The works of George Swinnock, M.A

²I Wish that I may be so far from receiving prejudice, that I may be profited by the worst of those with whom I associate. As my God created nothing in vain, so he permits nothing, but to some good purpose. Tis true, wicked men are Dogs, (Mat. 7. 12.) prone to faun on me, that they may defile me; but even of Dogs there may be a good use; The Flock is the more safe from Wolves, and the House from Thieves through their watchfulness. They are dust, apt to breed vermin, but some creatures live upon it as their Aliment, and in it as their Element, and the basest rubbish, may be serviceable about the foundation of a building. The Guts and Garbage of some beasts are food to others. Doth not experience teach us, that many Fowls draw nourishment from unclean and filthy Carcasses? Why may not my stomach be so good, and my spiritual constitution so strong, as to concoct such unwholesome food? Lycurgus taught the Lacedaemonians virtue, not only by the pattern of their Sober Ephori, but also of the drunken Helots their slaves; Poisons are as necessary as the best diet, if they be in the hands of him who is able to improve and prepare them. Beer is the better, the more lively and brisk for the grounds that are in the same vessel with it. O that my graces might be the more quick and active for the lees of others vices; that their sins might increase my sanctity; both in making me more thankful to him who maketh me to differ, and more watchful over my ⟨p. 213⟩self, lest I fall from my own steadfastness. The Mariners are directed in their sailings by Rocks and Shelves, as well as by the Northern star; My God instructeth Jonah by the shadow of a Weed. Go to the Pismire thou sluggard, consider her provident ways, and be wise to follow them. Observe the men of this world; O my soul, consider their wicked ways, and be wise to avoid them. Ask these beasts of the earth, and they will teach thee, nay shame thee. How unwearied are they in the pursuit of the world! how diligent about their works of darkness! how often do they lose their sleep to do mischief, and neglect their food and callings to indulge their fleshly lusts, whilst thou, whose Master is the Lord of Glory, whose service is the only freedom, and whose recompense will be infinite, art loitering and lazing upon the bed of security!

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