Richard Baxter's dying thoughts upon Phil. I, 23 written for his own life and…

But all the knowledge in the World without this, quiets not a departing Soul. A Man may write as many Books, and Preach as many Sermons of Heaven as I have done, and speak of it, and think of almost nothing else, and yet till the Soul be sweetened and comforted with the Love of God shed abroad on it by the Holy Ghost, death and the next life will be rather a Man's fear, than his desire. And the common fear of death which we see in the far greatest part even of godly Persons, doth tell us, that though they may have saving desires, and hopes, yet this sense of God's love on the Heart is rare.

But all the knowledge in the World without this, quiets not a departing Soul. A Man may write as many Books, and Preach as many Sermons of Heaven as I have done, and speak of it, and think of almost nothing else, and yet till the Soul be sweetned and comforted with the Love of God shed abroad on it by the Holy Ghost, death and the next life will be rather a Man's fear, than his desire. And the common fear of death which we see in the far greatest part even of godly Persons, doth tell us, that though they may have saving desires, and hopes, yet this sense of God's love on the Heart is rare.

What wonder then if our Language, our Converse, our Prayers, have too little savour of it, and in comparison of joyful Believers duties, be but like green Apples to the mellow ones.

My God, I feel what it is that I want, and I perceive what it is that is most desirable: O let not guilt be so far unpardoned, as to deprive my Soul of this greatest good, which thou hast commended to me and commanded, and which in my languishing and pains I so much need. Did I beg for Wealth or Honour, I might have it to the loss of others: But thy Love will make me more useful to all, and none will have the less for my enjoyment: For thou Lord art enough for all; Even as none hath the less of the Sun-light for my enjoying it. The least well