The works of George Swinnock, M.A

But I would not be understood Reader, to encourage thee in the least, under pretence of deferring it till a fitter day, to omit the duty; if there be no probability of a better season, nor any hope of doing good, after some ejaculations to Heaven for assistance and success, take the present opportunity. Fabius conquered by delaying, but Caesar overcame by expedition. Though its not ordinarily so good to sow Corn when the Wind is high, yet the Husbandman will rather do it in such weather, then not at all, or then to want his harvest. As the Bird often flieth away, whilst the Fowler still seeks to get nearer and nearer her; so doth a season of advantaging our brethren's souls, whilst we wait still for a fitter; Its thy duty therefore to take hold of the present, where thou hast no likelihood of another, and to improve the first good opportunity, rather then to adventure the loss of all, by expecting a better.

But I would not be understood Reader, to encourage thee in the least, under pretence of deferring it till a fitter day, to omit the duty; if there be no probability of a better season, nor any hope of doing good, after some ejaculations to Heaven for assistance and success, take the present opportunity. Fabius conquered by delaying, but Caesar overcame by expedition. Though its not ordinarily so good to sow Corn when the Wind is high, yet the Husbandman will rather do it in such weather, then not at all, or then to want his harvest. As the Bird often flieth away, whilst the Fowler still seeks to get nearer and nearer her; so doth a season of advantaging our brethrens souls, whilst we wait still for a fitter; Its thy duty therefore to take hold of the present, where thou hast no likelihood of another, and to improve the first good opportunity, rather then to adventure the loss of all, by expecting a better.

4. Reprove prudently; A Christians wisdom in the matter of his reproof, will very much further its working. As an ear-ring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover to an obedient ear, Prov. 25. 12. A ⟨p. 196⟩