The real Christian, or, A treatise of effectual calling wherein the work of God…

Some have sent to me (Physic being that, which before I entered upon the Ministry I studied and practised, and now, being deprived of my Ministry, I am forced to practice again) for a rousing vomit (so they termed it) that might cleanse them thoroughly; but I have not made their desires the rule for my administering Physic; had I done so, I had in an ordinary way killed them, but I gave as I judged they were able to bear. Some send no directions what the Physician should do, but leave themselves to his judgment; let him send his Physic, they submit themselves to it, these are the right Patients. Thus do sin-sick-souls: most, if they find troubles arise, Conscience being a little awakened, presently, must have comfortable promises applied, listen for such words from Ministers and Christians, when they have need of other kind of Physic. Some they call for higher discoveries of sin and guilt, that sin may appear like it self, and they feel more sorrows; and if God should give them what they would have (unless his mighty hand did support them) little do they know what may be the horrid effects. Others give up themselves to God, do not teach him how much to give, but only heal them soundly, do his work in them thoroughly, and let him take what course his merciful wisdom pleaseth; and this is the right frame of a gracious heart.

Some have sent to me (Physick being that, which before I entred upon the Ministry I studied and practised, and now, being deprived of my Ministry, I am forced to practice again) for a rowzing vomit (so they termed it) that might cleanse them thoroughly; but I have not made their desires the rule for my administring Physick; had I done so, I had in an ordinary way killed them, but I gave as I judged they were able to bear. Some send no directions what the Physitian should do, but leave themselves to his judgment; let him send his Physick, they submit themselves to it, these are the right Patients. Thus do sin-sick-souls: most, if they find troubles arise, Conscience being a little awakened, presently, must have comfortable promises applied, listen for such words from Ministers and Christians, when they have need of other kind of Physick. Some they call for higher discoveries of sin and guilt, that sin may appear like it self, and they feel more sorrows; and if God should give them what they would have (unless his mighty hand did support them) little do they know what may be the horrid effects. Others give up themselves to God, do not teach him how much to give, but only heal them soundly, do his work in them thoroughly, and let him take what course his merciful wisdom pleaseth; and this is the right frame of a gracious heart.