Section 26

Section 26

For who is a God like unto thee, that pardonest iniquity, and passest by the transgression of the remnant of thine heritage; who retainest not thine anger for ever, because thou delightest in mercy. O that thou wouldst have compassion upon us, and subdue our iniquities, and cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.'

(2.) The merit and righteousness of our Lord Jesus Christ, which we rely upon as our main plea in our petition for the pardon of sin.

We know that as thou art gracious and merciful so thou art the righteous God that lovcth righteous-ness,^ and wilt by no means clear the guilty.' We cannot say. Have patience with us, and we will pay thee all ;^ for we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.* But Jesus Christ is made of GT>d to us righteousness ;^ being tt Ps. cxliii. S. V Hos. xiv. 3,3. w Isa.i. 18. s Jobx. 2. 7 Job xxxiii. 24. > Ps. Ixxxvi. 6,15. • Neh. ix. 17 b Pa. ciil. 0. e Isa. xliii. 25,36. a Numb. xiv. 17-19. o Mic. vii. IS, m. f Ps. xi. 7. ff Exod. xxxiv. 7. h Matt xviii. 36. I Isa. Ixiv. 6. k 1 Cor. i. 30. i 2 Con v. 21. a 1 John ii. 1,2. made sin for us, though he knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.'

We have sinned, but we have an advocate witb the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous, who is the propitiation for our sins, and not for oars only, but for the sins of the whole world.™

It is God that justifieth, who is he that shall coo« demn ? It is Christ that died, yea, rather that is rises again, and now is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us,** and whose blood speaks better things than that of Abel.**

We desire to count every thing loss for Christ, and dung that we may win Christ, and be found io him, not having any righteousness of oor own, hat that which is through the faith of Christ.i*

This is the name whereby we will call him. The Lord our righteousness.*! In him. Lord, we believe ; help thou our unbelief.^

Lord, remember David and all his troubles, the Son of David. Remember all his offerings, and accept his burnt sacrifice ;* and turn not away the face of thine Anointed,^ who by his own blood is entered into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.**

Hast not thou thyself sent forth thy Son Christ Jesus, to be a propitiation for sin through faith in his blood, to deliver thy righteousness for the remission of sins, to declare at this time thy righteousness, that thou mayst be just, and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus ;" and we now receiTe the atone-ment.^ (3.) The promises God has made in his word to pardon and absolve all them that truly repent and unfeigncdly believe his holy gospel.

Lord, is not this the word which thoa hast spoken, that if the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and return unto the Lord, even to our God, that thou wilt abundantly pardon, wilt multiply to pardon ?'

To thee the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against thee.'

Is not this the covenant which thou hast made with the house of Israel, that thou wilt take away their sins ;* that thou wilt forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more ;* that the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found !^

Hast thou not said, that if the wicked vrill turn i from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep thy statutes, he shall live, he shall not die, all his transgressions shall not be mentioned unto him ^

Hast thou not appointed, that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in Christ's name unto all nations ? <* n Rom. viii. 33.34. o Heb. xU. 34. p PhiL iii. 7—0. % itt-xxiii. a r Mark ix. 24. • Ps. xx. 3. « Pa. «*«»^i. i, Ml n Heb. ix. 13, 24. T Rom. iii. 35,26. w Rom. v. Ii. > ba. Iv. 7. 7 Dan. ix. 9. « Rom. xi. 27. a Jer. xxxi. 34. » Jet. 1. ». c Eaek. x?iii. 31, SS. d Luke uiv. 47.

PETITIONS AND REQUESTS.

647

Didst thou not promise, that when the sins of Israel were put upon the head of the scape goat, they should be sent away into the wilderness, into a land not inhabited ?* And as far as the east is from the west, so far dost thou remove our transgressions from us. f

O remember these words unto thy senrants, upon which thou hast caused us to hope.'

(4.) Our own misery and danger because of sin.

For thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon our iniquity, for it is great ;^ for innumerable evils have compassed us about, our iniquities have taken hold upon as, so that we are not able to look up: be pleased, O Lord, to deliver us; O Lord, make haste to help

US.*

O remember not against us former iniquities, let thy tender mercy speedily prevent us, for we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name; deliver us, and purge away our sins for thy name's sake.*'

Remember not the sins of our youth, nor our transgressions; according to thy mercy remember thou us, for thy goodness' sake, O Lord.^ (5.) The blessed condition which they are in whose sins are pardoned. O let us have the blessedness of those whose transgression is forgiven, and whose sin is covered; of that man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile."

O let us have redemption through Christ's blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of thy grace, wherein thou hast abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence.'* That being in Christ Jesus, there may be no condemnation to U8.*>

That our sins, which are many, being forgiven as, we may go in peace :p And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick, if the people that dwell therein be forgiven their iniquity.<i

II. We must likewise pray, that God will be reconciled to us, that we may obtain his favour and blessing, and gracious acceptance.

(1.) That we may be at peace with God; and his anger may be turned away from us. Being justified by faith, let us have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, and through him let us have access into that grace wherein believers stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.'

Be not thou a terror to us, for thou art our hope in the day of evil.*

In Christ Jesus let us, who sometimes were afar off, be made nigh by the blood of Christ; for he is our peace, who hath broken down the middle wall c Iv. xvi. 21,22. f Ps. ciii. 12. g Ps. cix. 49. h Ps. xxv.

11. I Pb. Xl. 12, 13. k Ps. IXxiX. 8,9. I Ps. XXV. 7. m P«. xxxii. 1,2. n Eph. i. 7, a o Rom. viii. 1. p Luke vii. 47,60. q Isa. xxxiii. ult. r Rom. v. 1,2. • Jer. xvii. 17. t Eph. ii. 13 -16,19. .Is. xxvii. 4, &. r Job xxii. 21. w Jer. xvii. 14. of partition between us, and that he might reconcile us to God by his cross, hath slain the enmity thereby, so making peace. Through him therefore let us, who had made ourselves strangers and foreigners, become fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.*

Fury is not in thee: who would set the briars and thorns against thee in battle ? thou wouldst go through them, yea, thou wouldst burn them together; but thou hast encouraged us to take hold on thy strength, that we may make peace; and hast promised that we shall make peace:" O let us therefore acquaint ourselves with thee, and be at peace, that thereby good may come unto us.^

Heal us, and we shall be healed; save us, and we shall be saved; for thou art our praise."^ Be not angry with us for ever, but receive us again, that thy people may rejoice in thee. Show us thy mercy, O Lord,.'and grant us thy salvation.'

(2.) That we may be taken into covenant with God, and admitted into relation to him.

Be thou to us a God, and take us to be to thee a people,' and make us a willing people in the day of thy power.'

Though we are no more worthy to be called thy children ;* for how shouldst thou put us, who have been rebellious, -among the children, and gve us the pleasant land ? but thou hast said that we shall call thee our Father, and not turn away from thee.^ Shall wc not therefore from this time cry unto thee, Our Father, thou art the guide of our youth ?«

Lord, we take hold of thy covenant,^ to thee we join ourselves in a perpetual covenant ;* O that thou wouldst cause us to pass under the rod, and bring us into the bond of the covenant,^ that we may become thine.

Make with us an everlasting covenant, even the sure mercies of David.* (3.) That we may have the favour of God, and an interest in his special love.

We entreat thy favour, O God, with our whole hearts: be merciful unto us according to thy word,^ for in thy favour is life :^ yea, thy loving-kindness is better than life itself.*^

Lord, make thy face to shine upon us, and be gpracious unto us; Lord, lift up the light of thy countenance upon us, and gve us peace.'

Remember us, O Lord, with the favour that thou bearest unto thy people: O visit us with thy salvation, that we may see the good of thy chosen, and may rejoice in the gladness of thy nation, and may glory with thine inheritance.*" (4.) That we may have the blessing of God.

O God be merciful to us, and bless us, and cause z Ps. Ixxxv. 6—7. 7 Heb. viil. 10. i Ps. ex. 3. a Luke XV. 19. b Jer. iii. 19. e Jer. iii. 4. d U. Ivi. 4. • Jer. I. 5. f Ezek. XX. 37. Bzek. xvi. 8. r Is. Iv. a h Ps. cxix. 59. i Ps. XXX. &. k Ps. Iziii. a 1 Numb. vL 25, S6. » Ps. cvi. 4, b.

PETITIONS AND REQUESTS. tby face to shine upon us; yea, let God, even our own God, give us his blessing."

The Lord that made heaven and earth, bless us out of Zion,<* bless us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things by Christ Jesus. p

O that thou wouldst bless us indeed !<i Command thy blessing upon us, even life for evermore;' for thou blessest, O Lord, and it shall be blessed.*

Let us receive the blessing from the Lord, even righteousness from the God of our salvation.^

Hast thou but one blessing ? Yea, thou bast many blessings: bless us, even us also, O our Father;" ya, let the blessing of Abraham come upon us, which comes upon the Gentiles through faith ;^ and the blessing of Jacob, for we would not let thee go, except thou bless us."* (5.) That we may have the presence of God with us. If thy presence go not with us, carry us not up hence;" never leave us nor forsake us.y

O cast us not away from thy presence, nor ever take thy Holy Spirit away from us ;* but let us always dwell with the upright in thy presence.*

III. We must pray for the comfortable sense of our reconciliatibn to God, and our acceptance with him.

That we may have some evidetice of the pardon of our sins, and of our adoption. O make us to hear joy and gladness, that the bones which sin hath broken may rejoice.^

Say unto each of us, Son, Daughter, be of good cheer, thy sins are forgiven thee.*^

Let the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge our conscience from dead works to serve thee the living God.**

Let thy Spirit witness with our spirits, that we are the children of God; and if children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ* Say unto our souls, that thou art our salvation.' (2.) That we may have a well grounded peace of conscience; a holy security and serenity of mind, arising from a sense of our justificlttion before God, and a good work wit>ught in us. The Lord of peace himself give us peace, all pefltoe, always, by all means ;9 that peace which Jesus Christ hath left with us, which he gives to us; such a peace as the world can neither give nor take away ; such a peace, that our hearts may not be troubled or afraid.''

Let the work of rightcousniess in our souls be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness, and assurance for ever.^ ' ■ » » ■ ■ — ■ ■ ^^^i^» ■ » »^^^» ^—^^^^^—^^^—1—^■^i.^-^.^^^M ■■■■■■ ■ n Ps. Ixvii. 1, 6. o Ps. cxxxiv. 3. p Eph. i. 3. q I Chron. iv. 10. r Ps. cxxxiii. 3. • 1 Chron. xvii. 27. t Ps. xxiv. 5. « Gen. xxvii. 38. ▼ Gal. iii. 14. w Gen. xxxil. 26. z Exod. xxxiii. 15. y Heb. xiii. 5. t Ps. U. n. » Pg. cxl. la b Ps. li. 8. c Matt. ix. 2. d Heb. ix. 14. • Rom. vtii. 16^ 17. t Ps. XXXV. 3. g 2 Thess iii. 16. h John xif. 27. i Is. xxxii. 17.

Speak peace to thy people, and to thy saints, iod let them not turn again to folly>

O create the fruit of the lips peace, peace to them that are afar off, and to them that are nigh, and restore comfort to thy moumersJ

Where the sons of peace are, let thy peace iad them out, and rest upon them."*

Cause us to hear thy loving-kindness, and to taste that thou art gracious," for in thee do we trust*

Let the peace of God, which passeth all nnder-standing, keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus ;p and let that peace rule in oar hearts, unM which we are called.^

Now the God of hope fill as with all joy and peace in believing, that we may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.'

IV. We must pray for the gce of God, aad all the kind and powerful inflaenoes and open tions of that grace.

We come to the throne of graces that we may obtain not only fenercy to pardon, but gce to help in every time of need, grace for seasonable help."

From the fulness that is in Jesus Christ, (in whoa it pleased the Father that all fulness should dwdV) let every one of us receive, and grace for grace.* (1.) We must pray for grace to fortify os against every evil thought, word, and woii. Having been earnest for the removing of the guilt of sin, that we may not die for it as t crime; we must be no less earnest for the breaking of the power of sin, that we may not die by it as a disease; but that it may be mortiiied in us. O let no iniquity have dominion over as, because we are not under the law but under grace.^

Let the flesh be crucified in USj with its affectioDS and lusts; that walking in the Spirit we may not fulfil the lusts of the flesh.''

Let our old man be crucified with Christ, tiial the body of sin may be destroyed, that henceforth we may not serve sin ; and let not sin reign in oor mortal bodies, (in our immortal soals,) that we should obey it in the lusts thereof; bat being made free from sin, let us become the servants of righteousness.*

Let the law of the Spirit of life, which is in Christ Jesus, mak«> us free from the law of sin and deatb.t Give us grace to put off the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, that we may put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.*

That the world may be crucified to as, and we to the world, by the cross of Christ^* k Ps. IxxxT. & I Is. Irii. IS, 19. » Luke x. IS. ■ Pi cx Hil a o 1 Pet. ii. 3. p Phil. tr. 7. q Col. iii. IS. t Rom. xf. IX • Heb. iv. 16. t Col. i. 19. u John i. 16. v Rom. tL 14 w Gal. V. IS, 24. X Rom. vi. fl, IS, 18. 7 RonL viii. a. tfipiik iv. 22,24. • Gal. vi. 14»

PETITIONS AND R£QU£ST9.

649

And tbat the temptations of Satan may not overcome us.

We pray tbat we may not enter into temptation ;^ 6r, however, that no temptation may take as bat sach as is common to men; and let the faithful God never suffer us to be tempted above what we are ftblc, but with the temptation make way for as to escape.^

Put upon us the whole armour of God, that we may be able to stand ag&inst the wiles of the devil, to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, fo stand. Let our loins be girt about with truth, put on us the breastplate of righteousness, and \tt our feet be shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Give us the shield 6t faith, wherewith we inay quench all the Gery darts of the wicked, and the helmet of salvation; and let the sword of the Spirit, ivhich is the word of God, be always ready to us.^

Enable us so to resist the devil, as that ht may flee trom us; *' to resist him stedfast in the faith.' And the God of peace tread Satan tinder our feet, and do it shortly.!

(2.) We must pray for grace t6 fomish us for every good thought, word, and Work, that we may not only be kept from sin, but may be in every thing as we should be, and do as we should do.

Let Christ be made of God to us, not only righteousness, but wisdom, sanetification, and itdemp-

Let us be planted together in the likeness of Christ's death and resurrection, that as he was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so ^e also may walk in newness of life.^

[1.] That the work of grace may be Wrought there, where it is not yet begun.

Lord, teach transgressors thy ways, and letliinners be converted unto thee; ^ and let the disobedient be turned to the wisdom of the just, andtnake ready a people prepared for the Lord.^

Let those be quickened that are yet dead in trespasses and sins: ■" say unto them. Live; yea, say unto them, Live; and \he time shall be a time of love."

Open their eyes, and turn them from darknifess to light, and from the power Of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance among them which are sanctified.**

By the bl Ood of the covenant, send forth the prisoners out of the pit in which is no water, that they may turn to the strong hold, as prisoners of hope.p

Let the word of God prevail to the pulling down of strong holds, and the casting down of imaginations, and every thing that exalteth itself against the h Matt xxvi. 41. e 1 Cor. x. 13. d Eph. vi. 13—17. • James

4V. r f I Pet. V. 9. V Rom. xvi. 20. h I Cor. 1.30. i Rom. vi. 4. k Pa. li. 13. 1 Luke i. 17. m Eph. ti. 1. n Ezek. tKvi. «, 8. o Acts xxvi. 18. p Zech. ix. U,!«. q 2 Cor. x. 5. knowledge of God, and let every thought be brought into obedience to Christ

[2.] That where it is begun it may be carried on, and at length perfected, and the foundation that is well laid may be happily built upon.

Fulfil in us all the good pleasure of thy goodness, and the work of faith with power.^

Let the God that has begun a good work in us, perform it unto the day of Christ*

Perfect, O God, that which concerns us: thy merdy, O Lord> endures for ever; forsake not the work of thine own hands.*

Lord, let thy grace be sufficient for us, and let thy strength be made perfect In vmeakness, that where wo are weak, there we may be strong;" strong in the Lord, atad the power of his might"^ (3.) More particularly we must pray for grace, to teach and instruct us, and make us knowing and intelligent in the things of God.

Give us so to cry after knowledge, and lift up our voice for understanding, to seek for it as silver, and to search for it as for hid treasure, that we may understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.^

Give tis all to know thee, from the least even to the greatest,' and to follow on to know thee ;f and so to know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou bait sent, as may be life eternal to us.*

Givts us the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ, that the eyes of our understand-* ing being enlightened, we may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and may experience what is the exceeding greatness of his power to as-* ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.*

Open thou our eyes, that we may see the wondrous things of thy law and gospel.^

Give us tb know the certainty of those things wherein we have been instructed f and let our knowledge grow up to al) riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, even of the Father, and of Christ.

Deal with thy servants according to thy mercy, and teach us thy statutes; we are thy servants, give us understanding that we may know thy testimonies. Let our cry come before thee, O Lord, give us under-statading according to thy word ;** that good understanding which they have that do thy command-*-ments, whose praise endureth for ever.* (4.) To lead us into, and keep us in the way of truth, and if in any thitag we are in an error, to rectify our mistake. r 2 Tbess. i. 11. • Phil. i. 6. t Ps. cxxxviii. 8. «!l Cor. xii. 9.10. T Eph. vi. 10. w Prov. ii. 3-5. » Heb. viii. 11. r Hos. vi. 3. I John xvii. 3. • Eph. i. 17—19. b Pa. cxix. la « Luke i. i. d Ps. cxix. 134,126, MM). « Ps. cxi. 10.

PETITIONS AND REQUESTS.

Let the Spirit of truth guide us into all truth/ and cause us to understand wherein we have erred."

That which we see not teach thou us," and enable us so to prove all things, as to hold fast that which is good.'

Lord, grant that we may not be as children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Christ in all things, who is the head.*^

Lord, give us so to do thy will, as that we may know of the doctrine whether it be of God ;' and so to know the truth, that the truth may make us free, may make us free indeed.'"

Enable us, we pray thee, to hold fast the form of sound words, which we have heard, in faith, and love, which is in Christ Jesus,^ and to continue in the things which we have learned, and been assured of.» (5.) To help our memories, that the truths of God may be ready to us, whenever we have occasion to use them.

Lord, let thy Spirit teach us all things, and bring all things to our remembrance, whatsoever thou hast said unto us,p that the word of Christ may dwell richly in us, in all wisdom and spiritual understand-ing.4

Lord, grant that we may give a more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we let them slip,' and may keep in memory what hath been preached to us, and may not believe in vain.

Lord, make us ready and mighty in the Scriptures,* that we may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works,* and being well instructed into the kingdom of heaven, may, as the good householder, bring out of our treasure things new and old. (6.) To direct our consciences, to show us the way of our duty, and to make us wise, knowing, judicious Christians.

Lord, give us a wise and an understanding heart,^ that wisdom which, in all cases, is profitable to direct;^ that wisdom of the prudent, which is to understand his way.*

This we pray, that our love may abound yet more and more in knowledge, and in all judgment, that we may discern things that differ, and may approve things that are excellent; that we may be sincere, and without offence unto the day of Christ, and may be filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God."

O that we may be filled with the knowledge of thy will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; f John xvi. 13. f Job vi. 24. h Job xxxiv. 32. i iThess. V. 21. k Eph. iv. 14,15. 1 John vii. 17. m John viii. 32.36. ■ 2 Tim i. 13. o 2 Tim. iii 14. p John xiv. 26. q Col. iii. 16. r Heb. ii 1. i Actsxviii. 29. t 2 Tim. iii. 17. u i Kings iii. 9. V Eccl. x. 10. w Prov. xiv. 8. » Phil. i. 9—11. y Col. i. 9, 10. t Ps. xxvii. II. • 2Chron. xx. 12. b Ua. xxx. 21. that we may walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.^

Teach us thy way, O God« and lead us in a plain path, because of our observers.*

When we know not what to do, oar eyes are op unto thee ;* then let us hear the word behind us, saying. This is the way, walk in it, that we torn not to the right hand, or to the left.'^

Order our steps in thy word, and let no iniquity have dominion over us.^ (7.) To sanctify our nature, to plant in us all holy principles and dispositions, and to increase every grace in us.

The very God of peace sanctify as wholly; and we pray God our whole spirit, and soal, and body, may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; for faithful is he that calleth lu, who also will do it<*

Create in us a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within us: cast us not away from thj presence, and take not thy Holy Spirit away from us: restore unto us the joy of thy salvation, and op-hold us with thy free Spirit.*

Write thy law in our hearts, and put it in oar inward part,^ that we may be the epistles of Christ, written by the Spirit of the living God, not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart,' thattbe law of our God being in our heart, none of our steps may slide,'' and we may delight to do thy will,' 0 God ; may delight in the law of God after the inward man.''

O that we may obey from the heart that form of doctrine into which we desire to be delivered,* as into a mould, that our whole souls may be leavened by it ;"* and that we may not be conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our mind ;^ may not fashion ourselves after our former lusts in our ignorance, but, as obedient children, may be holy in all manner of conversation, as he which hath called us is holy.°

[1.] We must pray for faith.

Unto us, Lord, let it be given to believe ;p for the ' faith by which we are saved is not of ourselves, it is the gift of God.4

Lord, increase our faith,' and perfect what ii lacking in it,* that we may be strong in faith, giving glory to God.*

Lord, give us so to be crucified with Christ, ai that the life we now live in the flesh, we may live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us, and t gave himself for us ;" and so to bear about with us continually the dying of the Lord Jesus, as that the e Ps. cxix. 133. 4 1 Theas. v. 23, S4. c Ps. ]i. 10—12. f Heb. viii. 10. g 2 Cor. iii. 3. h Pa. xxxvii.31. i p«. xl.& k Roa vii. 22. I Rom. vi. 17. m Luke xiii. 21. a Rqol nl S. o 1 Pet. i. 14,1ft. f Phil. i. 29. s Eph. ii. 8. t Lake xm & • I Theas. iii. lo. t Rom. iv. 20. u Gal. ii. 90.

PETITIONS AND REQUESTS.

661 life also of Jesas mHy be manifested in our mortal bodies.^

As we have received Christ Jesus the Lord, enable us so to walk in him, rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith as we have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.*

Let every word of thine profit us, being mixed ' with faith,* by which we receive thy testimony, and set to our seal that God is true J ' We beseech thee, work in us that faith which is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence ' of things not seen,* by which we may look above ' the things that are seen, that are temporal, and may look at the things that are not seen, that are eternal/

Enable us by faith to set the Lord always before us,'* and to have our eyes ever toward him,<= that we may act in every thing as seeing him that is invisible, and having a respect to the recompence of reward.**

Let our hearts be purified by faith,* and let it be oar victory overcoming the world ;^ and let us be kept from fainting, by believing that we shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.i [2.] We must pray for the fear of God.

Lord, work in us that fear of thee, which is the beginning of wisdom,^ which is the instruction of wisdom,^ and which is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.^

Unite our hearts to fear thy name,i that we may keep the commandments, which is the whole of man.'"

O put thy fear into oar hearts, that we may never depart from thee." Let us all be devoted to thy fear ;<> and let us be in the fear of the Lord every day, and all the day long.p

[3.] We must pray that the love of God and Christ may be rooted in us; and, in order thereunto, that the love of the word may be removed from us.

Give us grace, we beseech thee, to love thee, the Lord our God, with all our heart and soul, and mind and might, which is the first and great commandment ;<i to set our love upon thee,^ and to delight oarsclves always in thee; and therein we shall have the desire of our heart.*

Circumcise our hearts to love thee, the Lord our God, with all our hearts, and with all our soul, that we may live.*

O that the love of God may be shed abroad in our bearts by the Holy Ghost."

O that Jesus Christ may be very precious to us, ▼ 2 Cor. ir. 10. w Col. ii. 6,7. x Heb. iv. 2. y John ill. 33. » Heb. xi. I. a 2Cos»iv. 18. b Ps xvi. 8. e Pa. xxv. 15. A Heb. xl. 26, 27. • Acts xv. 9. f 1 John v. 4. r Pa. xxvii. 13. h Prov. i. 7. i Prov. xv. 33. k Prov. xiv. 27.

I Pa. Ixxxvi. II. m Eccl. xii. 13. n Jer. xxxli. 40. o ps. cxix. 38. p Prov. xxili. 17. q Matt xxii. 37. r Pa. xci.

14. • P8. xxx Tii. 4. I Dent. xxx. 6. « Rom. ▼. flu ▼ I Pet as he is to all that believe,^ that he may be in our account the chiefest of ten thousand, and altogether lovely, and that he may be our beloved and our friend :^ that though we have not seen him, yet we may love him; and though now we see him not, yet believing, we may rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory.'

Let the love of Christ to us constrain us to live, not to ourselves, but to him that died for us, and rose again.r

And, Lord grant that we may not love the world, nor the things that are in the world, because if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him ;* that we may set our afi'ections on things above, and not on things that are on the earth.

[4.] We must pray that our consciences may be always tender, and that we may live a life of repentance.

Lord, take away the stony heart out of our flesh, and give us a heart of flesh.*

Make us afraid of all appearances of evil,^ and careful not to gve Satan advantage against us, a» being not ignorant of his devices.*^

Lord, give us the happiness which fhey have who fear always,*^ that when we think we stand, we may take heed lest we fall.*

[5.] We must pray to God to work in us cha* rity and brotherly love.

Lord, put upon us that charity which is the bond of perfectness,f that we may keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace ;v and may live in love and peace, that the God of love and peace may be with us.*^

Lord, give us to love our neighbour as ourselves, .with that love which is the fulfilling of the law ;* to love one another with a pure heart, fervently,^ that hereby all men may know that we are Christ's dis« ciples.^

And as we are taught of God to love one another, gve us to abound therein more and more,* and, as we have opportunity, to do good to all men," and as much as in us lies to live peaceably with all men,o alleys following after the things that make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify an-other.p

Lord, make us able to love our enemies, to bless them that curse us, and to pray for them that de-spitefuUy use us, and to do good to them that hate us,<) forbearing one another, and forgiving one another in love, as Christ forgave us.'

[6.] We must pray for the grace of self-denial. ii. 7. w Cant. v. 10,16. « I Pet i. a j 2 Cor. v. 14. s 1 John ii. 15. « Ezek. xi. 19. b 1 Theaa. v. 22. e 2 Cor. ii. 11. d Prov. xxviU. 14. • 1 Cor. x. 12. f Col. iii. 14. g Epb. iv. 3. h 2 Cor. xiii. II. i Rom. xiii. 9. 10. k i Pet i. 22. 1 John xiii. 35. m I Theaa. iv. o. lo. b Gal. vi. 10. o Rom. xii. 18. p Rom. xiv. 19. q Matt ▼. 44. r CoL UL la dos

PfiTItlONS A>4D REQUEStg.

Lord, give ns grace to deny ourselves, to take up our cross daily, and to follow Christ,* to keep under the hody and bring it into subjection.'

Lord, keep us from being lovers of our own selves," from being wise in our own conceit, and leaning to our understanding.^

Lord, give us to seek, not our own only, but every one his brother's welfare.^

And grant that none of ud may live to ourselves, or die to ourselves, but whetlier we live or die, we may be the Lord's, and may live and die to him.* [7.] We must pray for humility and meekness.

Lord, give us all to learn of Chilst to be meek and lowly in heart, that we may find rest to our souls ;y and that herein the same mind may be in us, that was also in Christ Jesus.*

Lord, hide pride from us,* and clothe us with humility,^ and put upon us the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which in thy sight is of great price.*

Lord, gve us grace to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love.*

Let anger never rest in our bosoms,* nor the sun ever go down upon our wrath ;' but enable us to 2(how all meekness toward ail men, because we ourselves also were sometimes foolish and disobedient.'

Let us be clothed as becomes the elect of God, faoly and beloved, vritb bowets of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness and long-suffering,** that being merciful as our Father which is in heaven is merciful,* we may be perfect as he is perfect.^

[8.] We must pray for the grace of contentment and patience, and a holy indifference to all the things of sense and time.

Lord, teach us whatsoever state we are in therewith to be content ;^ let us know both how to be abased and how to abound; every where and in all things, let us be instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. And let godliness with contentment be great gain to us," and a little with the fear of the Lord, and quietness, is better than great treasure, and trouble therewith.^

Lord, grant that our conversation may be without covetousness,o and we may always be content with such things as we have; still saying, The will of the Lord be done.P

Enable us in our patience to possess our own souls ;'* and let patience always have its perfect work, that we may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.'

Matt. xvi. 34. t I Cor. ix. 27. » 2 Tim. iii f. » Prov. iii. ft, 7. w 1 Cor. x. 24. z Rom. xiv. 7. 8. j Matt. xi. 29. « Phil. ii. 5. a Job xxxiii. 17. b i Pet. v. 5. el Pet. iii. 4. d Eph. iv. 1, 2. e Eccl. vii. 9. f Eph. iv. 26. g Tit. iii. 2, 3. hCol. iii. 12. iLulcevi26. k Matt. v. «//. i Phil, iv. II, 12. m I Tim. vi. G. B Prov. xv. 16. o Heb. xiii. 5. p Acts xzi. 14. q Luke xxi. 19. r James i. 4. • 1 Cor. vii. 29->3l. I

Lord, give us grace to weep as thoagh we wepl not, and to rejoice as though we rejoiced not, and to buy as though we possessed not, and to use this world as not abusing it, because the time is sbort, and the fashion of this world passeth away.*

[9.] We must pray for the grace of hope; a hope in God and Christ, and a hope of etennl life.

Let patience work experience in as, and experience hope, such a hope as maketh not ashamed.* Through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, 1^ us have hope," and be saved by hope.^

Let the God of Jacob be our help, and our hope always be in the Lord our God.^

Let us be begotten again to a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,' and let that hope be to us as an anchor to the soul, sure ^nd stedfast, entering into that within the veil, whither the forerunner is for us entered.'

Let us have Christ in us the hope of glory, and never be moved away from that hope of the gospd;' but enable us to give diligence unto the full assurance of hope unto the end.* (8.) We must pray for gmce to preserve as from sin, and all appearances of it, and approaches towards it.

Now we pray to God that we may do no eTil,^birt may be blameless and harmless as the children of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.^

Turn away our eyes from beholding vanity, aad quicken thou us in thy way. Remove from us the way of lying, and grant us thy law graciously.'

Incline not our hearts to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with them that work iniquity, and let us not eat of their dainties.*

O cleanse us from our secret faults; keep back thy servants also from presumptuous sins:' le them not have dominion over us, but let us be ap-right, and innocent from the great transgressions; and grant that hereby we may prove ourselves upright before thee, by keeping ourselves from our own iniquity.6

Let the word be hid in our hearts, that we mar not sin against thee,** and thy grace be at all times sufficient for us,* ready to us, and mighty in us, and never give us up to our own hearts' lust, to walk in our own couirsels.''

Enable us to walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as Wise; ^ so circumspectly that we may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion* to blaspheme that worthy name by which we are called,*

I Rom. y. 4, 5. a Rom. xv. 4. ▼ Rom. viii. M. « Ps. cxhri 5. X 1 Pet. i. 3. 7 Heb. vi. 19,90. * Col. i. 93,S7. kHeb. vi. 11. b 2 Cor. xiii. 7. c Phil. ii. 1&. 4 Ps. cxis.

Ps. cxU. 4. f Ps. itix. 12,13. nr Ps. xviii. tx k Pa. csii. II.- 12 Cor. xii. a k Ps. Xxtxi. 12. i Bph. ▼. Ii. « SOtf. xi. 12. B James ii. 7.

