The Communicant's Companion
3. How have I preserved my purity?—Have I possessed my vessel in sanctification and honor, or am I not conscious to myself of indulging the lust of uncleanness? If, by the grace of God, I have kept my body pure, yet has not my spirit been defiled by impure thoughts and affections? I have made a covenant with mine eyes not to look and lust, but have I made good that covenant? Have I in no instance transgressed the laws of chastity in my heart, and modesty in my behavior? Let this inquiry be made with a strict guard upon the soul, lest that which should not be named among Christians, be thought of without that just abhorrence and detestation which becomes saints.
4. How have I used my tongue?—It was designed to be my glory, but has it not been my shame? Has not much corrupt communication proceeded out of my mouth, and little of that which is good, which might either manifest grace, or minister grace? Have not I sometimes spoken unadvisedly, and said that in haste which at leisure I could have wished unsaid? Have not I said that, by which God's great name has been dishonored, or my brother's good name reproached, or my own exposed? If, for every idle word that I speak, I must give account to God, I had best call myself to an account for them, and I shall find innumerable evils compassing me about.
5. How have I spent my time?—So long as I have lived in the world, to what purpose have I lived? What improvement have I made of my days for doing or getting good? It is certain I have lost time; have I yet begun to redeem it, and to repair those losses? How many hours have I spent that might have been spent much better? There is a duty which every day requires, but how little of it has been done in its day!
6. How have I managed my worldly calling?—Have I therein abode with God, or have I not in many instances of it wandered from him? Have I been