Words of advice to young men delivered in two sermons at two conventions of…

1. The time of Youth is the most acceptable time, 2 Cor. 6. 2. The Apostle speaketh of the day of the Gospel, and I may speak it of the day of Youth: Behold now is the acceptable time, behold, now is the day of salvation. Any part of the day may be acceptable; ⟨p. 22⟩be sure the beginning of the day is most acceptable. God is best pleased with young ones who seek the things which belong to his Kingdom, and their salvation; that dedicate themselves to his service betimes, before Satan and the World have ravished their Virgin-affections. Under the Law God required the First-fruits and First-born for Sacrifice, and under the Gospel God requireth the first-fruits and first-born of our time, and thoughts, and affections: The first-fruits under the Law were to be mingled with Oil and Frankincense, which gave forth a sweet savour, Lev. 2. 15. when you devote the first of your time, and parts, and strength to God, this is a sweet savour to him. God taketh especial notice of, and is exceedingly pleased with ea ly seekers, and timely services. Jer. 2. 2. I remember the kindness of thy youth, and the love of thy espousals; and Cant. 6. 11. we read of Christ, going down into the garden of the Church, to see if the Pomegranates budded; the buddings and blossoms of Youth are sweet and pleasing to Christ: the youngest Disciple was Christs beloved Disciple. It is recorded for the commendation of Josiah, that he did that which was right in the sight of God when he was but eight years old, 1 King. 22. 1. and of Timothy, that from a Child he had known the Holy Scriptures, whereby he became wise unto salvation, 2 Tim. 3. 15. None are like to bring so much glory to God, as those that s•ek his Kingdom and Righteousness in their youth; and therefore this time is the most acceptable time.