The truly blessed man, or, The way to be happy here, and forever being…

1. There is a reason why we find no relief. God is wise in the management of all his Providences towards the Children of men; and this affair is certainly governed by this Providence; there are the causes of all, and he doth nothing but what he hath reason for, and an holy design in, and it is good for us humbly to make enquiry after it, the, Job. 10. 2. Show me why thou contendest with […].

1. There is a reason why we find no relief. God is wise in the management of all his Providences towards the Children of men; and this affair is certainly governed by this Providence; there are the causes of all, and he doth nothing but what he hath reason for, and an holy design in, and it is good for us humbly to make enquiry after it, the, Job. 10. 2. Shew me why thou contendest with 〈…〉.

2. God is faithful to his promises. He is frequently better, but never worse than his word. The ⟨p. 238⟩Scripture is abundant in asserting Gods faithfulness, for our encouragement to trust in him: and there are many attestations given to it, by such as have made the trial. Now there are gracious Promises made to such as ingeniously confess their Sins to God; as he requireth it in the New-Covenant, so he encourageth it; and it is certain that he cannot deny himself.

3. Hence there is certainly some blame in you that must be removed, in order to your receiving the promised benefit. There is such a defect in your Confession, as rendereth it another thing from that which the Gospel requires of you: and if you would have him to come to you, and witness his pardoning mercy in you, that must be rectified. It is then necessary that you make a through trial on this account, how else shall you know what is your present duty? If you sit down discouraged, you thereby charge God; but if you make a through search, you may so be set in the right way.