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

and whether you grow in Grace: examine whether you have laid a good Foundation, and also how far you proceeded in the work. Alas, some think the work is well over, when it is to begin still; and the reason of their mistake is, because they do not take pains to examine how matters stand between God and their Souls. I have Read of a Heathen, that every day when night came, would call himself to an account; and if he had not received and done some good that day, he would be much troubled. Alas, how much do many Christians fall short of this? 4. Allow time for this matter, and make it your work. Great works must have time allowed to do them ⟨p. 255⟩in. Now the greatest work which every Man hath to do in this World, is to make sure that his Soul get safe to Heaven, when he dyeth and leaveth this World; Therefore allow your selves time to attend the Duties of your general Calling, every day allow your selves time for reading the Scripture, and for Prayer in your Families, and in your Closets also; you can allow your selves time for other matters, nay it may be needless matters, and very vanities; and will you not allow time to look after the Eternal Concernments of your immortal Souls? you can allow your selves time to sleep, and will you not allow your selves time to pray? Rather be without sleep, nay without necessary Food, than live without Prayer, and see that you make this business of Salvation your work. Do not think to make it a by work, which you will mind when you have nothing else to do. But whatever be done, or lest undone, let not this matter of your Salvation be left undone, Luke 10. two last Verses. 5. Set about the work, […] in your own, but in the strength of Christ, 1. Sam. 2.9. By strength, that is, Humane▪ strength, shall no man prevail: You will certainly miscarry in the work, if you set upon it in your own strength: There are ⟨p. 256⟩mighty Corruptions (Sons of Anak) to be subdued, there are mighty strong Temptations to be resisted, there are great Duties to be performed; therefore enter upon all in the name of Christ, Phil. 4.13. I can do all things through Christ strengthening of me. Then may you be able to subdue all Corruptions, resist all Temptations, perform all Duties, bear all Afflictions, if the strength of Christ be engaged with you & for you. 6. Live in love and peace amongst your selves.