248 SIXTH SERMON that we would be stedfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, i Cor. xv. 58. that we would look to ourselves, that we may not lose the things which we have wrought, 2 John 8. that we would hold fast and keep the works of Christ unto the end, Rev. ii. 25, 26. and it is that which godly men are most earnestly solicitous about, and do strive unto with greatest importunity. " I have purposed that my mouth shall not transgress," Psa. xvii. 3. " Unite my heart to fear thy name," Psa. lxxxvi. 11. " My heart is fixed O God, my heart is fixed, I will sing and give praise," Psa. lvii. 7. There- fore in this case it is necessary for us to draw nigh unto God, who only can ratify all our pious resolu- tions ; who giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no power increaseth strength, Isa. xl. 29. who only can settle and stablish the hearts of men, 1 Pet. v. 10. The conscience of our duty, the sense of our frailty, the power, malice, and cunning of our enemies, the obligation of our covenant, should direct the soul perpetually unto God for the supply of his grace, that it may in all our weaknesses be sufficient for us, and hold us up that we may be safe, as the psalmist speaks, Psa. cxix. 117. and may never through infirmity or unstableness of spirit violate our own resolutions. Further, this is a matter of great comfort unto the godly, that in the midst of so many temptations, snares, impediments, amongst which we walk, not only the safety of our souls, and security of our eternal salvation ; but even our present condition in this life, our conversion, our obedience, all our pious purposes of heart, all the progress we make in a holy conversation ; do not depend upon the weakness and uncertainty of a human will, but upon the infallible
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTcyMjk=