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…

3. It would be qualified by the right means, there would be righteousness in the way of purchasing or conqueishing our estate; and it supposeth, 1. That it be by a lawful occupation, which excludeth what is gained by cards, dice, wodding, or wagering, &c. 2. By an occupation useful to others, as well as profitable to us, gain must not only nor chiefly sway; but, we should aim at that wherein we may be useful to Church or State in our Generation, then it is lawful to make gain, as the wages of that service. All Trades-men, and men in place, would be as Officers to Church or State, and upon that ground they have a right to make gain. These trading in wines, in such quantities at least, that wrong the Country, and in other things subservient to vanity, I know not well what to say of them, only I think I may say it had been good for Common-wealths, some Trades had never been: It is the thing that is condemned Rom. 13.13, 14. Ephes. 4.23. 3. we would have a care that neither deceit, lying, or any other unlawful shift be used in a lawful calling, which may wrong it, Lev. 19.11.

4. As to the manner, it would be qualified thus, 1. That it be in obedience to God, serving him in some measure in that Calling or Trade, as well as in Prayer; and acknowledging him in the particulars of our gain: 2. That it be by faith on him, waiting, as was just now said, for the blessing from ⟨p. 416⟩him, Psal. 127.1. 3. That it be by a Christian way in every thing, submitting to him when a cross cometh, being without peremptoriness or anxiety, being quiet in praying, as Matth. 6. but not thoughtful: 4. That it be by trysting and ordering our care for our estate in the world, so as it may be most consistent with promoving our edification, and we not entangled with the affairs of this life, as it is