Soul Prosperity

Chapter 1

3. We have something desired.

(1.) In general. That he might prosper; indefinitely spoken; that he might prosper in all his concernments, within doors and without. (2.) That he might be in health. He prays that he might have a healthy constitution. A

Chapter 2

2. By the measure, or degree, or pattern, according to which he

desires this prosperity might be proportioned, and that is, according to the degree, and measure of his Soul-prosperity. [That thou mayest prosper, as thy Soul prospereth.] It is not unfit to give you an account, in a wo

Chapter 3

2. We came to speak of a dying, withering, languishing Religion. The

observation was this. A living Christian, yet alive to God (and that's all) may, in respect of his Christianity, be in a dying, withering languishing condition. Because what follows in that Epistle, in Revel. 3. did not

Chapter 4

1. OBS. Concerning the person of this Gaius, who he was. I told you it

could not be absolutely determined; but it seems to be very probable, that it was Gaius of Corinth, of whom the Apostle makes mention, Rom. 16.23. That he was Paul's Hoste, and the Hoste of the Church. i.e. He was one th

Chapter 5

2. Observe our Translation. [I wish] <H&G>. It is in the margent [I

pray] And the word is indifferently rendered. Act. 27.29.— <H&G>. They wished for day. But 2 Cor. 13.7. <H&G>. I pray God, that ye do no evil; and yet verse. 9. <H&G>. I wish your perfection. Paul 's wishes, were his Pra

Chapter 6

2. Gaius was very well with respect to his Spiritual state, but he was

weakly, and sickly; therefore John prays that he might be in health: Hence note, NOTE. A healthy constitution of Body, though a Man may be blessed without it; yet in itself is a very great and desirable blessing: It is a

Chapter 7

1. Let all such as God is pleased to bless with any competency of

health, and strength, keep their hearts under the obligation, that this lays upon them. Deut. 8.16. The Lord gave them Manna, to humble them. We say, Oh, if we were fit for Mercy, God would give it: Thus Folks talk, that

Chapter 8

1. Though health, and strength be a very great blessing, yet it is a

blessing quickly blasted: Job observed it in his days, Job 21.23. One -- 19 of 197 -- dies in his full-strength: God gives him no warning at all. Alas, (saith James ) what is a Man's life? A vapor, a little warm breath

Chapter 9

2. Consider this: Say God should give us warning; and do with us, as

he did with Jezebel, cast us upon a bed of sickness, and give us space to repent; yet times of Bodily sickness, and weakness, are ill times to begin to look after a neglected Soul, and to do neglected Duties. Sicknesses

Chapter 10

1. Take heed of prejudicing your health. They are very much to be

blamed, that will ride wind, and weather, to get money, Matt. 6.25. The Body is more than Raiment: Health and strength are better than riches. Much more do they transgress, that prejudice their health to gratify a sensua

Chapter 11

2. Do what may be done, to preserve health: Therefore the Apostle

saith to Timothy, Drink no longer Water, but use a little Wine, for thy stomachs sake, and thine often infirmities. The poor Woman ( Mark. 9.) spent all she had upon the Physicians. This is worth observation: -- 20 of 1

Chapter 12

1. For the manner. It was heartily. [Above all things.]

Observe, It is the duty of every gracious person, to be hearty, and real in his prayers, desires, and wishes for the prosperity of the people of God, and for the health of those that are sick, and weak. The Apostle speak

Chapter 13

2. Consider the pattern, measure, and degree, according to which

John desires, this outward prosperity might be proportioned; and that is, his Soul-prosperity. Surely this Gaius was a very rare Man: It is hard to find such among all those, that bear the honorable name of Christians. H

Chapter 14

1. What the Soul is, in its natural constitution.

ANS. It is hard to tell you, for it is a thing which no Man ever saw: But this I may say, that it is that, which the Scripture sometimes calls, The Spirit of Man which is in him, 1 Cor. 2.11. Sometimes, and indeed most f

Chapter 15

1. With the faculty of Understanding, capable of knowing Good from

Evil; Truth from Falsehood; of knowing God in Christ, the knowledge of whom is Eternal Life. Job. 32.8. There is a Spirit in Man, and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth him Understanding. Every Soul hath this faculty

Chapter 16

2. Endued it is with the admirable faculty of Conscience, which hath

a power to make a Man stand in awe of God, though he does not see him; yea, and of himself too, when no Body knows where he is, nor what he is doing. For it taketh knowledge, and can, or, at last day, will bear witness w

Chapter 17

3. It is endued with the faculty of the Will, which hath a liberty of

choosing what is good, and refusing what is evil, so that nothing can hurt us without our own consent. Matth. 10.28, Fear not them which kill the Body, but are not able to kill the Soul. Satan cannot make any of his Fier

Chapter 18

2. I now proceed to the second branch; In what case it is, in its

unconverted state, by reason of original Corruption. If I should say no more then this, it were enough: That it is in as bad a case, as sin can make it, having lost the image of God, the favor of God, and all communion w

Chapter 19

1. It is undeniable, that a woeful desolation is made in the

understanding, for it is filled with vile, and unworthy apprehensions, and misapprehensions of God. Psal. 50.21, Thou thoughtest, that I was altogether such a one as thyself. That he looked upon the most notorious sins,

Chapter 20

1. Its Office. It is the Candle of the Lord, by which a Man should be

directed in the way wherein he ought to walk. Indeed, God having given it such a power, and command over Man, that nothing but God is above it: therefore it is, that though a Man may do that sometimes, which is against h

Chapter 21

1. It is defiled with ignorance: Such a thick veil of darkness is grown

over it, as though it observes everything that is done; yet it often most shamefully mistakes Evil for Good, and Good for Evil. I told you, that it should be to a Man's actions, as the Pilot to the Ship, to Guide and Ste

