The pattern of perfection exhibited in Gods image on AdamThe paterne of perfection exhibited in Gods image on Adam

3. Observe what authority, or what value, or what excellency ⟨p. 354⟩the Word hath in the account of the soul: namely, Is thy soul under the supreme government, and sovereign royalty and authority of the truth? if it be, then it is a gracious soul. It is one thing for a man to have sufficiency to the discharge of a duty with strength and promptness, and another thing to be under the authority of the truth, and to submit himself to the government of that good Word. There is a passage that sometimes hath been much in my thoughts, in Psal. 119.29. Take from me the way of lying, and grant me thy Law. Sin is a way of lying; not only a step of lying, but a way of lying; the whole guise & carriage of it is deceitful: now when he saith, take away the way of lying, ⟨p. 355⟩his meaning is, I cannot master it my self, but good Lord take it away: And the text addeth, grant me thy Law: as who should say, It is the greatest blessing the soul desireth to enjoy in this life. For when the soul is content that God should pluck away every corruption from him, even the dearest, it is a sign of grace.

3. Observe what authority, or what value, or what excellency ⟨p. 354⟩the Word hath in the account of the soule: namely, Is thy soul under the supreme government, and soveraigne royalty and authority of the truth? if it bee, then it is a gracious soule. It is one thing for a man to have sufficiencie to the discharge of a dutie with strength and promptnesse, and another thing to be under the authority of the truth, and to submit himselfe to the governement of that good Word. There is a passage that sometimes hath been much in my thoughts, in Psal. 119.29. Take from me the way of lying, and grant me thy Law. Sin is a way of lying; not only a step of lying, but a way of lying; the whole guise & cariage of it is deceitful: now when he saith, take away the way of lying, ⟨p. 355⟩