PETITIONS AND REQUESTS.

663 and whh well-doing may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men,** and may adorn the doctrine of Godonr Saviour,? in all things.

(9.) We must pray for grace to enable ns both to govern our tongues virell, and to use them virell. li Ord, enable us to take heed to our ways, that we offend not with our tongue^^ and to keep our mouth as it were with a bridle, that it may not be hasty to utter any thing/

Set a watch, O Lord, before our mouth, keep the door of our lips," that we may not offend in word/

Let our speech be always with grace seasoned with salt," and enable us always out of the good treasure of our heart to bring forth good things/ Let our mouth speak wisdom, and our tongue talk of judgment;* and let not thy words depart out of oar mouth, nor out of the mouth of our seed, or our seed's seed, from henceforth and for ever/

Enable u always to open our mouth with wisdom, and let the law of kindness be in our tongue/ Give as to know what is acceptable, that our tongues maybe as choice silver, and our lips may feed many/ (10.) We must pray for grace to direct and quicken us to, and to strengthen and assist ns in, our duty, in the whole course of our conversation.

Let the grace of God, which hath appeared to us, and to all men, bringing salvation, effectually teach us to deny all ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for the blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.'

[I.] That we may be prudent and discreet in our duty.

Thou hast said. If any man lack wisdom, he must ask it of God, who gives to all men liberally, and npbraideth not, and it shall be given him.^ Lord, we want wisdom; make us wise as serpents, and harmless as doves ;^ that wisdom may make our face shine,^ and may be better to us than weapons of war.*

Enable us to walk in wisdom towards them that are without, redeeming the time.'

Give us to order all our affairs with discretion,! and to behave ourselves wisely, in a perfect way with a perfect heart.**

[2.] That we may be honest and sincere in our duty. Let our wisdom be not that from beneath, which is earthly, sensual, devilish, but wisdom from above. o I Pet. il. 15. p Til. ii. 10. • P». cxli. 3. t Jam. Hi. 2. w Hs. xM¥ii. 30. « Is. lix. 21. X. 33.20,21. •Titii. Il-U. d Eccl. viii. I. • Eccl. ix. la h Ps. ci. 9. i Jam. iii. 15,17.

q Ps. XXXix. I. r ECOl. V. 2.

a Col. iv. 6. V Blatt. xii. 35.

J Prov. xxxl. 26. ■ Prov.

b Jam. i. 5. e Matt. x. 16.

f Col. iv. 5. r Ps. cxii. 5.

k 2 Cor. i. IS. 1 Ps. xli. 12.

which is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.^

O that we may always have our conversation in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God.''

Lord, uphold us in our integrity, and set us before thy face for ever,^ and let integrity and uprightness preserve us, for we wait on thee.*"

Let our hearts be sound in thy statutes, that we be not ashamed ;■ and let our eye be single, that our whole body may be full of light.^

[3.] That we may be active and diligent in our duty.

Lord, quicken ns to work the works of him that sent us, while it is day, because the night comes, wherein no man can work ;p and what good our hand finds to do, to do it vrith all our might, because there is no work or knowledge in the gve, whither we are going.^

Lord, grant that we may never be slothful in any good business, but fervent in spirit, serving the Lord ; ^ stedfast and anmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as we know that our labour is not in vain in the Lord/

Lord, make ns zealously affected in every good work,* and what we do, enable ns to do it heartily, as unto the Lord, and not unto men."

Lord, enable us to do the work of every day in its day, according as the duty of the day requires,^ redeeming the time, because the days are evil,* that when our Lord comes, he may find us so doing."

[4.] That we may be resolute and courageous in our duty, as those who know, that though we may be losers for Christ, we shall not be losers by him in the end.

Lord, teach us to endure hardness, as good soldiers of Jesus Christ,' that we may not fear the reproach of men, or their revilings,* nor be ashamed of Christ, or of his words,* knowing whom we have believed, even one who is able to keep what we have committed to him against that day.^

Though bonds and afllictions should abide us. Lord, grant that none of these things may move ns, and that we may not count life itself dear to us, so we may finish our course with joy.^

Enable us in all things to approve ourselves to God, and then to pass by honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report, clad with the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,** as those who account it a very small thing to be judged of man's judgment, for he that judgeth us is the Lord.* m Ps. XXV.21. n Ps. cxix. 80. o Bfott. vi. 22. p John iz. 4. q EccL ix. 10. r Rom. xii. 11. • 1 Cor. xv. 56. t Gal. ir. IS. « Col. iii. 23. ▼ Ezra iii. 4. w Eph. v. 16. x Luke xii. 43. 7 2 Tim. ii. 3. i Isa. li. 7. a Mark viii. 38. b 2 Tim. i. 12. e Acts XX. 23,94. 4 2 Cof. Vi. 4, 7. • 1 COT. W. 3, 4, PETITIONS AND REQUESTS.

[5.] That we may be pleasant and cheerful in our duty.

Lord, enable us to rejoice evermore/ to rejoice in the Lord always, because he hath again said unto US, Rejoice ;> that we may go on our way rejoicing,'* may eat our bread with joy, and drink our wine with a merry heart, as we shall have reason to do, if God now accepteth our works.*

Give us grace to serve thee, the Lord our God, with joyfulness and gladness of heart in the abundance of all things ;^ and to sing in the ways of the Lord, because great is the glory of our God.'

Let us have that cheerfulness of heart which doeth good like a medicine,*" and deliver us from that heaviness which maketh the heart stoop," and that sorrow of the world which worketh death.**

[6.] That we may do the duty of every condition of life, every event of providence, and every relation wherein we stand.

Lord, enable us in a day of prosperity to be joyful, and in a day of adversity to consider, because God hath set the one over against theother,p to add to our knowledge temperance, and to temperance patience.^

Give us grace to abide with thee in the calling wherein we are called ;' and in all our ways to acknowledge thee, and be thou pleased to direct our fiteps."

Let those who are called, being servants, be the Lord's freemen;' and those who are called, being free, be Christ's servants.

Let all in every relation dwell together in unity, that it may be as the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion." O that we may dwell together as joint heirs of the grace of life, that our prayers may not be hindered.^

Give us grace to honour all men, to love the brotherhood, to fear God,'' and to be subject to the higher powers, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.'

[7.] That we may be universally conscientious.

O that we may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.y

O that our ways were directed to keep thy commandments ! And then shall we not be ashamed, when we have a respect to them all.'

Teach us, O Lord, the way of thy statutes, and we shall keep it to the end. Give us understanding, and we shall keep thy law, yea, we shall observe it with our whole heart. Make us to go in the path of thy commandments, for therein do we delight. Incline our hearts unto thy testimonies, and not to covetonsness.* Grant us, we pray thee, according to the riches of f 1 Tbess. y. 16. w Phil. iv. 4. b Acta viii. 39. i Eccl. ix. 7. k Dcut zxviii. 47. i Ps. cxxxviit. 6. m Prov. xvil. M. » Pro v. xli. 35. o 2 Cor. vil. 10. p Eccl. vil. 14. q 2 Pet 1.6. r i Cor. ▼ii. 20. ■ Prov. V.6. t 1 Cor. vil. 21. « Ps. cxxxiii. 1, 3. T I PcL ill. 7. w I Pet ii. 17. X Rom. xiii. 1,5. y Col. iv. 12. « Ps. cxix. 5. 6. a Ps. cxix. 33—36. b Eph. iti. 16—19. thy glory, that we may be strengthened with all might by thy Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in our hearts by faith, and that we being rooted aid grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height, and may know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, and be filled with a divine fsl-ness,** and may partake of a divine nataie/

And let the love of Christ constrain ns to live not to ourselves, but to him that died for us, and nae again.^ (11.) We must pray for grace to Toatke as wiier and better every day than other.

Lord, give us to increase with the increases of God ;* to grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ / to hold on ou way, and having clean hands, to gw stronger ud stronger.i

Let our path be as the shining light, which shines more and more to the perfect day.i

We have not yet attained, nor are we already perfect ; Lord, grant that therefore forgetting the things that are behind, we may reach forth to those things that are before, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.'

Be thou as the dew unto us, that we may grow as the lily, and cast forth our roots as Lebanon; that our branches may spread, and our beauty be as the olive-tree.^ And let the Sun of Righteousness arise upon us with healing under his wings, that we maj go forth and grow up as the calves of the stall.^ (12.) We must pray for effectual support and comfort under all the crosses and afflictions that we meet with in this world.

We know that we are born to trouble as the sparks fly upward; but in six troubles be thou pleased to deliver us, and in seven let no evil touch as."

Let the eternal God be our refuge, and underneath be the everlasting arms," that the spirit thn hast made may not fail before thee, nor the soul that thou hast redeemed.<>

Let us be strengthened with ail might, accordiag to thy glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness.p

Let thy statutes be our songs in the house of our pilgrimage; and let thy testimonies which we hate taken as a heritage for ever, be always the rejoicings of our hearts.1 i

When we are troubled on every side, yet let is not be distressed, and when we are perplexed, letns not be in despair,' but as sorrowful, and yet alwajs rejoicing; as having nothing; and yet possessing all things.*

2 Pet. 1.4. 4 2Cor. V. 14,15. • Col. ii. 19. r aPeLtiL it r Job xvil. 9. h Prov. iv. 18. i Pliil. iii. is—14. ^ Hob xiv. 5,6. 1 Bifal. iv. S. » Job v. 7.19. m Deut. zxxiiiST o Isa. Ivii. 16. p Col. i. II. q Ps. cxix. M, 111. r s Cor.iv.t

• 2 Cor. vi. 10.

PETITIONS AND REQUESTS.

665

(13.) We must pray for grace to preserve us to the end, and to fit us for whatever lies before as betvtrixt this and the grave.

Lord, deliver us from every evil work, and pre-genre us to thy heavenly kingdom,' being kept from falling, that we may be presented faultless at the coming of thy glory with exceeding joy."

Lord, make us to increase and abound in love one towards another, and towards all men, that our hearts may be established unblamable in holiness before God, even our Father, and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.^

If Satan desire to have us, that he may sift us as wheat, yet let Christ's intercession prevail for us, that our faith fail nof

Till we are taken out of the world, let us be kept from the evil, and sanctified through thy truth; thy word is truth."

Build us up, we pray thee, in our most holy faith, and keep us in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.^^

Grant that we may continue to call upon thee as long as we live,* and till we die may never remove our integrity from us; and that our righteousness we may hold fast, and never let it go, and our hearts may not reproach us so long as we live.* (14.) We must pray for grace to prepare us for death, and to carry us well through our dying moments.

Lord, make us to know our end, and the measure of our days, what it is, that we may know and consider how frail we are ; and that our days are as a hand-breadth, and that every man at his best state is altogether vanity,** and our days upon earth are as a shadow, and there is no abiding.*

Lord, teach us so to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom,<> and make us to consider our latter end.*

Lord, make us always ready, with our loins girded about, and our lights burning, because the Son of man comes at an hour that we think not.'

Keep us all the days of our appointed time, waiting till our change comes; and then shalt thou call, and we will answer.^

Bring us to our grave as a shock of com in its season ;^ satisfy us with life, whether it be longer or shorter, and show us thy salvation.^

And when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, be thou with us, that we may fear no evil, let thy rod and thy staff comfort us.*"

Let goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our life, and let us dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.* Mercy and truth be with us." t 2 Tim. iv. 18. n Jude 24. t i Then. iii. 12,13. w Luke xxii. 31,33. X John xYii. 15,17. j Jude 20, 21. i Ps. cxvi. 2. • Job xxvii. 5,6. b Ps. xxxix. 4,5. el Chron. xxlx. 15. d Ps. xc. 12. e Dcut. xxxli. 29. f Luke xii. 35,40. r Job xW. 14, 15. h Job V. 26. i Ps. XCL 10. k Pi. xxUt 4. 1 Ps.

Redeem our souls from the power of the grave, and receive us;" guide us by thy counsel, and afterwards receive us to glory."

(16.) We must pray for grace to fit us for heaven, and that we may at length be put in possession of eternal life. .

Lord, make us meet to partake of the inheritance of the saints in light; p let God himself work in us to the self-same thing, and give us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.^

O that we may now have our conyersation in heaven; that we may from thence with comfort look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus, who shall change our vile bodies, that they may be fashioned like unto his glorious body.'

O that now we may set our affections on things above, and that our life may be hid with Christ in God, that when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, we also may appear with him in glory ;* that when he shall appear we may be like him, and may see him as he is,' may behold his face in righteousness, and when we awake may be satisfied with his likeness."

When we fail, let us be received into everlasting habitations,"" in the city that hath foundation, whose builder and maker is God,* that we may be together for ever with the Lord, to see as we are seen, and know as we are known.*

And in the mean time help us to comfort ourselves and one another with these words; and having this hope in us, to purify ourselves even as Christ is pure.^

Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, who hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation, and good hope through grace, comfort our hearts, and stablish us in every good word and work.* (16.) We must pray for the good things of life, with an humble submission to the vrill of God.

Lord thou hast told us that godliness hath the promise of the life that now is, as well as of that which is to come :* and that if we seek first the kingdom of God, and the righteousness thereof, other things shall be added to us ;^ and therefore we cast all our care about these things upon thee, who carest for us,*^ for our heavenly Father knows that we have need of all these things.*^

[I.] We must pray to be preserved from the calamities to which we are exposed.

Thou, Lord, art our refuge, and our fortress, and under thy wings will we trust, thy truth shall be our shield and buckler; let us therefore not be afraid xxiii. 6. m 2 Sam. xv. 30. b Ps. xlix. 15. o Ps. Ixxiii. 24. p Col. i. 12. q 2 Cor. v. 5. r Phil. iii. 20,21. • Col. iii. 2-4. t 1 John iii. 2. u Ps. xvii. 15. ▼ Luke xvi. 9. w Heb. xi. 10. X I Cor. xiii. 12. 7 1 John iii. 3. n% Thess. ii. 16.17. A 1 Tim. iv. 8. b Matt vi. 33. e 1 Pet. ▼. 7. 4 Matt. vi. 32. e66

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY. for the terror by night, nor for the arrow that flieth by day. Haviog made the Lord our refoge, and the Most High oor habitation, let no evil befall us, nor any plague come nigh our dwelling.*

It the Lord be our keeper, even he that keepeth Israel, and neither slumbers nor sleeps. Let the Lord be our shade on our right hand, that the sun may not smite us by day, nor the moon by night; let the Lord preserve us from all evil; the Lord preserve our souls; the Lord preserve our going out and coming in, from this time forth, and even for evermore.'

Lord, make a hedge round about us, about our houses, and about all that w hav round about ;> and take sickness away from the midst of us."

[2.] We must pray to be supplied with the comforts and supporU we daily stand in need of.

O that the beauty of the Lord our God may be upon us, prosper thou the work of our hands upon us, yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.i Save now, we beseech thee, O Lord; O Lord, we beseech thee, send now prosperity.''

Let our sons be as plants grown up in their youth, and our daughters as comer-stones polished after the similitude of a palace: let our garners be full, affording all manner of store;' and let there be no breaking in or going out, no complaining in our streets. Happy is the people that is in such a case, yea, rather, happy is the people whose God is the Lord.

Let us be blessed in the city, and blessed in the field, let our basket and our store be blessed, and let us be blessed when we come in, and when we go out.™

Let thy good providence so order all events concerning us, that they may be made to work for gqod to us, as thou hast promised they shall to all that love thee, and are called according to thy purpose.^

Give us to trust in the Lord, and do good, and then we shall dwell in the land, and verily we shall be fed; and be thou pleased tp bring forth our righteousness as the light, and our judgment as the noon day.**

Let us be hid from the scourge of the tongue, and not be afraid of destruction when it cometh ; let us be in league with the stones of the field, and let the beasts of the field be at peace with us; let us know that our tabernacle is in peace, itnd let us visit our habitation, and not sin,p

And if God will be with us, and will keep us in the way that we go, during our pilgrimage in this world, and will give us bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that we may come to our heavenly

Pa. xci. 2,4, 9, |0. f Ps. cxxi. 4—8. g Job i. 10. h Exod. Miii. 25. i Ps. xc. 17. k Ps. cxviil. 25. i Pa. cxliv. \% 13. m Deut xxviii. 3, 5, 6. n Rom. vili. 28. o Ps. xxxvii. 3, 6.

