as that he is not captivated in his Affections with it, but hath (in a holy manner) so forgot it, as that he is got above it; here is a person indeed of a suita­ble frame of Spirit for a Dying hour. How ma­ny are there, that have the world set in their heart, as the expression is, Eccles. 3.11. That have the very Essigies or Scheme of the world drawn upon their hearts, as Calice was upon the heart of Q. Mary, as she her self expressed it. Alas! such are like to have as sorrowful a parting with, and from it, as (we may imagine) the rich Fool had from his Goods laid up for many years, in that night when his Soul was required of him, Luke 12.19, 20. Poor men These are far from this suitable frame of spirit for a Dying hour.

Fourthly, When a man hath a rellish of Hea­ven upon his Spirit, a taste and fore-taste of the [Page 71]fruit of the Vine that is drunk in that eternal Canaan; this is a suitable frame of Spirit for a Dying hour. A man is never fitter for Dying, [...]hen when his heart is in Heaven, and his spirit [...]lipt in the honey of Canaan; When the grapes of Eshcol, and Pomegranats and Figs of Canaan are tasted, and leave such a tang upon the spirit behind them, as sharpen the appetite, and scent the Soul with the sweet odours and perfumes of Heaven; here is a glorious frame of Spirit for a Dying hour. When good Simeon, that had waited for the Consolation of Israel, had got Christ in his Arms, He tasted so sweet to the spiritual Palate of the good man, as that he is forward for dying; Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; for mine tyes have seen thy Salvation, Luk. 2.28, 29, 30. Heaven dropt into the spirit of a man, and the scent thereof retained, puts a man into a right and suitable frame of heart for a dying Hour: All the Pains, Aches, Troubles, and Tortures that attend such cannot unframe them, while Heaven and their Souls are thus incorporated to­gether. Nihil crus sentit in nervo, cum animus [...]est in coelo. Tertul.

And thus much shall serve for the opening of the first Particular, viz. Wherein this Readiness to meet the Lord Jesus doth consist.

Secondly, Now it followeth next in order to [Page 70] [...] [Page 71] [...] [Page 72]shew you, Why it is the great Concern of all that would be saved, to make ready for the Coming of the Lord Jesus.

GROUNDS.

First, Because of the great hazard that all men run into, that make not ready for the coming of Christ. Let me explain this a little to you, and that in Two Particulars.

First, In reference to the wicked. The hazard they run in not preparing and making ready for Christ's coming, is most dreadful and dan­gerous. They do inevitably expose their Soul to everlasting Ruine and Destruction. It hath been shown you already, that there is a Funda­mental Readiness which positively lyeth in Rege­neration; and if the work of Regeneration pass not upon you before the coming of the Lord Je­sus, you are undone to all Eternity. What is more plain from the infallible Scriptures, than that unless a man be born again, he cannot se [...] the Kingdom of God? Doth not the Scripture tell you, That no unclean thing shall enter into that Holy City of Heaven, nor any thing what­soever that worketh Abomination, or maketh a Lie? Rev. 21. last. And what then will be­come of such? Now see what the Scripture saith in this particular; Except ye repent, ye shall all [Page 73]likewise perish, Luk. 13.3, 5. Now consider his, all ye that forget God, lest he tear you in [...]ieces, and there be none to deliver. And you Hypocrites, Though you have cleaner faces than he profaner sort in the world, yet your hearts [...]e as black as theirs, and the hazard you run is [...]ost dreadful. Read at your leasure, Mat. 25. [...], 8, 10, 11, 12. Were not the Five foolish Vir­gins shut out of the Bridegrooms Chamber? [...]h consider it seriously! Is it nothing to venture [...]our Souls, and to expose them to so great a [...]azard, as you certainly do, while you neglect regarding this Fundamental Readiness?

Secondly, In reference to the Godly themselves; [...]en they expose themselves to hazard for want of Actual Preparation. Though their Souls be [...]fe in the main through their habitual Readi­ness, so that they cannot finally miscarry; yet [...]ere are hazards they run, through their De­fectiveness in actual Readiness: I will shew you in Four Particulars.

1. They make their passage through this val­ly of Bacha exceeding difficult and dark, their salvation at last is a surprizal to them. And their fears at present cannot but be great upon them, especially upon occasions when Eternity [...] before them, and they see themselves before [...]e very face of it. It cannot be otherwise, but [...]ose Souls that have had no due regard to actual Preparation for the coming of Christ (un­less [Page 74]they have lost all sense of their Souls, and Eternity to come) must have doleful Fears, and inward pinching Perplexities, especially when Death stareth them in the face. When a man hath been lamentably off from the exercise of Grace, and putting on the Wedding-garment and making out his title to everlasting life, ( [...] his conscience be awakened) he must needs walth sorrowfully thorow the Valley of the shadow [...] Death. This is apparent from the Five was Virgins, they were not actually ready when th [...] Bridegroom came upon them, and then in what an hurry were they, Mat. 25.7. then all th [...] Virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. The [...] arose with a fright, like men that are sudden [...] alarmed out of their sleep at Midnight. N [...] question, they were startled to purpose through the greatness of those fears that were upon then and were surprized with their Salvation. And is it nothing to you, O Saints, to run this ha­zard, or to bring upon your selves all this trou­ble and perplexity? Assuredly you will be [...] danger of falling under many Pannick fear and griping pangs of trouble, if you do not [...] ­riously mind the work of actual Preparation [...] the coming of Christ; even to you will death [...] as Bildad speaketh, The King of Terre Job 18.14.

2. Even such as are Godly in the main, [...] run this hazard through their Defective-act [...] [Page 75]Readiness, or want of actual Preparation; They really (for ought I know, or can gather from [...]he Scriptures) lessen that glory that should otherwise be conferred upon them in Heaven. And is not this a great hazard to run, and danger [...]o incur, viz. to expose your selves to the loss of [...]o many degrees of Glory? Are you so careful [...]o avoid hazards in your estates in this world, and will you make nothing of losing such a measure of Glory? Surely if a little of Heaven be [...]etter than much of the world, then the loss of a little of Heaven, is greater than the loss of much [...]f the world, nay than all the world it self. Now it is concluded by many worthy Divines, That [...]here are Degrees in Glory; and if so, Then it will strongly follow, that where there is the least Grace, there will be the least Glory; And where there is the least of Actual Readiness for Heaven, there is the least measure of Grace. For, [...] the Exercise of Grace be the means of encrea­ing of Grace, (as undoubtedly it is) and this Actual Readiness lye in the exercise of it, as [...]ath been already shewed; then it clearly fol­lows, That where there is the least of Actual Preparation for the coming of Christ, there must [...]eeds be the least measure of Grace, because the [...]ast exercise of Grace; and so consequently the [...]ast degree of Glory. But let us see what the [...]cripture saith in this point, and for this con­sult that place in Luke 19.16, 17, 18, 19. where we find the two Servants that had traded [Page 76]with their Masters money, to have received a proportionable reward to their improvement of it; The first that had made his Masters pound ten pounds, is made Ruler over ten Cities. And the second that had made his pound five pounds, is made Ruler over five Cities. The scope of the Parable seemeth to be this, that according to the improvement of Grace received, so answerably shall the reward be. They that make the great­est improvement of Grace, shall have the greatest reward of Glory; and they that make a lesser improvement thereof, shall have lesser degree of Glory: See for this also, 1 Cor. 15.41, 42. So that from hence to me it is clear, that there are different degrees of Glory, as well as diffe­rent degrees of Grace; And those Saints that concern themselves the least about Actual Readi­ness to meet the Lord Jesus, shall have the least share in Heavens Glory. And is it a small thing, my Brethren, to deprive your selves (through your remisness and negligence) of the weight of Glory? Would you do thus by your selves a­bout the things of the world? There are none of you that would hinder your external Prospe­rity through your neglect. Be but as wise and careful for your Souls, and you cannot then but be making ready for the Coming of Christ.

3. They expose themselves to this hazard also, of falling into an hour of desertion. I grant, the Almighty sometimes may, and doth, hide [Page 77]himself from his gracious ones, that have made great Conscience of making Preparation for the Coming of their Lord. But ordinarily, those Souls that are the most remiss and careless about the work of Actual Preparation for the meeting of the Lord Jesus, are mostly left and forsaken of him (as to actual favour) in times of trial, and especially in a dying hour. And this is no more but a just Punishment upon them for their Ne­glect: It being most equal, that they that have not cared to fit themselves for Him, should not find Him friendly to them when they stand in most need of his favour; Then God sheweth them his back, and not his face, as he did to the Jews in their troubles. I grant, to dispense fa­vours this way, belongeth to the Divine Prero­gative; and therefore he both can, and may deal them forth as he pleaseth, and to whom he pleaseth. And (possibly) sometimes he may let some Souls sip of this Cup, that have not every way carried suitably to this favour, Isa. 57.18. I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him, and to his mourners; And this is done, notwithstan­ding his going on frowardly in the way of his heart, v. 17. Now this he doth, when he seeth it will make for the advancement of his Grace and Glory: But ordinarily he suffereth not these to see his Smiles, that have not been fitting themselves for him; But they must now be, as [Page 78]if they were cast out of Favour; and must ap­prehend his Frowns to make them sensible of the [...] great neglects about the concerns of their Souls. And hence it is that many Souls (though other­wise honest in the main) do go mourning without the Sun, as the Phrase is, Job 30.28. through the black entry of death, and (perhaps) never see Gods face in peace again, till they find him to be their friend in the other world.

4. They run the hazard also of entring into great Temptations. Though Satan, when let loose by the Almighty, will trouble the best of Saints, and fill their Spirits with great perplex­ing Fears, especially in times of Trial, and mostly in a Dying Hour; when they are left to be tried by him: yet most commonly the secure, slothful, and careless Saints are most perplexed with his Temptations, at such times and sea­sons. Now if ever, he will endeavour to un­saint them. And this he laboureth to do, by setting before the eye of their Conscience, and charging upon them, all their former carelesness and remisness in and about their actual Prepa­ration for the Coming of Christ, as not consist­ing with a state of Grace. Though before he did secretly (yet strongly) perswade them to the contrary, when he did tempt them to slacken the reins, and grow remiss in the Duties of Prepa­ration; yet now he appeareth openly to the Conscience, and chargeth it home upon it, as [Page 79]that which can no way comport with the spirit of a Saint. Hence it is that so many, when brought to their dying hour, are ready to cast away all their hopes of the life to come; though (peradventure) some time before, they were groundedly persuaded that their state was good, and that they had a Right (through Faith in Christ) to the purchased Inheritance. You se­cure Saints! that please your selves at present in your Remisness, take heed lest the Devil have a field with you before you die. Though you may have your quiet at present, through his lulling you asleep, yet you may come to be awakened, and your Consciences filled with many black, hellish fears. And reckon you it nothing to fall into the hands of a merciless De­vil, that will not spare you a blow, I warrant you? O fear an After-clap to come upon you, if you do not speedily awake, and set about this Actual Readiness for the Coming of Christ. The Apostle's counsel is, To put on the whole Armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the Devil, Ephes. 6.11. The Devil is subtle and wily, not only to draw into sin, but also to trouble for sin; and especially he doth this in a Dying hour. What is said of the na­tural Serpent, is as true of the spiritual, Nun­quam nisi moriens producitur in longum, that it never stretcheth it self to its full length, but when it dies: So the Devil never stretcheth himself [Page 80]forth at such a length to do thee a mischief, as when thou art in a Dying hour; for then he knoweth that his time is but short, and that thou wilt quickly be beyond his reach.

Secondly; It is the great concern of all th [...] look to be saved, to make ready for the coming [...] Christ; because it is indispensably required of them. God will not dispense with the want of Preparation in any Person whatsoever. It is at your utmost perils, if you get not habitual Rea­diness, and endeavour not after actual Readiness against the day when Christ shall come to call for your Souls; Do not the words in the Text run by way of command, Be ye ready? The Ver [...] [...], is in the Imperative Mood, and impor­teth Authority in the person commanding. And is it not your concernment to obey him? Believe it, you will find it to be to your cost, if you do not observe what he giveth you in command to do. You cannot now plead Ignorance in this Case, for now you have heard, and herein may read (if you knew it not before) that he requi­reth you to make ready. And mark how it will fare with that Servant that obeyeth not Christs will, after the knowledg of it, Luk. 12.47. And that Servant, which knew his Lords will, and pre­pared not himself, neither did according to his Will, shall be beaten with many stripes. There is no Dispensation for him, but smart he must, and that severely.

