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The young man's guide through the wilderness of this world to the heavenly Canaan…
The young man's guide through the wilderness of this world to the heavenly Canaan showing him how to carry himself Christian-like in the whole course of his life / by Tho. Gouge ...The young man's guide through the wilderness of this world to the heavenly Canaan shewing him how to carry himself Christian-like in the whole course of his life / by Tho. Gouge ...
London: printed by S. and B.G. for Nevil Simmons, 1676
THE Young Man's Guide. › Chapter 18: Of the well ordering our Thoughts.
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.
3. Make it thy business frequently to raise, and extract holy and useful thoughts, as from all Gods dealings with thee, so from what thou seest or hearest, yea from all accidents and occurrences. As the Philosophers Stone is said to turn all Metals into gold; so by this Heavenly Chemistry mayst thou turn all earthly things into some spiritual advantage, and extract the pure gold of spiritual thoughts from common objects and occurrences.
3. Make it thy business frequently to raise, and extract holy and useful thoughts, as from all Gods dealings with thee, so from what thou seest or hearest, yea from all accidents and occurrences. As the Philosophers Stone is said to turn all Metals into gold; so by this Heavenly Chymistry mayst thou turn all earthly things into some spiritual advantage, and extract the pure gold of spiritual thoughts from common objects and occurrences.
4. In regard the spirits and thoughts of men are very active, always busied; if they be not set upon good objects, they will be working upon bad; it will be thy wisdom to get such a Treasure of Divine Truths, and Gospel Mysteries, as may furnish thy heart with abundance of matter for holy and spiritual thoughts, and to be much in exercising thy self upon them. Matth. 12. 35. A good man, saith our Saviour, out of the good treasure of his heart, bringeth forth good things; that is, sendeth out suitable Emanations for the good and comfort of his own Soul, as well as others. Mens layings out are according to their layings up: Such as have a Stock of Spiritual Provision, I mean, have treasured up many precious Promises, many Gospel-mysteries, and Scripture-truths in their hearts, will be able to bring forth as savoury discourses in company for the benefit of others; so many spiritual thoughts, when they are alone, for the good and comfort of their own Souls.
4. In regard the spirits and thoughts of men are very active, always busied; if they be not set upon good objects, they will be working upon bad; it will be thy wisdom to get such a Treasure of Divine Truths, and Gospel Mysteries, as may furnish thy heart with abundance of matter for holy and spiritual thoughts, and to be much in exercising thy self upon them.