Chapter 22

2. It is defiled with stupidity, and unsensibleness. 1 Tim. 4.2, —

having their Conscience seared with a hot Iron. It is true, the Apostle speaks there, of an habitual hardness, grown upon Men by long continued custom of sinning; till they sin, and know not; till they sin and care not:

Chapter 23

3. But in some respects, the most woeful desolation of all, is made in

the Will. It is true that original corruption frets like a gangrene through the whole Soul, but the poison of it chiefly hath infected the Will. All that the Scripture speaks of the hardness of the heart, and of the stif

Chapter 24

2. If we look after it inwardly, within us, then we shall find, that it

begins in that day, and hour, when by the word and spirit of Christ the whole Man, both Body and Soul, is brought into a state of Fellowship, and Union with Christ. Which is done, and not done any other way (I speak not

Chapter 25

1. God's Eternal love, is God's Eternal purpose, to work in the Soul, in

his appointed time, that good thing, which he knows, will put it into a capacity of prospering, Eph. 1.9, He made known to us the mystery -- 32 of 197 -- of his will, according to his good pleasure, as he had purposed

Chapter 26

30. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also called; and

whom he called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also glorified. When this Call is first obeyed, the Soul begins to prosper, for the Understanding begins then to be savingly enlightened. 2 Pet. 1.9,

Chapter 27

1. In the Understanding, there may be much light in the things of

God. We read Matth. 7.22. that not only one or two, but Many shall say, we have Prophesied in thy Name. Some think they lied in saying -- 34 of 197 -- so, as if none were partakers of such excellent gifts in their unco

Chapter 28

2. In the Will, there may be some light touches of the Spirit, inclining

it to cleave to the outward and visible part of Religion; together with some workings in the motions, and outgoings thereof in several affections, Matth. 13.20, — the same is he that heareth the Word, and anon with joy r

Chapter 29

3. The Conscience likewise may be so awakened; and so much may

an unregenerate Man stand in awe of it, that he dare not go against the light thereof. Thus was it with Paul, he was so exceeding zealous, and made such Conscience of obeying the Tradition of the Fathers, that he durst n

Chapter 30

36. Yet there was no Soul-prosperity begun. verse. 37. all this while,

their hearts were not right; they were Spiritually dead. Therefore as ye desire to find any Evidence within you, of the Foundation of Soul- prosperity: Give diligence to make your calling sure, 2 Pet. 1.10. This makes it

Chapter 31

1. In general. I shall premise; That as the first Rise, and Foundation

of Soul-prosperity (as to any possibility of Evidence, that such a thing is begun) is laid in those principles of Spiritual life, which are received by virtue of Union with Christ: So the growth and progress thereof cons

Chapter 32

2. I farther premise this: That there is a natural tendency in the

principles of this life to grow, as there is in the best Seed, that is cast -- 37 of 197 -- into the ground to grow, and to bring forth fruit according to its kind: For they are the Seed of the living God; there is lif

Chapter 33

1. When this thriving and growth is universal: The Body prospers,

when there is a healthy constitution all over: When the Head is well, the Stomach is well, and all the vital parts are sound within: But in Children that have the Rickets, the Head is only growing, the inferior parts of

Chapter 34

1. When the Soul thrives in those two graces, which by experience are

found to have as great an influence on the health of the Soul, as Natural heat, and Radical moisture, (so Physicians say, and Reason saith so too) have upon the health of the Body. The just temperament of these, is that

Chapter 35

1. When it grows in depth. So as the Soul is more and more settled,

grounded, rooted, and built up in Christ. Col. 1.23, If ye continue in the Faith, grounded, and settled. And ch. 2.7, Rooted, and built up in him, and stablished in the Faith. So that the heart is fixed, and is at peace

Chapter 36

2. When it grows in breadth, so as it gives a firm, absolute, unlimited

assent to the whole truth of God, and receives the testimony of God, as in one thing, so in everything, which it apprehends to be of God; and that purely, because God saith so, whatever Sense and Reason, can object to th

Chapter 37

2. When Repentance grows (which is as the Radical moisture) then

the Soul prospers. Now Repentance grows, (1.) When there is a growth and increase in the necessary adjunct of Repentance; in that which is as inseparable from it, as heat is from the fire; and that is in an hearty grief,

Chapter 38

2. I proceed now to the second instance of universal growth: and that

is, when that blessing laid up in that promise recorded, Hos. 14.5. is given forth; when the God of all grace is as the dew to the Soul; so that it grows as the Lily, and as the Cedars in Lebanon. The dew, ye know, is a

Chapter 39

2. When a lasting durable frame of godliness is attained, and

preserved, then likewise it grows as the Cedar. As it said of Enoch, Gen. 5.21. That he walked with God 300 years together. So it may be -- 46 of 197 -- said, that our best works are at last: as Rev. 2.19, I know thy w

Chapter 40

3. The Soul prospers, when, in all these things, it prospers daily. One

day after another; and one day as well as another; when more and more is daily done, and more and more daily received, in the forementioned particulars. This Paul could say, 2 Cor. 4.16, — though our outward Man perish,

Chapter 41

4. Then the Soul prospereth, when in conjunction with all these, it is

more and more Rooted in Christ. So as notwithstanding all our growth in grace, and all our exercise of grace, the life we live, so far as it is gracious (and it ought to be so, in all things) is more in Christ, and from

Chapter 42

1. The Soul prospers, when it is full of Praises to God: So kept, from

day today, under the Law of thankfulness, that it abounds in thanksgiving to God. Col. 2.7, Abounding therein with thanksgiving. It is possible, some may think otherwise, that this is no such great matter; but let these