Thirdly, Because Heaven is ready only for [...]hem that are ready for it. It is a fond Phancy [...]hat many ignorant Souls have, that they cannot [...]iss of Heaven, because there is an Heaven pre­ [...]ared: But mind, though Heaven be made [...]eady, it is only for such, as are made ready for [...]. There is a Meetness absolutely requisite in [...]l those that must pass over into those Eternal [...]ansions. It is true, Christ hath prepared a [...]ace, Joh. 14.2, 3. and Salvation is ready in it If, only it must be revealed in its time, 1 Pet. 1. [...] But the place of Glory, and Salvation in it, [...]e only prepared for such as are made meet and [...]ady for them, Colos. 1.12. Which hath made meet to be partakers of the Inheritance of the [...]ints in light. There is both a Jus hereditari­ [...], and aptitudinarium; that is, a Right of [...]irship, and a Right of Fitness, or Meetness, [...]t must be come by, before any Admission [...] be expected or obtained into this Heavenly [...]untrey. And the latter, viz. That of Fitness [...]th in making ready for it; that is, in having work of Sanctification begun, and wound up such a height or degree, as may make the Soul table to it, and meet for it. Mark that Text Matth. 25.10. And they that were ready, went with him to the Marriage, and the Door was [...]. Not a Soul gets into Heaven, but such as ready for it. The Door is shut against all rest, and no entrance can be had for them. [Page 82]Now then my Friends, are you not concerned upon this ground to make ready for the coming of Christ? I am sure if you be concerned to look after Heaven, you are also concerned to make ready for it: Because where there is no Readi­ness for it, there will be no Entrance got into it.

Fourthly; Because the Lord Jesus cometh at an hour when we think not. This is Christ's own Argument in the Text, by which he presseth us to make ready for his Coming. Christ's com­ing is set forth by the Similitude of the coming of a Thief, whose coming is alwaies sudden and unexpected, Luk. 12.39. Rev. 3.3. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee at a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee: So Christ's coming (though cer­cain, yet) as to us, is very uncertain. And therefore it behoveth us to be always ready. It is said in the Parable of the Ten Virgins, that at Midnight (the dead time of the Night, as we say, when we have the least expectation of any Comers) there was a cry made, Behold the Bride­groom cometh, go ye out to meet him, Matth. 25.6. The Lord Jesus cometh upon men at Midnight; that is, at an Hour when they look not for him, when men are still and quiet, and their expecta­tions dormient. And how dreadful is it to hear him cry at Midnight, and men not ready to go meet him. Christ cometh upon many at unawares [Page 83]and giveth them Summons to appear. And is it not most sad to hear his Alarm, and not be pre­pared to appear before him? Wo to those Souls [...]hat are no way ready when the Lord calleth! Their Doom is like to be black, and their Con­ [...]itions miserable: See what Christ saith shall be­come of those Souls that look not for his coming, [...]nd so begin to be loose, and careless, and pro­ [...]ne, Luk. 12.45, 46. But and if that Servant [...]y in his heart, my Lord delayeth his coming, and [...]all begin to beat the Men servants and Maidens, [...]nd to eat, and drink, and be drunken; The [...]ord of that Servant will come in a day when he [...]oketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not [...]are, and will cut him in sunder, and will ap­ [...]int him his portion with the Unbelievers. Here [...]sad work you see that follows in upon it; the [...]n is undone, and cast away eternally. O [...]emble at it, all ye that forget God, and wait [...]t for his coming. Though you may forget the [...]ing of Christ, and neglect to prepare for it, [...] Christ will not forget to come, nor to punish [...] when he cometh upon you, Watch there­ [...]e, for ye neither know the day, nor the hour [...]erein the Son of man cometh, Matth. 25.13.

And so much shall serve for the grounds of [...] point. The Application now followeth, and [...]e calleth for Brevity.

Thirdly, By way of Application, that I may bring the point home to you all.

Ʋse 1. First, Is it so, that it is the gran [...] Concern of all that would be saved, to make ready for the coming of Christ? Then certain­ly there are many persons that will fall under [...]nviction from this Doctrine, I mean they [...] be brought under a Doctrinal Conviction [...] that they may be laid under a persona Conviction! Assuredly, Friends, it is your concernment to measure your selves by th [...] truth; but I will name a few sorts of Persona that come under the lash of this Point.

First, There is the Carnal Professour, tha [...] justly falleth under Conviction, who deceiveth himself with his fair pretences, and meer sha [...] dows; he looketh like one that is making ready for Christ, and yet really, and in good earne [...] he never endeavoureth to get his Soul furnishe [...] with those Preparations that would fit him s [...] Christ. This poor man (like the five fooli [...] Virgins) hath his lamp, but he hath no oy [...] it. His heart is graceless, and yet he goes o [...] till he see himself deceived, when it is too late [...] My Friends, believe it for a truth, It is not wh [...] you appear to be by your Profession, but wha [...] you really and actually are by powerful impressi­ons within you, and spiritual actions done b [...] you, that will make you to be ready for t [...] Coming of the Lord Christ. Do you think tha [...] [Page 85]the Lord Jesus will look upon your outward Profession to be all the Preparation he required, when he shall come and call for your Souls? Be not mistaken! Whatever you think or judg in this Case, the Lord Christ will be of another mind; yea, and will disown such to be ready for him. Mark his own words, Math. 7.21, 22. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, [...]hall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; But he [...]hat doth the Will of my Father which is in Heaven. Many will say in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy Name, and [...] thy Name cast out Devils, and in thy Name one many marvellous works? But ma [...]k what answer he returneth them: And then will I pro­ [...]ss unto them, I never knew you, Depare from [...]eye that work iniquity.

Secondly; There is the earthly Miser, whose [...]art is eaten out, and devoured with the ca es [...] the world. This silly Muckworm cometh [...]der the whip. Alas! This covetous Wretch [...]ndeth at the widest distance from Prepara­ [...]n for the coming of Christ. It is true, he is [...]king himself ready, but what is it for? on­ [...]for his Incomes from the world. There is no [...]n of greater Contrivance, Care and Action, [...]n this wretch; but all is spent and laid out [...]ut his earthly Concerns. His Thoughts. [...]ections, Head, Heart, and Hand, are all [...]aged, but still about his carnal Conteme­ments. [Page 86]Though he sometimes talk of Heaven, and the Coming of Christ, yet is he not at leisure to think leriously of either. He cannot spare time from the world to prepare for Heaven and Christ. See his Emblem, or Portraicture to the life, in the Parable of the Rich man, recorded in Luk 12.16, 17, 18. where we have hi [...] Thoughtfulness, Care, Contrivance and Active­ness set forth about his earthly Profits. And t [...] speak the truth, A worldly man looketh upon the world, and his concerns in it, to be [...] greatest concerns. As for Heaven, and going to it, he is willing to run the hazard; this shall not trouble either his head or heart at presen [...] But if he must think of Heaven, and the com [...] of Christ, he will defer that till he hath do with all his concerns in the world, and that when he cometh to die, then he will cry [...] mercy, and ask forgiveness, and this is all [...] Readiness (in his judgment) that will be requi­site to be minded.

Adde to these, your Jovial Sirs, that sp [...] their days in mirth, and in a moment go do [...] to the Grave; That live as if their lives were be sacrificed to their lusts. Poor men! T [...] put far from them the evil Day, and all thou [...] of the coming of Christ, Amos 6.3, 4, 5, 6. [...] men in the world are more unready for a d [...] hour than these. And God many times co [...] upon these on a sudden, and sweepeth them [Page 87]to the Grave in the midst of their Jollity; read and tremble at those words of Christ, Luk. 12.20. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night shall thy Soul be required of thee. If you mark, it was that very night after the poor Miser had been pleasing himself with the thoughts of what stores of Wealth and Pleasure he had laid up for his Soul against the time to come, v. 19. I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years, eat, drink, and be merry. But this poor Fool is cut off, in the midst of his pleasing thoughts, before the morning. The like you have in Belshazzar, who in the midst of his Cups, is fairly presented with the Finger of Death to cut him off, Dan. 5.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Thirdly, There is the Secure Sinner, that is fast asleep upon his Pillow of ease; who is not [...]t all awakened, either by the Threatnings of the Word, or other Providential Alarms that [...]e hath. He hath many Spectacles of Morta­ [...]ity before his eyes, yet is he not at all startled [...]r awakened by any of these to consider his ways; these also are far from this Readiness to meet the Lord Jesus. Poor secure Sinners! what will you do in the Day when the Lord shall [...]ome forth against you? Do you think that then [...]e shall be able to sit quiet, and remain secure [...] trow not: When God shall arise and com [...] [...]pon you, he will awaken you to purp [...] When there was a cry made at Midnight, [...] [Page 88] hold, the Bridegroom cometh! the slumbering Virgins could sleep no longer. They had been secure and sleepy under Ordinances and Pr [...] ­dences before, but when Christ cometh upon them, they rouse up to purpose, Matth. 25. [...] will it be done to you. There is not the sec [...] rest Soul among you, but when the Lord Chri [...] alarms you, shall rise up with trembling: yo [...] will be made to quake for fear at his appearance O then, to prevent this, awake your selves b [...] times, and get ready, that Christ may not co [...] upon you at unawares.

Fourthly, The Presumptuous Sinner fallen under Reproof by this Doctrine, who hardened himself in his Wickedness, and sinneth with a [...] high hand, and yet concludeth he shall ha [...] peace, though he walketh after the Imaginati­ons of his own evil heart, to adde Drunkenne [...] to Thirst. But what saith the Scripture about this sort of men? The Text is terrible, Deut. 29 [...] 19, 20. The Lord will not spare that man, but b [...] anger and jealousie shall smoak against him. [...] then be not so foolishly mad, as to hope for Mer­cy at the coming of Christ, whilst ye go on a [...] so round a rate in Sin. Though ye have made [...] Covenant with Death, and with Hell are at agree­ment; yet because ye have made lies your refug [...] and hid your selves under falshood, your Covenant with Death shall be disannulled, and your agree­ment with Hell shall not stand. The Hail sh [...] [Page 89]sweep away your refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow your hiding place; and when the overflowing scourge shall pass thorow, then shall [...]e be troden down by it, Isa. 28.15, 16, 17, 18.

Fifthly, To add no more, There is the lan­guishing Professour that falleth under the re­buke of this Doctrine, who (though his conditi­on be safe, because of his habitual Readiness, the grace of Regeneration being found within him, yet) may he sadly smart for his Relapses before [...]e give up the Ghost. Hast thou not heard before what hazards even the Godly do run, for want of actual Preparation? Is it a small thing in thine account, to be under the Troun­ [...]ings of Satan, the hidings of God's Face, the [...]remblings of Conscience, and the terrors of Death? Remember therefore from whence thou [...]rt fallen, and repent, and do the first works, or [...]se the Lord Christ will come unto thee quickly, [...]nd remove thee out of thy place, except thou re­ [...]ent. Be watchful, and strengthen the things [...]hat are ready to die, which yet remain, for thy works are not found perfect before God. Remem­ [...]er therefore how thou hast received, and heard, [...]nd hold fast, and repent: If therefore thou shalt [...]ot watch, the Lord Christ will come on thee as Thief, and thou shalt not know what hour he will [...]ome upon thee, Rev. 2.5. and 3.2, 3.

Use 2. Secondly, Is it the great concernment [...]f all that look to be saved, to make ready a­gainst [Page 90]the coming of Christ? Then it is th [...] greatest Folly imaginable, to neglect making ready for Christ's Coming. That man lies a [...] waies under the imputation of extreme Folly that neglecteth his principal Concerns. Is [...] not an arrant Fool, that will not mind his mo [...] necessary Concernments, wherein his very l [...] and welfare is wrapt up?

—Quae te dementia cepit?

That you may see the extreme folly and ma [...] ­ness of men herein, I will shew you it a lit [...] more particularly, and that very briefly.

First, That man that neglecteth making re [...] ­dy for Christ's coming, he hath no regard [...] or care of, his great Soul. His Carelessness a­bout making due Preparation to meet the L [...] Jesus, doth plainly speak forth thus much That whether his Soul sink or swim, be sa [...] or damned, he mattereth it not; He will [...] so much as trouble either his Head or Heart a­bout it. And is not this the greatest piece [...] Folly that can be? What man more mad [...] foolish than he, that setteth his Soul aside, [...] forgetteth, or else careth not to do any th [...] about it, that may tend to save it. Our [...] Jesus telleth us, That the Soul of man is be [...] than the whole world, for so much his wo [...] do sound, Math. 16.26. What is a man prof [...] [Page 91] [...]f he gain the whole world, and lose his own Soul? [...]r what shall he give in exchange for his soul? Now is that man any other than a simple Fool, that neglecteth his Soul, which the whole world cannot equalize the worth of, or repair the loss of; if he could enjoy it all to himself?

Secondly, That man that neglecteth Prepara­tion for the Coming of Christ, he doth but trea­sure up wrath unto himself against the day of Wrath and Revelation of the righteous Judg­ement of God. And is not he a Fool, that pro­videth Instruments of Cruelty for himself? And thus doth every one (though they think it not) that neglecteth to make ready for Christ's ap­pearance. I speak to such as never mind the work of Repentance, but go on in a course of Sin, these of all others are the greatest Fools, in that they do all the while store up plagues for themselves, Rom. 2.4, 5, 6.

