A94156:995
The Christian-man's calling: or, A treatise of making religion ones business. Wherein the nature…
The Christian-man's calling: or, A treatise of making religion ones business. Wherein the nature and necessity of it is discovered. : As also the Christian directed how he may perform it in [brace] religious duties, natural actions, his particular vocation, his family directions, and his own recreations. / By George Swinnock ...
London: printed for T.P., 1662
Treatise › Chapter 26: How to exercise our selves to Godliness in our Partiular Callings.
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Do not think that it will be a sufficient excuse at the last day to tell God, that thy devotion was neglected, because thy earthly occasions abounded and pressed upon thee. If thy servant should tell thee, when he hath neglected thy business of concernment, that he could not help it because he had business of his own to look after, a Friend called him to the Ale-house, wouldst thou think that a sufficient plea? Believe it, thy defence is far worse when thou omittest the service of God for thy particular calling.
Do not think that it will be a sufficient excuse at the last day to tell God, that thy devotion was neglected, because thy earthly occasions abounded and pressed upon thee. If thy servant should tell thee, when he hath neglected thy business of concernment, that he could not help it because he had business of his own to look after, a Friend called him to the Ale-house, wouldst thou think that a sufficient plea? Beleive it, thy defence is far worse when thou omittest the service of God for thy particular calling.
The Philosopher could say, 1that he would rather neglect his means then his mind, and his farm then his soul. The very Turks though they work their Slaves hard, will yet allow them time every day for food and rest. Wilt thou Reader deal worse with thy precious soul, then the Turks do with their Galley-slaves? For shame man be not so cruel to thy best part.
The Philosopher could say, 1that he would rather neglect his means then his mind, and his farm then his soul. The very Turks though they work their Slaves hard, will yet allow them time every day for food and rest. Wilt thou Reader deal worse with thy precious soul, then the Turks do with their Gally-slaves? For shame man be not so cruel to thy best part.
- 1Aristippus apud Plot. de tranq. a nimae.