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

If we did more reverence our selves, we should carry better towards our Superiors. Pythagoras his advice is very wholesome^*, Let a man be the greatest shame to himself, keep his own heart in awe, by a secret blush upon his own extravagances in their first risings, and so he will have his Keeper every where with him: then, as he saith further, Let him follow that which is just not only in words but in deeds. He that is duly affected with shame of himself, will be careful to pay just respects in all due circumstances unto those he is mostly obliged to honour. (4.) Set about all your duties to your Parents willingly and readily, not with grudging or disdain, but with an holy warmth of heart, lifting up your selves to, and following hard after whatever God requires^(y), in all affectionate expressions of a free and cheerful spirit, sith all is to be in the Lord, who loves readiness^(z). This manner of performance will be the more easy, if Children timely learn the great lesson of self-denial; and do really exercise that and love; they will then without boggling, go through the most unpleasant, uneasy, and mean employments they are called unto, and concerned to manage for their Parents; as Jacob's Sons did for their Father, after as well as before their marriage^(a); and in his straits Judah expressed great readiness to comfort his Father^(b). Ruth, as was noted before, was very exemplary in this manner of obedience^(c); but Isaac's readiness was the most singular^(d), till Christ himself (whom he typified) came; then saith he to his Father^(e), I delight to do thy will, O my God, thy Law is within my heart. Believe it, Willingness puts a great acceptableness upon duties: Children are bound always to will, though not always to act; they should readily embrace all opportunities. 'Tis said, Amasiah the Son of Zichri willingly offered himself unto the Lord