A practical exposition of the X. Commandments with a resolution of several momentous questions…A practical exposition of the X. Commandements with a resolution of several momentous questions…

•. Consider the effects in diverse respects; 1. In respect of […] •s outward estate or family, and so a man sinneth when he ⟨p. 383⟩eateth or drinketh beyond that which he may uphold, or his condition in the world will allow, and when his eating or drinking so, may make himself or his wife and children fast for it afterward, or to be much pinched. 2. In respect of his calling, if it divert a man from that, and mar the work in his hand, and make him break appointments set by him for finishing of other mens work, which he might otherwise have kept, and much more if it indispose him for speaking of, or doing that which concerneth his calling, it is then sure in the excess. 3. In reference to his body, if it be weakened, dulled, or indisposed by the excess of meat or drink: This is called Isa. 5.12. inflaming of them, and is not allowable. 4. Look to it as it affecteth folks reason, and in less or more indisposeth them to conceive or judge of things aright; much more when it raiseth a fury or madness, and maketh them as reasonless beasts in their carriage, it is excessive and to be eschewed no doubt. 5. Look on it in reference to the spiritual duties of a mans christian calling, as of praying, reading, hearing, repenting, &c. the obligation to these duties laying on alway, and our refreshments being in themselves midses to lead to the more cheerful performance of them, when by them we become more indisposed for them, so as either to forbear them, or to be formal or drowsy in them; that is sure not good, but to be evited. 6. Look to it in reference to the serious inward frame of the mind, which these should have who ought to walk always with God, keep communion with him, and be filled with the spirit, whatsoever marreth that or obstructeth spiritual consolation, or is inconsistent with it, cannot certainly be good: Hence Ephes. 5.18. to be filled with the spirit, is opposed to excess in wine or drunkenness, so that what is inconsistent with the one, may be understood as belonging to the other, and although this sensible joy of the spirit cannot be always carried alongst, yet none should incapacitate themselves for keeping up with it. 7. Look on it in reference to our corruptions and the promoving of mortification when it either marreth this, by dulling and weakening of the graces of the spirit, or indisposing for their exercise;