P Job V. sl, 23,24. n Qen. xxviii. ao, 21. rSPet. i. 4. "^Cpr.

Father's bouse in peace, then the Lord shall be oor Lord.*» (17.) We must plead the promises of Godfior the enforcing of all our petitions, put tiicse promises in suit, and refer ourselves to them.

Lord, thou hast given us many exceeding groi and precious promises,' which are all yea and amoi in Christ* Now be it unto thy servants according to the word which thou hast spoken.^

Give us to draw water with joy out of those welli of salvation ,*■ to suck and be satisfied from thoie breasts of consolation ;* and now, O Lord God, kl the word which thou hast spoken concerning thy servants be established for ever, and do as thoa hast said.*

Deal with us according to the tenor of the everlasting covenant, whiph is well ordered in all things, and sure, and which is all our salvation and all ov desire.*

Look npon us, and be inrciful to us, as thoa usest to do unto those that love thy name,' and do more for us than we are able to ask or think,* and supply all our needs according to thy riches in ghnj by Christ Jesus.*

CHAPTER IV.

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Ov errand at the throne of grace is not onlj to seek the favour of God, but to give unto dim the glory due unto his name, and that not only by an awful adoration of his infinite perfections, but by a grateful acknowledgment of his goodness to us, which cannot indeed add any thing to his glory, but he is pleased to accept of it, and to reckon himself glorified by it, if it pome from a heart that is humbly sensible of its own unworthiness to receive any favour from God, that values the gifts, and lov the giver of them, We must stir np ourselves to praise God, with the consideration both of the reason and of the encouragement we have to praise him.

Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks, for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare.*

Let our souls bless the Lord, and let all that is within us bless his holy name; yea, let oar soak bless the Lord, and not forget any of his benefits.^ i. 20. tLukei.38. «Ifla.xii. ^ Tlaa-lxri. ll. wSSos, ▼ii. 25. s2Sam. xxiiLS. y Pi. cxix. 138. s EDb.ii|.SS. • Phil. iv. 19. aPs.lxxv. 1. bP8.diLI,9.

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY.

65:

We will praise the Lord, for it is good, it is pleasant, and praise is comely for the upright;' yea, it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High; to show forth thy loving-kindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night.**

We will extol thee our God, O King, and will bless thy name forever and ever. Every day will we bless thee, and will praise thy name for ever and ever; we will abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and sing of thy righteousness.*

We will sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. O let Israel rejoice in him that made him, let the children of Zion be joyful in their King ; let the saints be joyful in glory, and let the high praises of God be in their hearts, and in their mouths.^

While we live we will bless the Lord, and will sing praise unto our God while we have any being ;«^ and when we have no being on earth, we hope to have a being in heaven, to be doing it better.

We are here through Jesus Christ to offer the sacrifice of praise to thee, which we desire to do continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to thy name.** And thou hast said, that he that offers praise glorifies thee,' and that this also shall please the Lord better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs.''

We will mention the loving-kindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness towards the house of Israel, which he hath bestowed on them according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his loving-kindnesses.' (1.) We must be particular in our thanksgiving to God for the discoveries which ho has made to us in his word of the goodness of his nature.

We give thanks unto the God of gods, unto the Lord of Lords, for his mercy endures for ever.*"

Thy goodness is thy glory, and it is for that which all thy works do praise thee, and thy saints do bless thee.°

Thou art gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger, and of great mercy,^ and hast told us, that thou dost not afflict willingly, or grieve the children of men, but though thou cause grief, yet thou wilt have compassion, according to the multitude of thy mercies.p

Thou takest pleasure in them that fear thee, in them that hope in thy mercy .1 (2.) For the many instances of goodness in his providence relating to our bodies, and the life that now is ; and this. e Pa. cxlvil. I. d Ps. xcU. 1, 2. - P». cxlv. 1, % 7. f Ps. exllx. 1, 2, 5.6. f Ps. cxWi. 2. h Heb. xiii. 15. i Ps. 1. »//. k Ps. Ixix. 31. I Isa. Ixiii. 7. m P». cxxxvi. 2,3 n Ps. cxlv. 10.

cxIf.8. p Lam. iil. 32,33. q P». cxlvii. 11. rps. civ. 2.

Pa. xlx. 4,6. t Matt. v.iS. u ps. viii. 3,4. ▼ Eccl. xi. 7.

2v

With reference to all the creatures, and the world of mankind in general.

. Thou hast stretched out the heavens like a curtain,'' and in them thou hast set a tabernacle for the sun, which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.* And thou causest thy sun to shine on the evil and on the good, and sendest rain on the just and on the unjust.*

When we consider the heavens, the work of thy fingers, the sun, the moon, and the stars, which thou hast ordained. Lord, what is man, that thou thus visitest him." For truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to bfhold the sun:"" all the glory be to the Father of lights,* who com-mandeth the morning, and causeth the day-spring to know his place.^

Thou didst not leave thyself without witness among the heathen, in that thou didst good, and gavest them rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling their hearts with food and gladness.7

Thou coverest the heavens with clouds, and pre-parest rain for the earth, and makest grass to grow upon the mountains. Thou givest to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry.'

Thou causest it to rain on the wilderness, where there is no man, to satisfy the desolate and waste ground.*

Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it, thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water; thou preparest them com when thou hast so provided for it; thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly, thou settlest the furrows thereof, thou makest it soft with showers, thou blessest the springing thereof; thou crownest the year with thy goodness, and thy paths drop fatness.**

Thou sendest the springs into the valleys which run among the hills; and they give drink to every beast of the field; and by them the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches.^

Thou hast laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever, and settest bounds to the waters of the sea, that they turn not again to cover the elirth ;*^ thou hast shut up the sea with doors, and broken up for it thy decreed place, saying. Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further, here shall thy proud waves be stayed.* And thou hast made good what thou hast sworn, that the waters of Noah shall no more go over the earth.^

Thy covenant of the day and of the night is not broken,* but still thou givest the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars w Jam. i. 17. X Job xxxviii. 12. 7 Acts xiv. 17. ■ Ps. cxlvii. 8, 9. • Job xxxviii. 26. 27. b Pa. Ixv. 9—11. e Pa. civ. 10—12. d Ps. civ. A, 9. • Job xxxviii. 8,11. f In. liv. 9. g Jer. xxxiii. 20.

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCV. for a light by night,^ and art faithful to that covenant of providence, that while the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.t

The heaven, even the heavens are thine, but the earth thou hast given to the children of men,^ and thou hast put all things under their feet, and made them to have dominion over the works of thy hands ;< so that the fear of man and the dread of man is upon every beast of the earth, and upon the fowl of the air, and into his hand they are delivered,"' because thou hast a favour to him, and thy delights were with the sons of men."

Thou causestithe grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man, that thou mayst bring forth food out of the earth, wine that makes glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengthens man's heart.*

Thou givest to all life, and breath, and all things,p and the earth, O Lord, is full of thy mercy.^

All the creatures wait upon thee, that thou mayst give them their meat in due season; that thou givest them they gather, thou openest thy hand, they are filled with good: thou sendest forth thy Spirit, they are created, thou renewest the face of the earth. This thy glory shall endure for ever, and thou re-joicest in these works.'

It is through thy goodness, O Lord, that as one generation of mankind passeth away, another generation comes," and that thou bast not blotted out the name of that corrupt and guilty race from under heaven.^ (3.) With reference to us in particular; we must gve thanks that he has made us reasonable creatures, capable of knowing, loving, serving, and enjoying him, and that he has not made us as the beasts that perish.

We will praise thee, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and that our souls, our noble part, know right well;" for what man knows the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him t*

Thou hast made us of that rank of beings which is little lower than the angels, and is crowned with glory and honour ;^ for there is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding,'' and the spirit of a man is the candle of the Lord.y

Our bodies are capable of being the temples of the Holy Ghost, and our souls of having the Spirit of God dwell in them ; we therefore glorify thee with our bodies and with our spirits which are thine.* ' Thou, Lord, hast formed us for thyself, that we might show forth thy praise.* h Jer. xxxi. 35. i Gen. viii. 22. k Ps. cxv. 16. i Ps. vili. ft m Gen. ix. 2 n Prov. vlii. 31. © Ps. civ. 14,15. p Acti xvii. 25. q Ps. cxix. 64. r Ps. civ. 27,28. 30. 31. ■ Eccl. i. 4. t Deut. xxix. 20. u Ps. cxxxix. 14. ▼ 1 Cor. ii. 11. w Ps. viil. 5. » Job xxxli. 2. y Prov. xx. 27. « I Cor. vi. 10, 20.

[1.] We must give thanks for our preservation, that our lives are prolonged, and that tlw use of our reason and understanding, our hnbs and senses, are continued to us.

It was owing to thy good providence that we died not from the womb, and did not gve up the ghoA when we came out of the belly; that the knees pre vented us, and the breasts that we should sack.^

Though we were called transgssors from' Dm womb,' yet by thy power we have been bom from the belly, and carried from the womb ;* and thoa boldest our souls in life, and sufferest not our foot to be moved.*

All our bones shall say. Lord, who is like anto thee,^ for thou keepest all our bones, not one of then is broken.*

We lay us down and sleep, for thou. Lord, makest us to dwell in safety.^

Thou hast given thine angels a charge concemii us, to keep us in all our ways, to bear us up in their hands, lest we dash our foot against a stone.* And they are all ministering spirits, sent forth to ministef for the good of them that shall be heirs of salvatioa.^ [2.] For signal recoveries from danger Ij sickness or otherwise.

When perhaps there has been but a step betwea us and death,* and we have received a sentence of death within ourselves,*" and have been ready to saj, in the cutting off of our days we should go to tk gates of the grave, and were deprived of the residiK of our years, yet thou hast in love to our souls d livered them from the pit of corruption, and cast aO our sins behind thy back."

When the sorrows of death hae compassed ss, and the pains of hell have got hold upon us, ve have called upon the name of the Lord, and have found, that gracious is the Lord, and righteous, yeit our God is merciful; we have been brought kw, and he hath helped us, and hath delivered oar sooli from death, our eyes from tears, and our feet ffOB falling. We will therefore walk before the Loid is the land of the living.**

[3.] For the supports and comforts of this life, which have hitherto made the land of oar pilgrimage easy and pleasant to us.

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with Ui benefits, even the God of our salvation.^

Thou makest us to lie down in gnreen pastmes, thou fcedest us beside the still waters; tiiou pie-parcst a table for us in the presence of our eneraiei; thou anointest our head, and our cup runs over.* It may be we were sent forth without purse or scrip, but lacked we any thing ? Nothing, Lord.'

The candle of God hath shined upon our head<

A Isa. xliii. 2r b Job iii. II.IS. • IsLxlvilUS. TH xlvi. 3. • Ps. Izvi. 9. f Ps. xxzv. 10. g p zxxhr. Ml h Ps. iii. 5. i Ps. xci. 11, is. k Heb. L 14. i 1 San. sz.X m 2 Cor. i. 9. B Isa. xxxviii.

P Ps. IxTiii. 10. q Ps. xxiil. 9, d t Lake xxli. 3Sl

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY.

659

-and by his light we have walked through darkness, and the secret of God has been in our tabernacle.*

Thou hast given us all things richly to enjoy/ and into our hands hast brought plentifully.

Many a time we have eaten and been filled, and have delighted ourselves with thy great goodness."

When we remember all the way which tlie Lord pnr God hath led us for so many years in this wilderness,^ we must here set up a stone and call it Ebenezer for hitherto the Lord hath helped us.^

[4.] For success in our callings and affairs, comfort in relations, and comfortable places of abode.

It is God that girdeth us with strength, and maketh oar way perfect,' that hath blessed the work of our hands,^ and it may be so, that though our beginning was small, yet our latter end hath gpreatly increased.*

Our houses have been safe from fear, and there hath been no rod of God upon us,* so that the voice of rejoicing and salvation hath been in our tabernacle ^ from day to day.

With our staff it may be we have passed over this Jordan, and now we are become two bands f and it is God that setteth the solitary in families.*^

If we have lived joyfully* with our relations, and they have been to us as the loving hind and as the pleasant roe,^ we must give thee thanks for it, for every creature b that to us, and no more, than thou makest it to be.

[5.] For our share in the public plenty, peace, and tranquillity.

When we have eaten and are full, we have reason to bless thee for the land which thou hast given as,> a land which the eyes of the Lord our God are always upon, from the beginning of the year even to the end of the year.**

Thou makest peace in our borders, and fillest us with the finest of the wheat :^ we are delivered from the noise of archers in the place of drawing water; there therefore will we rehearse the righteous acts of the Lord, even his righteous acts towards the inhabitants of his villages.^

We thank thee that the powers that are set over us are ministers of God to us for good, that they seek the welfare of our people, speaking peace to all their seed J (4.) The goodness of his grace relating to our souls, and the life that is to come.

But especially blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things in Christ*"

[I.] We must give thanks for his gracious design and contrivance of man's redemption

Job xzix. 3,4. t I TinL vi. 17. u Neb. ix. 35. t Deut. ▼iiL S. w 1 Sam. vii. 12. « Ps. xviii. 32. j Job i. 10. ■ Job vta. 7. m Job xxi. 9. \ Ps. cxviii. 15. « Gen. xxxii. 10. A Pi. Ixviii. 6. • Eccl. ix. 9. r Prov. v. 19. f Deut viii. 10. k Deut xi. IS. i Pt. cxlvii. 14. k Judges v. 11. i Esth. x. 3.

2 V 2 and salvation, when he was lost and undone by sin.

O how wonderfully did the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appear, not by any works of righteousness which we had done, but according to his mercy he saved U8.° We had destroy* ed ourselves, but in thee, and thee only, was our help.®

When we were cast out in the open field, and no eye pitied us, thou sawest us polluted in our own blood, and thou saidst unto us. Live; yea, thou saidst unto us, Live; and the time was a time of love.p

When the redemption of the soul was so precarious, as that it must have ceased for ever, and no man could by any means redeem his brother, or gve to God a ransom for him,i th'en thou wast pleased to find a ransom,r that we might be delivered from going down to the pit.

When we must needs die, and were as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again, then didst thou devise means that the banished might not be for ever expelled from thee.*

When thou sparcdst not the angels that sinned, but didst cast them down to hell;' thou saidst concerning the race of nmnkind, Destroy it not, for a blessing is in it."

Herein appears the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the world for our glory.*

[2.] For the eternal purposes and counsels of God concerning man's, redemption.

We are bound to give thanks always to thee, O God, because thou hast from the beginning chosen some to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit :^ that there is a remnant according to the election of grace,* whom God hath chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world, that they should be holy and without blame before thee in love, having predestinated them to the adoption of children, by Jesus Christ, unto thyself, according to the good pleasure of thy will, to the praise of the glory of thy gce.^

Thine they were, and thou gvest them to Christ,* and this is thy will, that of all that thou hast given him he should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.'

[3.] For the appointing of the Redeemer, and God's gracious condescension to deal with men upon new terms, receding from the demands of the broken covenant of innocency.

We bless thee that when sacrifice and offerings thou wouldst not, and in them hadst no plea.<iure. m Epb. i. 3. n Tit Hi. 4, 5. o Hos. xiii. 9. p Ezek. xvi. 5.6, a q Ps. xUx. 7, a r Job xxxli. S4. • SSaoD. xiv. 14. t 2 Pet. ii. 4. a Isa. Ixv. 8. V 1 Cor. ii. 7. w 2 Theas. ii. 13. > Rom. xi. .V r Epb. i- 4—6. ■ John xvii. 6. • John vi. 30.

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY. that then the eternal Son of God said, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God,*" and a body hast thou prepared me: and that, as in the volume of the book it was written of him, he did delight to do thy will, O God, yea, thy law was within his heart.'

Thou hast laid help upon one that is mighty, one chosen out of the people. Thou hast found David thy servant, with tliy holy oil thou hast anointed him, even with the oil of gladness above his fellows, and didst promise that with him thy hand should be established, and thy arm should strengthen him, and that thou wouldst make him thy first-bom, higher than the kings of the earth.**

We bless thee that the Father now judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to the Son ; that as he has life in himself, so he hath given to the Son to have life in himself, and hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of.man :* that the Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand / and that the counsel of peace is between them both.'

That he is thy servant, whom thou dost uphold; thine elect, in whom thy soul delighteth ;^ thy beloved Son, in whom thou art well pleased;* that thou hast given him for a covenant of the people, i' and that through him we are not mider the law, but under grace. ^

That God so loved the world, as to gve his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."'

[4.] For the early and ancient indications of the gracious design concerning fallen man.

We bless thee, that as soon as ever man had sinned, it was graciously promised, that the seed of the woman should break the serpent's head ;** and that in the Old-Testament sacrifices Jesus Christ was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."

And that by faith the elders, though they received not the promise, yet obtained a good report, for they obtained witness that they were righteous.^

We bless thee for the promise made to Abraham, that in his seed all the families of the earth should be blessed ;i and to Jacob, that the Shiloh should come, and to him should the gathering of the people be ;■* and that the patriarchs rejoiced to see Christ's day, and they saw it and were glad.*

[5.] For the many glorious instances of God's favour to the Old-Testament church.

We adore that wisdom, peace, and goodness with which thou brougfatcst the vine out of Egypt, didst cast out the heathen and plant it; thou preparedst room before it, and didst cause it to take deep root, and it filled the land.* b Heb X. 5-7. t Ps. xl. 7, 8. d Pa. Ixxxix. 19—21.27.

John V. 22, 26, 27. ( John iii. 35. g Zech. vi. 13. h ba. xlii. 1. i Matt. xvii. 5. k Isa. xlix. 8. i Rom. vi. 14. m John iii. 16. n Gen. iii. 15. o Rev. xiii, 8. p Heb. xi. 2, 4, 30. q Gen. xii. 3. r Gen. xlix. 10. • John yiii. 56.

And they got not the land in possession by tiidr own sword, neither did their own arm save thm, but thy right hand, thine arm, and the light of tliy countenance, because thou badst a favour to them."

We bless thee, that to the Jews were committed the oracles of God,"" that they had the adoptioD, the glory and the covenants, the giving of the law, and the service of God and the promises:^ and that there did not fail one word of all thy good promise, which thou promisedst by the hand of Moses tby servant*

We bless thee for all which thoa didst at sundry times, and in divers manners, speak in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,^ those holy men of God, who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost," and prophesied of the gce that should come unto us, testifying before-hand the suffering of Christ, and the glory that should follow, and that not to themselves only but to us they ministered those great things, things which the angels th«ii-selvcs desire to look into.* And especially we bless thee, that thoa hast provided some better things for us, that they without us should not he made perfect.^

[6.] For the wonderful and mysterious incarnation of the Son of God, and his coming into the world.

We bless thee, that when the fulness of time was come, thou didst send forth thy Son, made of s woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.<^

That the Eternal Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and there were those who saw his glory, the glory of the only-begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.^ And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness, that God was manifested in the flesh.

We bless thee, that to this end he was bom, and for this cause he came into the world, that he migbt bear witness of the truth,* and we believe, and are sure, that he is that Christ, the Son of the lifin; God; ^ that it is he that should come, and we are to look for no other.'

We bless thee, that the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost ;^ that he is come that we might have life, and that we miglit have it more abundantly,! and that for this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.''

Lord, we receive it as a faithful sajring, and well worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, even the chief.* t Ps. Ixxx. 8, 9. « Ps. xliv. 3. ▼ Rom. iii. 2. w RooLix. t s I Kings viii. 56. y Heb. i. 1. ■ 2 Pet i SI. a I Pet i. 10-12. b Heb. xi. 40. e Gal. iv. 4, &. a John i M.

John xviii. 37. f John vi. 00. r Matt. xi. 3. h Lake ni. 10. i John X. 10. k I John iii. 8. i I Tiin. i. law

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY. aei

We bless thee, that forasmuch as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same: that he took not on him the nature of angels, but our nature, and was in all things made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful High Priest, in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people; "* and that he is not ashamed to call them brethren.

And that the first-begotten was brought into the world with a charge given to all the angels of God to worship him.»

[7.] For God's gracious owning of him in his undertaking, and in the carrying of it on.

We bless thee, that thou wast in Christ reconciling the world to thyself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and that thou hast committed unto us the word of reconciliation.**

That thou hast thyself given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.i* That he was sanctified and sealed, and sent into the world,1 and that the Father which sent him did not leave him alone, for he always did those things that pleased him.'

Glory be to God in the highest, for in and through Jesus Christ there is on earth peace, and good will towards men.*

In this was manifested the love of God towards US, because that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.^

We thank thee for the power thou hast given him over all flesh, tliat he should give eternal life to as many as were given him."

[8.] For his holy life, his excellent doctrine, and the glorious miracles he wrought to confirm his doctrine.

We bless thee for the assurance we Lave, that he is a teacher come from God, since no man can do those miracles which he did, except God were with him.^

That thou hast in these last days spoken unto us by thy Son,* whose doctrine was not his, but his that sent him," and he spake as one having authority ;' and that we are encouraged to come and learn of him, because he is meek and lowly in heart, and in learning of him we shall find rest to our flouls.'

We bless thee, that he has left us an example, that we should follow his steps, in that he did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth, and when he was reviled he reviled not again ;« and his meat and drink was to do the will of his Father ;^ in that he was holy, harmless, undefiled, and separated m Heb. ii. II, 14,16,17. n Heb. 1.6. o 2 Cor. v. 29. p Isa. It. 4. q John x. 36. r John viii. 10. • Luke ii. U. t 1 John iv. 9. u John xTii. 2. ▼ John iii. 2. « Heb. i. 2. s John Yii. 16. r Matt. vii. 29. * Matt. xi. 39. »1 Pet. ii. «l-23. b John iv. 34. e Heb. vii 26. d I Pet. iv. i. from sinners.^ O that we may be armed with the same mind,^ and that as he was, so we may be, in this world ;* and that we may so walk even as he walked.

We bless thee, that the works which he did, the same bore witness of him, that the Father had sent him,^ that by his power the blind received their sight, the lame walked, the lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up, and the poor had the gospel preached to them,* and even the winds and the sea obeyed him,!* for which we glorify the God of Israel. Doubtless this was the Son of God.*

[9.] For the great encouragements Christ gave to poor sinners to come to him. We bless thee, that Jesus Christ came to call, not the righteous, but sinners (such as we are) to repentance, and had power on earth to forgive sin ;^ that he came to save his people from their sins;' and is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world,^ and that he is (to his honour, and not to his reproach) a friend to publicans and sinners.* We thank thee for the gracious invitation he gave to those who are weary and heavy laden to come to him for rest :<> and for the assurance he has given, that whosoever comes unto him, he will in no wise cast him out.v

That he made a gracious offer, that whosoever thirsts might come unto him and drink.^i

[10.] For the full satisfaction which be made to the justice of God for the sin of man, by the blood of his cross, for the purchases, victories, and triumphs of the cross, and for all the precious benefits which flow to us from the dying of our Lord Jesus. Herein indeed God commendeth his love to us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,^ that we might be reconciled to him by the death of his Son. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins/ and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world ;' that he tasted death for every man,** that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.

We bless thee, that by one ofl Tering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified/ that he has finished transgression, made an end of sin, made reconciliation for iniquity, and hath brought in an everlasting righteousness.*

That he has redeemed us from the curse of the law, by being made a curse for us.^ That what the law could not do in that it was

1 John iv. 17. f John v. 36. rMatt xi 5.. h Matt viii. 27. 1 Matt, xxvii. 64. k Matt Ix. 6,13. i Matt i. 21. m John i. 29. n Matt xi. 19. • Matt xi. SA. p John vi. 87. q John vii. .tt. r Rom. v. 8. • 1 John iv. 10. t i John ii. 2. u Heb ii. 9. 14. v Heb. x 14. w Dan. ix. 24. x Gal iii. 13.

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY. weak through the flesh, God hath done by sending his own Son in the Jikeness of sinful flesh, who by a sacrifice for sin condemned sin in the flcshJ

That he was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities, and that the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed: and that the Lord having laid upon him the iniquity of us all, it pleased the Lord to bruise him and put him to gef.'

That appearing to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself, he did by the eternal Spirit offer himself without spot unto God, and by his own blood entered once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.*

That he hath spoiled principalities and powers, and made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in his cross, and hath blotted out the handwriting of ordinances which was against as, which was contrary to us, taking it out of the way, by nailing it to his cross>

That he is our peace, who having broken down the middle wall of partition between Jew and Gentile, hath made himself of twain one new man, hath reconciled both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby.^

That he hath loved us, and washed as from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us unto oar God kings and priests.*^

O the height, and depth, and length, and breadth of that love of Christ which passeth knowledge! * that great love wherewith he loved us !'

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing ; for he was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by his blood.v

[II.] For his resurrection from the dead on the third day.

We thank thee, that as he was delivered for our offences, so he rose again for our justification,** and was declared to be the Son of God with power, by the resurrection from the dead.*

That though he was dead, yet he is alive, and lives for evermore, and hath the keys of hell and death ; *^ and being raised from the dead, he dies no more, death hath no more dominion over him.*

That now is Christ risen from the dead, and is become the first-fruits of them that slept, that as in Adam all died, so in Christ all might be made alive,"* and every one in his own order.

That God suffered not his Holy One to see corruption, but loosed the pains of death, because it was impossible he should be holden of them, and so declared to all the house of Israel, that that J Rom. viii. 3. « Isa. liii. 5,6, lo. » Heb. ix. 13. b Col. ii U, 15. c Eph. li. 14—16. d Rev. i. i, c. « Eph. iii. 19. f Eph. ii. 4. fr Rev. v. 9,12. h Rom. iv. 35. i Rom. i. 4. k Rev. i. 18. 1 Rom. vi. 9. m I Cor. xv. 3J, 22. a Acts ii. 34,31, 3a. o Rom. ziv. 9. p 1 Thess. v. lo. q John xx. 17 I same Jesus whom they crucified is both Lord ni Christ"

And that for this end Christ both died, and me, and revived, that he might be Lord both of thednd and the living," and that whether we wake orikep we might live together with him.>*

[12.] For his ascension into heaven, asd Ui sitting at God's right hand there.

We bless thee, that our Lord Jesus is ascended H his Father and our Father, to his God and oor 6od;< is ascended up on high, having led captivity captin, and hath received gifts for men, yea, eren for tiiei» bellious also, that the Lord God might dwdl amoai them/

That as the forerunner he is for us entered,*» tered into heaven itself, now to appear in the preie Bte of God for us,* a Lamb as it had been slain itandi in the midst of the throne."

That he is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,^ angels, and anthoiitici, and powers, being made subject to him.*

That he is gone before to prepare a place for m in his Father's house, where there are many mansiv Nii; and though whither he is gone we cannot follow liin now, yet we hope to follow him hereafter,* wfaes k shall come again to receive us to himself, that vkre he is, there we may be also.^

[13.] For the intercession which he everlifcs to make in the virtue of his satisfaction.

We thank thee, that having borne the sins dmuift he makes intercession for transgressors; * and pnys not for those only that were given him when be wis upon earth, but for all that shall believe on Um through their word; that they all may be one.'

That we have an advocate with the Father, evca Jesus Christ the righteous,!* who is therefore aMe It save to the uttermost all those that come to God*ist Father, by him as Mediator, seeing be ever fivif making intercession.*

That we have a Hig Priest taken from among mes, and ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifice for sin, wh» can have compassion on the ignorant, and on tboi that are out of the way, and that he is become fte author of eternal salvation to all them that okr him.*

[14.] For the dominion and sovereignty tf which the Redeemer is exalted.

We thank thee, that because our Lord Jesas bofl' bled himself, and became obedient unto death, tftt the death of the cross, therefore God hath higUy exalted him, and given him a name above enrj name, that at the name of Jesns every knee might r Ps. Uxviii. ]& tHeb-vi. 90. iHeb.iz.M. %1Ln.rl

T Heb. viii. 1. « 1 Pet itt. 93. s John xiii. 38. j John vr.

3, 3. I Isa. liii. 19. • Jobn xvii. so, 9t. k 1 Jolui Ii >' c Heb. vii. 25. d Heb. v. I, 9, 9.

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY.

663 bow,* and every tong Cie confess (as we do at this time) that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

That all power is given unto him both in heaven and on earth/ that thou hast set him over the works of thy hands, and hast put all things in subjection under his feet, and so hast crowned him with glory and honour.f

That he is King of kings, and Lord of lords,^ that the Ancient of days has gven him dominion and glory, and a kingdom, an everlasting dominion, and a kingdom which shall not be destroyed.^

That the government is upon his shoulders, and that bis name is called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, and the Prince of peace; and of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end>

That thou hast set him as King upon thy holy hill of Zion,^ and that be shall reign over the bouse of Jacob for ever,°> shall reign till he has put down all opposing rule, principality, and power, till all bis enemies are made his footstool, and then he shall deliver up the kingdom to God, even the Father, that God may be all in all."

[15.] For the assurance we have of his second coming to judge the world.

We bless thee, that thou hast appointed a day in vhich thou wilt judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom thou hast ordained, whereof thou bast given assurance unto all men, in that thou bast raised him from the dead.**

That in that day the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: and shall come to be glorified in his saints, and admired by all them that believe ;p for them that sleep in Jesus he will bring with him."!

That he shall then send forth his angels to gather out of his kingdom all things (hat offend, and them which do iniquity,' and to gather together his elect from the four winds,* and then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.

And we then, according to thy promise, look for new heavens, and a new earth, wherein dwells righteousness : Lord, grant that, seeing we expect such things, we may give diligence to be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless:' and then, Com, Lord Jesus, come quickly."

[16.] For the sending of the Holy Spirit to supply the want of Christ's bodily presence, to carry on his undertaking, and to prepare things for his second coming. e Pbil. ii. 8-10. f Matt xxviii. la s Heb. ii. 7-9. h Rev. xix. 16. i Dan. ▼ii. U. k Isa. ix. 6,7. i P&ii. 6. m Luke i. 33. n 1 Cor. XV. S4.25, 28. o Acts xvii. 31. p 2 Tbeai. i. 7. 8,10. q 1 Thess. iv. 14. r Matt. xiii. 41. • Matt xxiv. 31. t s Pet iii. 13,14. n Rev. xxil 20. r John xiv. 16,17. w John

We bless thee, that when our Lord Jesus went away, he sent us another Comforter to abide with us for ever, even the Spirit of truth,'' who shall glorify the Son, for he shall take of bis and shall show it unto us.*

That being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, ■ he poured it forth as rivers of living water.y

Blessed be God for the signs and wonders, and divers miracles and gfts, of the Holy Ghost, with which God bare witness to the great salvation."

And blessed be God for the promise, that as earthly parents, though evil, know how to give good gifts to their children, so our heavenly Father will give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him,* that Holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession.^

[17.] For the covenant of grace made with us in Jesus Christ, and all the exceeding great and precious privileges of that covenant, and for the seals of it.

We thank thee, that in Jesus Christ thou hast made an everlasting covenant with us, even the sure mercies of David,^ and that though the mountains may depart, and the hills be removed, yet this covenant of thy peace shall never be removed.**

That thou hast gven unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these we might be partakers of a divine nature:* and that Jesus Christ is the Mediator of this better covenant, which is established upon better promises.^

That though thou chasten our transgression with the rod, and our iniquity with stripes, yet thy loving-kindness thou wilt not utterly ta Cke away, nor cause thy faithfulness to fail; thy covenant thou wilt not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of thy lips.v

That being willing more abundantly to show to the heirs of promise the immutability of thy counsel, thou hast confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold on tlie hope set before us.^

That baptism is appointed to be a seal of the righteousness which is by faith,* as circumcision was: that it assures us of the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost; and that this promise is to us and our children.*^ And that the cup in the Lord's supper is the blood of the New Testament, which was shed for many, for the remission of sins.i

[18.] For the writing of the Scriptures and xvi. 14. z Acts. ii. 33. J John vii. 38. i Heb. ii. 4. a Luke xi. 13. b Eph. i. 13,14. c Isa. Iv.3. d ha. liv. lo. e 2 Pet. i. 4. f Heb. viii. 6. f Ps. Ixxxix. 32—34. h Heb. vi. 17, la i Roro.iv. II. k Actsii. 38, 30. i Matt. xxvi. 28.

GG4

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY. the preserving of them pure and entire to our day.

We thank thee, that we have the Scriptures to search, and that in them we have eternal life, and that they testify of Christ," and that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness.'*

That whatsoever things were written afore-time, were ^written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scripture might have hope:^ and that we have this most sure word of prophesy, as a light shining in a dark place.p

That the vision is not become to us as the words of a book that is sealed,^ but that we hear in our own tongue the wonderful works of God/ *

We thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that the things which were hid from the wise and prudent, and which many prophets and kings desired to see, and might not,* are revealed to us babes; even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight.

[19.] For the institution of ordinances, and particularly that of the ministry.

We thank thee, that thou hast not only showed thy word unto Jacob, but thy statutes and judgments unto Israel, unto us: Thou hast not dealt so with other nations, and as for thy judgments they have not known them.'

That the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them," and that he has set his sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore,* and there will meet the children of Israel.*

We thank thee, that thou hast made known unto us thy holy sabbaths;' and that still there remains the keeping of a sabbath to the people of God.^

And that when the Lord Jesus ascended up on high, he gave gifts unto men, not only prophets, apostles, and evangelists, but pastors and teachers, for the perfecting of the saints,* for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ;' and that while they teach us to observe all things which Christ hath commanded, he has promised to be witli them always, even unto the end of the world.*

[20.] For the planting of the Christian religion in the world, and the setting up of the gospel-church, notwithstanding all the oppositions of the powers of darkness.

We thank thee, that the preaching of Jesus Christ in John V. 39. n 2Tim iii. 16. o Rom. xv. 4. p 2 Pet. i. 19. q Isa xxix. II. r Acts ii. II. ■ Luke x. 21, 24. t Pa. cxlvii. 19,20. o Rev. xxi. 3. V Ezra xxxvii. 26. w Exod. xxix. 43. X Neh. ix. 14. r Heb. iv. 9. r Eph. iv. 8,11—13. • Matt, xxviii. 20. b Rom. xvl. 25,26. c 2 Cor. x. 4. d Mark xvi. 20. according to the conunandmcDt of the everlastiB( God, and the gospel which was made known to ifi nations for the obedience of faith,^ was nigiitT, through God, to the palling down of strong boldsf that the Lord wrought with it, and confinned fk word by signs following;*' so that Satan fell ■ lightning from heaven.*

That though the gospel was preached in mA contention,^ yet it grew and pre Tailed migfatilj and multitudes turned to God from idols, to lenc the living and true God,^ and to wait for his S« from heaven.

Now came salvation and strength, and the kng-dom of our God, and the power of his Christ:' vi the exalted Redeemer rode forth with his bow, uA with his crown, conquering, and to conquer,*^ nd nations were born at once.*

[21.] For the preservation of Christianitjii the world unto this day.

We bless thee, that though the enemies of Imd have afllicted them from their youth up, have mtif a time afflicted them, yet they have not prevailed against them; though the ploaghers have ploagkd on their back, yet the righteous Lord has cut asaider the cords of the wicked."

That Jesus Christ has built his charch npoe t rock, which the gates of hell cannot pre Tail agiiiui' but his seed shall endure for ever, and his throne as the days of heaven.<>

[22.] For the martyrs and confessors, fte lights of the church, and the good examples of those who are gone before us to heaven.

We bless thee for all those who have been enabled to approve themselves to God in mach patience, la afflictions, in necessities, in distrcsses,^ who whea they have been brought before gOTemors and kings for Christ's sake, it has turned to them for a testimony, and God has given them a month and wisdoo, which all their adversaries were not able to gaiasa?

That those who for Christ's sake were killed all the day long, and accounted as sheep for tte slaughter, yet in all these things were more tltti conquerors, through him that loved us.'

That they overcame the accuser of the brethren 1? the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and by not loving their lives unto the death.'

We bless thee for the cloud of witnesses with whieh we are compassed about,* for the footsteps of tke flock," for the elders that have obtained a good r port,^ and are now, through faith and patience, m-heriting the promises.* Lord, give us to follow then, as they followed Christ.* e Luke X. 18. f 1 Thess. i!. 2. g Actsxix. 20. k 1 Tboiili I Rev. xii. 10. k Rev. vi. 2. i Isa. Ixvi. 8. mPa-cxxIx-l-* B Matt. xvi. 18. o Ps Ixxxix. 29. f 3 Ccyr. vi. 4. s LaJtird. 12,13.15. r Rom. viii. 36, 37. t Rev. xit II. t Hekxii. L u Cant.

THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY. e66

[23.] For the commanion of saints, that spiritaal commanion which we have in faith, and hope, and holy love, and in prayers and praises with all good Christians.

We hless thee, that if we walk in the light, we have fellowship one with another,^ even with all that in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our liord, both theirs and ours.'

That we, being many, are one bread and one body,* and ihat though there are diversities of gifts, and administrations, and operations, yet there is the same Spirit, the same Lord, and the same God, which worketh all in all.**

We thank thee, that all the children of God which were scattered abroad <= are united in him who is the head of the body, the church ;^ so that they are all our brethren and companions in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ.*

[24.] For the prospect and hope of eternal life, when time and days shall be no more. We thank thee for the crown of life which the Lord hath promised to them that love him -J the inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for us.

That having here no continuing city,f we are encouraged to seek the better country, that is, the heavenly, the city that hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.^

That we are in hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie, hath promised;' and that all true believers through grace have eternal life abiding in them.*^ (5.) We must give God thanks for the spiritual mercies bestowed upon us in particular, especially if we are called with an effectual call, and have a good work of grace begun in us. [1.] We must bless God for the strivings of bis Spirit with us, and the admonitions and checks of our own consciences. We bless thee, that thou hast not given us over to a reprobate mind,i that our consciences are not seared,"* that thou hast not said, concerning us, they are joined to idols, let them alone,** but that thy Spirit is yet striving with us.*^

We thank thee for the work of the law written in our hearts, our own consciences also bearing witness, and our own thoughts between themselves accusing or excusing one another.?

[2.] We must bless God if there be a saving change wrought in us by his blessed Spirit

And has God, by his grace, translated us out of the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of his dear Son V Has be called us into the fellowship of J 1 John 1. 7. si Cor. i. 2, » 1 Cor. x. 17. » 1 Cor. adl. 4—6. c John xi. 52. d Col. i. 18. • Rev. i. 9. f James i. 12. r Heb. xiii. 14. h Heb. xi. lo. 16. i Tit i. 3. k I John V. 13. I Rom. i. 28. ml Tim. iv. 2. b Ho«. iv. 17. • Gen. vi. a p Rom. ii. 15. q Col. i. 13. r i Cor. i. 9.

Jesus Christ,' and made us nigh by his blood, who by nature were afar off > Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name, give glory.*

We give thanks to God always for those to whom the gospel is come, not in word only, but in power, and in tb% Holy Ghost, and in much assurance."*

Thou hast loved us with an everlasting love, and therefore with loving-kindness thou hast drawn us,^ drawn us with the cords of a man, and the bands of love.''

When the strongman armed kept his palace in our hearts, and his goods were in peace, it was a stronger than he that came upon him, and took from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divided the spoil.'

[3.] We must give thanks for the remission of our sins, and the peace of our consciences.

We bless thee for the redemption we have through Christ's blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of thy grace, whereinou hast abounded towards us.r

That thou hast forgiven all our iniquities, and healed all our diseases;* and hast in love to our souls delivered them from the pit of corruption ; for thou hast cast all our sins behind thy back.*

When thou broughtest us into the wilderness, yet there thou spakest comfortably to us, and gavest us our vineyards from thence; and the valley of Achor for a door of hope.**

[4.] For the powerful influences of the divine grace, to sanctify and preserve us, to prevent our falling into sin, and to strengthen us in doing our duty.

Thou hast not quenched the smoking flax, nor broke the bruised reed,c nor despised the day of small things,** but having obtained help of God we continue hitherto.*

In the day when we cried thou hast answered us, and hast strengthened us with strength in our souls.'

We have been continually with thee; thou hast holden us by the right hand, when our feet were almost gone, and our steps had well nigh slipped.i

We have reason never to forget thy precepts, for by them thou hast quickened us; and unless thy law had been our delight, we should many a time have perished in our afllictions ;'^ for thy statutes have been our songs in the house of our pilgrimage.

Unless the Lord had been our help, our souls had almost dwelt in silence: but when we said. Our foot slippeth, thy mercy, O Lord, held us up: and in the multitude of our thoughts within us, thy comforts have been the delight of our souls.*

Eph. ii. 13. t Ps. cxv. 1. « 1 Thesft. i. 2, 5. ▼ Jer. xxxi. 3. w Hos. xi. 4. X Luke xi. 21.22. r Eph. i. 7.8. i Ps ciii. 3. A Isa. xxxviii. 17. b Hos. ii. 14,15. c Matt. xii. 90. 4 Zecb. iv. 10. o ^cxs xxvl. 22. f Ps. cxxxviii. 3. t Ps. IxxUi. 9. b Pa cxix. 92. 93. i Ps xdv. 17-19.

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS.

[5.] For sweet communion with God in holy ordinances, aad the communications of his favour.

We have been abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house, and thou hast made us drink of the river of thy pleasures: for with thee is the fountain of life, in thy light shall we see light.''

Thou hast brought us to thy mountain, and made us joyful in thy house of prayer,' and we have found it good for us to draw near to God."*

We have had reason to say, A day in thy courts is better than a thousand, and it is better to be doorkeepers in the house of our God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness ; for the Lord God is a sun and shield, he will give grace and glory, and no good thing will we withhold from them that walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trust-eth in thee."

We have sitten down under thy shadow with delight, and thy fruit hath been sweet unto our taste; thou hast brought us into the banqueting house, and thy banner over us has been love.**

[6.] For gracious answers to our prayers.

We have reason to love thee, O Lord, because thou hast heard the voice of our supplications, and because thou hast inclined thine ear unto us, we will therefore call upon thee as long as we live.^

Out of the depths have we cried unto thee, O Lord,*i and thou hast heard our vows, and given us the heritage of those that fear thy name.'

Nay, before we have called thou hast answered, and while we have been yet speaking, thou hast heard," and hast said. Here I am,^ and hast been nigh unto us in all that which we call upon thee for."

Lord, thou hast heard the desire of the humble, thou wilt prepare their heart, and cause thine ear to hear.''

Blessed be God, who hath not turned away our prayer, or his mercy from us,* for we have prayed and have gone away, and our countenances have been no more sad/

[7.] For support under our afflictions, and spiritual benefit and advantage by them.

Thou hast comforted us in all our tribulation,^ hast considered our trouble, and known our souls in adversity, and showed us thy marvellous kindness, as in a strong city.*

When afnictions have abounded, consolations have much more abounded.*

Though no affliction, for the present, hath been joyous, but grievous, nevertheless, afterward it hath yielded the peaceable fruit of righteousness, and hath proved to be for our profit, that we might be partakers of thy holiness.**

Wc have had reason to say, that it was good for k P8. xxxvi. 8,9. I laa. Ivi. 7.

Ixxxiv. 10-12. o Caut. ii. 3, 4. cxxx. 1. T Ps. Ixi. 5. • Isa. Ixv. 23. iv. 7. V l*s X. 17. w Ph. Ixvi. 20. m Ps. Ixxiii. 28. P Ps. cxvi. 1, 2. t Isa. Iviii. 9. X 1 Sam. i. 18.

9 Ps « Deut. r 2 Cor.

US we were afflicted, that we might learn tky mandments; for before we were afflicted we vett astray, but afterwards have kept thy word.*

It has been but for a season, and when there wts need, that we were in heaviness, through maniMd temptations: and we beg, that all the trials of on faith may be found unto praise, and ho Doar, aid glory, at the appearing of Jesus Christ, whom baviig not seen we love, in whom, though now we see lu not, yet believing, we rejoice, with joy anspeakaUt and full of glory; and are longing to receive tk end of our faith, even the salvation of our souls.' [8.] For the performance of God's promisoL

Thou bast dealt well with thy servants, 0 Lord, according to thy word,' and thoa bast been ew mindful of thy covenant, the word which thoa has commanded to a thousand generations/

There hath not failed one word of all the good promises which thou hast promised to David ikf servant, and Israel thy people.^

And now, what shall we render unto the Loni f« all his benefits towards os ? Let our souls retnni H him, and repose in him, as their rest, became k hath dealt bountifully with us. We will take thecip of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord:* for tlie Lord is good, his mercy is everlasting, asd his truth endureth to all generations.'

We will bless the Lord at all times, yea, hu pniie, shall continually be in our months; we will siig unto the Lord as long as we live;* and we hopeti be shortly with those blessed ones who dwell in bis house above, and are still praising him, and wkt rest not day or night from saying. Holy, holy, bolj, Lord God Almighty.*"

CHAPTER V.

OP THB FIFTH PART OF PRAYBE, WHICH 18 I2(TBBCISII0!r,« ADDRESS AND 8UPPUCATION TO OOD FOB rvrmnmm

Our Lord Jesus has taught us to pray. Ml only with, but for, others; and the apostlehift appointed us to make supplication for all saioti,-* and many of his prayers in bis epistles ait i« his friends: and we most not think, that whei we are in this part of prayer, we may be km fervent, and be more indifferent, because «t ourselves are not immediately concerned in it but rather, let a holy fire of love, both to God and man, here make our devotions yet man warm and lively. 1. We must pray for the whole world of maai. 4. I Ps. xxxi. 7, 21. • 3 Cor. i. 6. b Heb xii. 10, II. « ft cxlx. 67, 71. d I PeL 4.6—9 e Ps. cxlx. 6&. f Pi. C».'. f 1 Kings vtii. 46, 66. h Ps. cxvl. 7, 12,13. i Ps. c& k ft xxxiv. 1. 1 Ps. ciV. 33. m Rev. iv. 8. « Eph. vi M

INTiSRCESSION FOR OTHERS.

667 kind, the lost world ;** and thus we mast honour all men, and according to our capacity do good to all men.°

We pray, as we are taught, for all men, believing that this is good and acceptable in the sight of God oor Saviour, who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth, and of Jesus Chrbt, who gave himself a ransom for all.**

O look with compassion upon the world that lies in wickedness,* and let the prince of this world be cast out/ that has blinded their minds.'

O let thy way be known upon earth,^ that barbar-oas nations may be civilized, and those who live without God in the world * may be brought to the service of the living God; and thus let thy saving health be known unto all nations. Let the people praise thee, O God, yea, let all the people praise thee: O, let the nations be glad, and sing for joy, for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth.''

O let thy salvation and thy righteousness be openly showed in the sight of the heathen, and let nil the ends of the earth see the salvation of our God.>

O give thy Son the heathen for his inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for his possession ;■" for thou hast said. It is a light thing for him to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel, but thou wilt give him for a light to the Gentiles."

