Exercitations concerning the name, original, nature, use, and continuance of a day of sacred…

§. 15 Secondly, Supplication; that is Prayer with especial respect unto the Duties of the Day. This is the life of all preparation for every Duty. It is the principal means whereby we express our universal dependence ⟨p. 446⟩on God in Christ, as also work our own Hearts to a sense of our indigent estate in this world, with all our especial wants, and the means whereby we obtain that supply of Grace, Mercy, and Spiritual strength, which we stand in need of, with respect unto the Glory of God, with the increase of Holiness and Peace in our own souls. Special Directions need not be given about the performance of this known duty. Only I say, some season for it, by way of Preparation, will be an eminent means to further us in the due sanctification of the Name of God on this Day. And it must be founded on Thanksgiving for the Day it self, with the Ends of it, as an advantage for our converse with God in this World. His Goodness and Grace in this condescension and care, are to be acknowledged and celebrated. And in the petitory part of preparatory Prayer, two things are principally to be regarded; (1) A supply of Grace from God, the God and Fountain of it. And herein respect must be had, (1) Unto that Grace, or those Graces, which in their own nature are most immediately serviceable unto the sanctification of the Name of God in this Ordinance. Such are reverence of his Authority, and delight in his Worship. (2) Such Graces in particular, as we have found advantage by in the exercise of holy duties, as it may be contriteness of spirit, Love, Joy, Peace. (3) Such as we have experienced the want of, or a defect in our selves as to the exercise of them on such occasions; as it may be Diligence, Steadfastness, and Evenness of mind. (2ly,) A removal of Evils, or that God would not lead us into temptation but deliver us from evil. And herein a regard is to be had, (1) Unto the temptations of Satan. He will be ⟨p. 447⟩casting his fiery darts in such a season. He is seldom busier than upon our engagement into solemn duties. (2) To the inconstancy, wavering and distraction of our own minds. These are indeed a matter of unspeakable abasement, when we consider aright the Majesty of God with whom we have to do. (3) To undue, and unjust offences against Persons and things, that we may lift up pure hands to God without wrath and without doubting.

§. 15 Secondly, Supplication; that is Prayer with especial respect unto the Duties of the Day. This is the life of all preparation for every Duty. It is the principal means whereby we express our universal dependance