The young man's guide through the wilderness of this world to the heavenly Canaan…

It's good to be sure of something. Since Earth can never be made sure, thou art the more concerned to make sure of Heaven. To have all at uncertainties, both here and hereafter, this is such a misery, as every one that is wise will do what he can to prevent.

2. If things Eternal be made sure, it's no great matter though things Temporal be at the greatest uncertainties. This world is uncertain; a world of changes, of disappointments, vexations, and all kinds of troubles: Why, let it be so; so Heaven be sure, no matter for all these lower uncertainties.

Young Man, thou art going forth into the world, how thou mayst prosper in it, notwithstanding all thy skill and care, God only knows, who can tell what crosses thou mayst meet with in thy very entrance, that may dash all thy hopes? And if thou hast never so fair and hopeful a beginning, yet who knows what may be thy lot before the end of thy day? Why now wouldst thou get above all casualties and crosses, and at once be a Conqueror of all the World? Wouldst thou have thy quiet and contentment out of the reach of Winds and Storms? and be able to live cheerfully in every condition? make Heaven sure, and 'tis done! Thou mayst then hoist up thy Sails, commit thy self to the Wind and Seas, make on thy Voyage, and never be appalled at the Storms on the way: whilst thou hast this assurance, thou shalt come safe to Harbour, and not an hair of thy head perish.

Young Man, thou art going forth into the world, how thou mayst prosper in it, notwithstanding all thy skill and care, God only knows, who can tell what crosses thou mayst meet with in thy very entrance, that may dash all thy hopes? And if thou hast never so fair and hopeful a beginning, yet who knows what may be thy lot before the end of thy day? Why now wouldst thou get above all casualties and crosses, and at once be a Conquerour of all the World? Wouldst thou have thy quiet and contentment out of the reach of Winds and Storms? and be able to live chearfully in every condition? make Heaven sure, and 'tis done! Thou mayst then hoise up thy Sails, commit thy self to the Wind and Seas, make on thy Voyage, and never be appall'd at the Storms on the way: whilest thou hast this assurance, thou shalt come safe to Harbour, and not an hair of thy head perish.