310 FORGIVENESS OP SIN., Does not this relief prove, for the most part, like the morning cloud and the early decal a little refreshment, it may be, it yields for a season, but it is quickly again dried up, and the soul left in its heartless withering condition. You will say then, do you condemn this manner of proceeding with the souls of men in their doubts, fears, and distresses? or would you have them pine away un- der the sense of their condition, or abide in this uncer- tainty all their days ? I answer, I would not have any left comfortless in their depths; but yet I would give these two cautions. 1. That spiritual wisdom is greatly required in ad- ministering consolation to distressed souls. If in any thing the tongue of the spiritually learned is required, it is here; namely, in speaking a word in season to them that are weary. A promiscuous imparting of gospel- consolation, without a previous right judgment concern, ing the true state of the soul, is seldom useful, often pernicious. And let men take care how they commit their souls and consciences to spiritual advisers who have good words in readiness for all comers. 2. If counsel and consolation of this kind be given, dis- tinct from the advice to watchfulness, diligence, spiritual violence in a way of duty, it is exceedingly dangerous, and will assuredly prove useless. Let us see what counsel the Holy Ghost gives to those who would make their calling and election sure, who would be freed from their present fears and uncertainties, who complain of their darkness and dangers: " Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, knowledge," &c. 2 Pet. 1 : 5. "For," saith he, " if you do these things, an entrance
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