The Morning exercise [at] Cri[ppleg]ate, or, Several cases of conscience practically resolved

Fifthly, Always be more observant of the purpose and disposition of thy heart, the inclination of thy will, the general scope of thy life, than the passionate sense of joy and comfort. There is but little constancy in these joys, like the tide, they ebb and flow. Like a Land-flood, might overflow for a while but a little after be dried up; joys are the sweet-meats of the soul, but are not for its constant fare and diet. For a spiritual banquet, not for a standing-dish. Thus it was with David. And the experience of Christians proves it.

Fifthly, Alwaies be more observant of the purpose and disposition of thy heart, the inclination of thy will, the general scope of thy life, than the passionate sense of joy and comfort. There is but little constancy in these joyes, like the tide, they ebbe and flow. Like a Land-flood, might overflow for a while but a little after be dried up; joyes are the sweet-meats of the soul, but are not for its constant fare and diet. For a spiritual banquet, not for a standing-dish. Thus it was with David. And the experience of Christians proves it.

Sixthly, When thou canst not experience the sweetness of the Promise, yet then firmly believe the verity of the Promise. The Truth of the Promise doth not depend upon our sense and feeling of it, especially when we would; there might be evidentia cred•bilitatis, when there is not evidentia rei, sufficient reason to believe, because it is a promise made by God, when thou dost not as yet see the performance of it. Though thou hast not tasted honey, yet thou wilt believe it to be sweet, if told by one that hath eaten thereof.

Sixthly, When thou canst not experience the sweetness of the Promise, yet then firmly beleeve the verity of the Promise. The Truth of the Promise doth not depend upon our sense and feeling of it, especially when wee would; there might be evidentia cred•bilitatis, when there is not evidentia rei, sufficient reason to beleeve, because it is a promise made by God, when thou dost not as yet see the performance of it. Though thou hast not tasted honey, yet thou wilt beleeve it to be sweet, if told by one that hath eaten thereof.