A41668:621
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
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.
Therefore, O Young Man, in the choice of Friends for thine intimate Acquaintance, and familiar converse, seriously think of this.
II. Desire and embrace the company of the Godly, who may further thee in the way to Heaven, make them thy familiar Friends and Companions. The more thou conversest with such, the greater increase wilt thou find in thy self of Knowledge, Faith, Love, Zeal, Humility, and other Graces. The very presence of a Religious Person, much more his gracious speeches, his holy advice, his seasonable reproofs, and his godly Conversation, will be a great help to thee in the way to Heaven. There is a certain virtue in the words and behaviour of men endowed with Heavenly Wisdom, which (by the blessing of Gods holy Spirit) doth work effectually on those who are conversant with them, for the enlightening their minds with the knowledge of God, and his Truths: for the inflaming their hearts with a love to God, and zeal for his glory.
II. Desire and imbrace the company of the Godly, who may further thee in the way to Heaven, make them thy familiar Friends and Companions. The more thou conversest with such, the greater increase wilt thou find in thy self of Knowledge, Faith, Love, Zeal, Humility, and other Graces. The very presence of a Religious Person, much more his gracious speeches, his holy advice, his seasonable reproofs, and his godly Conversation, will be a great help to thee in the way to Heaven. There is a certain vertue in the words and behaviour of men indowed with Heavenly Wisdom, which (by the blessing of Gods holy Spirit) doth work effectually on those who are conversant with them, for the inlightning their minds with the knowledge of God, and his Truths: for the inflaming their hearts with a love to God, and zeal for his glory.
O Young Man, thou canst not imagine what spiritual advantage may be got by conversing with holy gracious persons; especially if thou beest careful to treasure up those Christian experiences thou hearest from them, and what else may make for thy spiritual good. Thus will the Communion of Saints be improved to the edification of Saints.