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SOLOMON'S ETHICS, 



OR TRB 



BOOK 



OF 



PROVERBS 

MADE EASY. 



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TO make tnitfc lovely, iij early life, it muft be prefented under 
fenfible, and beautiful fornu. Hiey are not capable of being touch- . 
cd by mere abilradh ideas. Ramfays Cyrus, 

Where fhall we find a real univerfal tie, if not in thofe unalterable 
ideas, which are fo confonant to our nature, and fuited to all with- 
out diftin<ftion ? They are allied to objeAs which belong to our 
whole life ; and unite us to that fpirit which conftitutes our true 
grandeur. Nechrt Itup^rtance of Religious Opinions. 



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SOLOMON'S ETHICS, 

OR THE 

BOOK 

OF 

P ROV E RB S 

MADE EASY; 

A SCHOOL BOOK, 

And feafonable Prtfent for the Touth of both 
Sexes, from fucb at can fpare. 



By WILLIAM DALRYMPLE, D. D. 

own or TBE MINISTERS OF AIR* 



Trk profits, if any, to cro into a contribution for the Wibows 
and Children c 
the late Glorioi 
Admiral Sir H 



AIR: 

rRINTED Sr J. tr P. IVILSON, t 
.799. C " 

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DEDICATION. 



Ta 



THE RIGHT HONOURABLE 

FLORA, 
COUNTESS OF LOUDON. 

My Ladyf 

When I firft intended 
doing myfelf the honour of infcribing this 
little Manual to your Ladyship, it was 
meant to be juil tn fo many words ; but a 
late afieding lofs, which you in particular, 
and a circle of numerous dear Friends, have 
fuftained, calls for a public fympathy and 
condolence. At the fame time, I join ia 
thanks to a moji gracious Gody that the late 
worthy Lady Dumfries lived fo long as ta 
be an inftru&or from aSedion and choice. 



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Ti DtDlCATlOJi. 

in that period of life which ufually* forms 
the charafter ; and to be a fhining example 
of religious and moral duty. If what has been 
done to illuftrate the fliort, but comprehen- 
five fyftem of Ethics^ that has flood the teft 
of fo many ages, fliould prove a mean of 
relief for the prefent, or fpiritual entertain* 
ment at any time hereafter, it will give na 
fmall pleafure to an old Paftor, who, from 
earlieft years, kas beefl warnify attached to 
the houfe of Loudon. 

I h^ve^ My Ladyy the honour of fubicrib* 
ing myfelf, with all due refpeA and efteem^ 

Your Ladyfliip's obliged. 

And moft obedient fervant, 

WILUAM DALRYMPLE. 

Air, June ioth,> 
1799- i 



* Prov. xtxu 6» 



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F RE F ACE. 

THIS facrtd book Iws gfpcrally, if not univcHklly, 
been afcribed to Solomon^ both in forrotr and 
later times. The commendations of his wifiiam may be 
feenandought tobereadontof i Kings iii. i^.^^v, ag* 
It is recorded of him in particolar, that God gave Solo* 
mu wifdom and underftanding exceeding mucby and 
largeoefs of heart* eren as the fand that is upon the fea- 
(hore. The meanmg of which may be, that his know- 
ledge extended to fubjeds of every kind ; or, that as the 
fend of the fea bounds the feveral coafts of continents and 
iflands, io did bis mind comprehend moft things re- 
lative to both beauty and ufe. The ancient records we 
have confirm each of thefe interpretations. Indeed, 
though all things elie of Sohmon^s had perifbed, as it is cer- 
tain moft of them have done, this iooi of Proveris fur- 
niftes fufficient proof j for thefe, having ftood the ted of 
ages, evince a thorough difcenunent not only of iaman 
nature, but of ct^onu and things moft extenfive. 

From the manner in which Proverbs are written, a de- . 
grec of obfcurity is unavoidable ; as they ef prefs a great 
deal, in a fmall compafs, for the fake of impredion, and 
to be remembered with eafe. Hence, a wife hearer and 
[leader will find matter to enlarge upon. And hence 
at fbme diftance of time, it becomes an arduous tafk 
iUuftrate properly. In feme cafes, a probable fenfe 
iuft be put up with. In others a more vague conjeSure* 
The obfervations made by our /acred tariter reach to 
!?rious fubje^s ; but are moft frequent and minute with 
tgard to piotis and moral condud. This raifes their 
Kdue very high ; and they who are entering upon life 



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▼iii PREFACE. 

cannot be too familiar with them. When once they are 
underftood and felt, they apply upon erery emergence, 
and with the utmoft facility They carry their own evi- 
dence along with them. They operate next to irrefifti- 
bly. Like fmall feeds of natural bodies, diey expand 
by thought, and bring fordi much glorious fruit. Or, 
to ufe another fimilitude, from the well known heathen 
moraliil, Seneca^ Like a ipark gently blown upon, they 
brighten into a flame. Add to all this, from the fame 
good author, upon the whole, that fuch kind of inftruc- 
tion is well fuited to the bulk of mankind, who enjoy the 
feweft advantages. They anfwer better than long dif- 
courfe. 

Wherefore, if feled Proverh are to be got by heart, 
and this furely fliould be recommended, the text, and I 
not the illuftrations, ought to have fuch honour put 
upon them. Indeed the lafl of thefe will aid the former 

Explanatory notes are referred to by marks, like *, f , 
X^ §9 &c. Thofe which have If. after them are taken 
from DoSor Hodgefon^s late elegant new verfion of the 
Proverbs } which will no doubt be agreeable to him. 
He has printed for the rich chiefly, and one would wil^ 
lingly acquaint the poor with what is fo valuable. 

Prior to the praQical refiedions is a word or two, de- 
noting what they principally treat of; and accommo- 
dated to the Index. Having found confiderable ad- 
vantage in early life, from Cyrus* Travels y written^by 
Chevalier Ram/ay, z learned townfman, fome good Sen- 
tences are taken from this, and marked with the letter H. 
Devout requefts, alfo, are here and there intermixed, on 
purpofe to lead the ycung to a tafte of this fort. To the 
candid of every age, under GosPs implored blefling, the 
whole is commended. 



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SOLOMON'S ETHICS, 

OR THE 

BOOK 

PROVERBS 

MADE EASY. 

C H A P- • I, 
From vcr. ift, to 7th. 

THE*.Proverbs of Solomon f, Tht &m^ i 
. nent fon of David, ^jom Aimighty God 
did choo/e from \ low outward eflate^ to be King, 
of Ifrad %• To know tfwr> kind ofpkafani ufe^ % 
fkl wi£dom f 9 and inftrudion for the awid^ 

Notes* 
^ Stm^pm^lktf 9r comparifimt* Ihn.io he tmdntftoodtf 
yhortf C0nfrffictt/ive pkby fayings^ MattL xitL 35, P/a/. 
Aramn. a» For m^ party they ha^ md^gMdtiMmt^^ 
\ \ Kmg$ iu% 5, ^^ — i©. 3, X ^f'd^ Ixxsdx. to^'j Tie 
defftndantt ^ old Jacob,, or I&ael ; heihg^ twilw Tnbc* in 
nx>hote, ^ Mofi ojthefe words^ to an En^li/h eary have much 
the fame mcan'mv ; but the originai ^dt/fhtSiony it L hofcd the 
ptfvapkraie n»ul nut he cmfidtraldy dtfieievt in. 

REFLCCftOXS. . ' { 

Sayings of noble excellence, and- by one of reoowny I 
h;^eJ\>ft^Q)aliin tP peculiar bDoovr.. 

Of all knowledge, what belongs to found piety and -^ 
morals is of higheii moment \ fee ver» tiL 

B 

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4 PftOTE&aS. CinV^il. 

' grmt achantages^ they flia}), frmi-thkif^jfibk 
freeiom fruits be ^ip anarnament^'iyf grace«i«o 
iby head, and chains nfinghe^i co/i abotK' thy 

FROM VERSE X. to XX. . 