Chapter 43

1. Though it be true, that there are some solemn Seasons, which call

for solemn Praises, when God hath abounded in the expressions of his love to us, and Fatherly care for us, in some special favor, bestowed upon us, giving us to experience the truth of what David found, Psal. 31.7. I wil

Chapter 44

2. Though it be true likewise, that there be some days when the Lord

calls to mourning: As Isa. 22.12. Yet the saddest hours, that the all- disposing Providence of the most wise God, brings us into, bring no discharge from this duty. Neither need we look for it, for these two duties are v

Chapter 45

2. When the Soul is always habitually prepared, and, as the matter

requires, abounds in the actual performance of this duty; it is in a prosperous, and spiritually thriving frame. This will appear, if we inquire into the nature of Religious Thanksgiving. For these three things we shall

Chapter 46

2. The prosperity of the Soul, as it is very much promoted, so it is,

and may be, as much evidenced, by the right Government, and due ordering of our Affections, of Liking, and Disliking. Of Liking, as Love, Joy, Delight, Desire. Of Disliking, as Fear, Sorrow, and Grief, Anger and Wrath. T

Chapter 47

4. The Soul is then spiritually thriving, and prosperous, when the

inordinacy of the affections is mortified, so as, (1.) Every affection acts as a saving grace in the Soul, when the affection of Love, is renewed by the spirit of God, into the grace of love, and so fixed upon God in Chr

Chapter 48

3. The Soul prospers, when the principles of spiritual life are so kept

in exercise, that in times of doubtful expectation, we can cast upon all events, with a humble resignation of all into the hands of God, being willing to submit to his determination, whatever it be. And when the matter i

Chapter 49

2. When the matter is out of doubt, and as bad, or worse, then what

we feared is come upon us, yet that Soul is in a prosperous frame, that can even then, in that dark, and sad hour, find sufficient satisfaction in the exercise of faith, in the promises of God, as Hab. 2.4, — but the jus

Chapter 50

4. The Soul prospers, when grace is so exercised, that it grows more

and more clear in point of Covenant-interest. Observe here, these two things. (1.) When it grows into such a well-grounded hope, and comfortable apprehension thereof, as, ordinarily, it prevails over fears, and doubts, t

Chapter 51

1. That none ought to argue against themselves, that their Souls do

not prosper, because, as yet they come short, it may be, at sometimes altogether short of what hath been laid down in this fifth and last particular. They are seldom so clear in point of their Covenant interest, as to fe

Chapter 52

2. Though all that hath been hitherto said, concerning Soul-

prosperity, are such things, as are wrought in, and laid up in the hidden Man of the heart: yet these things are in the Soul, as the Candle in the Lanthorn, to shine forth in a holy, and blameless conversation; and in th

Chapter 53

1. The first is this. Soul prosperity is so far all in all, both to the

prosperity of every Man's outward condition in general, and of the health, and welfare of the Body in particular; that it is absolutely impossible, that either the one, or the other should truly, and really prosper, but

Chapter 54

2. The other branch will be as clearly made good, That the health,

and well-fare of the Body, stands upon the same bottom. No Man therein, ever did or ever shall truly, and really prosper, but in conjunction with Soul-prosperity. This may seem at the first mentioning, as great a Paradox

Chapter 55

2. Of all prosperities, Soul-prosperity is the most desirable

prosperity, because it is made up of the most desirable materials. Those goods whereof it consisteth are the best things, the most desirable blessings. It's true, the materials whereof Worldly prosperity consists are goo

Chapter 56

3. A third reason is this. Of all prosperity, Soul-prosperity is the most

desirable prosperity, because the effects, and consequents thereof, are the best, and most desirable effects; far beyond the effects of Worldly prosperity, separated from Soul-prosperity: For then they are both, sad, and

Chapter 57

1. Much sweet peace, because of that sweet agreement which there is

between a Man's Conscience, and Himself. Conscience we know, if enlightened, presseth to duty; which, if neglected in its season, will wound and sting. A prosperous Soul is more afraid of this, then to be threat'ned with

Chapter 58

5. Now if it should be asked, as Jam. 4.14. What is this life, that is so

much valued? We must answer, as he doth, That it is a vapor which appeareth for a very little time, and then vanisheth away. The frailty whereof is set forth by heaps of similitudes in Scripture, from the most perishing

Chapter 59

59. They stoned Steven, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus

receive my Spirit. So the Lord Jesus left his Body in the hands of Pilate, but he commended his Spirit into his Father's hands, Luk. 23.46. It is observable, what we have Psal. 141.7, 8. when some of David 's followers,

Chapter 60

1. This was the great work, next to the glorifying of his Father (and

therein he did glorify his Father) that was in his heart to accomplish; in, and by that mysterious work of his Incarnation, in taking upon -- 84 of 197 -- him Man's nature, and for which he made himself of no reputatio

Chapter 61

3. This was, and is the great end of all his Providential Dispensations.

They are, or may be, all them, either Food, or Physic for the Soul. Thriving in holiness, as ye have heard, is Soul-thriving. Now this is the end, that all comforting, desirable Providences seem to drive on, Obad. verse.

