A supplement to The Morning-exercise at Cripple-Gate, or, Several more cases of conscience practically…

3. The great reason to engage in the duties of Children's obedience in the Lord, is undoubtedly the most cogent Motive can be urged to the performance of all generous actions, viz. because it is well-pleasing to the Lord. So 'tis express: God himself in Covenant is taken with it, with this Chain on a Child's neck (as I may allude to that of Christ to his Spouse)^(e), because it sets forth the beauty and loveliness of a Child, as a Child. The Lord hath given it in charge to all Christian Children here in my Text, and elsewhere^(f), as a vigorous enforcement of the fifth Commandment. The supreme authority of our Heavenly Father, who hath an uncontrollable dominion over us, makes any duties which he requires highly reasonable. But he who is a rewarder of those that diligently seek him^(g), assures the dutiful, he takes much pleasure in these Relative duties, that they are not only pleasing, but well-pleasing to him: Certainly it should hugely raise the spirits of all ingenuous Children, to be most solicitous in filling up their Relation. Dear Children, I am hemmed in, as it were, by what I am yet to say for Parents duties, that I cannot here dilate my self by descending into particulars to persuade the embracing of an exhortation to these duties: But if you be Christians indeed who understand your interest, I can give you the quintessence of all Motives within the bounds of my Text. Consider it well, I beseech you, 'tis this: By your accurateness in these duties you do that which is [Greek or Hebrew], well-pleasing to the Lord, to your and my Lord and Master. Do this, please the Lord, and you do all; this is right^(h); whether present or absent, that you may be accepted of him⁽ⁱ⁾, or wellpleasing to him, is the highest you can attain to. What can I? What need I say more? I could tell you, in pleasing of God you do that which doth, or should, please your Parents, and will be most pleasant to your selves; and then you must needs be happy, when God and you are pleased. As in the keeping all God's Commandments there is an exceeding great reward