The trades-man's calling being a discourse concerning the nature, necessity, choice, &c. of a…

But more particularly, I cannot choose but lament and reprove two great Omissions of too many Tradesmen: And the one is, of Family-Prayer; ⟨p. 224⟩which is wholly neglected by many, partially practised, that is, at night only by some, and unseasonably performed by others. Assuredly, Sins of Omission deserve Condemnation, as you may see, Mat. 25. throughout, and all your other Profession or Virtues, will not compensate for one wilful Neglect: Jam. 2. 10. For whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend (or stumble) in one point, he is guilty of all. If the Fear and Love of God did induce you to other good Duties, they would also oblige you to this; and you would no more plead Inability, Bashfulness, or Business, but seriously set about it. Till then you live in danger of that Fury, which is prepared for the Heathen, and for the Families that call not upon his Name; Jer. 10. 25. Better were it for you, to break through these petty Obstacles, and either with a Book or without it, render to God a Morning and Evening Sacrifice with your Families: For tho you may perhaps read and pray alone, yet 'tis great odds, some others, who are under your charge, have no time or mind to it, and so live without Prayer and without God in the World.

But more particularly, I cannot chuse but lament and reprove two great Omissions of too many Tradesmen: And the one is, of Family-Prayer; ⟨p. 224⟩which is wholly neglected by many, partially practised, that is, at night only by some, and unseasonably performed by others. Assuredly, Sins of Omission deserve Condemnation, as you may see, Mat. 25. throughout, and all your other Profession or Vertues, will not compensate for one wilful Neglect: Jam. 2. 10. For whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend (or stumble) in one point, he is guilty of all. If the Fear and Love of God did induce you to other good Duties, they would also oblige you to this; and you would no more plead Inability, Bashfulness, or Business, but seriously set about it. Till then you live in danger of that Fury, which is prepar'd for the Heathen, and for the Families that call not upon his Name;