§. 142. Of the reasons of Perseverance.§. 142. Of the reasons of Perseuerance.

§. 142. Of the reasons of Perseverance.

§. 142. Of the reasons of Perseuerance.

The ground of this Perseverance is Gods wise disposing providence,¹ who oft setteth a long date to the accomplishment of his promises, till which time come, he seemeth not to hear us, and yet expecteth that we should solicit and ply him with our prayers, not because he needeth solicitors, and remembrancers, but for just and weighty reasons,

THe ground of this Perseuerance is Gods wise disposing prouidence,¹ who oft setteth a long date to the accomplishment of his promises, till which time come, he seemeth not to heare vs, and yet expecteth that wee should solicite and ply him with our prayers, not because he needeth soliciters, and remembrancers, but for iust and weightie reasons,

1. 1Reason. Why God oft seemeth not to hear our prayers.Reason. Why God oft seemeth not to heare our prayers.

1 The sacrifice of prayer is a sweet and delight some sacrifice to God.^f The Apostle speaking of the calves or fruits of our lips, which are prayers and praises, saith, with such sacrifices God is pleased. ^gIn this respect prayer is called Incense: God is delighted with the prayers of his Saints, as men with the savour of sweet incense. He loveth to hear them oft praying, and long to continue, provided that the prayer come from an honest heart and true desire.