A06783:34
A fruitful treatise of fasting
A fruitful treatise of fasting wherein is declared what the Christen fast is, how we ought to fast, [and] what the true use of fasting is. Newly made by Thomas Becon.A fruitful treatise of fasting wherin is declared what ye Christen fast is, how we ought to fast, [and] what ye true vse of fastyng is. Newlye made by Thomas Becon.
printed by John Day, 1551printed by Ihon Day, 1551
Title page typeset from the transcription.
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.
The .v. Chapter.
Thus have we learned out of the holy Scriptures,1 that the true and Christen fast is ⟨image 17⟩to abstain not only from all kind of meats and drinks (during the time of fasting) but also from all those things wherein the flesh hath pleasure and delectation, & to occupy our selves in all godly and spiritual exercises unto the glory of God, the comfort of our neighbour, and the health of our own souls.2 But it is to be noted that this abstinence or fast must be freely and willingly done, or else can it by no means please God. For what so ever cometh from an unwilling and constrained mind, God abhorreth, appear it never so godly and praise worthy before the world. God loveth a cheerful giver,3 sayeth Saint Paul. And the Psal-inographe sayeth:4 An offering of a free heart will I give thee, ⟨image 18⟩and praise thy name, O Lord because it is so comfortable. They therefore that fast for custom sake or at the commandment of man only, and not of a good will and free spirit, do nether please God,5 nor profit themselves. Therefore shall that chance unto them that God threateneth by the Prophet, saying: When they fast I will not hear their prayers.