10 My bekved Son, if/Ud hardined iinners en* 
tiqe thee, by fair promifss of iri/tant fle^uKahle 

1 1 Hot f^r a moment y hut rijfiher^ aHif^r tbiiiiJ' Vl^ 
b^ng the argument of riches too, they ^y, <?o«nc^ 
km in league vA^^fhf mutual pcNkhttapy Ifet 
U$ by wait eveA for blodd ; let va^to preiJSfA 

iie^aikihjg' the mhocetit-WlthWitt V/^ cj/uife 

v^ ihm iheir erromcui '^aW. ^^' tUt' W'r^, 

ififfve a^M^.JiUj/.Jir^^^^^ qj^Jf(^^4ilf^rfe^:^ 

ism^e tf0^^»«fr /Mitf^^w^^w .4heiih^> aitv^ as 

£cial impre^n; Plal. cxU. 4* 5* ^/fli/]^2/jf..^d(;f<lvttdb|r 
doth caft the jewels of rdiffious virtut. Tender age is 
the time to leanu-ztSMm h« ^t pujre pareatal name, 

ikn&Sf that to 'th^m km^ may* vonfantisinil allr oilri wAoriolr 

: (K^iMfSI am thrift ngktiy li^rvi Mjikeviiedfiblf of the 

important dbfignt'forivlMch-^'exift ( tha^'We laxa^ l^ 

feve*«re d««, kqr fubl^a'^ii)dbaioitas>^Rrc:j#bfuUlk;i#^ 

lin^ikdu]il>!9bi<le'mtof<ei<9tii(y'i^ '•''' r'^t.-O i : y.i i^ * 

lo jirtfut enticing fimw^ "Tte :&ii^e& of . vtoffidliai wjhkak^ 

' thtf^taMTCo iBtQftiaf<it)cllei«^ 'smd to pallbte grQikcmft)e&. 

DAeJsifigf«bcd^m,ti4^<io^ J^mtenSbd-Mft 

to proyicfe againft dcceitfol appearances. Theihape-Qf 
:; heiiig -uiiaircovefedTRiinw^^ i i :fr /r .i 

12 One vi^i^ wnu4knf,reMtti''alitiDft .oeixffiUf 

> a«»tbcritittthtftheaii4»e€biaftfifa^qto4^ .1.1 



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curdj^l M*\ko(e\ih»t gf><law» to th«!s^/vt* n^ 

&aU fill oiir )N)ii(c^ ^itb fpoil 1^41 if/j:;^« ^^ 

^^ ^«fn^ hopeful friejHly otft in thy l^dt anwog 
us, /wirf let us all hereafter have one piirfc^ 
even ym hjklirea* an 'equal'4,n>^a^ J9t have cm* 
eributed leafi. My dear unexperienced (on^ wzlk 15 
not thou fl^ tbewiify wttb rhetii ; hit infilantly 
vefnrin thyfobt from theft* hide^ujlj propped 
•path' Vijr^fairie feduceas fbetrfpeechesdre^lei 16 
$be heart (^ tendexje/itnHb e^mre yiou^ thai their 
feet rua /otf vM.le de^dfid rtmiem evtl ;. 2nd, 
Jir/akei^ttrUa'bbj^jMrehBfiUf nrake ^mr/ h«fte ta 
flied blood. (JSitreiy you wtll ada^rt fij-what ffty 17 
^;2n? In vainf the enjnarvi^ net is fpread in the 
fight oi'Miy fimpk little bird ; butjjies t$ e/cape.') 
Ai\d5 ifyoujhould be tHoreJtmpk^ it will be found 1 8 
ih /Af e«^, thkt they, thMgh umntentionaily^ lay 

* Compare, Gm*r vk 9; jEx* W/. 5. 2. «S(iiik «•. 24. ^a. 

REFIiECTJOWY* 

Love for mon^ is the root o^ all evil. ]p^ 

Ever fuipc<5l the apparent generofitres of fcHfffi men; 14. 

They who coufrt infe^ion, hoi&i^ievky, or love. of wit, 1.^ 
»uft pay fore for k ia the «nf&; 

Vicioijs 'cxpence is boundlefsy and leads tDi^execrabk v^* 
•'fcheines4 Delay of pimKhm^nt doth^ often tender it^at 
fcdl, the more fevete ; Jam. v\ i* dttid i Tim. vi* 9^ 

Plain- hazards Tequir^ little (kgacity to avoid theen^ vj 
Vk- f. 3. * - i. 

They take vcngeaiK;c raon ^mfelveo, who«^ cS 

: B- J 



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^■' ' ; .Ki '/.'■■- f •-[ "'.^'N;,i.'^/x Jjf: ftU -;;; , ^, ^,jr 




.-- , ^ .." ^'■ . , I;U ^ . \:. .r , ';i!.>i.. 7j.\ 

■- • . ' ■ . ^K<¥.^ifxST?o«'a.- ;/ ^ . _ \. ^ y. ^j . ;. 

^either fair warmngs imu examples pf jufla^e^ will r^- 

claihi, Pfiil.* vii. 15, i6» Jer. xvn. ri/ What a cohi- 

.-fortleis irf§ is tLat of j/7a^ ? jfelf Gonvii^ed, fesu^^ 

covery, ©bnoxious to vengeance, fuljjendejd over fittL It 

makes an earth-'wa^m of wh^^ Was meant to be an angel f 

• . and fills with th^ f«4fic/f ainl -cwidSt-y ^ a ^twi/l^ Ennlile 

m«nt and m»nCoa 6f jtbe/foul, fit fci'.tiie ufe«MQ4 ^trvicc^ 
of fuch a divm^ inhabitluRiCy tliat Wie n^iaj 3x0^ ^PFV 

^ . ^urielvesy jby living, without a juft dilUi^iotfbaad ^Oi^ct 

fro^.tie beaftsjtbat ,pcariitl 5^ttk fu<^ a coyiftkutigp 

and ftatet of mitld in m5, Jby, the 4ira<5lice of rigftteOufnci^ 

as.may tit lad be confumjaii^te u^ endk^ S^mzj^ • ^ 

20 Advaviaget of nif'tfdonu Aa effe<?lual check to the|9' 

t: .jaaodcrate llpve ,gf r«aAe# is d^ jfaci^aft pu^rfoit of .«?i/5&*r» 
• &iAif . rr hide their real d^figns, wtie^eas true knowledge 11^ 
cspeii, bold and frcG ^ 



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uttercth ^^/wAoff fr^^ rij* - the . dfitn ftreets : 
She crfeth ^ih peculiar zeal in the chief place 21 
«tf^t€^rinta^jQi^^llMMr rdigiius ^/irt^oni, in ; : 
^ .'(y|^«9timgg:^ti€^.to tooy where cffurit^ 

Mtyamnart^'IMctr w the h^oH 0/ the cttjr 
\mMgiffeof4e ef bightA^rank fkcbo/dfy utrcretb 

Wrril^fttt*|)licKy\^ ^Andj/AiD^ tmei-figQ the 
t^A^ifliK »/^5«i9aidl#»;^fcoi^ Tftnt^ cMHi^ht ill pi 
Tbei^'fcMtfrilig^'Md'tiJiftl? tc;M^^/^/;}iKAr /u7/^^ 
^W^*!^ hx9t^46e'yHo« valuable vf att\knmir^ \^ 
lisdge? Akyiurtt^t Haw. '^ iS'tnay ie ^ever^ 13 
^t my ft?»r^^ ;p»>^l^>l«rf reproof : bchold/irV/, j^ 

-J^fkMttifO^yott V t'^eiU nuke knovm li^r/u^ 
^^fi^&ndfoti^ ^^tvf auiharitativi words unto 

ReflecttOws, 

"Hie; lIl^a^ i&bl?eF&g|K of vice A^uU f vcr be rlearly a.i " 
.•iKlit£^a:ieAly)(i)o]cenm>tQ. A&irs of cpnfequcnc^ caa- 
• «)tJ>e,erafi&fit^.l*utJio»t ji^ rulc^. 

