The works of George Swinnock, M.A

CHAP. XIII. Means whereby Christians may exercise themselves to Godliness. A contented Spirit; Avoiding those things that hinder Godliness.

Thirteenthly, If thou wouldst exercise thy self to Godliness, Labour to get a contented frame of heart. A settled fixed fr•m of heart as to all outward occurrences, is like Ballast to a Ship, which will help it to sail trim in all waters; whereas a discontented spirit is as a light small boat in the Ocean, tossed about with every blast, and always in danger of drowning. I doubt not but the ⟨p. 810⟩great Apostles diligence to learn this lesson perfectly; I have learned in what state soever I am to be contented; I know how to be abased, and how to abound, Philip. 4. 12. was a special means of his extraordinary growth, and proficiency in grace. It is generally observed that peevish persons whom nothing pleaseth, are usually lean and thin in their bodies; but those who are of cheerful tempers, and not overmuch troubled with any disasters, are thriving and healthful. The discontented soul, whom eve•y heat or cold above ordinary puts into a fright or fever, will rather decline then increase in his spiritual health; but the Christian who is ever cheerful in his God and Saviour, and lives about these lower things as one indifferent about them, will never be hindered by them in his work of holiness. As a sickly man is hindered in his journey by every storm, and ready to run to an House or stand under an Hedge at every shower; so is a discontented person, ready to turn aside or stand still at every unexpected providence; when a contented man like a lusty resolved traveller, keeps on his course whatsoever weather comes. Godliness requires a contented mind to grow in, 1 Tim. 6. 6. It is said of the Pelican that she is caught by the Shepherds in this manner: They lay fire not far from her nest, which she finding and fearing the danger of her young, seeks to blow out with her wings, so long till she burns her self, and makes her self a prey out of foolish pity to her young. So many men out of unwise pity to their relations and possessions, when they are at any time in danger for want of this contented spirit and quiet submission to infinite wisdom, trouble themselves