The saints everlasting rest

3. A distance is pre-supposed from this end, else there can be no motion towards it. This sad distance is the case of all mankind since the fall: it was our GOD that we principally lost, and were shut out of his gracious presence; and since are said to be without him in the world: nay, in all men, at age, here is supposed, not only a distance, but also a contrary motion. When Christ comes with regenerating, saving grace, he finds no man sitting still, but all posting to eternal ruin; till, by conviction, he first brings them to a stand, and by conversion, turns first their hearts, and then their lives, to himself.

4. Here is pre-supposed the knowledge of the true ultimate end, and its excellency; and a serious intending it. For so the motion of the rational creature proceedeth: an unknown end, is no end; it is a contradiction. We cannot make that our end, which we know not; nor that our chief end which we know not, or judge not to be the chief good. Therefore where this is not known, that GOD is this end; there is no obtaining rest in any ordinary way, whatsoever may be in ways that by GOD are kept secret.

5. Here is pre-supposed, not only a distance from this rest, but also the true knowledge of this distance. If a man have lost his way, and know it not, he seeks not to return: therefore they that never knew they were without GOD, never yet enjoyed him; and they that never knew they were actually in the way to hell, did never yet know the way to heaven: nay, there will not only be a knowledge of this distance, and lost estate, but affections answerable. Can a man find himself on the brink of hell, and not tremble? Or find he hath lost his GOD, and his soul, and not cry out, I am undone!