Let all the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of the Lord, and of his Christ.*

2. For the propagating of the gospel in foreign parts, and the enlargement of the church, by the bringing in of many to it.

O let the gospel be preached unto every creature ;p for how shall men believe in him of whom they have not heard ? And how shall they hear without preachers? And how shall they preach except they be sent?*! And who shall send forth labourers, but the Lord of the harvest?'

Let the people which sit in darkness see a great light, and to them which sit in the region and shadow of death let light spring up.*

Add unto thy church daily such as shall be saved ;* enlarge the place of its tent, lengthen its cords, and strengthen its stakes."

Bring thy seed from the east, and gather them from the west; say to the north. Give up, and to the south. Keep not back: bring thy sons from far, and thy daughters from the ends of the earth.* Let them come with acceptance to thine altar, and glorify the house of thy glory ; let them fly as a cloud, and as the doves to their windows.* b 1 Pet. ii. 17. c Gal. vi. lo. d 1 Tim. ii. 1. 3, 4, & • l John V. 19. f John xil. 31. f 3 Cor. iv. 4. b Ps. Ixvil. 2. i Eph. ti. 12. k Ps Ixvji. 3, 4. I Ps. xcvlii. a, 3. m Ps. ii. 8. to Isa. xlix 6. o Rev. xi. 15. p Hark xvL 15. q Rom. x. 14,15. t Matt. ix. 38. ■ Matt. iv. 18. t Acts ii. 47.' u Isa. liv. 2.

In every place let incense be ofl'ered to thy name, and pure offerings; and from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, let thy name be great among the Gentiles;' and let the offering up of the Gentiles be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Gbostr

O let the earth be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea."

3. For the conversion of the Jews.

Let the branches which are broken off not abide still in unbelief, but be grafted in again into their own olive-tree. And though blindness is in part happened to Israel, yet let the fulness of the Gentiles come in, and let all Israel be saved.'

Let them be made to look unto him whom they have pierced,^ and that they may turn to the Lordy let the veil which is upon their hearts be taken away.*

4. For the Eastern churches, that are groaning under the yoke of Mahometan tyranny.

Let the churches of Asia, that were golden candlesticks,^ which the Lord Jesus delighted to walk in the midst of,' be again made so.

Restore unto them their liberties, as at first, and their privileges, as at the beginning; purely purge away their dross, and take away all their tin,^ and turn again their captivity as the streams of the south. V

5. For the churches in the plantations.

Be thou the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of those that are afar off beyond the sea; ^ and let them have the blessing which came upon the head of Joseph, and upon the crown of the head of him that was separated from his brethren, even to the utmost bound of the everlasting hills.*

Create peace to those that are afar off, as well as to those that are nigh."

And let those that suck of the abundance of the seas, and of treasures hid in the sand, call the people to the mountain, that they may offer sacrifices of righteousness.*

6. For the universal church, wherever dispersed, and for all the interests of it.

Our heart's desire and prayer to God for the gospel Israel is, that it may be saved.

Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion, build thou the walls of Jerusalem." Peace be within her walls, and prosperity within her palaces. For our brethren and companions' sake, we will now say, peace be within her.® O that we may see the good of the gospel Jerusalem all the days of our life, and peace upon Israel .p And that thus we may have reason to answer the messengers of the nations, that the Lord hath found-

V Isa. xliii. 5, 6. v Ija. Ix. 7,8. x Mai. i. 11. j Rom. xt. I6w I Is. xi. 9. « Rom. xi. 23—26. b Zech. xii. lo. e 2 Cor. iii. 18. dRev. i. II, 12. eRev. Ii. 1. f Isa. i. 25, 26. f Ps. cxxvi. 4. h Ps. Ixv. 5. i Gen. xlix. 26. k Isa. Ivii. 19. i Deut xxxiii. 19. m Rom. X. 1. a Ps. Ii. 1& o Ps. cxxii. 7, & p Ps.cxxviii. 5,6.

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS. ed Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust to thato

Save thy people, O Lord, and bless thine heritage: feed them also, and lift them up for ever/ Give strength unto thy people, and bless thy people with peace;* with thy favour do thou compass them as with a shield.'

Grace be with all them that love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity; ** for thou knowest them that are thine: and give to all that name the name of Christ, to depart from iniquity.*

We pray for all that believe in Christ, that they all may be one ; ^ and since there is one body, and one spirit, and one hope of our calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all,* give to all Christians to be of one heart/ and one way.

Let the word of the Lord in all places have a free course, and let it be glorified.*

7. For the conviction and conversion of atheists, deists, and infidels, and of all that are out of the way of truth, and of profane scoffers, and those that disgrace Christianity by their vicious and immoral lives.

O teach transgressors thy ways, and let sinners be converted unto thee.*

O give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth, the truth as it is in Jesus,** the truth which is according to godliness,*^ that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil.**

Let those who are as sheep going astray, return to Jesus Christ, the Shepherd and Bishop of our 80uls.<>

Show those fools their folly and misery, that have said in their hearts, there is no God, and that are eorrupt, and have done abominable works.'

Lord, maintain the honour of the Scripture, the law and the testimony, and convince those who speak not according to that word, that it is because there is no light in them ;t magnify that word above all thy name ; ^ magnify the law, magnify the gospel, and make both honourable.^

Let those who will not be won by the word, be won by the conversation of Christians,'' which we beg may be such in every thing, that they who believe not may be convinced of all, and judged of all, may be brought to worship God, and to report that God is with them of a truth.'

8. For the amending of every thing that is amiss in the church, the reviving of primitive Christianity, and the power of godliness, and in order thereunto the pouring out of the Spirit.

Lord, let thy Spirit be poured out upon thy q Isa. xiv. .*». r Ps. xxvill. 9. • Ps xxix. II. t Ps. V. 12. n Eph vi. 24. ▼ 2 Tim. ii. 19. w John xvii. 20, 21. « Eph. Iv. 4—6. y Jer. xxxii. 39. «2 Thess iii. 1. • Ps. li. 13. b Eph. Iv. 21. e Tit. i. 1. d 2 Tim. il. 25,26. el Pet ii. 25. t Ps. xiv. 1. giaau viii. 20. b Pi. cxxxviii. a. i Isa. xlii. 2i. churches from on high, and then the wildenenMI J ^ become a fruitful field,'^ then jadgment shall n- |< turn unto righteousness, aAd all the upright in Imit shall follow it."

Let what is wanting be set in order/ and letevoj plant that is not of our heavenlj Fathei's pboiiii be plucked up p

Let the Lord whom we seek come to his temple lib a refiner's fire, and fuller's soap, and let him pmi the sons of Levi, and all the seed of Israel, tti purge them as gold and silver, that they may ofir unto the Lord an offering in righteousness,^ pleani to the Lord, as in the days of old, as in fonier years.

Let pure religion, and ondefiled before God vd the Father,** flourish and prevail every where; tlit kingdom of God among men, which is not meataid drink, but righteousness and peace, and joy ii At Holy Ghost.* O revive this work in the midst of it years, in the midst of the years make known,* mI let our times be times of reformation."

9. For the breaking of the power of all fte enemies of the church, and the defeating afafi their designs against her.

Let all that set themselves, and take comiael together, against the Lord, and against his Anoinled, who would break their bands asunder, and cail away their cords from them, imagine a vain tUi;. Let him that sits in heaven laugh at them, and haw them in derision; speak unto them in thy wiatk, and vex them in thy sore displeasure.^ Give thca. O Lord, what thou wilt gve them; give them a mil-carrying womb, and dry breasts.^

O our God, make them like a wheel, and as stab-ble before the wind; fill their facs with shaac that they may seek thy name, O Lord, and thatnei may know that thou, whose name is Jehovah, art the Most High over all the earth.*

Put them in fear, O Lord, that the nations nif know themselves to be but men,' and wherein tk proud enemies of thy church deal proudly, make it to appear that thou art above them.*

Let them be confounded, and turned back, Ifat hate Zion, and be as the grass upon the house-tops, which withereth before it groweth up.*

Let no weapon formed against thy church prosper, and let every tongue that riseth against it in jodf-ment be condemned.**

Make Jerusalem a burthensome stone for ifl people, and let all that burthen themselves widi it be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth should be gathered together against it;' so letafl thy enemies perish, O Lord, but let them that lofe k 1 Pet iii. 1. 11 Cor. xiT. 84,35. m ba. xxziL U. «I xciv. 15. oTit 1.5. pMatt. XV. 13. qMal.iill ^^f i. 27. • Rom. xiv. 17 t Hab. iii. a. a Heb. ix. le 'ft ii. 1-5. wHos.ix. 14. «Ps Ixxxiii. 13,16,18. ffti*» K Exod. xviii. 11. • Ps. cxxiz. 5, & v laa. liv. 17. r 2cdi sitl

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS.

609 thee be as the san when he goes forth in his strength.'

Lord, let the man of sin be consumed with the spirit of thy mouth, and destroyed with the brightness of thy coming: and let those be undeceived that have been long under the power of strong delusions to believe a lie, and let them receive the truth in the love of it.«

Let Babylon fall, and sink like a mill-stone into the sea; ^ and let the kings of the earth that have gven their power and honour to the beast, v be wrought upon at length to bring it into the new Jerusalem.**

10. For the relief of suffering churches, and the support, comfort, and deliverance of all that are persecuted for righteousness.

We desire in our prayers to remember them that are in bonds for the testimony of Jesus, as bound with them, and them which suffer adversity, as being ourselves also in the body.^ O send from above, and deliver them from those that hate them, and bring them forth into a large place.*"

O let not the rod of the wicked rest upon the lot pf the righteous, lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity.'

. Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord; awake as in the ancient days, as in the generations of old, and make the depths of the sea a way for the ransomed of the Lord to pass over."* For the oppression of the poor, and the sighing of the needy, now do thou arise, O Lord, and set them in safety from them that puff at them."

O strengthen the patience and faith of thy suffering saints,^ that they may hope, and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.e

O let the year of thy redeemed come,*i and the year of reeompences for the controversy of Zion.'

O that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion; and when the Lord bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice and Israel shall be glad.*

O let not the oppressed return ashamed, but let the poor and needy praise thy name.'

Lord, arise, and have mercy upon Zion, and let the time to favour her, yea, the set time, come; yea, let the Lord build up Zion, and appear in his glory. Lord, regard the prayer of the destitute, and do not despise their prayer."

O Lord God, cease, we beseech thee: By whom shall Jacob arise, for he is small?' O cause thy face to shine upon that part of thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lord's sake.^ a Judg. V. 31. 0 S Tbeas. ii. 3.8, lo, 11. f Rev. zviii. 2,31. ff Rev. xvii. 17. h Rev. xxi. 24. i Heb. xiii. 3. k Pa. xviii. 16. 17,19. 1 PSw cxzy. 3. m Isa. li. 0,10. u Ps. xii. 5.

• Rev. xiii. 19. p Lam. til. 2& q Isa. Ixiii. 4. r laa. xxxiv. 8.

Pa. xiv. 7. t Pa. Ixxiv. si. u Pa. di. 13, 16,17. ▼ Amos vil 5. w Dan. ix. 17. > Pa. Ixxix. 11. f Isa. xxx. 20.

Let the sorrowful sighing of thy prisoners como before thee, and according to the greatness of thy power, preserve thou those that for thy name's sake are appointed to die.'

Let those whose teachers are removed into comers, again see their teachers, though they have the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction.^

11. For the nations of Europe, and the countries about us.

Thou, Lord, art the Governor among the nations :* Who shall not fear thee, O King of nations?' Thou sittest in the throne judging right; judge the world therefore in righteousness, and minister judgnent to the people in uprightness.^

Lord, hasten the time when thou wilt make wars to cease to the ends of the earth ;<^ when nation shall no more lift up sword against nation, nor kingdom against kingdom, but swords shall be beaten into plough-shares, and spears into pruning-hooks, and they shall not learn war any more.^

Make kings nursing fathers, and their queens nursing mothers, to the Israel of God.*

And in the days of these kings let the God of heaven set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed,' even the kingdom of the Redeemer. And whatever counsels there are in men's hearts. Lord, let thy counsel stand,' and do thou fulfil the thoughts of thy heart unto all generations.^

12. For our own land and nation, the happy islands of Great Britain and Ireland, which we ought in a special manner to seek the welfare of, that in the peace thereof we may have peace.

(I.) We must he thankful to God for his mercies to our land.

We bless thee, that thou hast planted us in a very fruitful hill,' and hast not made the wilderness our habitation, or the barren land our dwelling,^ but our land yields her increase.*

Lord, thou hast dealt favourably with our land."* We have heard with our ears, and our fathers have told us, what work thou didst for us in their days, and in the times of old :> and as we have heard, so have we seen ; for we have thought of thy loving-kindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple.®

Thou hast given us a pleasant land,p it is Imma-nuel's ]and,<i it is a valley of vision,' thou hast set up thy tabernacle among us, and thy sanctuary is in the midst of us.*

We dwell safely under our own vines and fig* trees,' and there is peace to him that goeth out, and to him that comes in."

Pa. xxii. 28. • ft Jer. x. 7. b Pa. ix. 4, a e Pa. xlvi. 9. d laa. ii. 4. • laa. clix. 23. f Dan. ii. 44. f Prov. xix. 21. h Pa. xxxiii. 11. t Isa. v. 1. k Job xxxix. 6. i Pa. Ixxxv. 12. m Pa. Ixxxv. 1. a Pa. xliv. 1. o pa. xlviii. 8,9. p Jer. iii. 19. q laa. viii B. * laa. xxll. 1. • Ezek. xxxvii. 28.27. t I Kinga \y„ 25. a 2 Cbron. xv. 6.

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS.

And because the Lord loved our people, therefore be hath set a good government over us, to do judgment and justice;' to be a terror to evil doers, and a protection and praise to them that do well.^ (2.) We must be humble before God for our national sins and provocations.

But we are a sinful people, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evil doers ;* and a great deal of reason we have to sigh and cry for the abominations that are committed among us.'

Iniquity abounds among us, and the love of many is waxed cold.'

We have not been forsaken, nor forgotten of our God, though our land be full of sin against the Holy One of Israel.* (3.) We must pray earnestly for the favour of God to us, and the tokens of his presence among us, as that in which the happiness of our nation is bound up.

O the hope of Israel, the Saviour thereof in time of trouble: be not thou as a stranger in our land, or a way-faring man that turns aside to tarry but for a night; but be thou always in the midst of us; we arc called by thy name, O leave us not.—^Though our iniquities testify against us, yet do thou it for thy name's sake; though our backslidings are many, and we have sinned against thee.^

Turn us to thee, O Lord God of hosts, and then cause thy face to shine, and we shall be safe. O stir up thy strength, and come and save us.^

Show us thy mercy, O Lord, and grant us thy salvation ; yea, let that salvation be nigh them that fear thee, that glory may dwell in our land. Let mercy and truth meet together, righteousness and peace kiss each other: let truth spring out of the earth, and righteousness look down from heaven; yea, let the Lord give that which is good : let righteousness go before him, and set us in the way of his steps.^ (4.) For the continuance of the gospel among us, and the means of grace, and a national profession of Christ's holy religion.

O let the throne of Christ endure for ever among us,* even the place of thy sanctuary, that glorious high throne from the beginning.'

Let our candlestick never be removed out of its place, though we have deserved it should, because we have left our first love.' Never do to us as thou didst to thy place which was in Shilofa, where thou didst set thy name at the first.**

Let us never know what a famine of the word means ; nor ever be put to wander from sea to sea, and from the river to the ends of the earth, to seek the word of God.' r I Kings X. 9. w Rom. xiii a s laa. i. 4. 7 Ezek. ix. 4. ■ Matt xxlf. 12. ft Jer. li. 5. b Jer. xiv. 7-9. c Ps. Ixxx. «, 3. d Ps. Ixxxv. 7—13. • Ps. xlv. e. f Jer. xvii. la. s Rev. ii. 4, s. h Jer. vii. 12.14. i Amos viil. II. 12. k Isa. xxxiii. 6. 1 Ps. Ixxii. 5,7. m P& cii. la n Zech. iJ. 5.