Thirdly, The Folly of him that mindeth not making ready for the coming of Christ, appeares in this; That he doth but harden himself against [...]he coming of Christ. And is he not a grand Fool, think ye, that thus setteth himself against Christ? Whoever hardened himself against God, and prospered? I do not think that every one that mindeth not to make himself ready to meet [...]he Lord Jesus, doth intentionally and resol­redly harden himself against Christ, for these [...]re only that Atheistical and debanched Crew, [Page 92]that are void of all Fear and Conscience, that bid open defiance against Heaven, Psal. 73.9 [...] But my Friends, after you have heard it to be your Duty to make ready against that time, when you shall be called to appear before Christ; i [...] you then neglect to do it, it will be interpreted of Christ to be a hardening your selves against him: Because you know it to be your Duty, and yet will not do it. And what a Madman [...] he that will put himself into such a posture, a [...] will bespeak him to be hardening himself against Christ? Can their hearts endure, or their hands be strong in the day that God shall deal with them? Ezek. 22.14. Will ye provoke the Lord to jealousie? are ye stronger than he? Remember it was Israels overthrow in the Wilderness, that they hardened themselves against God: this made their Carkases fall there, so that they ne­ver came to Canaan, Psal. 95.8, 9, 10, 11. Heb. 3.8, 9, 10, 11. I shall leave but that one place fur­ther with you, and then consider of it, Re­vel. 6.14, 15, 16, 17. And the Heaven departed at a Scroll when it is rolled together, and every Moun­tain and Island were moved out of their places: And the Kings of the earth, and the great Men, and the Rich men, and the Chief Captains, and the Mighty men, and every Bondman, and every Freeman, hid themselves in the dens, and in the rocks of the Mountains, And said to the moun­tains and Rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the [Page 93]face of him that sitteth on the Throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come, and who shall be able to stand? You see that Christ will make the stoutest of men to tremble, that harden themselves against him.

Fourthly, Their folly appeareth by this, who neglect to prepare and make ready for Christ Jesus his Coming; in that so doing, they under­value Heaven. And is he not to be reckoned a prosane Fool, that makes no reckoning of Heaven? The poor Indians folly was seen in this, That they were so willing to part with their Gold for some pieces of Brass, or for other Toys and Trifles that were of no great value. Now that man that taketh no care to make him­self ready to come before the Lord Jesus, his ne­glect doth plainly declare, That Heaven beareth to price with him. For there is no man that [...]ometh within the sound of the Gospel, [...]ut he heareth, That without Repentance no salvation; and that without Holiness, no man shall see the Lord. Now after the declaration [...] all this in the ears of such a person, If he shall sive in the neglect of looking after Repentance, [...]r the work of Holiness, he doth evidently ma­ [...]ifest, That Heaven signifieth not much to him; for he that will not carefully look after the heans, and also use them, that relate to such an [...]nd, his very neglecting of the means, doth be­speak [Page 94]him to have no great regard to the end, especially when he knoweth, that it is not possi­ble (in an ordinary way) to come to enjoy such an end, without making use of such means. And will not this prove a man to be a Fool? Remem­ber that Esau is called a profane person, (or, as the word may be rendered) a profane Fool, for despising his Birth-right; which showed his un­dervaluing of Heaven, and preferring the earth before it, Heb. 12.16. with Gen. 25.34.

Use 3. Thirdly, Is it the grand Concernment of all that would be saved, to make ready for Christ's coming? Then let it serve for Exhorta­tion, to press you all, seriously and earnestly to make your selves ready. Entertain the Lord Christ's advice in the Text, Be ye therefore ready also; I shall enforce the Duty upon you with two or three Considerations, because I must hasten.

Considerations.

First; Consider that your sasety lyeth in making ready for Christ. I would think, That there is not a person among you this day, but would give something to know, that his Soul is safe and shall be secured against all future hazards of miscarrying eternally. Why, my Friends, I can tell you, how you may have them secure e­nough: Do but you get and make sure of that [Page 95] [...]undamental-Readiness you were told of, and abour still after Actual Preparation, and your Souls will be safe, and past the peril of miscarry­ing eternally. Though you may dash some­times against some Rocks, before you get over [...]e troublesome Sea of this world, yet shall not [...]he Vessel of your Soul be split upon any of these [...]ocks, but shall come safely in into the Harbour [...] Heaven.

Secondly, Consider that Christ may come upon [...] at unawares. The time of his coming may [...]ove a surprizal to you. O then get ready, my [...]riends. There is none of you that knoweth [...]ow soon you may have a call to go from hence; [...]hich of your Funerals may be the next, neither [...] nor I know. But this I know, That few [...] us thought that we should have seen this [...]ournful day on such a sudden. Was it not a [...]prizal to the most? Though not to the party [...]eceased, for she had strong impressions of [...]eath, when others had no fear of it at all. [...]atch therefore; for ye neither know the day, nor [...] hour, wherein the Son of man cometh, Mat. [...].13.

Thirdly, Consider what comfort it will be to [...] in a Dying hour, to know that you are ready? though Death is, and will be the King of Ter­ [...]urs to others, yet it will be a welcome Mes­ [...]ger to you: Then shall ye be able to reckon up for one of your Priviledges, yea, your last [Page 96]Priviledg in this world; according to that of the Apostle, 1 Cor. 3.22. Death is yours.

Fourthly, Consider how readily ye shall be en­tertained and received of Christ, if you do but get ready for him. There shall no stop be made, but forthwith ye shall enter into Glory, Mat. 25.10. And they that were ready, went in with him unto the Marriage. So soon as Lazarus was dead, his Soul was carried into Abraham's bosome Luk. 16.22. Do but you mind to make you ready, the Lord Christ will quickly pass the Sentence for your entrance into his Eternal Kingdome.

The Fourth Use.

Fourthly, Is it the great Concern of all that would be saved. to prepare for the Coming of Christ? Then this Use may serve for Consola­tion to all such, as have in some good measure been fitting themselves for the appearance of Christ, and are still making it their business to be compleating their Readiness for his Coming. It speaketh Comfort to such in two or three Parti­culars.

First; Take this for your Comfort at present, That you shall certainly sit down with Christ in Glory; The Marriage-Supper is prepared for you, and you shall be Guests at the Bride­grooms Table. All the attendance that can be expected, you shall have; Christ himself will [Page 97]gird himself, and come forth and serve you, Luk. 12.37. Blessed are those Servants, whom the Lord when he cometh, shall find watching: Verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And what an honourable attendance is this! for the Master of the house [...]o wait on his Servants.

Secondly, It speaks this comfort to them, That when ever Christ cometh, it shall not be a sur­prisal to them. If you continue your prepara­tion for Christ his Coming, and do not fall asleep, or grow secure again, Christ will not come on you unawares, you shall then speak of Christ's Coming eternally to save you, as the Church peaketh of the Lord's coming eternally to save [...]er, Isa. 25.9. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, his is our God, we have waited for him, and he [...]ill save us: This is the Lord, we have waited or him, we will be glad, and rejoice in his Sal­vation. They are only the sleepy and slumbering Virgins that are surprized with his Coming; such [...]s are making ready for him, and expecting him, [...]hall not be taken at unawares. Though they [...]now not the time of his Coming, yet because [...]hey are looking and waiting for his Coming; [...]hey shall not be surprized when ever he cometh. [...]urely I come quickly, saith Christ: Amen, [...]ith the prepared Soul. Even so, come Lord Iesus, Rev. 22.20.

Thirdly, There is this further comfort also in it, That such prepared Souls shall (ordinarily) have some comfortable foretasts of glory to come: Such shall eat of the Grapes of Eshcol, while they are in the way to Heaven, before they come into the Land of Canaan it self. I do not say, that it is alwaies thus with prepared Souls a for some (possibly) that have diligently endea­voured to prepared themselves for the Coming o [...] Christ, may yet notwithstanding feel nothing bu [...] bitterness in their spirits in their way to glory, a [...] the case seemeth to have been with precious He­man, Psal. 88. throughout: And the 15 vers [...] thereof tells us, That this was his case from hi [...] youth up. I am afflicted, and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors, I am di­stracted. The Hebrew word [...] that is tran­slated, from my youth up, signifieth Childhood and cometh from a root, that signifieth to shake­out, [...]; as if he had said, I am afflicted, an ready to die, from my very shaking out of the Womb; Nay (possibly) such Souls may some times go away in a Cloud, without the lea [...] taste of that Glory, which immediatly after Death, they do fully possess and enjoy. But ye [...] (ordinarily) they do more generally taste [...] those pleasures that are at Gods right hand for­evermore, while they are in their way to Hea­ven. They depart in peace, as the Phrase [...] Luke 2.29. that is, They die with satisfaction [Page 99]and comfort, nay, with joy and gladness, Re­vel. 19.7. Let us be glad ond rejoice, and give honour to him: for the Marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made her self ready. And the reason is, Because they have the Testi­mony of their Consciences, according to that of Paul, 2 Cor. 1.12. For our rejoycing is this, the testimony of our Conscience, that in simplicity, and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdome, but by [...]he grace of God, we have had our conversation [...] the world.

Use 5.

Lastly, Is it the great Concernment of all that would be saved, to make ready for the Coming [...]f Christ? Then it would be needful to lay [...]own some Directions how to get ready against [...]he time of Christ's Coming: But the time [...]ow calleth me off, and therefore I must desist; only take this single Direction, Think daily of [...]he Day of thy Death, and the uncertain time [...]f Christ's certain Coming, and this seriously [...]hought on, will spur thee on to get ready for is Coming.

Men too commonly cast off the thoughts of [...]eath, and of Christ's Coming to Judgment, and this maketh them so remiss and careless, as [...]hat they mind not preparing for a dying Hour, [...]nd appearing before the Judgment Seat of [Page 100]Christ, to give an account of all that they have done in the Body, whether it be good, [...] whether it be evil.

FINIS.

In Obitum MARIAE WILSON, Filiae Ricardi Wilson, Generosi; [...]

HEu dolor infandus! cur mors saevissimè vitam
Amputat innocuam? quae sibi culpa fuit?
Rara fides hujus, radiis pietatis amoenis
Affulsit, vitii nescia, vana fugit.
Omnia sancta petit, semper sua facta benigna
Omnibus; & purâ numina mente colit.
Occubuit morti, lacrymarum ex valle rev [...]lli,
Hei mihi! virtutis flosculus hic moritur!
Quòd fecit
Anagram, Marie Wilson, Crosfie [...]d
Flores Deus illos creamine constat;
[...]! Stat sine Morte decus.
[...]mbre rigate genas! abiit, (moriente Mariâ
Ipsa arbusta dolent) nunc dolor urget idem;
(Dicere si fas est) rupes fragore movêre,
Cùm Phoenix mundi (desine Musa!) perit,

To Mr. R. W. depressed with grief for the loss of his so vertuous and only Daughter.

What? Mourn excessively, under your Cross? O Sir, Abandon Sorrow, though youR Loss (I grant) be Reall, And Of large extent Your only Child! Yet know She was but lent. A fruitful Plant she Was i'th Field of God, But beeing Ripe In Grace, now her abode God changed hath: for Earth-Ly dwellings given A Mansion Large, among the Saints in Heaven: And yet Do you think hardly Of your God? For, Sure there's Mercy latent iN his Rod,

Then stay your Tears, and (David-like) submit,
For he who sent the Cross, will hallow it.

Ad pium Lectorem.

PArdon me, Reader, if thou judg't unmeet;
That my rude Muse (with her decrepit feet)
Should thus intrude herself into the Press,
('Mongst others) to proclaim the worthiness,
Of this accomplish'd, pious Virgin, who
(While here) did all her Age and Sex outgo,
In vertues race; and now hath won the Goal,
Whilst we, her friends, with tears her loss condole
[...]hen God to th'world had shown this polisht [...]tone,
[...]soon (for ends best known to mself alone)
[...]mov'd her hence, and plac'd her among them,
[...]hat do adorn the New Jerusalem.
[...]e're thou didst converse with her, I've done;
[...]er spiritual worth was obvious as the Sun.
[...]anscendent Love she to the truth did bear;
[...]o pains she spar'd, Gods Sacred Word to hear.
[...]nd if this Heavenborn Dorcas thou knewst not,
[...]m all perfection up, and she was that.
[...]ut stay, my Muse, let her good works commend
[...]er (whom I dare not praise, because a Friend)
[...]e mute, no more with hobling Verses come,
[...]th her blest Life 's her best Encomium;
Which th' foregoing Narratives exemplifie,
[...]nd will perpetuate her Me mory
[...]o us who do survive. Let's imitate
This Heavenly pattern then; and always wait
[...]he Master's coming, lest when 'tis too late,
We cry, Lord, Lord, open to us the Gate.
[...] may we not (like Goats) at Christ's left hand
[...]e found (oh dreadful!) but still ready stand,
With oyled lamps to meet the Lord; for he
Will surely come to judg both thee and me.
M. C.

