A plain and familiar exposition of the ninth and tenth chapters of the Proverbs…A plaine and familiar exposition of the ninth and tenth chapters of the Prouerbs…

Thirdly, they propose a copy or pattern to themselves, §3how themselves would be dealt with in the like case, according to the rule of our Saviour, and the sum of the law and ¹Prophets.

Thirdly, they propose a coppie or patterne to themselues, §3how themselues would bee dealth with in the like case, according to the rule of our Sauiour, and the summe of the law and ¹Prophets.

1. 1Mat. 7. 12.

Instruction to perform this duty with faithfulness and Use. 1 good discretion to our neighbours. First, let us take doubtful things in the best part, for love is not suspicious but hopeth well of things that may have good construction, and perverteth them not to the worst sense. So we deal with our children in their distempers, imputing them to some griping with wind, or breeding of teeth, or that some pin pricketh them: it is mere necessity that driveth us to see their frowardness. Secondly, though it be a fault, yet if it be a small infirmity, and especially if it be a private wrong unto ourselves, let us pass by it, as the Lord doth most graciously with us, whose children ¹we must herein declare our selves to be in imitating of him: and it is a mans honour to pass by an offence. Thirdly, if there be an offence committed sit to be reproved, let us use all holy lenity, if it may prevail, or severity in compassion to draw them out of their sins, for that is the best covering to bring them to repentance, that their iniquities may be covered from Gods eyes, and washed away for ever. So did Nathan