The works of George Swinnock, M.A

³Thirdly, If thou wouldst exercise thy self to godliness in solitude; Mind solemn and set meditation. ⟨p. 389⟩In the former head I advised thee to Occasional, in this, to Deliberate meditation. Hereby thou wilt not only prevent those covetous, ambitious, lascivious thoughts, which otherwise might crowd in upon thee, and pollute thee, but also exceedingly further thy soul in holiness. Occasional meditations do some good, but these much more, as making a greater impression upon the soul, and abiding longer with it. They differ as a taste and a full meal, as a sip and a good draught. Occasional meditations are like loving strangers, that afford us a visit, but are quickly gone. Deliberate meditations are as inhabitants that dwell with us, and are longer helpful to us. The former as the morning dew, do somewhat moisten and refresh the earth, but quickly passeth away; The latter as a good shower, soaks deep, and continueth long. Because this is of great weight, I shall acquaint thee what solemn meditation is, and then give thee a pattern of it.

³THirdly, If thou wouldst exercise thy self to godliness in solitude; Mind solemn and set meditation. ⟨p. 389⟩In the former head I advised thee to Occasional, in this, to Deliberate meditation. Hereby thou wilt not onely prevent those covetous, ambitious, lascivious thoughts, which otherwise might crowd in upon thee, and pollute thee, but also exceedingly further thy soul in holiness. Occasional meditations do some good, but these much more, as making a greater impression upon the soul, and abiding longer with it. They differ as a taste and a full meal, as a sip and a good draught. Occasional meditations are like loving strangers, that afford us a visit, but are quickly gone. Deliberate meditations are as inhabitants that dwell with us, and are longer helpful to us. The former as the morning dew, do somewhat moysten and refresh the earth, but quickly passeth away; The latter as a good showre, soaks deep, and continueth long. Because this is of great weight, I shall acquaint thee what solemn meditation is, and then give thee a pattern of it.