Some important truths about conversion, delivered in sundry sermons, / by Increase Mather, D.D.…

We proceed therefore to the second thing, namely, to show what is implied in redeeming seasons of Grace, or, When a man may be said to redeem the time?

We proceed therefore to the second thing, namely, to shew what is implied in redeeming seasons of Grace, or, When a man may be said to redeem the time?

For Answer to that, 1. Herein is implied, An heart to receive and do all the good that may be. Except there be an heart to receive Spiritual good when it is offered, a man cannot be said to redeem time; as Solomon complains, Prov. 17.16. Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it. Sometimes it is so, that there is a precious Sermon Preached at a mans door; if he would come and hear, who knoweth how much good might be done to his Soul: But he cometh not, and yet hath no sufficient reason to excuse himself, only he hath no heart to it; therefore he is not worthy to be accounted a Time-redeemer. So again, there must be a heart to do good. As the Apostle exhorts, Gal. 6.10. As we have opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially to them who are of the household of Faith. When a man doth seriously and conscientiously think with himself, How may I improve my time and talent most to the honour of God and good men, and comfort of my own Soul, in the great day, and doth accordingly; such an one doth redeem the time. Though a man should be providentially disappointed as to actual performance, yet if indeed he hath an heart ⟨p. 161⟩to lay hold on opportunities of receiving or doing Spiritual good, he is a Time-redeemer.

For Answer to that, 1. Herein is implied, An heart to receive and do all the good that may be. Except there be an heart to receive Spiritual good when it is offered, a man cannot be said to redeem time; as Solomon complains,