The practice of piety directing a Christian how to walk, that he may please…

For the greatest Wisdom of most Men in this Age, consists in being wise; first, to deceive others, and in the end to deceive themselves.

And if sometimes some good Book haps into their hands, or some good motion cometh into their heads, whereby they are put in mind to consider the uncertainty of this life present; or how weak assurance they have of eternal life if this were ended: and how they have some secret sins, for which they must needs repent here, or be punished for them in Hell hereafter; Security then forthwith whispers the Hypocrite in the Ear, that though it be fit to think of these things, yet, It is not yet time; and that he is yet young enough (though he cannot but know, that many millions as young as himself are already in Hell, for want of timely repentance.) Presumption warranteth him in the other ⟨image 6⟩Ear, that he may have time hereafter, at his leisure, to repent: and that howsoever others die, yet he is far enough from death, and therefore may boldly take yet a longer time, to enjoy his sweet pleasures, and to increase his wealth and greatness: And hereupon (like Solomon's sluggard) he yields himself to a little more sleep, ¹a little more slumber, a little more folding of the hands to sleep, in his former sins; till at last Despair (Security's ugly hand maid) comes in unlooked for, and shows him his Hour-glass; dolefully telling him, that his time is past: and that nothing now remains but to die, and •e damned. Let not this seem strange to any, for too many have found it too true; and more with out more grace, are like to be thus soothed to their end; and in the end, snared to their endless perdition.

And if sometimes some good Book haps into their hands, or some good motion cometh into their heads, whereby they are put in mind to consider the uncertainty of this life present; or how weak assurance they have of eternal life if this were ended: and how they have some secret sins, for which they must needs repent here, or be punished for them in Hell hereafter; Security then forthwith whispers the Hypocrite in the Ear, that though it be fit to think of these things, yet, It is not yet time; and that he is yet young enough (though he cannot but know, that many millions as young as himself are already in Hell, for want of timely repentance.) Presumption warranteth him in the other