A treatise of self-denial. By Richard Baxter, pastor of the church at KidderminsterA treatise of self-denial. By Richard Baxter, pastor of the church at Kederminster

3. But yet though both parties as united be comprised in the End, it is not equally, but with great inequality. For 1. God being Infinite Goodness it self, must appreciative in estimation and affection, be preferred exceedingly before our selves; so that in desiring this blessed Union, we must more desire it to Please and Praise him, and give him his due, for which he Created, Redeemed, and Glorified us, than to be our selves happy in him. 2. And God being not a mere friend, but our Absolute Lord of Infinite Power and Glory, it must be more in our Intention to bring to him eternally, than to receive from him; (though both must be comprised:) For Receiving is for our selves, further than we intend it for Returns; but Returning is for God; Not to add to his blessedness; but to Please his Will, and give him his own; For he made all things for himself. And so that in union with him we may give him his own in fullest love and Praise, and service, and thus please him, must be the highest part of our Intention, about our own felicity in enjoying him.

3. But yet though both parties as united be comprized in the End, it is not equally, but with great inequality. For 1. God being Infinite Goodness it self, must appreciative in estimation and affection, be preferred exceedingly before our selves; so that in desiring this blessed Union, we must more desire it to Please and Praise him, and give him his due, for which he Created, Redeemed, and Glorified us, than to be our selves happy in him. 2. And God being not a meer friend, but our Absolute Lord of Infinite Power and Glory, it must be more in our Intention to bring to him eternally, than to receive from him; (though both must be comprized:) For Receiving is for our selves, further than we intend it for Returns; but Returning is for God; Not to add to his blessedness; but to Please his Will, and give him his own; For he made all things for himself. And so that in union with him we may give him his own in fullest love and Praise, and service, and thus please him, must be the higest part of our Intention, about our own felicity in enjoying him.

So that you may see, that self-denial teacheth no man to ask, [Whether he could be content to be damned for Christ?] For this is contrary to our propounded End, in the whole. For a damned man hath no union of Love with God, and giveth him not his own in Love or Praises.