Chapter 62

3. It is every way most agreeable to the best, and highest principles of

reason, with all possible diligence, and seriousness to mind that, the neglect whereof, will be our utter undoing, to all Eternity, and bring both Body, and Soul under the most absolute, and unavoidable woe, and misery,

Chapter 63

4. Let me add one argument more. It is the most rational thing in the

World, for every Man seriously to mind that, which above all things else, best answers God's great end in giving him his Being, and with it, all that is needful for support, together with more understanding than the Beas

Chapter 64

1. Wherein the prosperity of the Soul consisteth, and when it may be

said to prosper. I told you then, that the prosperity thereof is to be considered both in its first rise, and foundation: Or in its growth, and progress. As to the first rise of it, it was proved, that if we look upwards

Chapter 65

2. As the first foundation is laid in these principles: So the growth

and progress thereof consists in their increase. As they increase, so the prosperity of the Soul increaseth. So that if ye give up yourselves to be guided by right reason, your work for the substance of it, is first to s

Chapter 66

1. To cast you down from the good opinion, which ye had of

yourselves, by a thorough conviction of the woeful mistake wherein ye were, about the state of your Souls. That ye thought them alive, when they were (as now ye see) dead in sin, pleasing yourselves with the Religion of

Chapter 67

2. Whether, besides this casting down, ye have also experienced the

day of God's power, so far to prevail upon you, as to raise up your hearts, to a willing, and hearty acceptance of Christ, to all intents and purposes, in order to Salvation. To kill, and destroy that enmity which you fi

Chapter 68

2. I have a word to some, to those I mean, that know nothing, as yet,

what either this casting down, or lifting up, means. And it is a word -- 92 of 197 -- of advice, That as ever they desire their Souls should live, and be in a capacity of prospering, that they would break off, from all

Chapter 69

1. To see to it, that your Spiritual life be lively, and prosper; for

therein the prosperity of your Souls consists. And, because everything almost, that I have to speak unto, in handling this great, and necessary Doctrine, needs much enforcement, because much neglected, I shall, before I

Chapter 70

3. There is not one word to be found to the contrary in all the

Scripture, but that how short soever, we come of this pattern, at present, yet if we set ourselves to do, as he did, our Souls may prosper as much, as ever his did. Jesus Christ, we are sure, can make them prosper, Joh.

Chapter 71

1. In reference to Bodily health, upon good advisement, the

seasonable use of Physic is necessary. This is an Ordinance of God, and ought to be used in faith, and obedience to God. Sometimes, for preventing of Diseases, which otherwise might prejudice our health, and sometimes fo

Chapter 72

1. That the Soul of every Man, Spiritually alive to God, is as subject to

Spiritual Diseases, as the Body of any living Man is to Bodily Diseases. And it is sin alone, and nothing else but sin, which is the sickness of the Soul, and which if it be not cured, will be the death, and destruction

Chapter 73

2. As in all these respects, sin is such a thing to the Soul, as sickness

is to the Body: So, that we may be the more affected, and take the more notice of it, It is fitly expressed by the same name. As Pride is fitly compared to a Tympany; Earthly-mindedness to a Dropsy; Carnal security to a

Chapter 74

3. Though this be generally acknowledged, That sin is the sickness of

the Soul; therefore the Soul prospers only so far as it is well rid of it; yet this would be farther observed, That though sin have such evil effects upon the Soul, as Diseases have upon the Body: and that the names of B

Chapter 75

2. When by communing with our own hearts, and observing the out-

goings of our own Spirits, we clearly see that we are among the transgressors, not among the righteous; I mean, among the sick, and not among the sound, then speedily and seriously to set ourselves to the use of such pur

Chapter 76

1. The Evil of Affliction, of what kind soever it be, or for what cause

soever, it comes to be our portion, whether upon our own Personal account; or upon the Common account of Religion. These are the means, that God makes use of, Dan. 11.35, And some of them of understanding shall fall, to

Chapter 77

2. As the Evil of Affliction is not to be desired for this end, but only to

be made use of, for this end, when God brings it upon us: So it is with the Evil of Sin. God is pleased often to make use of his people's miscarriages, to work much this way, bringing Soul-health out of Soul-sickness. Th

Chapter 78

2. There are some other means, which ought immediately, and daily

(though at sometimes more solemnly then others) to be made use of, according as we find that we have contracted any guilt, or defilement upon our Souls, either great, or small, more or less, and that is in the renewed ex

Chapter 79

2. In the exercise of Faith, that draws, and purges. Hereby virtue is

drawn from Christ: As that Diseased Woman said, and found it by experience, when she touched him. It was the touch of Faith, by which her fountain of blood was stopped, Mark 5.28, 29. Thus faith also purifies, Act. 15.9.

Chapter 80

2. The next thing that I shall take notice of, as necessary for the

health, and well-fare of the Body (which as the Lord shall enable me, -- 108 of 197 -- I shall apply to the point in hand) is the observing of a good Diet; with respect to the choice of meats, such, as by experience, h

Chapter 81

1. For the first of these. That Food which God hath provided for us, is

Jesus Christ himself; but Jesus Christ especially as Crucified. (1.) This Food is Jesus Christ himself. For the proof of this, consider, that Jesus Christ is said to be The tree of life, Revel. 2.7. And the Hidden Manna,

Chapter 82

2. What are the ways and means, by which Jesus Christ conveys this

spiritual life unto the soul, that it may live and prosper. ANS. It is by the powerful working of his Holy Spirit, sprinkling all Ordinances, all Providences, and the Soul itself that receives nourishment from Christ, wi

Chapter 83

2. As in all his Ordinances, so in all his Providences, when sprinkled

with the blood of Christ, there is likewise meat laid before us, even in every one of them, of what sort soever. Observable to this purpose, is that which we have Joh. 10.9, They shall go in, and out, and find pasture. G

Chapter 84

3. As both in Providences, and Ordinances thus sprinkled,

nourishment is conveyed to the Soul: So the Soul that receives this nourishment, must be sprinkled with the same blood. There must be (as Heb. 12:23.) a coming to the blood of sprinkling, in the exercise of Faith; for th

Chapter 85

3. Third Particular: What arguments are there to quicken our

Spiritual appetite to this food? Of many that might be given, I shall only mention these three. (1.) This is food, that may easily be compassed. Many are put hard to it, for a subsistence for themselves, and their Famili

Chapter 86

2. Consider Christ, in his Offices.

(1.) In his Priestly Office. He is a great High Priest, Heb. 4.14. Great, both in respect of his Satisfaction, and of his Intercession; which are the two special parts of his Priestly Office. From both which, much Spirit

Chapter 87

1. From the satisfaction he hath made, to the justice of God, for all

the wrong that sin hath done him, by the sacrifice which he offered, which was Himself, unto death. With this, God was well pleased, Eph. 5.2. And for this, he shall see the Souls of all his Seed to prosper, Isa. 53.10.

