A26921:975
Richard Baxter's dying thoughts upon Phil. I, 23 written for his own life and…
Richard Baxter's dying thoughts upon Phil. I, 23 written for his own life and the latter times of his corporal pains and weakness.
London: printed by Tho. Snowden for B. Simmons, 1683
Title page typeset from the transcription.
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. It is only that which all men in general desire I mean, the only satisfying content and pleasure that Man is capable of on Earth! All men would have quieting and constant Pleasure; and it is to be found in nothing else, but the effused love of God.
7. It is that which will make every burden light; and all affliction easy: When the sense of God's love is still upon the Soul, all pain and crosses will be but as Blood-letting by the kindest Physician, to save the Patients ⟨p. 367⟩life. God will not be suspected or grudged at in suffering; his love will sweeten all.
8. It will overcome abundance of Temptations, which no mens Wit, or Learning, or knowledge of the words of Scripture, will overcome. No Arguments will draw a loving Child or Wife, from the Parents or Husband that they know doth love them. Love is the most powerful Disputant.
9. It puts a mellow pleasant sweetness into all our duties: When we hear the Word, or receive the Sacrament, it is to such a Soul as pleasant Food to the most healthful Man: When we pray or praise God, it comes from a comforted Heart and excites and increaseth the comfort it comes from. O who can be backward to draw near to God in Prayer or Meditation, who tasteth the sweetness of his Love. This is Religion indeed, and tells us what its life, and use, and glory is: This is the true walking with God in the best degree: When the Soul liveth in the taste of his Love, the Heart will be still with him, and that will be its Pleasure: And God most delights in such a Soul.