An exposition of the Lords prayer in the way of catechism By William PerkinsAn exposition of the Lords praier in the way of catechisme By William Perkins

4. Again, if the God to whom we pray be a father, we must learn to acquaint our selves with the promises which he hath made in his word, to quicken our hearts in prayer unto him. For this word Father, ⟨image 17⟩implies readiness and willingness in God to hear, and be merciful to our prayers. And a father cannot but must needs make some promises of favour to those that be his children: and therefore it cannot be, that he should call God truly his father, which hath not in his heart this assurance, that God will fulfil his promises unto him. Promises made to prayer; these and such like are to be marked as follow. 2. Chron. 7. 14. If my people among whom my name is called upon, do humble themselves, and pray, & seek my presence, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will heave in heaven & be merciful to their sins. 2. Chron. 15. 2. The Lord is with you while you be with him: and if ye seek him, he will be found of you. Isai. 65. 24. Before they call, I will answer, and whiles they speak I vvill hear. Mat. 7. 7. Ask, and it shall be given you: seek and ye shall find: knock and it shall be opened. Luk. 11. 13 ⟨image 18⟩If ye which are evil can give good gifts unto your children how much more shall your heavenly father give the holy ghost to them that desire him? Rom. 10. 12. He that is Lord over all, is rich unto all that call on him. Jam. 4. 8. Draw neere unto God, and he will draw near unto you.

4. Againe, if the God to whom we pray be a father, we must learn to acquaint our selues with the promises which hee hath made in his word, to quicken our hearts in praier vnto him. For this word Father, ⟨image 17⟩