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…

4. Consider how, as to the manner and measure, Charity or Alms is to be distributed: It would be 1. liberally, 2. cheerfully; it is dragged from some, as if it were a cross and burden to them; 3. seasonably, so that when there is need, there would not be so much as a nights delay, Prov. 3.28. 4. prudently and tenderly, so as not to shame the poor, and to make them scar at it; thus Boaz commanded to let fall some handfuls to Ruth, that she might gather the more; 5. judiciously, according to need, and where there is most need; 6. humbly and denyedly, not letting the right hand know what the left doth, Matth. 6.3. and not being puffed-up so as to slight and contemn those we give our Alms to.

4. Consider how, as to the manner and measure, Charity or Alms is to be distributed: It would be 1. liberally, 2. chearfully; it is dragged from some, as if it were a cross and burthen to them; 3. seasonably, so that vvhen there is need, there vvould not be so much as a nights delay, Prov. 3.28. 4. prudently and tenderly, so as not to shame the poor, and to make them scarr at it; thus Boaz commanded to let fall some handfuls to Ruth, that she might gather the more; 5. judiciously, according to need, and vvhere there is most need; 6. humbly and denyedly, not letting the right hand know what the left doth, Matth. 6.3. and not being puft-up so as to slight and contemn those vve give our Alms to.

For general rules to direct in this matter, I propose these: 1. Lay by such a quota of your estate or gain, and let that be dedicated to the use of Charity, that ye may have it to bring forth when particular occasions shall offer; men would not always stay till it be sought, but would have, as it were, a poor's box, or a box for the poor by them; so the Lords appointing a certain Tithe under the Law for widows, fatherless, &c.