Complaints^ of fitt«vail»^ ^t^t o^gJat.Do be accoi^ zz 
panted with kind reproof, and encouragemenU ' 6> 
amendr Pfal. cxtx. 59^^60 •Soople who fcom what is 
"^itfA;' Meififtr 'fed^^l^ie, mst resnoFfe. . 5uch fly fl-om , 
iSi^imesni- «f ^ «|ipttvl<atfGini ic^ Pitogrcffo from bad feo 
worie i&^«(RniiiDa tmd ftlansii^: ImportuQk>r t)f '^eMs 
:Adit]^<rife i^A)feve&»i datiren- All who liali^ p^iadti- ^ 
tfa ]kb(39ii6dgi4RuAJiaseiierfakhfid'i^^ 
•.:<>A ithDt^g^'ilwM change, onder &^» wiiii foUoiKr 2{ 
^eqdy return. Ibdm l(«^ HdK viit. La 
■ 'Moift^Jiricito G#i/af the fpirits of all flcfh, 

'{li'^liibbrlbkiMiciMltp'^wl^^ alone we caa regularly a^ f 
^?^ depend upon tbee> for the prottiifed communications 
.%f ihy idivmri akis*. O.uuniber as rm,^jbdi^ tlloi$.Who> 
are apoflates ^ook thee by their incorrigible wickednefs I 



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■ fekOM VERSE. 3JL«lt. to ftc KnK'- ^•J^''*^^^" 

24 AFrtR all^ if ym tmmmi^J^m^evM^^im 
frufferexi grace i^/wiUJ?icimi4ptm^M^/fni #f*^ 
fay^ becaufe 1 have x^ten\)^e&mMify,:i(:^\cA 
youU amende TonA :fit^vtfyi£^ Hk it^xi^^^M'A 

i ■* have ensfem ftrelcKed'4Mal:: myi kinds, -i^r^nitf 
iSp //j^ iH?itf sf ymi and /»<) jnaftf ^^i^ ih€y:fimt4 
have ckmrjttgvfdtA.xmyiHilif/i^^fi^^ 

^iMkf coimfei, and wjcmkfiilMiviSjriifoiierof iifly 

a6 fuit reproof r 1 alfo, m retulm^ wH ^pfagr U 

: iaufgh at your calamky /nwi vk^ and evdf^ 

I will mock ♦ as, mt in wage w^Wxy our S^f^t^ 

a; «w/?co«iietb: Whea^jyour fear ^^jwoi/^ 

pient Cometh as defohtion /^^y aed :ypur ^^ 

^^^e&na&ion cooieth ds a ^riipilimm ^hii^^ 

windf: when difirefs inkeenek anguifh comelh 

26 irreftHibly upon you. Then fhall' they loBa 

♦ Inaltttjibn tofBt tOaniter vfmAtt^ p^6nts €^d' £ Itere 
J^ken of; onfurpofe to afia deeply: Pfal^ iL 4. Pf99. 
Ktv. 32. t ^^ fqfiens together pn^ evetyjtde}^ 4ud U ern^ 
- freffm(f b(ah inward amdtmivardpaku 

;• t ' . '- :,• ' -f.7 - 

24 Bufmejk. Thetpoopeitfearon. fositii^ thin^imp0rta;|r 
negledtdd is o&m. €sdal.. In wJbflkt \^Mrkual mean* of 
eoAviifticmareavoKled, f(Strtiheikke«l fal&reaf^ ;. • .r 

25 T9 kear without a view. 4iq tiffht pfai6l{eesis w«^e tbldH 
ufelefs. To ridicule fs,:zm»i&rous« r,Mackmg i^ idle 
v^ry fummit of refentment. la ^brnghfi^ God, paffion^ 
the feeling of a TveaknaCurCr iaitiwt jexiCk 

,26 Divine comforts ahftraAcdfeenv. like total ^ifreg^nl; 

27 Then imagination prefents nothing but what is^<{re94* 
ful. :« V* 

^8 Death^be^ horrors and czclamatiblu have in thcjot 



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iy74»f keen mo^j^^irngfy ik^in^e^ \ call iit)Oti me 
f»r dfliveranei / but i will fiot ^nimw them m 

iy, ^pr^benjwu early, b^ they Jh»U not fiad 
me fa^oourable : for that ihcry hailed know* 29 
ledge /« dmfeafon ; and <Hd not choofe, when 
they bad powery.imd4>fipHtumky^gk^nj the true 
edacious fear of the Lord. They would 30 
bave regard to nont o(^tnf.ti$elioun(e\y to live 
weil and bappy^ but whb mad injult defpifed all 
my earned parinM fe^WeF.' T^itlfefore {hall ji 
tl^cy fimUy.. be ^Uo ea^t 9$^ the nafuf^ Jnttsr 
i^j^Qfthfir,/^ and be filled ^ 

Jir>J5f.Vi^ with what m%^ Jkw frm their own 
un0im^jj^moral devices. , For, 'waging every 3 a 
Ihrig 4!^i of po/it7ve pmtifhmenU the turning 
away itfelf ok the^onflAi^ ♦ ^ubborn fimple, 
^^^^'i^^^mt 'difk^ut remedy % 7LnA\\it jhort *> 
fr^amus^ pttX^lty 0^ mck$d fools fliall 

'fi^tteivtittt rfttenkafc^e of hctt* - Sel<lom,/ff«t«-, & 
tfcy'ttttilfe tmfttttlcha^t'of in^aM tenlp€T^ John rii. 

#0nt#h¥lisit i$gtN)d$ k|ihliiiu-t9.' Sudh are altogether 3a 

Si i liM i^^i H^ lte^gkkte^ pMi^vikiLt^j fought after, with 
ereateft induftry. Thef ^ed ftOthiftg fwtgrv or ocit- 
5ilira4i#^Ji*AiS^Hthfeih. V ^ .-' ^ 

•' * *leltt^^ ttiSbf fti-i^ tot to-Tupply dte^mcaiti afVfce ^n 



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19 PfedlVElM^ Cht^H. 

and mdiP vktfoweY 4ft)b€dient fa'ffh^ be-Atkeft* 
cth unt0 toe,^ ihiill.dwell* fa!fe+f , ^r^^^/J fA^ 

from i7/i^^3ir of etiL 

. /' '. *. . ? ; t ^f > ' •\ 

CHAP. H; 

FT dea^ dutt^ul t^^^^ t 

^ , J, couragemetU^^ihat^ if thou' wilt 'hpiiff^ 
to receive my infiru&ive words, thoujhah^^ 
" '^ iime^foydlue^ as Ulay up^ and ht^c.w i\y brei^^ 

\RETL.BC^I!tftMt«.* ;.' "'T 

33 . ThoTe do hearken W!tK,profit to rd%iaiwfulM»'f«fl^ 
follow t6em up to pradiee, aod np other, ^ -^, .^^^ 
We knew, O Lord, that the- founilation of mifery^wa^ 
laid in fin, and that we cojuld not ei'cape from t^s mi* 
fery without repentance ; that bur time paffes qwic^ 
away, and that we could not do a work ofleitiire when a 
few diftrefTed and enct^nbered'Jlours only did remain: 
jret, alas, we deferred tjbe great wprl^:of^QQjr fqulsyjHI if 
that^ could hav« been done in a ippm^nt* .or ^?9r^ \Vf^^ 
idone upon us without ourferves; hereby; gddloj^ j^ 

^ bardnefs of our hearts^ to the difficuiMif pf Qut reSn^* 
tion and an^ei^d^ppt. . Copyis^ ii%,^po4 G^r thit li|i| , 
paidions of fear and fbrrow, which, 4iy;\g^r>. 2y;id the. piilf- 

, , pea of eternity .extortfrpnfli:Os,.mafe?u?H)r4^ 

[jchange |ii m^ upon eart^ thantliey do ia jtfogH^ M^b^gl^ 

.coniined to the place of tprjpfient^: i , . - ; ^ .m? jjjt. yt.. 

I Knoivledge^ how to he obtained, JX9/iiiRi^^^^ipl^ ti^rtfit . 

,, it€m fdlffhood^ u^pn proper je^^idencef-^^WcjC^pni^^jfi^/ 
and honours Almighty God. Duty with>^4f;touf^;d%il|k 
to our warmed retentive a&aioas^ 



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dap. li^ PMWVt!m: M 

of all treqfiare ; So ihzt ihou:%tfUtmore^ and more 2 
incliae tbmQ^itentiv^ car uoto life tuIu of di^ 
vine wifdoin, and apply . th\ue heart itJeJf to 
the full underftaodiog of the$iu Yea, if, from 3 
fo go^ a fram^ cbov cried after HiU clearer 
knowledge, by diligenU^ ^pre^r mettns ; and 
lifteft up thy voice in prayer for addi* 
iional uoderftandmg ; If, in, ibtfe ways^ thou 4 
ieekeft her with w^emitting tare and labour^ as 
mm (^ the world do {^er filler; and evetk 
fearcheft for her, as for expeiled hid treAfurcs : 
then, without all per adventure^ (halt thou un- 5 
^^9i-xtiA from experience the true 0al fear • of 
tTveLord; and find theyiv/wjf knowledge of 
God who is irtvifible. For the Lord Jehovah 6 
giv€th perfect wifdom unto all fuchi and out 
of his own mouth cometh certain infpired 
knowledge, and profitable undcrftanding. He 7 
layeth up plenteoujly of ibund wbol^ome wif- 
doai for improvement ^f the righteous, and thus^ 

* Often put for the *mhole ofrttt^oiu 

; RSFLECTIONS. 