Chapter 88

2. As from Christ's satisfaction, which he made to the justice of God,

whilst he was upon Earth; so from the other act of his Priestly Office, his Intercession which he makes in Heaven for sinners, much Spiritual Food for the nourishment of our Souls may be had. What should hinder the recei

Chapter 89

2. To show further, That all in Christ is for the food and nourishment

of the Soul, much, yea very much may be said of that, which his Kingly Office affords, and likewise his Prophetical Office. For his Kingly Office, he hath an absolute Sovereignty over all, both Men, and Devils, Eph. 1.21

Chapter 90

3. The Prophetical Office of Christ, is likewise a fruitful, food-bearing

Office. He is engaged by Office, to make all his Seed wise unto Salvation, Isa. 54.13. All thy Children shall be taught of God. And he is faithful, who hath promised it, 1 Joh. 2.27, But the anointing which ye have recei

Chapter 91

1. When many things are heard, something at one time, and

something at another from the word. And it may be something at this time, which is not understood, at least, not so understood, as that the heart is affected with it. Here is relief to be had; he can, and undertakes to t

Chapter 92

4. Of the fourth and last Point. Something by way of direction: How

to feed upon this food, so as to receive that nourishment, which our Souls stand in need of. I shall only mention these four Particulars. (1.) We are to apply ourselves to this Spiritual food, with a Spiritual appetite.

Chapter 93

2. The Righteousness that is wrought in the Soul, by the Spirit of

Christ, and is inherent in every new Creature. The one may be called, The outer garment, the other, The inner garment of the heart. So far as the Soul is clothed with this double garment of Righteousness, so far it prosp

Chapter 94

1. Of that garment of Righteousness, which Christ hath wrought for

the Soul. This is that White garment Rev. 3.18. I counsel thee to buy of me, —white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed. This is the only garment that gives a title to Heaven, Isa. 61.10, I will greatly rejoice in the L

Chapter 95

4. What influence it hath into Soul-prosperity, when it is put on.

(1.) For the first of these, the materials whereof it is made, briefly thus. It is the Obedience of Christ, as Mediator, in doing, and suffering what God the Father appointed, and which he accepts in the behalf of all th

Chapter 96

1. That God the Father accepts it, as full and perfect satisfaction to

his Justice, for what ever was appointed for them to suffer by way of punishment, and curse for sin. It is said, 1 Pet. 2.24. That Christ his own self bare our sins in his Body, on the Tree. i.e., The punishment and curs

Chapter 97

2. God accepts it, in the behalf of all those that are clothed with it, for

all that is required by way of perfect obedience to the Moral Law. It is said, Rom. 10.4, Christ is the end of the Law, for righteousness. Christ, i.e., Christ, and his Righteousness is the end of the Law, i.e., the perf

Chapter 98

2. The Soul that is not clothed with this Righteousness, cannot, while

it remains so, possibly ever be in a capacity of prospering. For sin hath made such a dreadful breach between God and Sinners, that he stands upon this: That though he will have mercy upon whom he will have mercy; the mo

Chapter 99

3. The Garment of Righteousness is put on, only by a believing Soul,

Rom. 3.22, Even the righteousness of God, which is by faith of Jesus Christ, unto all, and upon all them that believe. (1.) Upon every believing Soul, that being acquainted with the way of God, in bringing Sinners into a

Chapter 100

1. This is that Righteousness alone, that answers all doubts, and

fears, for want of such a righteousness, as might give acceptance with God, as to Eternal Life, so as to that, how vile soever they have judged themselves, yet being clothed with it, they stand without blame before God,

Chapter 101

2. This is that garment alone, in which there may be access with

boldness, into the presence of God, even at the last day, 1 Joh. 2.28, And now, little Children, abide in him, that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him, at his coming. Therefore mu

Chapter 102

3. This is Everlasting righteousness, Dan. 9.24. In this, Christ ever

hath appeared, and ever will appear in Heaven, in behalf of all those, that come to God by him; and remains still of the same Eternal efficacy, for the applying, and forth-giving of all the price of his -- 131 of 197 --

Chapter 103

2. The Soul that prospers must be clothed with the Garment of

Righteousness, wrought in the Soul, by the Spirit of Christ. The righteousness wrought in the Soul, is the same with that which is called Saving grace, and true holiness. It is called Righteousness, because it is the imp

Chapter 104

4. Some Directions in reference to the clothing ourselves with, and

well using of this Garment. (1.) What this Garment of Righteousness wrought in us is, or the Materials whereof it is made. Ye may take this brief description of it. -- 134 of 197 -- It is that Heaven-born Principle of

Chapter 105

2. It is such a principle, as inclines the heart seriously to endeavor to

submit to every known truth, though contrary to former apprehensions, Act. 11.18, When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, &c. Joh. 1.47, — Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.

