A03064:605
A treatise of faith divided into two parts. The first showing the nature, the…A treatise of faith diuided into two parts. The first shewing the nature, the…
A treatise of faith divided into two parts. The first showing the nature, the second, the life of faith. ... By John Ball.A treatise of faith diuided into two parts. The first shewing the nature, the second, the life of faith. ... By Iohn Ball.
London: printed by William Stansby for Edward Brewster, 1631
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Tenthly, It mindeth us of our change, even when our mountain seemeth strongest.1 The thing that I greatly feared (saith Job) is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me. I was not in safety, neither had I rest, neither had I quiet: I always thought upon my change, and looked for an alteration of mine estate. The longest day hath night at length entering: yea, there is no wind which may not blow rain, if God be so pleased. Estates which have the longest periods of prosperity, be at length exercised with afflictions: and there is no condition so sure and peaceable, but may turn tempestuous on the sudden, should not God be more gracious. This being in it self apparent, and confirmed by infinite examples, cannot be hid from the piercing eye of faith, which is spiritually wise to discern aforehand, what events we are subject unto in this vale of tears. Nature by instinct giveth unto unreasonable Creatures a faculty which maketh them afore-hand apprehensive of that which is ready to ensue. The wisdom which is from above, ⟨p. 373⟩m•keth the Lords children sensible in like kind, that as Job, so they in their greatest calm foresee how •ods hand may change for their exercise. Nor doth faith only foresee danger, but prepare for it.2 The wise man seeth the plague and hideth himself. The believer hath learned by due consideration, how wanting he is in wisdom, and weak in strength to stand when God trieth, an• so renouncing his wit and strength, he flieth unto God and holdeth him, as he who hath been, is, and must be for ever his salvation: and looketh unto Christ the Author and finisher of our faith, who hath received commandment of the Father, that he should not only •all us and bring v• into the state of grace, but also raise us up at the last day: who is that great God and Saviour, who will keep his from every evil work unto his heavenly kingdom.
Tenthly, It mindeh vs of our change, euen when our mountaine seemeth strongest.