Abftxai^ therefore, a^ in^ch as may be, from vifible 2 
ihlxa^ Tictoas prejudice and evil counfeL 

l«c moft ardent devotion ihould accofnpany our 3 
awa bed endeavours, Matth. vi» 33. — ^vii-.2» ^<^* P&l- 
xlHi.39 4. I Kmgsiu. 6,&c. 
"Wifdom b more fubftantial and durable, than all richa* \ 
\StrohK qfffSio» makes light of difficultut. g 

A ju» habitual fenfe of deity is the fource and fup* 6 
fort c^ every thing good ; Job xxviii. 28. £ccL xiL ig. ^ 
, Certaisity of fuccejfs, animates: Jam, i. 5, 17. SoKd 7 
ipbwledge makes w^ for eteirnity ; ver. 7. and aflimi- 
luitbelbulof mniito fi^ . - 



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at obfeitt ^Ut k^'iove'^ ht^^Juredi^Jka^ 
buckler to tkem^bat eomimie fe walk upright- 
ly, frvm tb^ hatr&l and vklenee^f^ their ^^ 

8 enenues. He keepeth the wboh paH)s of tbofe 
who ail with preper guickd judgement j and 
pTcferveth mto the md^ the 'pure way ef iiis 

9 &ints« Tlieti,^i:(»^^oufiiaItimcte*ftattct 
more and more, how fweet and joyous ^forUbf 
righteoufnefe i?r^ : judgement iaind equity to* 
wards rnen^ in particular^ fo ^^ tugkSed : yei, 
and every good path, ieading t^plea/une^ and 
endlefsMJi. ..... 

FkOM VER6E X. to At END. 

10 WHEN -wifdoni,,/^ direil lifi^ cntcrtth (/t^; 
into thine heartland dev^QutknQvrledgi^^ abov^ 

1 1 e^)€ry other ^ is plea&nt unto tl^y foi4 : Difcre- 

' Reflections. ' *; *. . 

S^ 9 Affli^ons themfelves do £»i^:ard the upHgkt to k» 
vea» Pial- xx»i. 19, &Ci7-rbcxxiy« i2,-^-cxxi. 4.. Thtt 
pleafures of religion pafs all Underftanding' of the wick- 
ed ; Job xxvti, ^ dec Rom, xtv.' 17,^ 2:2. Love is the 
parent of attention and diligence. 

Grant, O Lord, tRat the repeated impreffions of reli- 
rgicms worihip may ef^ablifli aff abiding cortftrittition» 
temper and complexion in us ; and- may ^become-aVftal 
r and divine principle. Let us not beconw carnal and &• 
cwlar^ by our converfc with whatis fenfible^d eat^hl^*^; 
but become to that deeree fpiritual, that we may dd diy 
i wttf oft earth, as^ tile holy ai^gel^ tlo k in -heaven \ ^ ^ 
lO' ^diiantages of" rertgiaus tvtfdom,' Divine khdV^edCgeHs 
pl&afant^ both on its o^n account" ^and on itccoimtoF its 
faliitary effeas. < > ^ j/- 1 ■- 

II -Prudence takes advice, and fttidtes'^ptOper^ honeft 
means; Eph. v. 12. ;l3(at'*tti. 13. ^Pcr ftrfeeft dMLipi^cr is ' 
rifely to c©nfult our own intcrc*. ^ MW?v€« ^^l**it€fi- 



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Cba^ If. PROVERBS. 13 

tion IkMJo guards by meant ef bafbj as U pre«> 
fervt thee/a/e even in hazardous -circunyianees^ 
under ftanding at band fliall keep xhttjirm to 
what is -right: To deliver thee from falling 12 
into the way of the evil/educing man, from 
the man that fpeaketh fa/fe "* froward things, 
for/uppott to his looje impious meafures ; Who 15 
leave the paths m known f uprightneis, to 
walk in the prohibited dangerous J ways of dark* 
De&. Who, ^/ /f;if/i&, rejoice to do evil, and 14 
delight in bearing § the dtjingenuous froward- 
nefs of the wicked. Whofe ways are ^^^- 15 
bly jl crooked, and they notwithstanding obsti* 
natefy firoward in lht\x ill chofen paths. To de- %S 
Hver thee alfo from theftrange whoriJhwosRzn^ 
even from the batlot^ ftranger to thy per/on and 

* Guile aadfirttfia Vfbich turns ever j wmy : Gen, UL 34. . 
£t. f Sincerity, H. \ Ignorance and error. § Their 
^il maxims and manners difcourfed of, H Uncertain attd not 
Jo be defended ufon ; fedfe and unjuft. 

Reflections. 
rightly imdefftood^ are a fuffici^nt balance againfl temp- 
tations. It is a good Hgn, to hear of this iubje^ with 
pleafure. 

UkfirtASt greatly below a rational creature^ to be in it 
lore with error. Men of violence, and infidel wit, would 
take the lead of many (imple young. Early religion is 
the mod efiedual fi^rd againft them. 

This courie is pTain, ftraight, and free of embarraff 15 
ment. if we leave confcience and Xcripture* all is dark* 
nt& of error; Rev. iii. 15, 16. Rom. xiii. 12, &c. 

Love ofrooneyi and fenfual pleafure, ruin the bulk 14 
of mankind. To be tempted is no fm ; but only when 15 
we yield; Jam.i. 13, 14. 

Immodefty in noom^ is unnatural; and efpecially 16 
after marriage. Their flatteries are peculiarly ha- 
zardous. True fortitude in youthi is to flee from luch. 

C 



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cbwa&er^ M^fekh, in {oft "niAm^^^ Af0 /^rr-^f^ 
%v^nt^ furpojii^ flattererh MiJhe'Tm^j^ ^S^'-H|^ 

17 bcr Wordi cfpmfi: WJiicU wmwk^iiy ft^n 
; fokcib the y«»</ g^cj* of iier yoq^Ki ^wi> 

through repeiiiiQn of njUluH h "vit^y k)sr^i\fi)\i^ 
4i^ in conformity to the /(Krid^anchfmrdd, .<:oye* 

18 i\ant of her God For he** c^duturom h*^ufe 
mclifteth -^^^^ umo prevrnmrc .hid^ou$ des^h^ 
ail4 ber 4>3ths unforfuk^ny kcddm^n untjo thiQ 

19 plac^s.^of il^e mifer^bi^ dead. Noj)e.. ^«if of njftif 
that pn^ go UDto her kwd me^/h/^^ r^tiarj(t 

i again« /y gemiine cordial attJ^viHfimt^ ntith^r 
uke they/ritf hold* t)f the furie^ai^ ^Ipoly 

1919 pafihs.of if new^ fnfe ana h^pjf Ufe^ .: Th^t 
0mi(^g hotb of the (ii>ove^Ahqn may eft bt Jr(^0 
\o mier upm^ and walk in 4ihe way oftgopd* 
pious and benevolent men, and keep the paths of 

2\ the infexibie righteous. For^/few fhevJor4 
of a parent y the plain ing^rruous upright fliall 
dwell Wiihxredit in the laad^ a^ the perfe^. 

21 of that fort fliall reojain long in it. But the 

f Gowiparc Pfal, Riu 4, k^cptviii 5, ?. Z^/4>. ir 6. M" • ' 

ReFI'ECTIONS. 

17 The violation of chafikj -fekiGin fiops in Us oarccr ; 

t Cor% xi; 6. A double fo(Uje v^mgciUDc^ awaite iorgct*' 

ftlnds of clear and ftrong ties. 

