The Godly Man's Picture

8. An humble man is willing to have his name and parts eclipsed, so Gods glory may be more increased; he is content to be outshined by others in gifts and esteem, so that the Crown of Christ may shine the brighter: This is the humble mans Motto, Let me decrease, let Christ increase: 'Tis his desire that Christ should be exalted, and if this be effected, let who will be the instrument, he rejoiceth, Phil. 1. 15. Some preach Christ of envy; They preached to get away some of Pauls hearers; Well, saith he, Christ is preached, and I therein do rejoice, ver▪ 8. An humble Christian is content to be laid aside, if God hath any other tools to work with which may bring him more glory.

8. An humble man is willing to have his name and parts eclipsed, so Gods glory may be more encreased; he is content to be outshined by others in gifts and esteem, so that the Crown of Christ may shine the brighter: This is the humble mans Motto, Let me decrease, let Christ encrease: 'Tis his desire that Christ should be exalted, and if this be effected, let who will be the instrument, he rejoyceth, Phil. 1. 15. Some preach Christ of envy; They preached to get away some of Pauls hearers; Well, saith he, Christ is preached, and I therein do rejoyce, ver▪ 8. An humble Christian is content to be laid aside, if God hath any other tools to work with which may bring him more glory.

9. An humble Saint likes that condition which God sees best for him; a proud man murmurs he hath no more, an humble man wonders he hath so much, Gen. 32. 10. I am not worthy of the least of all thy mercies: when the heart lies low, it can stoop to a low condition. A Christian looking upon his sins, wonders it is no worse with him, he doth not say his mercies are small, but his sins are great; he knows the worst piece God carves him, is better than he deserves, therefore takes it thankfully upon his knees.