A26892:2540
A Christian Directory
A Christian directory, or, A sum of practical theology and cases of conscience directing Christians how to use their knowledge and faith, how to improve all helps and means, and to perform all duties, how to overcome temptations, and to escape or mortify every sin : in four parts ... / by Richard Baxter.A Christian directory, or, A summ of practical theologie and cases of conscience directing Christians how to use their knowledge and faith, how to improve all helps and means, and to perform all duties, how to overcome temptations, and to escape or mortifie every sin : in four parts ... / by Richard Baxter.
London: printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons, 1673
Title page typeset from the transcription.
Part 1 › Chapter 7 › Tit. 3. Directions against sinful Desires and Discontent.
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
§. 6. Direct. 4. Ask your hearts seriously whether God in Christ be enough for them, or not? If 1they say no; they renounce him and all their hope of Heaven: For no man takes God for his God that takes him not for his portion, and as enough for him: If they say, yea; then you have enough to stop the mouth of your fleshly desires, while your hearts confess that they have enough in God. Should that soul that hath a filial interest in God, and an inheritance in eternal life, be eager for any conveniences and contentments to the flesh? If God be not enough for you, you will never have enough. Turn to him more, and know him better, if you would have a satisfied mind.
- 1Direct. 4.
§. 7. Direct. 5. Remember that every sinful Desire is a rebelling of your wills against the will of 1God; and that it is his will that must govern and dispose of all, and your wills must be conform to his▪ yea that you must take pleasure and rest in the will of God. Reason the case with your hearts, and say; who is it that is the Governor of the World? and who is to rule me, and dispose of my affairs, Is it I or God? whose will is it that must lead, and whose must follow? whose will is better guided? Gods or mine? either it is his will that I shall have what I desire, or not: If it be, I need not be so eager, for I shall have it in his time and way: If it be not his will, is it fit for me to murmur and strive against him? Remember that your discontents and carnal desires are so many accusations brought in against God: As if you said, Thou hast not dealt well, or wisely or mercifully by me: I must have it better: I will not stand to thy will and government: I must have it as I will: and have the disposal of my self.
§. 7. Direct. 5. Remember that every sinful Desire is a rebelling of your wills against the will of