J 8 Fdlovihip with vice carnwt too much be hatecU 

99 J&bu& of reafon doth liTue ixi^iritual dfatif aisd ofi<^n 

}i)^i»ife, in that ^hich \shodily ; Cal. yL.6» 7. Rom. vin* 

5, ^c, Foretades of final) wretfbedoeis ai^ au3t &S6 

^gns oif a dioroiigh change ; £ccL viii.' t& 

ap True viidom leade to eminence of religtansi viptue^ 

Companlonftiip in holincfs, is alfo of noklrgxpwfh* 
a I Healthy . plent^^ and comfort, axe fthe vo^lX <nati>ve 
21 thiitsvtf a good hfe ; Pcut. zi. 6| Ice. Pial. juocva. i^^ 



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Cibp. %tU PROVER&S. #5 

jrwskcd of heart andptaSike (btllylwi be cut 
off from the eirth ; and the more qgiduou$ 
Vnxi{%vt9^% ofGocTs law^ (baU be y^rfl^f root-' 
id oat of it, in their ixi/t&nce andfleafant n* 
inmbrance together. 

C H A p. IIU 
FROM V|:RSB I. 10 V. 

MY dear fon, forget not on am account i 
my law oftendernefi; but let thine 
lieart ejleemy love and keep all my cammand* 

t flushed up^ 

REFLICTlODfl* 

Reivtn byet mere certain 9 Mattk. v. 6.-^vi. 33^ The 
xncmory of the wicked w naiiftoiis, and their end deftruc* 
tion ; Dent. xt. 17. P(al. xxxvii. y6. Phii iik 17, Ice. 
t Pet. ik I r. Hon iv. 1 i. What fo horrible, as a per^ 
)ttrcd adaUcrcft I Eaf ly marriage^ in the fear of God^ it 
a great prefervative to virtue. 

Grant, O L^rd^ that wf may fo maintain the empire 
of reaibn» and €(wi{cience, ai no fen£itions, nor pailions 
fn9Ej»trfurp the fupremacy ki us ; and carry us from oup 
l^e^ion to the vicegerent of thee, own God* As taught 
tni oWiged hy x\^ goJj>ei grace^ may we deay ungodUncfs 
and worldly lulls, and live foherly, righteooily, and god- 
ly wt thSs prefbnt wofW, looking for the bleiled hope, 
and the glorious appearance of ^^ great God, and our 
SaviouTt Jeftn Chrifi^ who gave himfolf for us, that he 
might redeem ns ]^om all iniquity, and purify us unt6 
himfcif a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 

Advantages ofagoodRfe, Some virtue's do, m e^cial i 
manner, conduce to prd'ent* profit $ Deut. xxr. 15, fcc^ 
OemiiiTe religious inftrudtors, are afbfHonately parental. 

C a. 



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t€ PROVERBS Cb$p Itt» 

2 ments : for in eomnmn h will h found that 
Icngih of days, and long life, and hdward 
peace ♦ to enjoy thtfe^ fliall they add to thf^* 

3 Let not works e^ mercy f in fariifular^zn^d 
Jleodfaji truth of dealings forfake thee; hut^mA 

them, as it were^ about thy neck J, by way of 
ornament^ and write what is due to them upon 

4 the inmofi table of thine heart* So (hah thou 
find ails of favour, and the pure reputation ^ 
good underftanding in the fight of an omni* 

fcient infallible God, and allfagacious holy nien* 

* Or, an marifur of happtnefi ; John xh. 17. f Coth" 
pnhending our whole duUet to menj Mic. vu 8. % ^^J^^ 
end frontlets anciently it/ere worn s Ex* ttM. 9. Diut* vL S^ 
Compare Job xxxh* 27. If. 

Reflections. 
I^ove makes memoryy and increafes it: Ifa. xxxxt. 9* 
l^effons fhould be laid up for all emergencies^ when either 
we read, or hear: Jam i. ^3, &c. Job xxii. 22. 

2 Defective virtue may require chailiiements, which Ufk 
and immortality do abundantly compenfate« Peace of 
niind is more than length of days^ and more certain likcw 
wife. ^, - 

3 ITie fruits of regular compafHon excel ftridl jaftK^ 
Rom. V. 7, &c. 2 Tim. i. ^^ Regard to jilrnhhtj^ Ga^ 
in focial duties, doth fan^ify and blefs them. It txasti& ^ 
eivil into a moral, and a moral into a religious workf \iU6* 
gard to truth in every cafe, fhould be fweetly tempered 
'^ith Jymfathetic love, ■-' 

4 He who denies himfelf, for the fake of othoK, has "k 
witnefs of high acceptable worth in his ovtu mind, F&it» 
xli. I, &c. I Tim. vi. 17, 18. It is alfo captivating, and 
brmgs multitudes in debt, i Pet. iii. 13. Matth. v. 7, 
Rom. xiv. 1 8. Let fame follow goodnefs, and not be \ 
purfued as a chief end. They who abound mod in tlm 
world, do often enjoy it leaft. Therefore, religious virtu§ 
ought to be a chief concern of all good parents; Piety 
9XkQJuftice are clofe conjpined* 



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CHf. 9£ PRCOVEItBSi IT 

FROM VEftSE V. to VIL 

EVRtftudfM performing wkai it gp^, truft 5 
ni the Lord/orgMk/ance ami fuc^e/iy with all 
thine . hc^t : af)d lean not t^ confidently auto 
thina^Dwa underftimdiDg^ In 4II thy ways 5* 
6fer^a$vQur af^r emnem advaniag^Sy acknow-* 
Jedg!e iiii^f Qver-ruting fnmdence of htm^ i^y ^m;»- 
A/^ devauf refm/it i and be wh is infimte ami 
inf/Mihk (haU dked thy ^^t\x& i^^a fafe and 
h$mmrcd)k ijfu^*^ 

. \ FROM VERSE VII. to XL 

BE not wife, ihtr^fore^ in thine own imper^ f 

Reflectioks. 
. Move us, O great and merciftil God, by the mutual' 
example of each other, to adore thee ; and to lore men 
for that oi thee which is in them \ Aifiire our hearts of 
thee, OLordy that thou canft no more vary from right ixii 
any ai3 of thine, than thou canft vary from thjfelf. 

^ruji in. God with prayer. No circumftance in. ma- c 
ttagement can be fo prudential^ as to feclude the ncceffity 
of^Svineaidf Pfal. xxxvii. 5, 5. The fhorteft Teeming; 
toad to honour and weahh is often that to ruin. 

The calm modeft approbation of our own condud, (T 
fiitli certain final fucjcefs, is fblid, lafttng joy. 
' . In all the addrefTes, ffbfy Father, which we make unto 
thee, may we feel (uch imprefles of thy image upon out 
fbuls, as will enlarge our veneration of thy majefty, and 
p\xi longings after Uie complete, and neareft, and eternal, 
fnd uninterrupted converfe with thee in • heaven ! Suffer 
tu not to reft in the means, without attaining the eftd ; 
Jmt let religious exercifes have theii full and proper effe<ft, 
fio reform and find^ify us, by the pradtice of all goodnefs, 
ijghteouihefs and truth. 

Rttimtiiy^ihi fear of God, and leneficence. Nothing 7; 
C 3 



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»? proverbs; CBarp. Illr 

JeB eyes, ^f difcernneM : riv0nnily fear the 
onefupreme Lord, and depart from that evil, 

8 which he ever ahb^n. It fliall be Hie the prime 
fource 5/* health to thy* navel, and fmijiening 

marrow to thy bones, /^r increafe of /irengib* 

9 And as you thus fueceed^ yield honour to the* 
Lord with a proper drvifion of thy fubftafice^ 
and with the very^ firft-fruits of all thine in- 

1 o creafe. So in place oflofs from thence^ fiiall thf 
barns be filled with plenty ef neceffary grains ; 
and thy %vell fiored grape prefies {hail burfe 
out with ^;i w^r/?!?«; 5^n€w wine. 

* The earheji conveyance of nourt/hment ; E%eL xvs. 4. 
+ Or chief oklations for Priefii^ Ex. xxiis. 19. Deut. xxviiL 

2, Isfc. 

