The Christians two chief lessons viz. self-denial, and self-trial. As also the privilege of…The Christians tvvo chiefe lessons viz. selfe-deniall, and selfe-tryall. As also the priviledge of…

Ob. But if it were not sharp, I could be content to bear it, but it is so keen and cross to my nature to have such sharp reproof as he gives, that I cannot brook it.

Ob. But if it were not sharpe, I could be content to beare it, but it is so keene and crosse to my nature to have such sharpe reproofe as he gives, that I cannot brooke it.

Answ. Oh it is the better, that Reprehension is best, that stirs most, and sharp reprehension will most stir and affect the soul; that Potion is best, that stirs the stomach, and makes a man most sick: if it stirs not, we say that Physic is naught, & the Physician foolish; but if it hit the right humour, then it is excellent: so it is best when the word strikes home, and hits the humour, to give such counsel to the Drunkard, that he drink no more, because he drinks in Gods vengeance; oh this is wholesome counsel, therefore consider it, it is the best to have working Physic; oh bless God for that reproof that comes home closest to the soul, though happily it be not so toothsome, yet it is wholesome: therefore submit to any reproof. It is a sign of a good heart that is willing to hear, and stoop to any advice▪ Even warlike David was counselled by Abigail a woman, and he blessed God for it, and laid down his weapons: so when thou goest on in a wicked course, though it be a servant o• a ⟨p. 7⟩child that reproves thee, yet submit: David was above Abigail, and yet he submitted to her counsel, and blessed God.

Answ. Oh it is the better, that Reprehension is best, that stirs most, and sharpe reprehension will most stirre and affect the soule; that Potion is best, that stirs the stomack, and makes a man most sick: if it stirs not, we say that Physick is naught, & the Physician foolish; but if it hit the right humour, then it is excellent: so it is best when the word strikes home, and hits the humour, to give such counsel to the Drunkard, that he drinke no more, because he drinkes in Gods vengeance; oh this is wholsome counsell, therefore consider it, it is the best to have working Physick; oh blesse God for that reproof that comes home closest to the soule, though happily it be not so toothsome, yet it is wholsome: therefore submit to any reproofe. It is a signe of a good heart that is willing to heare, and stoope to any advice Even warlike David was counselled by Abigail a woman, and he blessed God for it, and laid downe his weapons: so when thou goest on in a wicked course, though it be a servant o a