Upon the Death of Mrs. Mary Wilso [...] who was Buried, August 4. 1672.

HEre lies the first, of that name from Cro field,
Lord grant that place may more such flow [...] yield.
Her early buds that place did so perfume,
As tho her Soul had brought it from the Womb.
No pains she thought too hard Gods sacred Word hear,
And when she harrow'd it, she water'd it with tear.
And yet she would complain of her unfruitful [...]
Tho she foretold her Death, much like a Pro­phetess.
Her dying Breath was such, as fill'd the eyes [...] ears,
Of her Spectators all, with Joys, and yet w [...] Tears.
As to her Natural parts, her Genius still was such
What Learning ere she saw, to take't in was [...] much.
Her works behind her left, most amply have de­clar'd,
That not unlike she may, to Dorcas be compar'd.
She, she, she was, most singly set apart,
To be the Joy of her poor Parents heart,
But now she's gone to her Eternal Rest,
Amongst the Saints, for ever to be blest.

To all those that love vertue.

Reader,

WHen my serious thoughts had reflected upon the Death of so vertuous a Damsel, I could not but deplore her Departure; and being importuned by her vertues, I gave my Pen the priviledg (assisting it with the uttermost of my power) to compose this Elegious Poem upon her Death; which I cannot expect will be consonant to all humors, but only to those that love vertue. And Reader, thou knowing that the tallest Cedars were but Twigs at first; I desire thee to let the strength of thy goodness, pardon the weakness of him, who is thine in what he may,

Christopher Rickerby.

An Elegy, upon the Death of a ver­tuous young Damsel, Mrs. Mary Wilson, late of Cross-field in Cumberland.

YE grief-supporting Muses, here is that
Will sublimate your Senses; Ask not what,
But lend assistance soon, do not deny,
For fear I make complaint to Mercury.
What? Are your Heliconian waters spent?
Or do you stay t'expect a Complement?
Be not so slow, for Sorrow hates delay;
Oh hear my hasty call, and come away.
I crave your aid, lest Melancholy I
Ravish'd with what I speak, should faint & die
Times full-mouth'd Herauld, will exactly tell
How Death hath rambled from his misty Cell,
And call'd her hence: whose never-dying name
Gives Golden feathers to the wings of Fame:
Whilst she enjoy'd the fullness of her breath,
Her Life was a Preparative for Death.
It was her whole Delight, and Study still
To prosecute her great Redeemers Will.
Faith, Hope, and Charity did sweetly rest
Within the Councel-Chamber of her Breast.
Nay in a word, the Graces did agree
[...]o make one happy Soul, and this was she.
Which was a Pattern sent, that thou and I,
And others, by her Life might learn to die.
[...]s for her Moral Duties, they were such,
That should I strive, I could not speak too much;
[...]er whole delight was alwaies to appear
[...]t any place, where she God's word might hear.
[...]om whence she suckt such wholsome streams, that she
[...]ft got a plaudit for her Memory;
[...]ay she in every thing did so excel,
That it was hard to find a parallel.
This same was she, within whose tender breast,
A mighty Magazin of worth did rest.
Her comely Carriage to all men, might claim
A perfect right to a beloved Name:
Her actions were so just, that they may tell
She liv'd uprightly, and she dy'd-as well;
Her Love and sweet Society did call
[...]en thoosand tears t'attend her Funeral.
And now she's gone: I hope her Soul's aspir'd
so Heavens high Ralace, where she sits attir'd
With glorious Immortality; and sings
[...]elodious Tunes unto the King of Kings.
Oh there she rests, free from the rubs of earth,
Hugging no Shadow, but a real Mirth;
Where still me thinks I hear her sweetly sing?
Grave, where's thy power? Death, where is thy sting?
Methinks I hear her warbling tongue declare,
How good her works, how great her wonders are.
Methought I saw in what triumphing state
Her soul was led to Heaven's refulgent Gate;
Where, when she came disro'bd of all her Sin,
The Gates flew open, and her Soul flew in.
There, there, the Alpha of her joys will never
Know an Omega, but endure for ever.
Perhaps some will conclude me wondrous bold
When this Elegious Poem they behold;
It is an Error, that my hasty Quill
Too rashly stept into, against my will.
I hope 'tis venial; for in former times
Boldness in truths were pardonable crimes;
Her splendent vertues did importune me
To calculate and write this Elegie
Of her; That now is taking sweet repose
In Heaven's eternal bed; where none but those
Shall sleep, that in their Life-times study'd still
Their hungry Lamps, with precious Oyl to fill;
Sith thus she liv'd, sith thus she dy'd, O then,
Let's imitate so good a Life; And when
We hear the sweet Narration of her Death,
Let's learn to die; Let them that live by breath,
Examine her brave actions, and they'll find,
She had true zeal imprinted in her mind.
Reader, As often as report shall send
Unto thy ears the Death of such a Friend,
Wonder not that she's dead; that's too much wrong,
But rather wonder that she liv'd so long.
For Life's but like a Candle, every wind
May puff it out, and leave a Snuff behind.
Liue we a Thousand years, we do but run
Indebt to Nature; when those days are done
This is most sure, our earthen vessels must
At last dissolve, and turn again to Dust.

Sic voluere fata.

Her Epitaph.

Mortality may here survey
A Grave, within whose bosome lay
Rare Vertue, Zeal, whilst she had breath,
Yet quickly was blockt up by death.
Wholesome streams of rare zeal did rest
In the close Chamber of her Breast.
Like Dorcas, she sought to fulfil
Sound work for her Redeemer still.
O, but Death came, and said thou must
Now go dissolve, and turn to Dust.
She is the first that ever came
Hither, from Cross-field, of that name;
Whose vertuoos Life, none will deny,
Taught Death to live, and Life to dye;
I hope the Alpha of her joys will never
Omega know, but last for ever.
Spes mihi magna subit.
By me Christopher Rickerby School-master of Lazonby.

For his invaluable Friend, Mr. Richard Wilson, at Crosfield.

My Dear and Well-beloved Brother,

IT shall not be my work at this time, to set your wound a bleeding a fresh, or to adde weight to your present Affliction; But I hope I shall willingly endeavour to heal it, and to bear a part of your burthen, and to have you upon my heart, when I make my Address to God for Mercy, and Pardon for mine own Soul: And shall beg of God, to support your Soul, and to be to you instead of all Relations and Comforts, which this vain, fading, perish­ing and deceitful world can afford you; and that Christ may be to you instead of ten Chil­dren, and give you a Name, better than that of Sons and Daughters; yea, That Christ may be your all in all: And I hope the Lord hath taught you not to sorrow as one without hope, for she whom you so dearly loved, is gone to her dearly Beloved, there to dwell for ever, where she is freed from Satan, Sin and Sorrow; all tears being wipt away from her eyes: yea, she is gone to her Husband, Lord, and King, where she reaps the fruit and comfort of all her [Page 112]Labours, and is blessed, for So are the dead that die in the Lord; Yea, She now enjoyes th [...] sweet of all her private Retirements in Prayer and Meditation, wherein she kept her communion with God in Christ whilst here: And she, w [...] lately shined as a glor ous Star in this Church is now glorified in Heaven; she is possessed o [...] those mansions of Glory purchased, and prepared by Christ for her, Joh. 14.2. and there she [...] beholding the Face of God, reconciled to he [...] Soul by Christ, where she is singing Hallelujahs yea the pure Praises of God; and this shall [...] her work, yea rather her delight to all Eternity And then, My dear Brother, why should no [...] you with David (the Child being dead) arise and come into the House of the Lord to wor­ship? 2 Sam. 12.20. Brother, Let me tell you, in some sense (if I may adventure to spea [...] it) you have as much, yea more reason to be con­tented, and thankful than David had: for your Daughters name was Mary, who hath chosen th [...] better part, which cannot be taken from her's And, O that you were prevailed with willingly and thankfully to bear the indignation of th [...] Lord, and to walk humbly with him, who kil­leth and maketh alive; who bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up, Deut. 32.34. I believe, Faith will teach you to kiss a striking Lord, and to acknowledg the Soveraignty of a [...] angry God, in the Death of your only Daught­er, [Page 113]to be above the power of Mortals, who [...]lucks up a Flower in its prime, and is not to be [...]lamed by us for it; Our Lord hathpluckt up [...]ne of his Roses, let us pray that his blessed Will may be done; our Lord hath numbred man's months, and set him his bounds, which [...]e cannot pass, Job 14.5. I verily believe, your Lord hath taught you to lay your hand upon your Mouth; but I shall be far from desiring [...]ny to make light of such great tryals and losses, [...]ut rather could wish, that every cross were [...]ook't in the face seven times, and were read [...]ver and over again; It is the Messenger of the Lord of Hosts, and speaks something, hath some [...]and, and the man of understanding will learn [...]o hear, and fear the Rod, and him that ap­pointed it. O try what is the taste of the Lord's Cup, and drink; the Lord sanctifie it to you, [...]hat you may grow thereby. I trust in God, [...]hat whatever speech it utter, that that is one word in it for you, in Job 5.17. Behold, blessed & the man whom the Lord correcteth; and that it is safe for you, you are from home while here, you are not of this world, as your Redeemer was not of this world; there is somthing a keep­ing for you, that is worth the looking after: All that is here is condemned to dye, and to pass away as a snow-ball before a Summers Sun: And since Death took possession of somthing of yours, it hath been and dayly is creeping neare [Page 114]your self; Howbeit with no noise of feet, your Husbandman and Lord hath lopped off one branch already, the tree it self is to be removed into the higher Garden; the Lord fit you for your change, and help you to bear these crosses (for indeed they are great and many) and give you a sanctified use of them, and to make you white and ripe for the Lord's Harvest-hook by them.

I have seen the Lord weaning you from this world and its vanities, it was never his mind that it should be your portion; and let the Lord be praised, that it is so: you look the liker one of the Heirs of Glory; let the moveables go why not? They are not yours, but fasthold on the Heritage, Even our Lord Christ; make your interest sure, and give you to grow as a Palm tree upon Mount Zion, howbeit shaken with winds and many sore blasts, yet the root is fast. I pray Him, whose you are, to supply your wants another way; for though we cannot see the Lords design, in this his wise Providence, who ruleth all, yet I verily believe this is not only good, but best of all: For wise Solomon saith, Better is the end of a thing, than the be­giuning: Yea, Christ calls from Heaven, and bids, Write, Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord, they rest from their labours, and their works follow them. And after Paul had seriously debated the Case, whether to live or dye was [Page 115]better for him; he concludes, that of the two, To die, and to be with Christ, was best of all. And therefore, my dear Brother, this should teach us, and work in us a careful Preparation for Death, and vehement longings after it, and chearfulness in entertaining it, and mode­ration in our sorrowing for her that's dead; Mourning only for our own loss, and that espe­cially, because the Death and removal of the Godly is a sad, if not a sure. presage of ensuing Evil. When Noah was entered into the Ark, then the Flood came, Gen. 7.12. When Lot was gone out of Sodome, then it must be burnt. When the Lord resolved to destroy Jeroboam; house, he took away the Child in whom there was some good thing found 1 Kin. 14.10, 11, 13. Thus when the Lord in ended to bring evil up­on Jerusalem, good Josiah must first be brought to his grave in peace, Because his heart was ten­der, and he humbled himelf at the hearing of the Law of God, 2 Kin. 22.16, 17, 18, 19, 20.

Wo is me therefore, considering that even amongst us the righteous are taken away; that in four or five Months time, almost the tenth man on this side Hartside should be removed; yet not considering, at least not as they ought to do, That The righteous are taken away from the evil to come, Isa. 57.

