Vera}.. Rules to be obferved concerning AffliEliens. 32'9 fixed on their tiuds from their natural diJì'empers. There wilt not be cured bYReáfonings, nor utterly quelled by faith. Our defign muff be toabate their Efficacy and Conlequents, by con- fidering their Occafions. And ifmen cannot do this in them- felves, it is highly incumbent on thole who make Appl; cation ofrelief unto them, to be careful' to\difcern what is from filch principles, whereof they are not to expeó a fpeedy Cure. And, . 6. Take heed in times of peace and eafe, that you lay not up, byyour negligence or carelef walking, fad prowfon for a day of darknefß, a time of Atrli6ions. It is fin that imbitters troubles ; the fins of peace are revived in the time of dittrefs. Fear of future Affliction, ofimpendent troubles, fhould make us care- full not to bring that into them which will make them bitter and forrowfull. 7. Labour rogrow better under allyour Afillions, leftyour Af- flictions grow worfe ; left God Mingle them with more dark- nefs, bitternefs and terrour. As loab laid unto David, if he ceafed not his fcandalous Lamentation on the death of Ahfolom, all the people would leave him, and he then fhould find him - felf in a far worfe condition than that which he bemoan, d, or any thing that befell him fromhu youth. The fame may be laid unto perlons under their Afflictions. If they are not managed and improved in a duemanner, that which N warfe may, nay, in all probability will befall them. Whereevcr God takes this way, and engageth in afflicting, he dothcommonly purfue his work until he háth prevailed, and his defign towards the of ßi(` ed party be accomplifhed. He will not ceafe to threfh and break the bread-cornuntil it be meet for his ufe. Lay down then the weapons of thy warfare againit him ; give up your felves to his Will ; let go every thingabout whichhe contends with you ; follow after that which he calls you unto, and you will find light arifing untoyou in the midft of darknefs. Hach lie a cup of Affliction in one hand, lift up your eyes and you will fee a cup of Confolation in another. And ifall Stars with- draw their light, whilti you are in the way ofGod, affure your felves that the Sara is ready to rife. 8. According to the Tenor ofthe Covenant ofGrace, aman may
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