Sin, the Plague of Plagues

2 That good men witness against their own sin, ²as well as against other mens sins: they do not only wish others reformation, but do endeavour their own; and would, if possible, be so innocent, as not to sin at all; 'tis their ambition and prayer, that their thoughts, words and deeds, may be all acceptable to God, Psa. 19 14. they would not dream extravagantly, if they could avoid it, nor that a vain thought should lodge within them: 'tis possible indeed, that some men may declaim bitterly against other mens sins, and yet indulge their own; as if they had rather see other men reformed then themselves, and virtue were a more pleasant Theme to talk of, then a thing to be possest; but godly men dare not do so, but are against sin in others, and against sinning themselves. As appears

1. 2Against their own sin.

1 By this, that they will not, dare not sin, though they have opportunity, and may do it with pleasure, honour and profit, as the world rates these things: Some men that do not sin for want of opportunity, would sin if they had it, they want not heart, but occasion, not inclination, but opportunity, they would sin, if tempted to sin: Others avoid sins that would bring disgrace, &c. but for pleasant, fashionable, ⟨p. 133⟩and profitable sins, they can easily embrace such; but godly men dare not sin, though all these concur; take an instance in Joseph, who when he was courted into pleasure, &c. yet even then, saith he, how, oh how, (can I find it in my heart?) can I do? how shall I do this wickedness, and sin against God! Gen. 39.7.-9. 'tis, saith he, sin against my Master, sin against thee, sin against mine own soul, but the worst is, 'tis against God; how shall I do this wickedness, and sin against God! Another instance of him there is in relation to his brethren; how ill they had deserved at his hands, what opportunity he had to be revenged, is well known yet he generously forgave them, and provided for them; and this was the reason, I, saith he, fear God,