When our Jacob for wrestling, our Caleb and Joshuah for following the Lord, and our [Page 116] Nathaniel, and besides our Mary is removed, How should this awaken us, and the very thoughts of it make us tremble, and our knees to smite one against another? Its true they are beyond the Storm; But the presence of the Godly, in all Ages, hath drawn the love and favour of God to the places where they were: For they are dear to God, As the apple of his eye, Zech. 2.8. And he will be a wall of ire round about the place where they are, v. 5. Yea many a time doth God spare the wicked for the godly, as the husbandman doth the tares for the wheat's sake, Matth. 13. As God would have spared Sodome and Gomorrah, if there had been but ten, nay five righteous persons, Gen. 18.32. Act. 27.24. Besides, the Prayers of the God­ly, in all Ages, have been mighty prevalent with God, both for the obtaining Mercies, and also for the preventing miseries, and keeping of judgments from the places where they live [...] Psal. 106.23. He would, saith the Psalmist, have destroyed them, had not Moses his Servant stoe [...] before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath lest he should destroy them. Besides, they are [...] great force for the vanquishing and overcoming of Enemies; Moses prevailed more by h [...] Prayers, than Joshua with all his Soldiers, againt the Amalekites, Exod. 17.11. One godly man Prayers, saith one, can do more than a great so [...] of Sinners [...] do with fighting. So that as N [...] ­hal's [Page 117]servants said of David's men, so we may [...]y of our dear friends that are removed from us, they have been very good to us, and we have had no hurt whilst we have been conversant with them, They have been a wall unto us, both by day and by night. What cause have we then to fear that may follow the removal of them; And then alas! What have we lost, that have lost [...]uch good Examples, as most of them were, and [...] particular your Daughter, she, one of a thou­ [...]d: Her counsel, her wisdome, her blameless talking was of great use to restrain some from [...]in, and to allure and draw others (at least) to be outward performance of many good Duties; [...]d I think I may say, that she exceeded most [...]at ever I knew (except Mrs. Catherine Rea of [...]ma) in her constant care to please God, and [...]qual respect to the keeping of all Gods Com­mandments; and in her holy diligence to im­ [...]ove all opportunities for her Souls profit, as [...] Meditating, Praying, Reading, Hearing, and Conferring; And then her Seriousness in Duties, and great delight in both First and Se­cond Table Duties. What shall I say! Her [...]avity, Chastity, and Humility, and her or­ [...]ering her self every way so holily, so meekly, [...]d blamelesly; So, that to my knowledg, it was a great Conviction to those that were in a great measure strangers to Godliness or any [...]trictness: and I'le assure you, I often wished, [Page 118]that her Conversation had been better known to some, and that it might have so been, I did fully purpose to have sued for your Consent (ha­ving gotten hers) that we might have had he [...] a while amongst us; That our Professors, chiefl [...] of her Sex, whose Carriages and Conversation were not so answerable to the Gospel as they should be, might have been convinced of th [...] evil of them, and by her Gospel-conversation might have become more wise, solid, sober, se­rious, grave, and more careful to provide so their eternal Welfare: But alas, it's now to late, the time is past and gone, which ma [...] make us mourn upon our own account: But u [...] on their account, this may not only reason [...] into a Moderation of Sorrow, but also cause [...] to rejoice, in that they are landed safe in Hea [...] ­ven, where she also is even with Christ, which is best of all; she is now set at liberty and fre [...] dome. Who is not comforted to see and know that his Friend is brought out of Prison, to [...] his Friend set free from all Persecutions, Si [...] Sorrow and Death, and to live and rejoice wi [...] Christ? 2 Tim. 2.11, 12. And may you [...] be glad, that she is now in a full, peaceable, y [...] glo [...]ous condition and state in Heaven? Y [...] have great cause of rejoycing, sith her joy [...] begun, which shall never end: Now the Lo [...] hath betrothed her to himself in Righteousne [...] and that for ever, Hos. 2.19. I cannot reme [...] ­ber [Page 119]that you were ever absolutely against her Marriage, no, nor that you were against it at all, provided that she got a good Husband: She hath now gotten a good Match indeed, the Marriage betwixt Christ and her Soul is com­pleated and consummated, 2 Cor. 11.2. Rev. 19.7, 8. Let us be glad and rejoice in him, sith she is now married to Christ; and will you not re­joice, at least a little, with your Daughter on [...]her Wedding-day? She hath sown in Tears, and now is reaping in Joy, Psal. 126.6. And let this also a little prevail with you, God gave you your Daughter but during pleasure, He might have taken her away the very first day he gave her, and have done you no wrong. We are Tenants at Will: God may, when his pleasure is, put us out of Possession, and therefore we should learn with Job to submit our selves, and bless his Name when he giveth or when he taketh away: You shall shortly go to her, she shall not return to you; It's but a little while and you shall for ever have her company: Wherefore comfort your self with these words, 1 Thes. 4.13, 14-17, 18.

This is all that I can further do, to recom­mend your Case to your Lord, who hath en­graven you upon the Palms of his Hands: If I were able to do more, you may believe me that I gladly would.

Now the God of all Grace confirm and sta­blish your heart in Truth and Peace, till the glorious Liberty of the Sons of God be obtained, and I pray that God may be to your Soul the God of all Consolation.

I pray remember my Love to your Wife, and to all our Christian Friends with you. My Wife hath her Love remembred to you, and begs your Prayers.

Blacklough, Aug. 27. 1672.
Your unworthy Brother, J. H.

The Copies of two Letters written to Mr. Rich. Wilson, that tender and sorrowful Father, which lately buried his dear and hopeful Daughter.

Dear Friend,

I Was informed of the sad tidings of the Death of your Daughter; and yesterday yours of [...]ugust 10. came to my hand, and the Relation [...] the manner of her Death did somewhat allay [...]e sorrow; and since the Lord hath dealt boun­ [...]fully with her, in giving her Grace and Glo­ [...]y, you may sing. I confess, if you respect your [...]ss, it is so great, that you may mourn, and [...]efuse to be comforted, because she is not. But [...]nsider, she was a Loan lent of the Lord. All [...] Comforts are but lent Comforts; and we are not to repine when God calls for them again, but [...]tiently to submit to Gods holy Will. Seing it [...] the Lord who hath done it, who hath abso­ [...]ute Soveraignty over all his Creatures. We [...]st be dumb and say nothing, and, as Aaron, [...]ld our peace. She is taken away in the flow­ [...] of her Age, but God knew it the best time to [...]op her, and haply she is taken away from [...]e Evil to come; She is entered into peace. [...]ou may account your self more happy that [Page 122]once you did enjoy her, than now miserable that she is so suddenly removed; for she is not lost, but gone before us: We shall go to her she will not return to us. The Lord hath deli­vered her from Sin and Sorrow, and you fro [...] Fear and Care concerning her.

How happy would you have esteemed you [...] self, if she had been match'd to one, who ha [...] all desired Accommodations, and to a Person who had been endowed with all possible A [...] complishments, both Sacred and Civil, you [...] eyes seeing it. Thus it hath been done to be [...] whom the King of Heaven had a delight to [...] ­nour. He hath betrothed her to Himself for eve [...] and this day of her Espousals may be the Day [...] the gladness of your Heart: For this hath in the bowels of it many glorrous Mercies. God hath done it, and that is enough to satisfie any Sou [...] and he hath done it for ever. His heart is so [...] it; that there shall never be any breach of [...] Conjugal Love and Communion. — Y [...] have heard of the Patience of Job, and ha [...] seen the end of the Lord, that the Lord is ve [...] pittiful, and of tender mercy, and happily [...] end of the Lord in this is, for to draw you heart Heaven-ward; Where not only you [...] Child, but your best and chrefest Love is.

Be now more frequent in Heavenly Visi [...] and have your Conversation in Heaven; a [...] where your Treasure is, there let your Heart [Page 123]also. Mourn not that you go Childless, but rejoice that you do not go Christless. Neither [...]y I am bereft of the comfort of my life, when [...]e God of all comforts is yours. David at [...]glag comforted himself in the Lord his God. [...]o and do likewise, for God is All-sufficient to apply all our wants; and the Earth is never so [...]id of Comfort, but there is Comfort enough [...]the God of Heaven, in whom Wives, Children, [...]nd every good thing are lodged.

You could not be assured (though you say [...]our Daughter never grieved you in all her [...]me) that you should alway have comfort in [...]er; But in the Lord Jehovah there is constant [...]msort, and constant joy, Psal. 37.4. You [...]now the Comforts of the world are but cisterns, and may fail: Therefore wipe away all Tears, and go to the Fountain God, whose Favour is [...]ter than Life, and better than all in this life; [...]n whose Light, we shall see light.

However, sorrow not like them that have no [...]ope: The Egyptians bewailed Jacob Seventy Daies, & Joseph his son mourned but seven Daies. Which teacheth Christians to keep a mean in Mourning; we may sorrow, but it must be with sobriety, and in measure.

When David's Child was dead, he arose from the Earth — and went into the House of the Lord and worshipped. And Job, when his Chil­dren were dead, he blessed the Name of the [Page 124]Lord. And indeed, the People of God turn all their Afflictions and Crosses, into Prayers and Praises: Grace makes every condition work Glory to God; as God makes every condition work together for good to them that love him. And if we bless God in our Afflictions, then our Afflictions are Blessings to us.

Unto the Righteous (saith David) there arise Light in Darkness: Comfort in Troubles, and Deliverances out of all Distresses, are the fruit of Gods Grace; therefore wait on God in the way of his Judgments, and you shall y [...] find that he is good, and can do you good [...] Though others dye, yet God lives, and eve [...] lives to do good. When therefore you look o [...] the right hand, and see your Dearly-Belove [...] gone, then cry to the Lord, and say, Thou [...] my Refuge and my Portion in the land of the [...] ­ving. And ever remember that of the Apost [...] Christ is all, and in all.

Aug. 23. 1672.
I am Sir, Yours.

The other Letter is as followeth.

Dear Friend,

I Am very sensible of your great Loss, yet did [...] hope, that you had been comforted over our Dead; But by your last, I find that the [...]ound bleeds afresh. I shall desire the Father [...] Mercies, and the God of all Consolations, to Apport your Spirit, to make you to hear of Joy and Gladness, and restore comfort to you and [...] your Mourners.

But Sir, Though Affection commands, yet [...]e Word of Faith forbids excessive Mourning. [...]e pray that God's Will may be done, and we [...]ght to be quiet and to praise God when it is [...]ne, knowing that God doth every thing in [...]fection of Wisdome: and this present sad [...]pensation, God, only wise, sees best for you; [...]d doubtless it shall work for your good. In [...]our Afflictions Christ is afflicted; and though [...]n feel the burden heavy, yet He bears the [...]aviest end of the Cross, and hath bid you to [...]sider Him, that endured the Cross, lest [...]ou be weary and faint in your mind. Haply [...]ur Heart was too much let out to that your [...]lov [...]d, and God would not have his Childrens [...]ections set on things below himself. Though [...]thers fail and are gone, yet Jesus Christ is the [...], yesterday, to day, and for ever. The Lords [Page 126]hand is not shortned, that it cannot help and com­fort; Though the C stern be empty, yet th [...] Fountain is full. O go and take of that fully heap Jesus Christ, and rejoyce in the God [...] your Salvation, and rise up from your dead lest your over-grieving displease God. World Sorrow causeth death, and therefore turn you into the right channel, and sorrow after a god sort; Knowing, that as Sufferings abound, shall Consolations abound much more, in a [...] through Jesus Christ; and since you have so [...] in Tears, expect a performance of that Promi [...] That you shall reap in joy. God told Abrahas Gen. 15.1. That he was his Shield, and [...] exceeding great Reward; And Abraham said v. 2. Lord God what wilt thou give me, sein go Childless? A good man observes on th [...] place, The weakness of Gods Children, even Dear ones and Chief ones; if things answer [...] their Desires, they are a little impatient, a [...] think less of many Mercies, that both they ha [...] and are promised after to have, because th [...] want some one thing that they would glad have and enjoy. So was Abraham for want o [...] Child; as if he should have said, What is thou promisest, seing this is wanting, I have Issue. This is a great corruption in us, and must beware; for if God were not merciful, was the way to rob us of all, to think light any, for the want of some Blessing. God [Page 127]of stones raise up Children, and out of the Lions dead carkass give honey, and I hope he will san­ctifie and sweeten his rod, that you shall say, It was good that I was afflicted; and find that of very faithfulness He hath caused you to be troubled.

As you feel the Cross of Christ, so see the ranity of the Creature, and the All-sufficiency of thy Creator, God blessed for ever; and hap­py you shall experimentally find, that Christ [...] all in all: and cry out with that Martyr, None [...] Christ, None but Christ. Light is sown for the righteous, and Joy for the upright in heart. A wet Seed-time may have a good Harvest; The Husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the [...]arth, So do you, for the fruit and benefit of this Affliction. It is good that a man should both [...]ope, and quietly wait for the Salvation of the Lord. The Lord waits, that he may be gra­ [...]ous to you; and will be exalted, that he may have Mercy on you; Blessed are all they that wait [...] him, Isai. 30.18.

The Lord fill you with all Joy and Peace in elieving, and with all the Graces and Comforts of his Holy Spirit.

I am Sir, Your very affectionate Friend.
Sept. 14. 1672.

A Letter written to Mr. Rich. Wilson of Crosfield, after the Death of his deart and onely Daughter; upon the re­ceipt of a Letter of Complaint from him for long Absence, after promise of Presence.

My very Dear and Beloved Son in the Faith, through our well-beloved Saviour.
Grace, Mercy, and Peace be to thee from God our Father, and from Christ Jesus our Lord.

