The works of George Swinnock, M.A

It is good advice which Bernard gives in such a case; Dost thou hear that a brother hath said or done somewhat that reflecteth upon thee, or is injurious to thee? then saith he; 1. Be hard to believe it. He should have a loud tongue, that can make thee to hear such a report. I would give him little thanks (in case the honour of God were not concerned) that were the messenger to bring me such a sour present; his pains would deserve but a poor reward, that brought me tidings of a discourtesy to rob me of my charity. The evidence shall be very clear, or I will write Ignoramus upon his Bill of Indictment; But if the thing be so plain that it cannot be denied, then saith he, 2. Excuse his intent and purpose. Think with thy self, Possibly he had a good end in it. He spake as he heard, or he did what he did upon some good ground and account. Though the action seem to savour of injury, yet certainly in his intention there was no evil. Had I his eyes, I should see his end was right and honest; But if there should be no reason for hope, that his purpose was good, then saith he, 3. Think he did it ignorantly; that had he known the consequence, he would not have been guilty of such a crime. Surely the man thought no hurt, ⟨p. 292⟩he spake on a sudden, such words came out of his mouth before he was aware, or he would never have spoken them; I my self in an heat, might have been as harsh. When high winds blow, storms will follow. 4. If thou canst not be persuaded but the injury was wittingly offered, then think, He was overcome with some great temptation. There were extraordinary fumes at that instant flying up into his head, which made him talk idly, and of which now he may be repenting before the Lord. The strong man was too hard for the weak Christian. Flesh and blood was easily conquered by Principalities & Powers; I may well forgive him, his sin will cost him sorrow enough before his Father smile on him.

It is good advice which Bernard gives in such a case; Dost thou hear that a brother hath said or done somewhat that reflecteth upon thee, or is injurious to thee? then saith he; 1. Be hard to believe it. He should have a loud tongue, that can make thee to hear such a report. I would give him little thanks (in case the honour of God were not concerned) that were the messenger to bring me such a sowr present; his pains would deserve but a poor reward, that brought me tidings of a discourtesie to rob me of my charity. The evidence shall be very clear, or I will write Ignoramus upon his Bill of Indictment; But if the thing be so plain that it cannot be denyed, then saith he, 2. Excuse his intent and purpose. Think with thy self, Possibly he had a good end in it. He spake as he heard, or he did what he did upon some good ground and account. Though the action seem to savour of injury, yet certainly in his intention there was no evil. Had I his eyes, I should see his end was right and honest; But if there should be no reason for hope, that his purpose was good, then saith he, 3. Think he did it ignorantly; that had he known the consequence, he would not have been guilty of such a crime. Surely the man thought no hurt,