The vanity of this mortal life, or, Of man, considered only in his present…

And now what spirit is there any more left in him towards the trivial affairs of a vanishing world! How indifferent a thing is it with him, who bears himself highest in a state of things whereof he foresees the certain hastening end! Though he will not neglect the duty of his own place, is heartily concerned to have the knowledge and fear of God more generally obtained in this apostate world; and is ready to contribute his utmost regular endeavours for the preservation of common peace and order in subserviency hereto. Yet abstractedly, from these considerations, and such as have been before mentioned, he is no more concerned who is uppermost, than one would, passing by a swarm of Flies, which hath the longest wings, or which excels the rest in sprightliness or briskness of motion▪ And for himself, he can insert this among his most serious thanksgivings, That while the care is incumbent on others, of ⟨p. 115⟩watching over the public peace and safety, he may sit still, and converse with God, and his own more sedate thoughts. How secure is he in this, That infinite Wisdom governs the world! That all things shall be disposed the best way, to the best and most valuable ends! That an afflicted state shall never befall unto good men, but when it is fittest, and most conducible it should do so! That the prosperity carnal appetite covets, is never denied them, but when it would be pernicious! How calm is he in the midst of external troubles! How placid and serene a spirit inhabits his peaceful breast! When all things are shaken round about him, he is not shaken. He bears all sort of troubles, but creates none to others, nor is disturbed by any himself.

And now what spirit is there any more left in him towards the trivial affairs of a vanishing world! How indifferent a thing is it with him, who bears himself highest in a state of things whereof he foresees the certain hastning end! Though he will not neglect the duty of his own place, is heartily concerned to have the knowledg and fear of God more generally obtained in this apostate world; and is ready to contribute his utmost regular endeavours for the preservation of common peace and order in subserviency hereto. Yet abstractedly, from these confiderations, and such as have been before mentioned, he is no more concerned who is uppermost, than one would, passing by a swarm of Flyes, which hath the longest wings, or which excels the rest in sprightliness or briskness of motion And for himself, he can insert this among his most serious thanksgivings, That while the care is incumbent on others, of