THe receipt of yours upon the 20th instand hath occasioned this return. I will rea­dily acknowledge my too long (yet necessitated absence in Body from you; but I can really say and certainly assure you, that I have been pre­sent in Spirit with you, sorrowing for you, and sympathising with you in your present Suffering And though I have not had one opportunity gi­ven for speaking with you at your earthly house yet several opportunities granted for speaking for you at our heavenly Habitation. Silent, it true, I have also been as to speaking by Pe [...] and Paper to you, yet not mute as to Prayer and Intercessions to God for you on your be half, That you may wisely weight, seriousl [...] consider, and spiritually improve the prese [...] [Page 129]perplexing Providence, in so sad a stroke for your Souls profit, that you may partake of more of the Holiness of God, and that you may drink deeper and more refreshing, and Soul-satisfying draughts of Comfort in the Fountain, than you did ever before in the Stream which is now dried up. And whereas you hint that you ap­prehended I had serious purposes of giving you a Visit at such a Season, you hit the nail o'th [...]ead, you mist not the mark, neither were you [...]istaken in your apprehensions, but very right a your Judgment; For what I purposed, and then promised, (which was with a condition) I did really intend to perform at the time ap­pointed, but the Lord by intervening Providen­ [...]s prevented: I may therefore say, as the Apostle Paul in the like case, about his Promise to come to the Church of Corinth, 2 Cor. 1.17. When I was thus minded, did I use lightness, [...] did I mind those things that I minded ac­cording to the flesh, as men do, that rashly promise any thing, and change their purpose at every turning of an hand; that with me should be Yea and Nay, that I should say and unsay, and be diverse and inconstant to my self and words? No, but my words towards you were not yea and nay, and for all possible endeavours to answer your expectations at the time prefixed, they were not wanting; but other more publick and weighty employments called louder for my [Page 130]then attendance on them, and private concerns must give place to publick, and particular to general. I doubt not but your desires of my personal presence have been very ardent and earnest, and my endeavours, assure your self, to satisfie and fulfil your desires, have been every way suitably answerable and correspondent thereunto; yet the Lord hitherto by his Provi­dence hath hindered our meeting and commu­nien: what his mind and design herein is (whe­ther because of your too much depending upon instruments at present, or of your too much shghting them in time by past) 'tis possible you do not now perceive, but I hope you shall after­wards, to the bringing forth of the peaceable fruits of righteousness, as Christ and one of his Apostles speak in another case, John 13.7 Hebr. 21.11.

And its no wonder that you so earnestly desir some assistance and succour for your support, sith the present Providential Dispensation toward you is sad, and you in much sorrow and heav [...] ­ness because of it, and in a sad condition under it, though good old Mr. Dod saith, That n [...] man is in a sad condition, but he that hath a hard heart, and cannot pray: But I will sup­pose that your condition is sad enough, all thing considered, and that you are very sad and so [...] rowful in and under [...], and it may arise from one or all of these three following things:

First, The Remembrance of the no small commodity and comfort, both bodily and spiri­tual that your enjoyed by her sweet company, and comfortable and profitable communion with her.

Secondly, Your irrecoverable loss of her, as to her bodily presence in this world, and conse­quently your deprivation of partaking of the like profit and comfort from her for the future.

Thirdly, Your former and present Sins, which possibly you may apprehend to have had an hand in this sad and sudden stroke that is now fallen upon you; But that neither of these asun­der, nor all conjoyned, are ground sufficient for such Sadness and Sorrow, that you seem to be affected and afflicted with and to labour under; I shall now come to demonstrate.

First, As to the former Profit and Comfort you did partake of, through her presence.

1. Consider that you are more bound to bless God for what you have already enjoyed this way, and in this regard, than to be burthened with, or troubled for the present sensible want of it; As God sets the day of Prosperity over against the day of Adversity, as Solomon speaks Eccless. 7.14. So should you set the former prosperous days you had with her, over against the present adverse days you have now in the want of her, and then you will soon see, that there is no comparison betwixt the one and the [Page 132]other, and that you have no such cause to be so afflicted with the present want of it, as to hinder you from, or in blessing God for the former en­joyment: And if Epicures could satisfie and comfort themselves in their greatest dejections, Ex praeteritarum voluptatum recordatione, through the thoughts of former pleasures that had affected their Sense. How much more may you comfort your self in the remembrance o [...] the pleasure, profit and comfort that you had by the almost twenty years enjoyment of her, and through the thoughts of it, be raised up to bles [...] God for it, as Joseph did for the last Seventeen years enjoyment of his dear father; And as Joh did, when his Children were taken away by death, whom the Lord had given him to en­joy so long; and as Saint Jerome did, Lord saith he, thou hast taken away my father, whom thou gavest; I am not sad because thou hast re­ceived him, but I give thanks to thee, because thou gavest him: you have cause and ground enough to go and do the like.

2. Consider that by drawing near to God acting faith upon him; by living by Faith, you may enjoy all that profit, comfort and counsel in a larger and fuller manner and measure that you ever did in and by her presence: She was but the instrument by which, but God the prin­cipal Agent, who can comfort without her, as well as with her, the comforts you had we not from her, but from God by her, 2 Cor. 7. [...] [Page 133] Comforted us by Titus; he was a good man, and [...]rought good tydings, yet he doth not say that Titus did comfort them, but God comforted them [...]y his coming: 'Tis not your Friend or Relation that comforts you, but God by them. She was but [...]he stream, He the Fountain; she was but a [...]reature, He the Creator; she was but the vessel through which it was poured, He the Ocean of [...]ll good and comfort, 2 Cor. 1.3, 4. And in­ [...]eed, God often deprives us of precious means [...]nd instruments of good and comfort, that we [...]ight come to Him, and enjoy it all in Him; That we might see, that it was neither in, nor [...]ame from the creature; but that it was in, and [...]ame from himself alone, where you may find [...] for seeking: And go with your bucket of [...]aith to this Fountain, to sill your Soul full of [...]ll Comforts. And surely it is your happiness, as well as of all the People of God, that all com­ [...]rt is in his hand, and at his disposing, con­ [...]dering his nature that makes him willing and [...]ady to relieve and comfort you, his Relation [...] you, he is your Father; And will a Father [...]t his Child lye comfortless, when he can help [...]im? His Omniscience knows where your shoe brings, He knows what comfort you want, He [...]es your afflictions, I have seen, I have seen [...]e Afflictions of my People Israel, Exod. 3.7. [...]e knows what you need, Mat. 6.32. His [...]mnipresence, you are ever within his reach, [Page 134]He can lay his hand upon every joint where you are pained, and put a Plaister on every wound; His Omnipotence, He is able to comfort, there is nothing too hard for him to do; He can com­mand, yea create Comforts: Commit therefore the keeping of your all to him, as unto a faith­ful Creator, 1 Pet. 4.19.

Secondly, As to your great and irrecoverable loss of her, I will not say as you, unparallel'd loss; for it doth not at all run parallel with somes loss, witness Job's and Elie's; but I will suppose the loss very great, as indeed it is:

Yet First, Consider together with your loss her gain, oppose her present gain to your pre­sent loss, you have lost a good Daughter, she hath got a better Father and Mother; she i [...] gone to God her Father, and to Jerusalem above which is her Mother: which is a greater gain t [...] her, than your loss is a loss to you; You have lost a Daughter that was mortal, and was bo [...] to die, she hath got a Father that is Immorta [...] that shall never die: You have lost her bodily presence, she enjoyes the presence of God, Christ his Spirit, Angels, and the Spirits of just one made perfect: Your loss is but temporal, h [...] gain is eternal: Your loss is but earthly, h [...] gain is heavenly: Your loss is but a bodily loss her gain is Spiritual: Yours was but the loss [...] her Graces, as to the actings of them among you, her gain is Glory: She is gone from th [...] [Page 135]Valley of Achor, of Bacah, and Bochim, from Trouble, Tears and Mourning; to the Valley of Berachah, to the Valley of Blessing and Praise, to fulness of joy, and pleasures for evermore; where all tears shall be wip'd away from her eyes, where is no more Death, or Sorrow, or crying, or pain, she is freed from the body of Sin and Death, which is our burthen, and which we groan under Rom. 7.24. She shall sin no more, nor sorrow no more, nor die no more; though she be dissolved, yet she is with Christ, which is best of all; she is perfectly holy, and perfectly happy, where she shall rest from her labours, and her works shall follow her, R [...] ­vel. 14.13.

There are three things that make Men and Women count themselves happy here below; To have a good estate, to have it in a good place, and to have it by good Neighbours, now all these three she, and every one that dies in the Lord, do eminently enjoy: First, Their Hea­venly inheritance is exceeding great, 2 Cor. 4.17. Eye hath not seen, nor Ear heard the like, 1 Cor. 2.4. 1 Pet. 1.4. Secondly, 'Tis in a good place, Heaven, 2 Cor. 5.1, which is an House and City made for them, and builded by God, and therefore must needs be good, Heb. 11.10. Thirdly, 'Tis by good Neighbours, God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, Angels, and Just Men made perfect; Adam had a good inheritance, [Page 136]and in a good place, but he had an evil Neigh­bour of the Devil that troubled him, and marr'd all; but there are no ill Neighbours in Heaven, whether she is gone, and therefore perfectly happy: You must not understand this, as if I asserted that I had an absolute certainty and assurance of her happy state, for its God's Pre­rogative alone to know certainly who are his, 2 Tim. 2.19. and therefore Grace is called the hidden man of the heart: we cannot certainly know the good state of another. 1. Because there is not any thing in Religion which can be exprest to another, which may not flow from an Hypo­critical, as well as a sound and sincere Heart. 2dly. Peter was deceived in Simon Magus, and calls Sylvanus a faithful Brother, as he supposes, 1 Pet. 5.12. Yet first, the Scriptures speak of such marks of Grace, whereby we may know that others belong to Christ, John 13.35. where­by Christians are made manifest to others, 1 Co­rin. 11.19. and declared to be the Epistle of Christ, 2 Cor. 3.2, 3. Secondly, There is such a sympathy and conformable working of God's Spirit in the Saints and their hearts answer each [...] other, as Face answers Face in a glass, that they are but as one Soul, Acts 4.31. yet this a­mounts not to an absolute, but to a charitative, at most but to a moral certainty, so far as its possible for a man to perceive the gracious estate of another: such a certainty, yea as great a cer­tainty [Page 137]as is attainable by the forementioned ways from whence it comes (touching her happy state) [...]hath been no stranger to me, nor to your self [...]either; and therefore sith your loss is not com­parable to her gain, sorrow not immoderatly, look through your loss, and see her gain be­yond it; and sorrow not as if you were with­out hope: For if you should, this, first, would [...]ewray your ignorance of the blessed estate of God's Children after this life. Secondly, Such Sorrow is rather for hopeless Heathens than for Christians, for Egyptians than for Israelites or [...]osephs, Gen. 50.3-7. or for Davids, when [...]hey fear that their Absoloms are dead in an un­ [...]generate estate. Thirdly, Her Death is no [...]bolishing of Nature, but a Sleep for a time, and Resurrection and an awaking time to eternal Life, to be satisfied with Gods likeness is certain; wherefore comfort your self with these things, [...]ll these you have in 1 Thos. 4.13, 14, &c. Psal. 17. last.

Secondly, Though your Loss be great, yet his may lessen it, and give some allay to it, that it [...] but a loss of her bodily presence for a time: you have not lost your Friend, but sent her a little before you; praemittimus non amittimus, saith one) he is still your Daughter; Abraham's wife is [...]alled his wife, though dead, eight several times [...]n the 23. Gen. to note, saith Mr Calvin, that [...]he divorce of death is such, that there remains [Page 138]nevertheless some conjunction, and there i [...] other thing than the restoring to time, t [...] maintains and preserves the law of mutual c [...] junction and neerness; to note out, saith Par­us on the place, that death makes not any s [...] divorce betwixt godly Couples and Friends, [...] that there remains still a blessed conjunction [...] twixt them, which is founded in the hope of happy Resurrection; now is it not better have a Daughter in Heaven, than upon Earth.

Thirdly, How can you say that your Lo [...] great? When you have lost nothing that [...] your own, she was God's first and last, b [...] by Creation, Redemption, Adoption, &c. [...] was never yours, only you had the loan of [...] God lent you her so many years as she li [...] and now He hath call'd for her, and taken his own home again: And will you be troub [...] and grieve, and sorrow, because he hath sen [...] and taken his own home again? If a man you any thing for a while, will you grieve [...] ­vex, and take on when he sends for it, or [...] it home again; or will you be troubled that was made fitter for God, when he call'd fo [...] by Death, than when you received her [...] God at her first breath: She received o [...] natural being at her birth, but after a spir [...] being in the new Birth (God making you i [...] mental herein) that she might be meet for lowship with her Father in Heaven, and [Page 139]partaker of the inheritance of the Saints in [...]ht, Colos. 1.12. And are you troubled that [...]d call'd for his own, when fitted for him; [...]s she so good that she was too good for God, [...]d will you aggravate and greaten your sorrow [...]on this account? O wonderful! For a David [...] mourn immoderatly for his Absalom, who [...]bably feared that he was gone to a place of [...]ment, was no wonder at all; But for you [...] sorrow inordinately for her that is gone to [...]aven, a place of Pleasure and endless Joy, is [...]y strange; and gone to her Father, whose [...]ughter she was and is, & none of yours: For [...]re is no earthly Comfort we enjoy that is our [...]n, only lent us, and we are Stewards, be­ [...]sted with it for a while, at length God calls [...] it again when he pleaseth; only Grace when [...]en us is our own, because its never taken from [...] this Seed remains in us, till it be perfected Glory, Luke 16.12. 1 John 3.4.