Chapter 106

3. An Expediat? May I do this, and not give offense to others?

This Heaven-born principle, let it have its full liberty of working, it will incline the heart to this. And this is the way to order the conversation aright: So as to inherit that promise, Psal. 50.23, To him that ordere

Chapter 107

2. It is impossible the Soul should prosper, or be indeed in any

capacity of prospering that is not clothed with it: For where this Inner is not, the other Outer garment is not. It is so, as I told you, that this Garment of Righteousness wrought in us, and that the Righteousness wroug

Chapter 108

3. The better the Soul is clothed with this garment, the more it doth,

and the better it will prosper. For consider. (1.) The more we have of this Garment of Righteousness, the more the Soul is brought into and preserved in its right temper: The health of the Body consists much in its right

Chapter 109

1. The desires of our Souls should be working still after this clothing.

There is a blessing promised to them that hunger, and thirst after Righteousness, Matth. 5.6. (1.) These desires ought to be unlimited. Our desires should be stinted as to what is necessary and comely for the clothing of

Chapter 110

2. This garment should be put on, and worn every day; otherwise, the

moths will eat it; the corruption that is in the heart, will spoil the beauty, comeliness, and usefulness of it. Therefore, though it was a vanity in that rich Man to cloth himself in Purple and fine Linnen every day; ye

Chapter 111

3. If at any time there be any rent made in this garment, it must be

immediately stitched up, and mended, else the rent will be made worse. Thus understand me. If there be any rent made in our humility by pride; in our meekness by our passionate Distempers; the like may be said of every p

Chapter 112

4. By way of encouragement, To get all we can, and to preserve all we

get, and to make the best use of it, every day, consider, -- 141 of 197 -- (1.) Though this garment be not such a covering, as that garment of righteousness, which Christ hath wrought for us, for that covers from the g

Chapter 113

4. There is yet one thing more for the preservation of Bodily health;

especially for those that lead a sedentary life, and that is moderate exercise, for the motion, and stirring of the body. For thereby Natural heat is stirred up, and increased: Ill humors abounding, are lessened, and spe

Chapter 114

1. For the first of these. What it is.

ANS. It is the setting of every principle of godliness about, and keeping it close unto its proper work, that so it may bring forth its proper and peculiar fruit in the season thereof. As it is said of every Man, that Go

Chapter 115

1. In Patience, Jam. 1.4, Let patience have its perfect work. The

proper work of that grace, is quietly, willingly, and cheerfully, to submit to the holy, and righteous will of God, in all afflicting Providences. Where, and when there are no trials, nothing to be suffered, nothing to b

Chapter 116

2. Wherein ought we to exercise ourselves unto godliness?

ANS. In everything we do: Whether we eat, or drink, or whatever we do, we ought to do all to the glory of God, 1 Cor. 10.31. Though we are necessitated often to change our Actions, yet we ought never to change our End. T

Chapter 117

1. That these principles ought to be exercised in those spiritual

outgoings, and holy acting's of the inward Man, which are immediately acted upon God, and raise the heart Heaven-ward; though not drawn forth in acts of instituted worship. (2.) As they are drawn forth, exercised, and, a

Chapter 118

1. For the former. In the spiritual outgoings, and holy acting's of the

inward Man. So as to do something toward the performance of that great duty enjoined, both in the Old Testament, and in the New. Isa. 8.13, Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself, and let him be your fear, and let him be you

Chapter 119

2. I proceed to the second thing proposed. How these principles of

godliness ought to be exercised, as they are to be drawn forth, and clothed, as it were, with the External duties of Religion, or anything else wherein the visible part of Religion (so far as it may be made visible to Me

Chapter 120

1. For the former. Those that really mind, as we all ought to mind the

prosperity of our Souls must compass them all, and take them all in, in their walk, though not all at once, nor all, it may be, every day, but all in their Season. It is a dangerous, yea a desperate thing, To perform one

Chapter 121

1. In general thus. The principles of godliness ought to be exercised

in them all, so far as God's gracious ends, and purposes in, and by them (so far as they are revealed to us) may be answered, and attained. I shall instance in these two. (1.) This God hath revealed as one great end to b

Chapter 122

2. As we desire our Souls should prosper, principles of grace should

be exercised in all the fore-mentioned duties. I will instance only in one, and that is the duty of Prayer; both because that is, and ought to be our every day's work: We ought in everything, both great and small, to mak

Chapter 123

1. In all Providences. It is seldom or never seen, that any of the

people of God continue in the same condition, as to the things of this -- 154 of 197 -- World, any long time, without some alteration, more or less. God is pleased, many times, to bestow many good things upon them, whi

Chapter 124

1. That when the good hand of God is for us, so as all our Goings out,

and Comings-in, the beginning and ending of everything we undertake, succeeds well, according to our desires, that then these principles of grace ought to be exercised, that nothing come betwixt Jesus Christ, and our hea

Chapter 125

2. In all our civil converse with Men, principles of godliness must be

exercised, with righteousness, and sobriety, Tit. 2.12, Yea with all courtesy, and kindness. 3 Epist. of John, v. 6. Gaius is exhorted, in his kindness to the Brethren, that travelled up and down, about the affairs of th

Chapter 126

3. In all company's: So as where ever we are, we always keep our

hearts under the awe of God, Eph. 4.29, Let no corrupt Communication proceed out of your mouth. Col. 4.6, Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with Salt. But of this, more under another head, in the next use of

Chapter 127

1. This is that which specially falls under the authority of Command.

Observe it, and you will find, that when the Scripture speaks to professing Christians, the principles are supposed to be infused; and the exercise is specially required, as Eph. 4.24, Put on the new Man, saith the Apost

