An antidote against distractions, or, An endeavour to serve the church, in the daily…An antidote against distractions, or, An indeavour to serve the church, in the daily…

Answ. 1.¹ This axiom and Scripture were never intended as a pillow for the lazy, but a support to the weary; nor to exempt us from our duty, but to comfort us under our weakness. What Parent will accept this answer from a negligent Child? or what Master will be content of this excuse, from a slothful servant? offer it now to you Governor, and imagine not, it will pass with God, which would be counted a mockery with men.

Answ. 1.¹ This axiom and Scripture were never intended as a pillow for the lazy, but a support to the weary; nor to exempt us from our duty, but to comfort us under our weakness. What Parent will accept this answer from a negligent Child? or what Master will be content of this excuse, from a slothful servant? offer it now to you Governour, and imagine not, it will pass with God, which would be counted a mockery with men.

1. 1Answ. 1.

2. God never accepts the Will for the Deed,¹ when the Deed may be done; when the Idem cannot be paid, the Tantundem shall serve; yea and so far as the Deed can be done, the will without it, is but a mockery unto God. But wherein ⟨p. 62⟩an upright heart hath done its utmost in the use of all means, and would do more, this will is accepted for the Deed, even as if thou hadst perfectly obeyed; And so that Scripture cited is express in the case of charity; It is accepted according to that a man hath. So that a man must give according to that he hath, or else his willing mind stands for nothing. Now have you done your utmost against Distractions! can you do no more? If Death stood at the end of the Duty, you could double your watch. Plead not this till you have done your best.