Heaven upon earth in the serene tranquillity and calm composure, in the sweet peace…

evidence may be taken from the sad effects, that in our way follow the neglect, or overly performance of this duty; Which when found, they may let us know, and convince us that it is either much slighted, or quite neglected; And 1. We would ask you, how many are acquainted with, and seen in their own Souls Condition, or could on distinct grounds, as having examined, and tried▪ their heart and way, pass Sentence upon their case, and say thus and thus it is with me? And if ye be un▪ acquainted with your own case, does not that say undeniably, that ye walk by guess, as it were, and not according to this Rule. 2ly. What means the exceeding great security, presumption, and self-conceit, that many are in▪ and under, concerning themselves, and their way? Which not flowing from a well-grounded persuasion of the straitness thereof, must it not necessarily flow from their neglect of this self-reflection and trial? And whence, I pray, is it, that there is so little repentance for sin? Is it because there is no sin, nor ground of quarrel? No certainly, it must therefore be from mens not reviewing of, and reflecting on themselves and their way, that they may find it out; which plainly says, that this evil is predominant. 3ly. •ook to the abounding of sin▪ to the little growth of mortification, to the liveliness of Lusts, to the room that Idols have in the heart, and its gadding after them; will not these declare, that most persons, but very seldom bring themselves before the Tribunal of their Conscience; otherwayes lusts durst not set up their heads, as they do; This King would scatter away all evils with his eyes; And men would not have such delight in them, ⟨p. 222⟩if they were often arraigning them at this Bar. 4ly. What means the little solid peace and rejoicing in God, that most professors have, and their living in such a fluctuating, and conjectural way? Is it not from this, that they do not examine, and put to the trial the grounds of their peace and joy? Now all these sad and woeful evidences and effects being put together, it is beyond all doubt, that there is at this time among us, much neglect of this duty of self-examination; by the Conscientious discharge whereof, these dreadful effects might be removed.