Reflicttoms* 
ftould move us to deviate from the firaight Wntofjfi' 
mighty God. The more people offend, the more anxious 
they arc, to find ont plaufible defences. A fure fovc* 
r^ign antidote is the habitual fenie of dWine kifp€<S^ioni 
cherifKed by frequent worfhip. 
% Obedience is the furcft mean of happmcfs, and thf» 
xnoft iramediate. They who can live with moderation^ 
have few preffipg demands. Their fpirits are cheerfuL 
In ficknefs, they have glorious quieting refources. 
9, id He who is the one Supreme h our fole unalienable prcv 
prietor. The charkabk are divine faithful ftiewirds. It 
IS by hvci and not quantity t that our ohm ate cftimateA 
Economy is a plentiful fprlng o( liberal deeJs. Pfah^xfi. i, 

&c. xli. I, &c. Monuments of mercy furvive often to 

the benefit of childrens children. The moft juftifiabW 
of all ufurici, Eccl. xi. i, &c. A medicine %o life, an4 
ornament of worftiip, Matth. iii. S. 

We ptaife thee, God^ the author of all good, who 
has made us men for the imitation of thee in righteouij 
nefs and holinefs ; and for the participation of thee there- 
by : fo that the moft connatural employment of our 



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Okp. HV PROV1E1IB8. 19, 

FROM VERSE XL to XIII. 

MY dear km^Jb&tdd even divine promi/es, at 1 1 
titiies^feem to fail of their accompli/hmeni ; dcfpife 
not thou J tbreugb catelefmefs^ the wife profitable 
chaftening of the Lord : neither be ^t^Lvyfrom 
the greatnefsj or lengthening out of his correc- 
tion. For however unlikely it may appear^ whom 1 2 
the good and gracious Lord moji tenderly loveth, 
he correAeth y5r a little^ even as a father ^ 
amot^/i ourfehes the fon, in whom he de-» 
Kghceth above every other. 

FROM VERSE XIIL to XXL 

UPON the whole^ happy, in each refpeS^ is 13 
the man that findeth practical wifdom, and 

Reflections* 
higheft faculties is about the< ; and we can never (o per- 
tt&^j enjoy ourieIves» as when we mod enjoy thee ! 

i^riaU nectary. All trouble is dealt out in wifdom 1 1 
and love. Job v. d. God would have the wicked to ' 
;uaiend by them ; and the ^ to improve. 

Non^ have a right to choofe either the kinds or the 12 
meafures of their truds. Impatience aggravates dillref^f* 
Thcsy who forefee, and prepare for the worft, are half 
grmed,.An906 iii. 3a Such guard at once againft ficu' 
riij W^def^ir. 

^ I Wherdfiore, O thou God of Peace, who broughteft 
^^;ain from the dead our Lord Jefus Chrift, that great 
^cpherd of the Sheep, through the blood of the ever- 
lafting cov<(naQt f make us perfe<5l in every good work 
to do thy will : workixig in us that which is well pleaf> 
«Otg. in thy iight, through jfeftu Chrift, To whom be 
glory for ever and ever. 

Jidwudages of^a&ical wifdom. True means of enjoV'f 13 
jncnt are put imo every ones powers. Wifdom is t^ 



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t& PIUWEXBS. Oi^. /UR^ 

the man ifeat getteth • ujidepftwding, hy di^ 

14 ligent fearcb. For the fuccefsful mcrchandifir 
of it I is better than the merchandrfe ©I co^ 
veied filver it able to purchafe^ and the grain- 
thereof than even vMuit eon be acquired bf ftocr 

15 goid. 8he is in berjetf more precirms tfasi^ 
bright Jhinwg rubies ; and all ttie things e^ 
thou canft be moved to defirc, arc not once to 

16 be compared unto her. LJkt a lady of chi^ 
m diJUn^ton^ fhe holds otit length of joyous days is 

rn her right hand : and in her left Kanrf^ 

17 riches and honour refpeilahie. Her tyays <j|f 
living throughout are ways of pure lasting plea* 

♦ Drawetb out underftan^mgy Prov, vin. 35. Prudence. 
f Qtxmpare Gem xatich^ io> Jl* Some, tu^ foidhk H. 
Qoh. xvH. 1 1. 

REFLECTlONf. 

proper ufc of underftanding, in oppofition to a learncid 
wicked fooI» Prov. xxiii. 23. Seek the beft occafioii$ 
, . for found knowledge, ajid dread to toft any. 

14 No goods of t£e body can ^quat thofe of the mind. 

1 5 Gold and ruh'ui fcrve chiefly for m^re fhew, £{^ iii. i.^^^ 
V* 1 5.— 'vii. 4. Whereas wtfdom, in exercife, conftitQtW 
divine beauty, ufefulnefs, and joy, i Tim. \u 9. i Bet. 
iti. 3» &c. Hence^ too, tooks are rendered fweet, aHJS 
cantivating. 

16 ffeM is a hTeffing of prfme regard, and Is^ far mofft 
part^ conne<St^ with prudence^ moderation, cont^t^ij^ 
^efs smd humility, Matth. ^1-33. How numerotw 'ai«. 
the tolU and deaths occafioned by intemperance I'O^ 
chieffeat of riches is in the foul. 

17 . Innocent pleafiires of the world afe not abndged bt 
rdigion^ but the contrary. A good conftience is a p«f* 
petual feaft. Pious ads arc noble, and Aveet. H^M 
bjifsful is the wtercift of dwig^ood^ A^s xt. 35; Phi 
iy- 6* ?• 



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Gbap. Ill, FROVEKBS. ii 

ianlficil^; and all her $UiMiJbed ptths^ are 
fraught with inestimable peace. She is at a 1 8 
beautiful, tree of life r/Vi&// covered with fruits^ - 
to theai that lay hold upon her : and happy, 
bejand exprejion^ is every one, that retaineth 
hcf to the end. The mighty Lord by ftmlar 19 
beneficent wifdom, hath founded the earth to 
be inhabited; and by umneafurable underftandf> 
mg, hath he eftabliOied the heavens, like a cA- 
mpy above it. 3y his aliperfeS knowledge, ao 
the bidden depths are broken up, in refrejhful • 
fount ains^ftr earns and rivers of waters from tbem\ 
and the exhaled clouds out of th^e, in their 
courje^ drop down gently the frudtjfying dew. 

FROM VERSE XXI. to XXVII. 

M Y dear docile fon, whorn an inclined ear 1 1 
bos drawn fo many ufrful lejfons unto, let not 

Reflictioms. 

Preient religiotis delights anticipate tliofe which are iS 
perfed and everlafting, Proy. viii. i, Sec. They differ 
only in their meafures; Rev. xxii. 14. 

AH the heavenly orbs are orderly and ufcful. ManV 1 9 
chief glory is toi imitate the,^tfitf<imo/*/ovf. Matth. xi. 30. aa 

We own» eternal and^onous Lord God^ that perfec- 
(ton of wiidom, goodne^, and power» by which thoa 
cjidAf in the beginning, create all things : fo that the^ 
beauties of thy patsre ihme forth in the works of thine 
bands. We praife and magnify thy love, who haft fitted 
us reaibnable creatures for thofe relations which we- 
ftand in to thee, and to one another ; fo that the foun- 
dation of our duty is laid therein, and our happinefs \% 
promoted thereby. , * 

Varwus reRgiom advantages. Parental affedion rifes it 
with good impret&ms former^ made. The more that 
Tirtae is coA^emplatedt the more it enamotirs% Gka^ 



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tfaem het^fter d«^t from fhiftc * eyes t 
keep found healing wifdom and difcretion of 

7.2 bah^viovtt to the la^. So ihall they be Hfe of 
Jhveei enjoyment tt»to tHy foul, and orndmerrts if 

13 eapiivafi/jg f grace to thy neck. Then IhaVt 
thou walk in thy way of Ini/ine/s fafely, an* 
thy foot ihall not ftunvble upon hazards ofvfce* 

S4 When thou tteft down afiiffr hours of labour'^ 

tbottflialt not} be afraid, either outwardly ot^ 

im$fardkf to. the di/hsrhanee cf rejiy yea, taotf 

" ikalt on the contrary. Ue down nuiihfeaee of mindi 

25 ^nd thy fleep fhaU be iweet. Be not afraid 
of ftiddcn grounds to fear what the maliciour 
only h^veto expiil. neither of the dcfolation 
of the ob/iinale wicked, when it apparently ' 

a6 Cometh wW?. For th^ Lard, in^that tremens 
dous cafe^ uiall be thy confidence,^ and ihall 

♦' MmKiryt wtd ifcanjjk, cht{p^ tl: 7. f :4^kAng H 4im- 
eufomary dreft of that part^ with precious jewelff Ffdl. Kci. $m. 
i That ufnarcd hyjkidok U^t^^r. H. 

