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

sith as every child came from his own substance, so he is to give an equal account to God of all; and therefore should labour to overcome sense with reason, and in very deed exhibit himself upon a due expense of circumstances one and the same to all. So that they, who upon by and undue respects do prefer one child to another, whiles led by a partial affection, cannot manage parental duties in a manner well-pleasing to God. 'Tis said Scipio Africanus ^*was so afraid of being unkind to his child (as too many are) for a natural defect, that he rather showed most affection to his Son that was a fool, saying, He was most worthy of commiseration, whom nature did favour least. (5.) And last of all, Advise with your faithful Pastors and spiritual Guides, especially in more intricate circumstances; yea, and study well your office. Which that you may perform acceptably, 'tis good also to get what assistance you can from others, to help you in the management thereof. As Manoah did not only seek the Lord, but consulted the Angel concerning his Son Sampson, how they should order him, and how they should do unto him^(t): so should Parents endeavour to inform themselves, and get the best counsel they can from those God hath set over them in the ministration of ordinances^(u), sith now under the Gospel they are as spiritual Fathers appointed for the feeding of Christ's sheep and his lambs^(w), which are directed to find pasture by the shepherds tents^(x), and there get waters and balm for healing. Monica, Augustin's Mother^†, repaired to them for aid to reduce her Son: and indeed theirs is, as John Baptist's Ministry was, to bring all to rights betwixt Parents and Children, according to the Prophet's prediction^(z), He shall turn the hearts of the Fathers to the Children, and the hearts of the Children to their Fathers, lest I come and strike the earth with a curse. Of so great advantage is the right and hearty discharge of these relative duties, I have been treating on, for the saving of Nations, and particular Churches from ruin and desolation: Yea, and so greatly instrumental are the Ministers of Christ, for helping them in their duties, that it concerns honest Parents, as to consult those who are holy, and able in the Ministry, for their Children's good: so to commend such faithful Ministers to them, as are worthy of their respect;