Fourthly, Consider that though she be dead, [...]o you, yet living even in her body as to God, [...] before him, Luke 20.38. For though death [...]aks the union betwixt the Soul and Body, [...] it breaks not the bond of the Covenant be­ [...]een God and her; the Covenant is alive, [...]ugh she be dead, Matt. 22.31, 32. The [...]tion of God to Abraham was as strong when was dead, as when he was alive; God is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all [Page 140]the Saints are alive to him, though dead as to us, yet they are alive to him; as their Souls are alive, so their bodies are as living bodies, and though rotting in their Graves, yet he own [...] them as much as if they were flour [...]shing in Stately Palaces; neither can Death break the union between her and Christ, this outlive Death: Though Death triumph over the natural union of Soul and Body, it can never break th [...] mystical union betwixt Christ and a Saint: th [...] union betwixt Christ and her Body remains in [...] ­violable, by vertue of which union it shall b [...] ­raised up again, and united to her Soul, and then she shall be ever with the Lord.

Fifthly, Consider that if God should have continued her with you for a long season in that pain and languishing condition, which he could and might justly; Whether you would not have had greater cause to sorrow and to be trouble with her presence in such pain, than now you have for her absence in her freedome from it These things seriously considered, and laid [...] heart, I should think might keep you from to much sorrow and trouble for your loss.

3. As to Third, viz. Your Sins, which y [...] may possibly judg to have had an hand in this pr [...] ­sent sad stroke: to this I would say as follows.

First, If this Afflictive Providence be for your gain and advantage that survive and remai [...] alive, and for hers that is deceased; then yo [...] [Page 141]have no great cause to be troubled any further, [...]an as it may make the present Dispensation an advantage to you: Now that it will be for her bod and great advantage, you have no cause in [...]e least to scruple, or at all to suspect or questi­on: her Soul is in Paradise, in Abraham's bo­ [...]me; and for her Body, God hath rock't it [...]leep, and laid it in a bed, where it shall rest and sleep till it awake to eternal Life, Isa. 57.2. and it will also be for your advantage, for hereby you will be brought to search out, and [...] see those sins which lay latent, and you saw [...] before, and to be sensible of them, so as to have recourse to Christ for Remission, and will not this be your gain? Besides it will be as a [...]ean to help you to avoid running upon the [...]e rocks for the future, so that hereby sins past [...]ill be pardoned, and for the future, falling [...]to them prevented, which will be exceeding [...]od for you, and great advantage to you.

Secondly, Consider that God threatned to lay very heavy stroke upon Eli and his Posterity or ever, and actually executed the threatning, and that for his Sin, 1 Sam. 3.13. and yet see [...]ow patiently he takes it, and quietly submits [...] his Will, It's the Lord, saith he, let him do that seems him good, 1 Sam. 3.18. Do you la­ [...]our to be of the same frame, quiet your self un­ [...]er the present sad Dispensation, and freely [...]bmit to his Will; and that you may be moved [...]ereunto, let these things following be as induce­ments; [Page 142] First, Death is appointed for all; It's ap­pointed once for all to die, Heb. 9.27. We were all born to die, it's inevitable, none can avoi [...] it, none escapes it, and therfore folly for a man to grieve for it, or at it.

Secondly, The time when every one shall di [...] is appointed; All the days of my appointed tim will I wait saith Job, ch. 14.14, The bounds are se [...] over which none can pass, v. 5. And is there n [...] an appoin [...]ed time to man upon earth? Job 7.1.

Thirdly, The Saints have quieted themselve under sad Providences, and quietly submitted because 'twas the Lord that was the Author and Orderer of them; Thus Aaron, when his sor [...] were devoured by fire from Heaven, held h [...] peace, Levit. 10.3. Eli, 1 Sam. 3.18. H [...] zekiah, 2 Kin. 20.19. when his Sons were take away, laies, Good is the word of the Lord. Thu [...] David, 2 Sam. 15.25, 26. and in Psal. 39.9. was dumb, because thou didst it. And Christ him self, Mat. 26.39. Not my will, but thy Will [...] ­done; So should you endeavour to say and do [...] sith God hath not only appointed Death, and the time thereof, but laies on the stroke himself whatever be the meritorious cause, or means by which is is done.

Fourthly, It's your Duty to quiet your sel [...] and freely to submit to his Will. For First;

1. The Will of God is a Soveraign Will; H [...] hath absolute and unaccountable Dominion over [Page 143]his creatures, as the Potter hath power over his [...]lay. I may say here, as the Apostle in another case, Who art thou that repliest against God, Ro­man. 9 20, 21. It's an uncreature-like temper to maintain reluctancy against the will of God.

2. His Will is a most righteous Will; the Lord never wills, or doth any thing wherein he swerves from the rule of Righteousness or wrongs the creature in the least, Job 34.23. Jer. 12.1. Righteous art thou, O Lord. Non-subjection therefore to the Will of God must needs be an [...]nrighteous thing.

3. Gods Will is an Holy Will; He wills no­thing but in greatest Holiness, neither doth He do any thing, wherein he swerves from the rule of Holiness, He is holy in all his works, Psal. 145.17. Habbak. 1.13, 14.

4. It's a Will in conjunction with greatest Wisdome, proceeding in all things according to wisest Counsels, doing all things in truest order, manner, season, and beauty, In wisdome he made all things, Prov. 3.19, 20. He orders all things according to the counsel of his will, Ephes. 1.11. and makes every thing beautiful in its time, Eccles. 3.11. And though we, do not know now, yet we shall afterwards, the beauty of all his Providences; therefore 'tis perverse folly to repine at his Will.

5. To the Saints it is a gracious Will, what­ever the outside of any Providence may be, Mercy [Page 144]is the inside to them; Mercy is the Soul, what ever the Body of it may be, All his waies [...] mercy to his, Psal. 25.10. All Providences wo [...] together for good to those that love him, Rom. 8.2 [...] Even those afflictive Dispensations towards his Children that proceed from Gods, Fatherly di [...] pleasure, and from Sin as the procuring cause the rise and principle is Love, and the desig [...] and end their good. Due chastisement given t [...] a Child by his Father, is an argument that [...] loves him; a Father loves his Child when he cor­rects him, yea when the correction proceed from fatherly displeasure; for a Father neve [...] corrects his Child hut when he is displeased with him: As a man, so God may be much displease with, and much love the same person at the same time.

And as it is your Duty to quiet your heart and freely to submit to his Will, so also its you [...] Duty to bless God, though the providential D [...] ­spensation be sad; There are many cogent Argu [...] ­ments to move you to it.

1. You came naked into the world, without a Daughter or any thing else, and naked you shall return again; this was one Argument that moved Job to bless God, Job 1.21, 22.

2. Its the Lord that hath taken away, there­fore bless the Lord, as Job did, Job 1.21.

3. God's Will is done and fulfilled, and you [...] Prayers are answered: You prayed that h [...] [Page 145]Will might be done, now 'tis done, bless God.

4. There is the Love of God, from whence [...] ariseth; for all Saints afflictions are from [...]ve; and there is the good God intendeth in it, [...]d promiseth to work by it, which you are [...]und to bless God for.

5. Nay, Fifthly, You are bound to bless God [...] the grief and bitterness of the Potion in the [...]up also, as it is a necessary and effectual fur­ [...]erance of that Spiritual good, which God in is fatherly Correction aims at; So we thank [...]e Physician, and pay him too, not because his by sick is bitter, but because Health is sweet.

6. You have cause also to bless God for giving our Daughter so long a Visitation to prepare [...]r Death; He might have taken her away sud­ [...]nly, as he did Job's children when feasting: likewise that she was of so sweet a temper and [...]ame, and of so composed a spirit in her afflicti­on, that the Lord gave her patience and com­ [...]rt, that she was kept from dishonoring God in [...] Death-Bed Distemper, and that you have so [...]od hope and great satisfaction of her eternal [...]ppy state: Oh therefore bless God, give him [...]anks, you are bound so to do in every thing, Thes. 5.18. I shall adde some Directions [...]d Cautions, and I have done.

First, Take heed of immoderate Mourning [...]nd Sorrow, let it not go beyond its bounds [...]d limits; It's true, we may mourn for the [Page 146]Dead, its not unlawful so to do: Religion d [...] not abolish Affections, but only moderates the [...] Grace doth not destroy Nature, but only recti­fies it, it doth not abolish but rectifie reason deprives not of sense, but teaches right use [...] Senses; proportionally, kills not Affections, but only orders them: And the mortifying of All fections, pressed in Scripture, Galat. 5.24. mu [...] be so understood, that the carnality of the [...] only is stricken at, not the Affections themselves.

The Corruption that hath by the Fall grow upon the Affections, stands chiefly in two thing. Their misapplying to unmeet objects, and the [...] exceeding, or their coming short of their du [...] measure; and this is that that God's Spirit doth in senctisying them, directs them (1.) To the [...] right Objects. (2.) Keeps them to their j [...] proportion and meantime. Mourn we may there­fore for the deceased: Abraham did so for his wife, Jacob and Joseph did so for their Rela­tions, and are commended for it: I [...]'s one [...] the dues of the Dead; to be lamented at the Funerals; the want of it is threatried as Curse and its a practice warranted by in [...] of [...] ture, by Christ himself, by the Saints, and by the best in all Ages. And to be touched with [...] feeling of Sorrow and Gri [...] at the beholding [...] Death, it rather barbarous Senselesness, that Fortitude of mind. It's true also, that we may yea must seriously consider of such Affli [...] [Page 147]Providences, Eccles. 7.14. The contrary [...]hereunto is condemned, Isai. 5.12. and 42. [...]5. Jerem. 5.3. In special we are to take and [...]y to heart Gods hand in dying persons, Ec­ [...]es. 7.2, 3. And to be moved with sorrow [...] houses of Mourning, where the heart by be­ing made sadder is made better; more specially be death of righteous persons is to lye close upon our spirits. God laies it to the charge of men, [...]at they do not consider this, nor lay it to [...]eart, Isai. 57.1. But when you sorrow and [...]ourn for the dead, you must see and be are that there be a good ground or rise, a [...]od end, that it be done in right order and [...]easure. The ground, that you may bewail the [...]mmon curse of Mankind, the defacing of the [...]age of God through Death by Sin, for mourn­ [...]g for the Dead, sprang from this Original, [...]hat they which are alive might exercise them­ [...]ves in meditating on the curse of Mankind: The end, that you may be made more serious, and put upon Meditation and Preparation for [...]eath: And for the Order, that Sin the cause [...] it be sorrowed for first and most: And for be measure, that it exceed not bounds, that it [...]e not immoderate. O take heed that you do not sorrow immoderatly; think not the moni­ [...]n unnecessary, for Affections are violent, specially having shew of lawfulness to set them prward: More frequent are the slips of Saints [Page 148]in things for their matter lawful, than in those that are simply unlawful. Conscience even of good men sets it self loose, having plea of law­fulness for the action, and therefore more caref [...] and cautious you should be, lest in your sorrow you should exceed and be immoderate. No [...] Sorrow in this case is immoderate;

First, When it's too great, as Mr. Calv [...] saies Joseph's was in Gen. 50.10. which ought not, saies he, to be to us instead of a Rule and that great noise and cry cannot be excused which the Inhabitants of the place hearing wo [...] ­dered at: For though the purpose of Joseph w [...] good in Mourning, yet the excess was evil. I true when the persons that dye are publick p [...] ­sons in Church or State, and of very great u [...] as the Chariots and Horsmen thereof, there m [...] be a greater Mourning for them. Thus th [...] made a great Mourning for Josiah, and for S [...] ­phen, Act. 8.2.

Secondly, When it's too long for continuance a Seventy-daies Mourning is Egyptian. like; [...] ­seph, who had more cause, but withal m [...] Grace, mourned but seven days; not that [...] was less kind, but more Christian-like prude [...] Abraham mourns for Sarah, even to weeping but lest he should forget his measures; saith o [...] desires to bu [...]y her out of his sight; he mour [...] for her, but exceeded not, which is signified, the Jews, by that one Letter less than ording [Page 149] [...] the Hebrew word Libcothah, used for weep­ing; Gen. 23.2. Buxtorf also gives this reason, [...]ia luctus ejus fuit moderatus, because his sor­row was moderate; and therefore in the next [...]it's said, that he stood up from before his dead there in likelihood he had sat a while on the [...]th, as was the manner of Mourners to do, [...] 2.13.) to take order for her Burial; as ha­ [...]ing good hopes of a glorious Resurrection. [...]hen it's too long for continuance, I say its im­moderate, when our Souls, as Rachel's did, re­ [...]e comfort.

