How to live, and that well in all estates and times, specially when helps…How to liue, and that well in all estates and times, specially when helps…

Thus much of the examination: now follows the ⟨p. 68⟩change. That we may change our lives in respect of unbelief, four things are required. The first is, that we must acknowledge and bewail our unbelief with the manifold fruits thereof. And we have good cause to do so.¹ For by unbelief the devil erects his kingdom in mens hearts, and works his pleasure in us and upon us. Secondly unbelief corrupts & defiles all our actions whatsoever, though otherwise they be good and lawful in themselves. Paul saith, that to unbelievers all things are unclean, ²yea their minds and consciences are defiled. Thirdly unbelief deprives us of the good blessings of god which otherwise we might enjoy. If ⟨p. 69⟩ye believe not, ye shall not be established, ³saith the Prophet.⁴ In Capernaum Christ could do no great wonders by reason of their unbelief. Lastly unbelief plucks down upon men the plagues & judgements of God.⁵ Moses and Aaron were barred the land of Canaan for their unbelief.⁶ A certain prince was trodden to death in the gates of Samaria, because he would not believe the word of the Lord by the mouth of Elisha.⁷ Zechariah was dumb for a time because he would not believe the message of the angel. Many at this day, when the judgements of God lie heavy on them, say presently they are fore spoken, and they cry out on this or that ⟨p. 70⟩suspected witch. But such persons are often deceived. For the great witch that doth them all the hurt, is the unbelief of their hearts whereby they distrust God in his word: and this sin alone, if there were no witches in the world, is sufficient alone to provoke God to plague and punish us sundry ways, and that grievously. Therefore let us with bitterness of heart bewail our unbelief: and the rather, because it is a steppe to faith to acknowledge the want of faith.