light of divine trutb. ifcxmoves ill gi^Qiuuied paiafol fufpU 
ck>ns^ U C9A (land tbe. toA of miautc inquiry; 

z\ ET^iA^iKe wich.<H^I «3PyQ7mQnt« ie not loriogv Vinuo 
mfpire^ eh^Hv^iU ivintkii^ bcneficencei^; pcace^ xefibc- 
^ioo^ 9ind future goi^d ptofpe^h* Gom mtwd (bmethnij;* 
iKttev than ihf Enf^vvs, to QUikt one ihtiiqi^ |6b.xxix. 7^ Sk^ 

a 3 Cheerful dUpaitcb wait$ upon a peribn of judgement^ 
"^irith good deAgns* Secure of divine approl^on^ wbaA 
^aabiin? Johvii. (9. Piak exsvii,. a,->-jEci. i.PhiL H. 2^ 

34 ' Love and henQBceoce do oftta charia dio worft». 
I Pet. ilk 15. Where c<«;e$ are feweft^ fleep is. ^ft» 

35 The demands of nature are moderate», tdMiieas .^wji 
' has nQ biQunds- 

36 God Will either debver or foppefft, 1 Qttt, %. 13.' 
% P^ i*^ Sb ^^"^ We; AouU tuta our qraa. ftom tlo^ 



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Ckap. IHt .NL0T«tSf. t% 

aftr^d/y kcqj Uiy^tit fponi'beaitgukefi Hie 

FROM VBRSE XXViL to XXJC 

WITHHOLD not. pure chartfahh good, if ly 
thou woulde/i humbly and Qffe£liu;nAUly trui in Al^ 
mighty Cody frniti xhetn • to whoii) it is By hisfu- 
pi-erne 4ippoinimem due, whtti it is in the power 
cA iKiaie hand to tlo it m/ the ime. bay not 28 
unto ihy p^ar dejiituu nci^hboviri ^ho fcdi^Htt 
tbine immdiafe aid^ Go for n e p^fsnL and 
come again /^ me for r^Uef^, and to«morrow 
per baps 9 orjh&n^ier^ 1 will give what yoa ^uant ; 

* Liter oily i the owners thereof The deferring. 

fream to the fountain^ and then think what he c«n do. 
Rules of life ought ever to be in our eye, 
* Bldfied be thou cur Gud^ whofe laws of religion arc 
not mere determinations of pleafure, and arbitrary com- 
mands of power ; but the didates of wifdom and defigns 
of goodnefs, beneficial and neceflary ! 

Alm^Hfing. No unjufl or unch-iritablc perfon has a 27 
caB \a pot their traft in a good and graciQus Uod^ Depen^ 
devices of a trading life, do not often admit of dilatory 
pa y n y m v y Rom. xfii, 8. All who are in want have a 
cXxan rf right, to be relieved by others, Matth. vli. 12. 
Ex, xxn. 7, 14, i;. Deut. xv, 7, '&c. Timei^ as well as 
a&lotUf arc to be thought of. Where x)b[jcdts may be 
known, they fliould be known. *We are unjuft, fo long 
as we delay. It is dreadful /7fr/%f to rob the hungry. 

To-morrow may never come, and to die with a cruel 28 
ialfchood in one's mouth is hideous. Lev. xix. 13, Deut. 
xxiv. 15. Jam. iv. 13. Where the defirc of doing good 
is ftrong, the terms of denial will be gentle. En^ are 
ahrays in ^nr power, though the meant arc not, 



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24 ^ MlOVETlBl Chip. fit. 

when thou haft it in p^ffejjim alrtadj by thee, 
ap Dcvife not even in thottgbttvWofthat^ or indeed 
any other kind^ againft thy well known innocent 
neighbour, feeing he dv;elh(h in bis own te^ 
liefy fccurcly by thee. 

FROM VERSE XXX. to the END. 

3© STRIVE HCt through Utigioufntfs^ or tmO- 
tention to fmall beginnings^ with a man of astf 
kind, without afvfficient caufe, and lea/l of all^ 
if // is certain he have done thee no harm. 

3 1 And whereas fuccefs in vice doth often lead to this^ 
envy thou // not in the opprefior of rights and 
choofe from like expedarionSi none of his crimi* 

3,2 nal ways. For the froward to ad agqits^ 
equitable rules, is no lefs than abomination to 
the Lord : but hisy&r^ fccret love is with tb« 

33 bene/cent righteous. The heavy curie of the 

Reflections. 

29 The more innocent and liieful people art, it i^ the 
more mallcioufly cruel to hurt thcra. He withholds 
good who does not aid, to the utmoft of his power, l^eir. 
xviii. 19. Pfal.,vii. 4. 

30 Strife and fcoming. Small tr caches are apt to wideuy by 
fevery new thought. Fretful peevlfli natures do inveat 
taules of diipute. The wife do eafily overlook fuch as 
are real. 

31 Few have the art of calmly feeking redrefs at law. 
Sober private converfation would prevent a world of 
mifchief, Pfal. xxxvii. 20, 5cc. Prov. xvi. 18. 

32 Succefsful pride is too cften flattered. Hidden blcA 
fings of heaven are the fweeteft and moll pure, ^ S^ltRs 
vii. 8. 

33 "Whole and great families fuffer from oppreflive ga^ 
thcrers. Sudden rtfst do often portend KS^7^fudden o'oer-* 



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diap IIL mQVE&B& ^ aj 

Lord tirtn^b lime is /are to break forib in the 
houfe'of the dijboneji cruel wicked ♦ : but he 
bleffeth witbjmles ofrerard the habitation of 
ihtjieadfafiyx^. Sorely of all others mojiy he 34 
korneth by abajemenu the impious fcorners ; 
but he giveth large aiding gr^cc linto the low- 
ly of beart. The devoutly wife (hall inherit 35 
eertain glory ^r both worlds^ but no lefs certain 
fiiame (hall be the unbapfj\ promotion of 
fools. 

* The man »frafine. H. \ Or Ufi them up to notice. H. 

Reflections. 
ihto9ot. Leave not tfic fruits of an evil porcliaie to yoiir 
duidren. The meaneft houfe and income is more thaa 
dlunng^teous f{>lendor. 

How alarming were divine iudgements upon I%araoh, 34. 
Nebuchadnezzar and Herod? Lam. iii. 32. How 
gracious his dealings with Abraham^ Job, Jofeph, EHfa- 
fcthi Mary and others ? 

The flattering of fools may appear as promotion ; but 3^ 
it is worfe than none. Profperous vice is contemptible^ 
Pfel iv. 6. 

Confign us not, O thoii moft tc^ andgraelout Creator^ 
onto the ftate of thofe, viho hj confcioufnefs of their 
gailt» and the malignity of their fm, are feparated from, 
and incapable o£ the li^t of thy countenance ; but may 
we now, while it is called tonlay, participate of thy 
righteoufneis, who art the fountain of all bappined and 
glory ! 



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a5 ^ftdVERBS i . 

C H A P. IV. 
FROM VERSE f. to XlV. 

1 T¥EAR, O ye children of vjifdom^ the in- 
Jt JL ftrudion of a dutiful (^t.^ionate fa- 
ther, and attend wiil? fcnoufticfi. to know from^ 

2 experience right underftanding. For Igive you. 
good wholejome doflrine to be direBed hy^ioHzVi 

3 you not on any account my Jaw. F(>r to dm ^nd^ 
confider that 1 was noy. father's fon, as you are 
nofw mme^yea tender /^« a^d,^.// were, only b^» 

4 Jovcd in the fight of my nnother* . HCxjii/tly 
apprehending danger from fuch fmdn^fsy Uvgi^t 
ipe aJfo, and faid unto ine, by way of prepara*. 
tion^ let n<^ only thine ear admits bttf thine heart 
itfelf retain my beneficial words ; keep ipy 
commanjdments, and lire thereby infurehappi* 

5 nefs. Get early pojfejfion gTwifdom, to di/cem 

ReflecVioms. 