Thirdly, Then is your Sorrow immoderate, [...]en it doth unfit us for any Duty we owe [...]her to God, or man, or our selves; and there­ [...]re take heed of immoderate sorrow, and that [...] may be kept from it: consider (1.) That [...]sons sorrowing out of measure, are carried [...]ainst God with a blind outrage, saith Mr. Cal­ [...], for alwaies the excess of sorrow carries us adlong to obstinacy. (2.) Immoderate Sor­row, saith another, for losses past hopes of re­very, is more fullen than useful; our Stomach [...]ay be bewrayed by it, not our Wisdome. [...].) Immoderate Sorrow is the ready way to [...]ocure an heavie stroke, as it sared with Israel [...]r their murmuring after the death of Corah, &c. [...]ere died for that repining Fourteen Thousand and Seven Hundred, Numb. 16.41, 45, 49. [...].) It's the way to destroy your self, and to [Page 150]prove a Self-murtherer: The Sorrow of the World (when men sorrow immoderately for th [...] Ioss of some temporal good thing) worketh death 2 Cor. 7.10. (5.) If you sorrow-inordinatly you will adde Sin to Affliction, as Jonah di [...] when his Gourd came up and flourished for [...] time, and withered away again, he vext an [...] was angry, and thought he did well in it; S [...] your gourd sprang up and flourished both nat [...] ­rally and spiritually for many years, and no [...] God hath withered her, and you sorrow an [...] mourn, and that I fear immoderatly, and [...] may be, you think you do well in it: O bewa [...] of this for its an adding Sin to Affliction. No [...] if your Sorrow hath been immoderate, and yo [...] cannot yet contain, or well help it, and yo [...] would prevent it for the future; First, Avo [...] all those things that may any wise maintain [...] increase it, or that may heighten your sorrow [...] They had several Customs in former times, [...] going to the Grave, John 11.31. and Minstre [...] ­lize for increase of sorrow, Mat. 9.23. (which Christ intimates dislike of) and to provoke the [...] ­selves to weeping and lamentation; But you should avoid such things, and looking on the cloaths, or works of the Deceased, your Ast [...] ­ctions in this case need not the Spur, but the Bridle rather. Secondly, Turn the stream [...] your Sorrow another way, change the Obje [...] sorrow for Sin and Iniquity, as men when the [Page 151]bleed immoderately at Nose or at a Wound, they use to open a Vein in another place, that they may stop the former; so do you open a vein of Sorrow for Sin. Thirdly, Let Sin be as Death to you, let Sin lie with a greater weight upon you, and then your affliction will be [...]ighter, and sorrow less; for as old Mr. Greenham said to his Son Mr. Dod (when he came to com­plain of his great Affliction, through outward wants) Son, Son, Where Affliction lies heavy, Sin lies light, and so it is on the contrary.

Secondly, Take heed of adding Sin to Afflicti­on, be not worse for the affliction; let not Affliction draw forth corruption; adde not Discontent to Disasters, imp [...]tience, murmu­ring, muttering, and repining to the present Affliction; this would be a charging of God, and a charging of him foolishly, take heed of this: That it may be said of you, as of Job, when he was deprived of his Children, In all this he sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.

Thirdly, Take heed of all harsh thoughts of the Lord and his works, which may any way lessen your love to him, your esteem of him, or trust in him: would you have worse thoughts of the Physician, because Physick is distasterul? Isai. 40.27.

Fourthly, Take heed of tumultuous disputing the waies and works of God, and of questioning the worthiness of his proceedings; The Sai as [Page 152]are apt, through infirmity, to run into this, a [...] Job and the Psalmist, though this be ver [...] sinful and unwarrantable.

5thly. Take heed of letting such a Providence pass, without a due search into the mind of God in it, but labour to find out, and to lay hol [...] on the good that such a Providence is fraugh [...] with, and for which its sent: Labour to fin [...] first, what sin especially it is sent to correct, an [...] consider your heart and ways hereupon. There are but two things that I can think of, that might have an hand in depriving you of such [...] dear and precious Relation.

First, Your over-loving her; that which w [...] love inordinately is usually the mark at which God aimes his arrow: the readiest way to lo [...] any comfort is to over-love it, and I am afrai [...] you fail'd this way. The reason of my fear i [...] because you over-mourn for her loss; That which is over-loved in the enjoyment, will be over-sor­rowed for in the loss of it. It's the Saying of Reverend Divine, that if the Parties were stran­gers, That he knew not, if they did immode­rately sorrow for the loss of any wordly comfort that he might charitably conclude, that the hearts were set upon it, and that they did to much rejoice in it. O seriously consider of [...] and be humbled under it, if it were so, and [...] to Christ for Pardon; and though it were [...] yet be not discouraged, for though it be a gr [...] [Page 153]deal of smart to you, yet it may prove a great deal of ease to you, to be wounded in that which you have over-affected: God in much mercy to [...]ose he loves, takes that from them which they [...]e too much, that so they might love him the [...]ore, to whom all their love and more, if they [...]ad it, is but due, Mat. 22.37.

Secondly, Pitching upon, and too great ex­pectations of Release and Ease only in one par­ticular way, from some incumbrance and bur­then which you were formerly cautioned a­gainst, lest you should be crossed in it.

Thirdly, Labour to find what Graces and what Duties it is sent to quicken hereby, it will [...]come a path of Mercy, Peace, and Comfort [...]o you; and you will be able to say, That it [...]ath been good for you, that you have been affli­cted.

I have been long in writing, and longer in coming to give you a Visit; but I intend now, the Lord willing, to be at Aulston-moore on the 4th of the Ninth Month, where I should be glad to see you; and to accompany you to your habi­tation, to stay some days with you, to impart some Spiritual gift and comfort to you.

In the interim, I beg your Prayers for me, That I may finish my course with Joy, and the Ministration which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testifie the Gospel of the Grace of God. Now the good Will of Him that dwelt in the [Page 154]Bush, be with you and make up your loss, an [...] sweeten your cross, and the God of Peace, that brought again from the Dead our Lord Jesus that great Shepherd of the Sheep, through th [...] Blood of the everlasting Covenant, make you perfect in all good works, to do his Will; work­ing in you that which is well-pleasing in hi [...] sight, through Jesus Christ, Heb. 13.20, 21 to whom be praise for ever and ever, Amen which is the wish and hearty Prayer of him,

From Welden the 25. of the 8th Month, 1672.
Who is, and will ever be ready to be a server of your Faith, and an helper of your joy, J. D.

For his very dear Friend, Mr. Rich. Wilson, a [...] his House at Crosfield, in Kirkouswould, these

My Dear Brother,

YOurs I received about two or three daies ago [...] by the Contents of which I find your Spirit heavily pressed under the weight of that Afflicti­on, which your Father hath been pleased to lay upon you: It [...] I confess an heavy Providence which you have met with; for without doubt i [...] is so as you write, That your life of Comfort and Hope, as to your outward condition here, w [...] [Page 155]wrapt up in the Life of your hopeful Child. But (my Brother,) it is for us to be silent and mute under the most pinching Providences, and that not from a stupid frame, but because we should know that our Father doth all, and He knows what He doth; He is wise in heart, and all things done by Him to any of his, shall work for good, &c. We are Childish Creatures, and when we are out of our Fits of Passionate Affe­ction, we can see as much. It is our Folly and Selfishness, to set more by our own transient Comfort, than our Childrens superlative Exal­tation. I have been sometimes taken with a pas­sage that I have somewhere met with; Namely this, Would a Father grieve to have his Daugh­ter married to a King, or rather taken into a Kings bosome, dearly and entirely loving her? This is the Case as to your precious and only Child, She is now in the arms of the Prince of Glory, in his embraces who hath loved her, and washed her from her Sins in his own Blood. O Dear Brother! Let not your heart say, The Lord hath dealt bitterly with me; How can I be comforted, wherewith will ye comfort me? The Child is not, and whither shall I go?

I would say two things to you, (my Brother) they coming now before me. First, God your Father hath done you no wrong. Secondly, He hath done your Daughter no hurt: Now why should you be then so cast down by means of this [Page 156] Snatching Dispensation? (1.) Your Father, I say, hath done you no wrong. He hath taken but his own. His own, 1. By his own Crea­tion. 2. His own by your Donation. 3. His own by Purchase and Redemption. 4. By her own free Self-resignation. It is somewhat strange, that God cannot take his own, but He must trouble us: Object. 1. But I thought the Lord would have lent me this mercy longer. Resol. But, First, you had not a word for that. Secondly, You had this mercy longer than some of your companions had the like. Further, Thirdly, The Lord made this mercy yield more to you for the time you had it, than others have had in many more years of enjoying the same mercy for kind. O the revenues of Comfort from her, she bore by handfuls, which you your self do acknowledg. Object. 2. But I am an unspeakable loser, O her great usefulness to me every way; I perceive this pincheth you. Res. And 1. What is here but Selfishness. But again, 2. You are not an unspeakable loser; for so long as interest holds above, our losses are all inconsiderable, not to be accounted of. But 3. Suppose you were an unspeakable loser; yet she (I dare say you do believe it) is an unspeak­able gainer. As for her great usefullness every way, I would only say this to that. Her use­fulness to you was from Influence, from above. She was but a Bucket, a Pitcher, and it may be [Page 157]she kept you from the Fountain too much, and this the Lord saw: precious Children may be Idols. Come (my Brother) your Father hath done you no wrong, He hath taken but his own, his own out at nurse with you for a time, during his good pleasure, and you have been well paid with comfort in her, whilst you did enjoy her.

Secondly, And hath your Father hurt your Daughter: Is this to hurt her? 1. To put her to Bed. 2. To put off all her filthy Garments from her. 3. To gratifie her in her own long­ing desire. 4. To enshrine her in Glory? Well, (My Brother) what shall I write to you? Come, consider what you have to take comfort in, in this Providence; Pore not on the black­side of it only (as we are apt to do.) Is this cloud all dark? Methinks here are great light­nings for you, I say for you. (1.) Your Daughter knew the Lord before she died, she lived before she died. (2.) Your Daughter, so I collect from yours, died in the day-time: there was no Cloud, or Night of Darkness with her, when she died. (3.) Your Daughter died, but not suddenly, not by a violent stroke: the Lord took her, she fell asleep. (4.) Further, Your Daughter (as I perceive) left a Persume, a sweet Perfume behind her: Thus, here is Honey for you in this Carcass, O take thereof in your hands, and go on eating, and blessing God. But what stand I upon these matters? Question­less [Page 158]these my Consolations are anticipated by fuller measures from others; And then, besides; what will stick, till God fasten? But however, it is our Duty to visit the afflicted, and thus only at present am I capacitated to visit you in your Affliction. Now (my beloved Brother) what you request of me for you, I hope shall be minded by me; we shall remember you, and beg that you may be supported of the Lord: And be you confident, That your Father will support you, He knoweth his Peoples Souls in Adversities. Now the Lord be with you, and let your poor unworthy Brother be remembred by you, and all the Saints with you: O pray for me, that I may work the works of God, while it is called to day. And blessed be the Lord for this day of Liberty. Let me be re­membred to your Wife; to Brother Nicholson, to the whole Church. The 25th instant the Church here will be together, to set apart our Brother E. (who remembers him to you, con­doling with you) to Office-place. We should be glad to hear of your affairs from time to time, that so accordingly we might have you upon our hearts before the Lord. Brother! I have blotted much Paper you see, in pouring out my self to you, O that something from me might refresh you: The Lord hath sometimes chosen to do much by foolish and weak things. It is much to be a comforter. I will conclude (though [Page 159]somewhat abruptly) with that known and pre­tious Scripture, 1 Thes. 4.13, 14.

Octob. 18. 1762.
From your Fellow-feeling Brother, G. L.

Anagr. MARY VVILSON, Your nam' liv's.

DEar little Soul, now shrin'd above in Glory,
Though thee we may not see, we'le view thy Story:
T'is true, it is but short, yet sweet, and we
Will chear our selves with this that's left of thee.
When as Elijah hence in whirlwind flew,
He cast a mantle, so hast thou done too:
We'le take it up, there's in it some relief,
By it we may in part wade through our grief,
For thy removal: you are gone we know,
But Your nam' liv's, and shall with Saints below.
G. L.

Another, per eundem. MARY VVILSON, In warm Soyl.

WHat! ripe so soon! marvail we not,
Fruit ripes fast in a Garden plot.
In warm Soyl there good trees will bear
Assoon as planted, the first year.
This little, tender, precious tree,
Dropt mellow-fruit, as you may see.
Here's but a little, loads she bore,
But gathering vessel held no more,
What here you find collected by
A sobbing Heart, a weeping Eye;
(A Father mourning for his loss,
To him th'heaviest outward cross)
Take notice of, use to your good,
Such fruit from young ones is choice food.
When old trees fruitless grow, God then
Will raise fruit-bearing Childeren.
You that in warm soyl are, O mind,
What this warm Soul hath left behind.
Good Families and Churches are,
The warmest Soyls i'th world by far.
G. L.
FINIS.

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