A39682:112
A Saint Indeed
A saint indeed: or The great work of a Christian, opened and pressed; from Prov. 4. 23 Being a seasonable and proper expedient for the recovery of the much decayed power of godliness, among the professors of these times. By John Flavell M. of the Gospel.
London: printed by W.R., 1668
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
(4) the mercies of God have been mighty restraints to keep others from sin. So Ezra 9. 13. Seeing thou our God hast given us such a deliverance as this, should we again break thy Commandments? ingenious Souls have felt the force of the obligations of love and mercy upon them; (5) to conclude, the mercies of God to others have been as oil to the wheels of their obedience, and made them fitter for service, 2 Chro. 17. 5. Now if mercies work contrarily upon my heart, what cause have I to be afraid that they come not to me in love? I tell you, this is enough to damp the Spirit of any Saint, to see what sweet effects they have had on others, and what sad effects on him.
(4) the mercies of God have been migh•y restraints to keep others from sin. So Ezra 9. 13. Seeing thou our God hast given us such a deliverance as this, should we again break thy Commandments? ingenious Souls have felt the force of the obligations of love and mercy upon them; (5) to conclude, the mercies of God to others have been as oyle to the wheels of their obedience, and made them fitter for service, 2 Chro. 17. 5. Now if mercies work contrarily upon my heart, what cause have I to be afraid that they come not to me in love? I tell you, this is enough to damp the Spirit of any Saint, to see what sweet effects they have had on others, and what sad effects on him.
2. Season. The second special Season in the life of a Christian requiring more than a common diligence to keep his heart is the time of adversity; when providence frowns upon you, and blasts your outward comforts, then look to your hearts, keep them with all diligence from repining against God, or fainting under his hand; for troubles, though sanctified, are troubles still; even sweet briar, and holy ⟨p. 47⟩