Chapter 128

2. They are given for this very end, Ezek. 36.27, I will put my spirit

within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes. Therefore that inference is rational, Gal. 5.25, If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. These spiritual principles are that spiritual stock, which God

Chapter 129

3. The neglect of this exercise is that which Satan watcheth for, and

will be sure to improve to his advantage, and our prejudice, Matth. 13.25, While Men slept, his enemy came, and sowed tares among the wheat. It seems he knows our slumbering fits, yea without doubt he doth: for he knows

Chapter 130

4. It is in the exercise of these principles, each of them, in their

season, that the protecting, supporting, comforting presence of God, may (upon Scripture-grounds) be expected, and enjoyed in every condition, so as our Souls may prosper in it, and by it, whatever it be. We read, Jer. 9

Chapter 131

5. There is no way like this, for the growth and exercise of these

principles, wherein, as I told you in the explication of the point, the prosperity of the Soul consisteth especially: It is well known, they do not always prove the richest Men, that set up with the greatest stocks, but

Chapter 132

6. The reality of the in-being of these principles in the Soul, is by this

means best discerned; if ever they be sensibly felt, it is when they are most in exercise. When is a Man more likely to know that he hath faith, and that he hath Repentance, then when he is actually believing, and repent

Chapter 133

1. For the time past, we may, if we look back, see the reason, why

though these principles be of a thriving, growing nature, yet for all -- 162 of 197 -- that, they do not prosper as they ought. It is either because we deceive ourselves, and think we have them, when there is no such m

Chapter 134

2. For the time to come. If all that hath been spoken on this point,

prove not like water spilled on the ground; if there be no cause to complain, as Isa. 49.4. I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for naught. But that some good impressions are made, and abide upon your hearts

Chapter 135

1. That these spiritual principles, and spiritual ability to exercise

them, are distinct mercies, and separable the one from the other; as ye have heard from the instances given of Zacharias and Moses. Moses so eminent for meekness, Job for patience, Abraham for faith; -- 163 of 197 -- t

Chapter 136

2. That a heart, and ability to exercise them, is to be had from Christ;

and from him alone, Joh. 15.5, For without me, ye can do nothing. We read Psal. 51.14. what David engageth unto; My tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness: And ver. 15. we may see where he looks for strength to mak

Chapter 137

3. Let this be thought on too: That though we ought to rest upon

Christ, for his assistance herein, as if he were to do all, and we ourselves were to do nothing at all, yet we ought so to stir up ourselves, and exercise our most serious thoughts, and endeavors herein, as if no help at

Chapter 138

13. Work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God

who worketh in you, both to will, and to do. Thus I have showed you (the expressions in the Text leading me that way) that what in a natural way is necessary for the health, and well- fare of the body, that, in a spiritu

Chapter 139

1. Do as Jonah did, in the place before quoted, chap. 2. ver. 7, My

Soul fainted within, and I remembered the Lord. Remembrance implies dependence, Psal. 20.7, But we will remember the name of the Lord our God. This is prescribed for a fainting Soul, Isa. 50.10, Who is among you, that fe

Chapter 140

2. Let it be well considered, what God imposeth upon fainting Souls,

as one great part of their work, in such a season, Psal. 55.22, Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. When thou art ready to faint under thy burden, ca

Chapter 141

3. Taking it for granted, that a fainting Soul, in obedience to the

command of Christ, is willing, if able, to come to Christ, and to close with him: And if the question were put to him, as it was to Rebecca, Gen. 24.58, Wilt thou go with this man? He would answer, as she did, I will go.

Chapter 142

1. Know his right, and claim it. What's that? Even the promises of

God, as his inheritance; for those that yield to Christ's terms, are received into the number of his adopted Children, Joh. 1.12. And if Children, then Heirs, Rom. 8.17. Heirs of what? See Gal. 3.29, And if ye be Christ'

Chapter 143

2. Let Souls subject to fainting, know their duty upon this account,

and set upon the performance of it. (1.) They ought to acquaint themselves with the promises. They are so great, and precious, as the Apostle saith, 2 Pet. 1.4. that there is not one of those that really close with Chris

Chapter 144

1. That an absolute settlement of the Soul in the same height and

degree of this spiritual prosperity, that is by some attained, s rarely, if ever, preserved for any long time together. There is a tincture of that madness which Solomon speaks of, Eccl. 9.3, (yea, also the heart of the

Chapter 145

2. As many have experienced strange, and unexpected turns of

Providence, in respect of their outward condition: So no less suddenly or unexpectedly have they experienced as great changes in their spiritual condition. There are those, no doubt, can tell you, That having been brough

Chapter 146

3. As there may be such a sad, and sudden change in the most

prosperous Soul that lives; so that may be lost in such a change, which will not be recovered but with very much difficulty. A Ship may easily be born down the stream, but it is hardly fetched up again. A Man may lose mo

Chapter 147

4. Yet for all this, much may be done this way, so as a prospering

Soul may continue in its prosperous state; more then the most careful Man in the World can do, for the continuance of the prosperity of his worldly estate: A Man may be looking to, and taking care for the well managing o

Chapter 148

5. Our labors, and endeavors, how much soever we abound therein,

will not be in vain, but be abundantly recompensed, in the blessed fruits, and effects thereof. When a prospering Soul is carried on with a full gale in its holy course, the precious influences of the Spirit of God, in,

Chapter 149

1. Souls that prosper, being through the assistance of the quickening

presence of the Spirit of God with them, well recovered out of that spiritual deadness, and benumbedness their hearts were sunk into, must take heed of Relapses. Sin (as ye have heard) is the Souls sickness. Therefore as

