The mischiefs of self-ignorance and the benefits of self-acquaintance opened in divers sermons at…

II. I have done with that part of my special Exhortation which concerned the unregenerate: I am next to speak to those of you that by Grace are brought into a better state: and to tell you, that it very much concerneth you also, even the best of you to labour to be well acquainted with your selves: and that both in respect ⟨p. 277⟩of 1. Your sins and wants, and 2. Your Graces and your duties.

I. Be acquainted with the root and remnant of your sins: with your particular inclinations and corrupt affections: with their quality, their degree and strength: with the weaknesses of every grace: with your disability to duty: and with the omissions or sinful practises of your lives. Search diligently and deeply; frequently and accurately peruse your hearts and ways, till you certainly and throughly know your selves.

I. Be acquainted with the root and remnant of your sins: with your particular inclinations and corrupt affections: with their quality, their degree and strength: with the weaknesses of every grace: with your disability to duty: and with the omissions or sinfull practises of your lives. Search diligently and deeply; frequently and accurately peruse your hearts and wayes, till you certainly and throughly know your selves.

And I beseech you let it not suffice you that you know your states, and have found your selves in the Love of God, in the faith of Christ, and possessed by his Spirit. Though this be a mercy worth many worlds, yet this is not all concerning your selves that you have to know. If yet you say that you have no sin, you deceive your selves. If yet you think you are past all danger, your danger is the greater for this mistake. As much as you have been humbled for sin: as much as you have loathed it, and your selves for it: as oft as you have confessed it, lamented it, and complained and prayed against it, yet it is alive: Though it be mortified, it is alive. It is said to be mortified