Human nature in its fourfold state ... In several practical discourses

because nothing relisheth with them in th• practice of religion, that goes beyond their own measure; what of the life and power of religion appears in others, serves only to raise the serpentine grudge in their Pharisaical hearts. But, as for them that are born again; their love and affection to the brethren, bears proportion to the degrees of the divine image they discern in them.

Now, if ye would improve these things to the knowledge of your state, I would advise you, (1.) To set apart some time, when ye are at home, for a review of your case, and try your state, by what has been said. Many have comfort and clearness as to their state, at a sermon; who in a little time lose it again: because, while they hear the word preached, they make application of it; but do not consider of these things more deliberately and leisurely when alone. The action is too sudden and short, to give lasting comfort. And it is often so indeliberate, that it has bad consequences. Therefore, set about this work at home, after earnest and […] prayer to God for his help in it. Complain not of your want […] while the night follows the busy day; or of place, […] and out-houses are to be got. (2.) Renew your repentance before the Lord. Guilt lying on the conscience, unrepented of, may darken all your evidences and marks of grace. It provokes the Spirit of grace to depart; and when he goes, our light ceases. It is not sit time for a […] to read his evidences, when the candle is blown out by some conscience-wounding guilt. Lastly, Exert the powers of the new nature; let the graces of the divine Spirit in you, discover themselves by action. If ye would know whether there is a sacred fire in your breast, or not, ye must blow the ••al: for although' it be, and be a live-coal; yet if it be under the ashes, it will give you no light. Settle in your hearts a firm purpose, through' the grace that is in Christ Jesus, to comply with every known duty, and watch against every known sin; having a readiness of mind, to be instructed in what ye know not. If gracious souls would thus manage their inquiries into their state; it is likely, they would have a comfortable issue. And if others w•u•d take such a solemn review and make trial of their state impartially,