Let wisdom and knowledge be the stabili1|of Mr times, and strength of salvation, and letthefetrof the Lord be our treasure :^ let the righteou fkmA among us, and let there be those that shall fetr tkee in our land, as long as the sun and moon endiie; throughout all generations,' may there be abimdaici of peace, and may the children which shall Vt e» ated praise the Lord.*" (5.) For the continuance of car outward peace and tranquillity, our liberty and plenty, for tli prosperity of our trade, and a blessing upoathe fruits of the earth.

Let God himself be a wall of fire round aboit 1% and the glory in the midst of us," yea, let his goipd be our glory, and upon all that ^lory let there bet defence; and create upon every dwelling-pliee tf mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud uA smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fiieby night.**

Peace be within our borders, and prosperity will-in our palaces,P the prosperity both of merchaiiditt and husbandry, that Zebulun may rejoice in Ui going out, and Issachar in bis tents.**

Appoint salvation to us for walls and bolwirici, and in order to that let the gates be opened, that Hi righteous nation which keepeth the tmth may cakr in.'

Make our officers peace, and our exacton liglit-eousness; let violence never be heard in oar gitcf, wasting or destruction in onr borders, bat let «r walls be called salvation, and oar gates pnise;' never let our land be termed forsaken and desobte, but let the Lord delight in ns, and let oar land bi married to him.*

Let our peace be as a river, and in order to tbil, our righteousness as the waves of the sea." Let dot righteousness abound among us which exaHcH a nation, and deliver us from sin, which is areproiel to any people.'

Never make our heaven as brass, and oar earth ai iron,'' nor take away thy com in the season thereoC and thy wine in the season thereof,* bat give as ran moderately,^ the former and the latter rain ia dM season, and reser\'e unto as the appointed weeksa( harvest,* giving us fair weather also in its setsoa. Let our land yield her increase, and the trees tbck fruit, that we may eat bread to the fall, and dwe Uia our land safely.'

Abundantly bless our provision, and satisfy 00 poor with bread,^ that they which have gathered it may eat and praise the Lord.« Blow not thoa upai it, for then when we look for much, it will ooae la little,*^ but bless our blessings, that all nations uvf call us blessed, and a delightsome land.* o Isa iv. 5. p Ps. cxxii. 7. ^ Dent xxxiii. 18. » faa rtri 1,3. ■ Isa. Ix. 17, ia t I». Ixil. 4. • Iss. xl Tio. IS T Prov. xiv. 34. w Dettt. xxviii. S3. x Hos. ii 9. r Jodii 33. s Jer. ▼.94. • Lev. xxvi. 4, 5. v Pi cxxxii- li e Isa. Ixii. 9. d Hag. i. 9. • Alal. iii. 10, \t.

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS.

071 (6.) For the success of onr endeavours for the reformation of manners, the suppression of vice and profaneness, and the support of religion and virtue, and the bringing of them into reputation.

O let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the just, O thou righteous God, that triest the hearts and reins.' Spirit many to rise up from thee against the evil doers, and to stand up for thee against the workers of iniquity.'

the Redeemer come to Zion, and turn away ungodliness from Jacob;** and let the filth of Jerusalem be purged from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and the spirit of burning.*

Let ail iniquity stop her mouth,*' and let the infection of that plague be stayed, by executing judg-ment.i

Let those who are striving against sin never be weary or faint in their minds."*

Cause the unclean spirit to pass out of the land,** and turn to the people a pure language, that they may call on the name of the Lord.*

Make us high above all nations in praise, and in name, and in honour, by making us a holy people onto the Lord our God.P (7.) For the healing of our unhappy divisions, and the making up of our breaches.

For the divisions that are among us, there are great searchings of heart; i for there are three against two, and two against three in a house.*^ But is the breach wide as the sea, which cannot be healed ? * Is there BO balm in Gilead ? Is there no physician there ? Why then is not the health of the daughter of bur people recovered?* Lord, heal the breaches of onr land, for because of them it shaketh."

We beg, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that there be no divisions among us, but that we may be perfectly joined together in the same mind, and in the same judgment.*

Now the God of patience and consolation grant us to be like-minded one towards another, according to Christ Jesus, that we may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesu9 Christ,* and promote the common salvation.*

Lord, keep us from judging one another, and despising one another, and give us to follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify one another; i that living in love and peace, the God of love and peace may be with us.*

Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory, bat every thing in lowliness of mind,* and grant that »ar moderation may be known unto all men, because the Lord is at hand.** f Ps. vii. 9. f Ps. xciv. 18. h Rom. xi. 96. i laeu It. 4. k Ps. cvii. 4% 1 Ps. cv\. 30. m Heb. xii. 3,4. a Zech. xiii. 3. • Zepb. iii. 9. p Deut. xxvi. 19. q Judg. v. 16. r Luke xli. 51. ■ Lam. ii. S. t Jer. vi!i. 22. u pg. \x. 2. ▼ 1 Cor. i. 10. w Rom. XT. 5. 6. X Jude 3. y Rom. xiv. 3,19.

2Cor. xiii. ii. a Phil. il. 3. b Phil.iv. 6. * Numb. x.

(8.) For victory and success against our enemies abroad, that seek our ruin. Rise, Lord, and let thine enemies be scattered, and let those that hate thee flee before thee, but return, O Lord, to the many thousands of thine Israel.* Give us help from trouble, for vain is the help of man. Through God let our forces do valiantly; yea, let God himself tread down our enemies ;** and gve them as dust to our sword, and as driven stubble to our bow.«

Let us be a people saved by the Lord, as the shield of our help, and the sword of our excellency;' and make our enemies sensible that the Lord fight-cth for us against them.r

Those who jeopard their lives for us in the high places of the field,'' teach their hands to war, and their fingers to fight, gve them the shield of thy salvation, and let thy right hand hold them up,* and cover their heads in the day of battle.^ (9.) For our sovereign lord the king, that God will protect his person, preserve his health, and continue his life and government long a public blessing.

Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness, thtft he may judge the poor of the people, may save the children of the needy, and may break in pieces the oppressor.*

Let his throne be established with righteousness,™ and upheld with mercy.*' Give him long life and length of days for ever and ever, and let his glory be great in thy salvation, and make him exceeding glad with thy countenance: through the tender mercy of the Most High let him not be moved.**

Clothe his enemies with shame, but upon himself let the crown flourish,? and continue him long, very long, a nursing-father to thine Israel.^ (10.) For the succession in the protestant line, that a blessing may attend it, that the entail of the crown may prove a successful expedient for the establishing of peace and truth in our days, the securing of them to posterity, and the extinguishing the hopes of our popish adversaries, and all their aiders and abettors. Lord, preserve the lamp which thou hast ordained for thine anointed,' that the generation to come may know thee, even the children which shall be bom, that they may set their hope in God, and keep his commandments.*

Let the protestant succession abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth which may preserve it, so will we sing praise unto thy name for ever.^ Thus let the Lord save Sion, and build the cities of Judah, and the seed of thy servants shall 33, 36. a Pi. Iz. 11,12. o Isa. xlL 2. f Deut xxxiii. 29. r Exod. xiv. 2&. h Judg. ▼. 18. i Ps. xviii. 34,35. k Ps. cxl. 7. 1 Ps. Ixxil. 1,4. «a Prov. XXV. 5. n ProT. xx. 28. o Ps. zxi. 4—7. p Ps. cxxxii. 1& « Isa. xlix. 2a r Ps. cxxxii. 17. • Ps. IxxTiii. 6,7. I Ps. Ixi. 7. 8.

C72

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS. inherit it, and they that love thy name shall dwell therein."

Let their design, who would make a captain to return into Egypt/ be again defeated, and let not the deadly wound that hath been given to the beast be healed any more.*

Let our eyes see Jerusalem, the city of our solemnities, a quiet habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down: let none of the stakes thereof be removed, nor any of the cords thereof be broken, but let the glorious Lord be to us a place of broad waters and streams; for the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king, he will save us.''

(II.) For the privy-counsellors, the ministers of state, the members of parliament, the ambassadors and envoys abroad, and all that are employed in the conduct of public affairs.

Counsel our counsellors, and teach our senators wisdom :y O give them a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of counsel and might, a spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord, to make them of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord.*

O remove not the speech of the trusty, nor take away the understanding of the aged,* nor ever let the things that belong to the nation's peace be hid from the eyes ^ of those that are intrusted with the nation's counsels.

Make it to appear that thou standest in the congregation of the mighty, and judgest among the gods,' and that when the princes of the people are gathered together,^ even the people of the God of Abraham, the God of Abraham himself is among them; and let the shields of the earth belong unto the Lord, that he may be greatly exalted.

Let those that be of us build the old waste places, and raise up the foundations of many generations, that they may be called the repairers of the breaches, and restorers of paths to dwell in.* (12.) For the magistrates, the judge, and justices of peace in the several counties and corporations.

Make those that rule over us just, ruling in the fear of God ;^ and let those that judge remember, that they judge not for man, but for the Lord, who is with them in the judgment, that therefore the fear of the Lord may be upon them.s

Make them able men and men of truth, fearing God, and hating covetousness," that judgment may run down like a river, and righteousness as a mighty stream.*

Enable our magistrates to defend the poor and fatherless, to do justice for the afflicted and needy, tt Ps. Ixix. 35,36. ▼ Numb. xiv. 4. w Rev. xiii. 12. « Isa. xxxiil. 20—22. y Ps. cv. 22 i I»a. xi. 2, 3. • Job xii. 20. b Luke xix. 42. c Ps. Ixxxii. 1. d Ps. xlix. 7. o Isa. Iviil. 12. f 2 Sam. xxiii. 3. ir 2 Chron. xlx. 6, 7. h Exod. xviil. ai.

1 Amos ▼. 24. k Ps. Ixxxii. 3,4. i i Pet. ii. 14. m Rom. xiii. 4. n I Tim. ili. I5b o 2 Cor. iv. 5. p 2 Tim. ii. 15. to deliver the poor and needy, and to rid tbem oot of the hand of the wicked,*^ and let rulers never k a terror to good works,* but to the evil."* (13.) For all the ministers of God's boly word and sacraments, the masters of assemblies.

Teach thy ministers how they ought to behate themselves in the house of God, which istbecbordi of the living God," that they may not preach then-selves, but Christ Jesus the Lord,** and nuiy sta to show themselves approved to God, workmen tint need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the wa4 of truth.P

Make them mighty in the Scriptures,4thattbeMi'j{ they may be thoroughly furnished for every pni work,' in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, and sincerity, and sound speech, which cannot W condemned.*

Enable them to give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine, to meditate upon these things, to give themselves to prayer and to the ministiy of the word,' to give themselves wholly to them; aad to continue in them, that they may both save then-selves and those thathear them."

Let utterance be given to them, that they may opei their mouths boldly, to make known the mystery «f the gospel, that thereof they may speak as they oagbt to speak,^ as able ministers of the New Testameat* not of the letter, but of the spirit,* and let them obtsiB mercy of the Lord to be faithful."

Let the arms of their hands be made strong by tke hands of the mighty God of Jacob;' and let tbca be full of power by the Spirit of the Lord of boits, to show thy people their transgressions,' and tk house of Jacob their sins.'

Make them sound in the faith,** and enable tbca always to speak the things which become sound doctrine,^ with meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; and let not the servants of the Lord strive, but be gentle to all men, apt to teach.'

Make them good examples to the believen,ii word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity;" and let them be clean that bear the vessels of the Lord,' and let holiness to the Lord' be written upon their foreheads.

Lord, grant that they may not laboor in vain, or spend their strength for nought, and in vain> bat let the hand of the Lord be with them, that many maj believe, and turn to the Lord.^ (14.) For all the nniversities, schools, and nurseries of learning.

Let the schools of the prophets be replenished witt every good gift and every perfect gift from above, from the Father of lights.^ q Acts xviii. 24 T 2 Tim. iii. 17. • Tit ii. 7. t Ads vi. i a 1 Tim. !▼. 13,15,16. r Eph. vi. 19,20. « 2 Cor. iti. & < 1 Oor. »ii. 25. y Gen. xlix. 24. % Mic. iii. 8. » Isa. Iviii. I. k Tit i. 13. e Tit ii. I. d a Tim. ii. 24.25. « I Tim. if tt f l». Hi. 11. f Exod. xxviii. 36. k Isa. xlix. 4. i A(i» xi 21. k James i. 17. .

INTERCESSION FOR OTHERS.

673

Cast salt into those fountains,^ and heal the waters thereof, that from thence may issue streams which shall make glad the city of our God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High.*" (15.) For the common people of the land.

Give grace to all the subjects of this land, that we may, under the government God has set over us, live quiet and peaceable lives, in all godliness and ho-nesty,* dwelling together in unity, that the Lord may command a blessing upon us, even life for evermore.

Let all of every denomination, that fear God and lit work righteousness, be accepted of him '/* yea, let such as love thy salvation say continually. The Lord be magnified, that hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servants.?

(16.) For those who are young, and setting out in the world.

Lord, give to those who are young to remember their Creator in the days of their youth,4 that thereby they may be kept from the vanity which childhood and youth are subject to, and may be restrained from walking in the way of their heart, and in the sight of their eyes, by considering, that for all these things God will bring them into judgment

Lord, make young people sober-minded,* and let the word of God abide in them, that they may be strong, and may overcome the wicked one.^

From the womb of the morning let Christ have the dew of the youth," and let him be formed in the hearts of those who are young.*

Keep those who are setting out in the world from the corruption that is in the world through lust ;* and give to those who have been well educated to hold fast the form of sound words,' and to continue in the things which they have learned.^ (17.) For those who are old, and are of long standing in profession.

There are some who are old disciples of Jesus Christ;' Lord, give them still to bring forth fruit in old age, to show that the Lord is upright, that he is their rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.* Now the evil days are come, and the years of which they say there is no pleasure in them,^ let thy comforts delight their souls.'

Even to their old age be thou he, and to the hoary hairs do thou carry them thou hast made, we beseech thee, bear, yea, do thou carry and deliver them.^

Those whom thou hast taught from their youth op, and who have hitherto declared all thy wondrous works, now, also, when they are old and grey-headed

1 2 Kings ii. 31. m Ps. xlvi. 4. » 1 Tkm. il. 3. o Acts x. 35. p Ps. XXXV. 27. q Eccl. xii. 1. r Eccl. xi.^, 10. ■ Tit ii. 6. t I John ii. 14. n Ps. ex. 3 t Qal. iv. 19. vr 3 Pet. i 4.

2 Tim. i. 13 7 3 Tim iii. 14. « Acts xxi 16. » Ps. xcii.

14.15. b Eccl. xii. 1. e Ps. xciv. 19. d ba. xlvi. 4. 0 Ps.

2 X leave them not, cast them not off in their old age, fail them not when their strength fails.*

Let every hoary head be a crown of glory to those who have it, being found in the way of righteousness,' and give them to know whom they have believed.' (18.) For those who are rich and prosperous in the world, some of whom perhaps need prayers as much as those that request them.

Lord, keep those that are rich in the world from being high-minded, and trusting in uncertain riches, and give them to trust in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy : that they may do good, and be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; that they may lay up in store for themselves a good security for the time to come.^

Though it is hard for those that are rich to enter into the kingdom of heaven, yet with thee this is possible.* (19.) For those who are poor and in affliction, for such we have always with us.

Lordy make those who are poor in the world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom,^ and give to them to receive the gospel.^

O that the poor of the flock may wait upon thee, and may know the word of the Lord.'"

Many are the troubles of the righteous, good Lord, deliver them out of them all," and though no affliction for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous, nevertheless, afterward let it yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness to them that are exercised thereby.«

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