3. And when we have attained any evidence of true faith, labour to
Christ, and believe. There may be adherence without evidence; and there must be an act of reflection to cause faith of evidence. It must appear to ourselves that we do believe before we can have comfort, though we may be true Christians, and go to heaven without it.
Therefore, let us labour 'to make our calling and election sure,' 2 Pet.
1:10; that is, in ourselves, and in our own apprehension. Though it be never so sure in itself, and in God's breast, yet we must labour to make it sure in our own breasts; that sin may be pardoned in our own consciences; that all may be reconciled in our own hearts; that what is done in heaven may be done in our own hearts also being cleared to our own assurance. You see what advice the apostle gives
'Give all diligence.' It is not got without diligence, nor without 'all diligence, to make our calling and election sure,' that is, to make our election sure by our calling, and to that end 'to add grace to grace,' 2
Pet. 1:5. It is the growing Christian that is the assured Christian.
Whilst we are yet adding to every heap, 'we shall get more abundant entrance,' 2 Pet. 1:11, and further into the kingdom of Jesus Christ, as the apostle there speaks.
3. And when we have attained any evidence of true faith, labour to keep that our evidence clear. Let it not be spotted or defiled by any sinful acts. You have many a good evidence that is so blurred with negligences, and daily errors in speeches and conversation, that when they reflect upon themselves they conclude, Can such a wretch as I, that have so loose a tongue, that have no more watchfulness over my heart, have any faith at all? And thus God doth suspend their comforts so, that though they may be in a good estate for the main, yet they shall not know it; and all because they are not careful to keep their evidence, which we should preserve clear and bright, that it might be seen and read upon all occasions. And we should so keep them bright, that our consciences may witness with us, and that the Spirit and the word may join their witness with our consciences.