Chapter 150

1. That relapsing, and backsliding in its general nature is directly,

and in a special manner contrary to the exercise of those principles of godliness, which have the same influence into the health, and well- fare of the Soul, as natural heat, and radical moisture have into the health, an

Chapter 151

2. To bring this yet more closely to the matter, I am speaking unto,

we must take notice, that this relapsing, or back sliding comes under a double consideration. (1.) There is a relapsing or backsliding which proceeds from the want of the principles of godliness. This is to be charged up

Chapter 152

2. There is a backsliding through weakness, or rather through want

of exercise of the principles of godliness, into many inward and spiritual evils, which no eye seeth, but the eye of the most holy God, who seeth all things, such as spiritual dullness, and listlessness unto that which i

Chapter 153

2. If there should be (as there is great danger there may be) a sad

meeting (so it is, and so it will be found) betwixt the corruption, and the temptation, then endeavor, by the assistance of the spirit, that your own spirits may immediately rise up in indignation, against it, and after

Chapter 154

3. Even those whose Souls do live, and in some measure, may be said

to prosper, though they dare not omit any external duty of Religion, yet they do too often, and too easily slip over this, without timely observation, till they take a review of their hearts, and then they see they have

Chapter 155

3. Spiritualize the Providences of every day: I mean, improve them to

some spiritual advantage; so as thereby some gracious impressions may be wrought upon your hearts; that thereby the duties of the day may be better performed; principles of godliness more seasonably exercised; and the wo

Chapter 156

116. He is reckoning up the mercies of God toward him: Then ver. 5.

He exalteth God in his heart: And ver. 7. His Soul retires into God, and takes up its rest, and satisfaction in him alone: And ver. 9. He heightens his resolution. Thus it was with David, and thus it may be with us: Espe

Chapter 157

2. If the day be a day of Adversity, a day filled up with sad tidings, or

sad events, yet the Providences of such a day may be spiritualized, to the spiritual advantage of the Soul. By a believing consideration from what hand they come; as Job did ch. 1. ver. 21, The Lord gave, and the Lord ha

Chapter 158

3. If the day be a mixed day, as most days are, some comforts, some

crosses, some things going for us, and some things against us; these parti-colored Providences may be spiritualized for our Souls advantage; and be unto us as the side-wind to the Ship, that best fills all the Sails, var

Chapter 159

4. Besides all these, we meet with daily passages, in what we hear,

and see, which though they do not immediately touch us, yet may be thus spiritualized. Every Creature of God is a Text for our hearts to raise some Doctrines, some spiritual Meditations from. We have a Proverb, That ther

Chapter 160

4. Another great work which prospering Souls have to do, in order to

the preserving of themselves in a prospering frame, is this: To preserve a deep sense of their spiritual poverty, when it is best with them, in respect of Soul-prosperity. The Apostle Paul from the first day after his co

Chapter 161

5. As we should realize the presence of God with us daily, and keep

our Souls under God's eye: So put them over, and their well-fare, and prosperity into God's hands, to preserve them. We know that Job prospered in his outward estate, so long as God kept up the hedge about him, and all t

Chapter 162

1. It is, without question, not only lawful, but every Man's duty, to be

diligent in his calling, and to manage it with honesty, and integrity to his best advantage, that he may prosper in the World; in reference to those ends, for which Callings were ordained. That he may eat the -- 192 of

Chapter 163

2. But though this be true, yet everyone that desires, that above all

things, his Soul may prosper, ought not to make Religion a complement, as too many do; but his chief business. The Lord Jesus owed, and paid respect, and subjection to his parents, Luk. 2.57. Yet he declared, that he mus

Chapter 164

49. Thus David, Psal. 119.38, — thy servant, who is devoted to thy

fear. As a Scholar who devotes himself to his study, makes learning his business: So we ought to mind this one thing as most necessary, Luke 10.42. It's true, it may be with a Christian that seriously minds the prosperit

Chapter 165

3. Both these being true: That every Man hath, or ought to have a

Calling to follow, which he ought with prudence, providence, and diligence to attend, for the support of his outward estate, according to the condition, wherein God hath set him. Every Man hath, or ought to have a Callin

Chapter 166

1. Remember that of Solomon, Pro. 28.20. Make not haste to be rich.

Do not grasp more of the world into your hands, then ye may manage without distraction. This cannot anymore be for the prosperity of the Soul, then to eat more meat, then the natural heat of the stomach can well digest,

Chapter 167

2. Remember that though ye ought to be diligent in your calling, yet

it ought to be with a holy indifferency of Spirit, not as Rachel, Gen. 30.1. Give me Children, or I die, but as David in that great strait -- 194 of 197 -- wherein he was 2 Sam. 15.26. Let the Lord do with me, as it se

Chapter 168

3. Remember this, That there is no absolute necessity of it, upon one

account, or other, that a man should be as rich, as other rich men of the same calling. That is necessary which cannot be supplied, with something instead of it. As the light of the Sun is necessary for the day. All the

Chapter 169

4. Remember this, That we manage the business of our calling, with a

holy fear, and jealousy, lest we should prejudice the welfare of our Souls. Job was afraid, lest his Children, whilst they were refreshing their bodies, should have wronged their Souls, Job 1.5. there is as -- 195 of 19

Chapter 170

5. Remember this, That the ruling, predominant, chief, and principal

end in laboring for the things of this world, should be in reference to the world to come, when David prayed for life, it was not principally that he might live; but that he might live and praise God, Psal. 119.17.175. S

Chapter 171

6. Remember this, That it is our duty, and we ought to prepare for it,

by keeping the things of the world at a distance from our hearts, to run the hazard of the loss of all, when the keeping of them is inconsistent with the conscience of that duty, and subjection, we owe to Christ; when it