I Paternal andjiltal offtQion, Good rules do fpecially aid 
thofe who a^ in high difficult oflfides. True charity die* 
rates with meek yet glowipc lote. The worft of all in- 
gratitude is to treat luch with indifference. Hie voice of 
afie^ion is natural to true parentage, Jer. vi. i€* 

t The more we recoiled good teachers, the more we vill' 

3 efteem, and improve by their inftrudlions. Touth has our 
beft claim to aid, £x, iv. as. i Chron. xxviii. i, Jcc.—- 
xxix. I, &c* 

4 Faithful attention, and meditating, give great hope of 
proficiency. To be contented is to live.' 

5 At any cxpcnce to this world, found pra^ical know* 
ledge (hould be fought after, as what is pcrfe(f^ivc and 
abiding, Matth. vi. 33. 



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Ouip W F1I0V6RA% tf 

smif^t in JiJ^ manner vu^idcifismdingcUar/arim^ 
viediati trf&z torget it n at when more advanced^ nci* 
tbcr dttiintbfth€ciam9urM$urji^en€ies of bodily of* 
pethtandfenfe^ from xht fi^blifne p€rfe3ing'WQvd% 
ok my mouth. Farfake her not Ipray^ anddfl 
unewwly Jlippery paths^ and trufi me a$ a father^ 
(he fliall preferve thee : love her ardently and 
flw fhall keep thee up. Wifidom for obedience 7 
M the principal thing, therefore %e^,fach wif. 
dom ai any expence ; and v^ith all thy getting ' 
fir this worlds get underftapding how to ufty 
fo as not to abufe it. Exalt her in thy judicium 8 
manly thoughts^ and (he fh^U promote thee to 
noble heights ^virtue: flie (ball ^ring thee to 
honour and h a^ in fuch places^ when thou 
dbft cnfibrace her mth tearm fleadfali regard. • 
She ftal) give to thine uprighi unajkamedhe^i 9 
itfbat mdy be compared t&* an ornament of 
grace ; yea^ a crown of glory fhall fhe deli* 
ver to compafs thee. . Hear, O my fon, and 10 
receive tbeje my fayings with conflant adhe* 
rence ; and the years of thy life {hall be many, 
if not as to number^ yet as to certcnn permanent 

* Bet chap. f. 9. Or things to b§ undarft^. 

. - .REFLECrKMIS*^ . 

For hcaiMy and beneiit* notHing can equal religious vir. 6 
tucr P^ cxi. 10. Build not upoa dqubtfol principlc^K 7 
Dent. ]^xx\u 7^ Men ruin their greateft happineis, bj 
making too ranch hade after the appearances of it. 
Wbat £> glorious^ as to be like, the Almighty ? 

Liength of days ihould be mcaiured by enjoyment» 8 
Gtn x\v, 2o. Hof. xL 8* 9 

Ignorance from love of yice is without eicuie* John IQ 
iii. 19. 2 Pet. ii. 9, Sec 

Da 



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^8 PROVEkiS. Chap, m 

11 advantages. HHhert0 God and thy own emfd^na 
wll bear witnefoy I have taught thcc how u 
walk in the way of true wtfdom ; fr-havc kd 
t\\tt^rio4 withouifueeefsj in right acceptable paths. 

1 2 When thott goeft, tlrjr fteps fcall not be 
ilraitened byprejfure ofoPheu ; and when thou 
runneft after means either for private or publk 
good^ thou Ihalt not ^\xmh\e fo as to frufirtue 

13 them. Take faft hold of inftruftian, tben\€i 
her not go front inferior motives, keep her nigh 
as a guard under every pre} ent trial, for after all, 
Ihe is thy fure/i coniforiing life. 

FROM VERSE XIV. to XX. 

14 ENTER not for a nnment mto the inown 
path of the wicked» ^nd for love*s faie, go not 

1 5 an deliberately in the way of evil men« Avoid 
it rather^ pafe not ifpoffible by iti very con^ 

Reflections. 
If Progrcifive gpodoefs gives eafc^ freedom^ fere&itf» 

12 Mattkv xr. 29. 

13 Vnrtuous refolution b inftaat and ftroog. Trifl« not 
with what is momentous, PfaL cxix. 59, 60. Not to 
avoid known hazarcU is ntut to be fiocere* The word 
ihould not defpaify Prov. iii. 8. Hab. i. 16. Attention 
ought to quicken with excdlenee of do^rine. The more 
pains parents have taken, the more they are to be k>irtd» 
obeyed. Religious wifdoro is to be eftimated above all 
things, Matth. xi. 12. Phil. iii. 12, 13. Properly {peak- 
ing, the wicked do not live, Luke xv. 3a. 

14 Flrtue and vice compared. See laft ie^ion at the end. 

15 The way to ruin, by vice, is quick and certain, chap. i. 
25. Abhorrence thereof is our heft faifety. . Take 
warning from the earlieft notice ; and thus effedtually 
difcourage feducers. 



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Owp, 1% PRPVEILBS. ^9 

fines ^ but turp ftom it asauickas mgy he^ and pafs 
yiiraway. For ihty whom evil ffabifs have ren- i6 
i^r^ eaUouSf deep. cot hardlffax; a nighty cxi- 
cept tbcy have douc ^neiM^ftnifohicforam}^ 
tier ; and ;/ /Zvy //<^ ^iwm without guilty their 
iQ^ep is taj^en zw^y^yea iinle^ they caufe fomc 
we % <v^^ir f^ampii to fall. For they eat as it 17 
t^r^ the bread oi fraudulent wickednef^, and 
lirink the. wiqe mbick a^ieth of extreme 
yiolence.. ^\xx. ^ntbe cmtr/fry^^^ pioiu equita* iS 
}f\^ p.»tJi of the juft is fw^etly ^ireilive as the 
fhining light of heaven^ th?tj, />t9w /Af timeofiti 
rife^ (hineth more and more even unto the pcr- 
ic(ieffulgence,i)fnoon^zy. Coff pared with tohrchf 19 
the way of the hardened wicked is as dif^ 
mat dafkncfs yfo fhaf they ^a^ upon every ha- 
M^rdin their rc^d^ smd kxkO'te not ae.wh^txhey 
do unexpectedly ftambJe. 

Cowrivsmce anrf execution of villaiwes^ »re Uke fyort ^ 
to old fiiuiersr ^bap» iii. 24.^ — ^li 14.' Numerous tempt- 
ing occafkms are no ezcuTe to tranlgrefs like thern. 

JPofclK^es for m>%^ out of blood and tears^ will break in ^ 7 
vpon fleep at times* 

. Y^ft^9^hAifffivr^s.2x^i^ 1^ 

At e¥W new ft^tp they fortode mpre to all who obferye 
tjbem^ Pan*. ^U. 3. They foon^piV what they had, that 
li^^ot a^und more apd more. 

' Wicked mefOfi^ priaciples have n& found bottom, chap, r^ 
u 27. 

Sufcr tts noi, O thou /««r <ww/ iofy GoJ^ xp faU mto the 
XtH^ dreadful and hprrid condition pf fuch a§ are revolt- 
ed h-oi» the holinefs and happinefs of heaven, and Yfhop 
ibidi^ io their guilt, X9\ift ^ fP^ ^^P?" undone I 

• ^ .J ■ . 



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5© PROVERBS. Chap. IV. 

FROM VERSE XX. to XXllI. 

20 MY very dear fon, Ui me again and oj^ain 
requejl thai jm attend to my words, which we 
the refult tf age and experience^ incline thine 

21 anxious ear unto my affedionateizym^. Lei 
them not, through diffipating medns^Ae^^xt from 
thine eyes; but rather keep them ^x in the 
midft of thine heart to be regularly" applied^ 

72 Yot they are the certain feeurify of a v;ell enjey^ 
ed life unto thofe that tfms find thcm> and 
Hie medicinal hbalth to all tlicir fleflu 

FROM VERSE XXtH. to the END. 

23 KEEP then the inward num of thy * heart 
with all upright diligence; for out of it are 

*■ Put for ail human fptrttual powers andfacuUUt* . . 

Reflections. 

20 How to mprvae mJlmSton. Few thmgs, ifanyv are fa 
well entitled to a grateful return. ' Youth ought humbly 
to diftruft itfelf, jam. L 21, &c. .' 

21 Deiire to be edified proceedeth of love» Cli. iii. 21. 
Luke Triii. 15. ' / ^ 

22^ Learning and vice togethcfr rhnft fearfiiHy ijfTuf, 
'2 Pet. ii. 2 f* Obedience enlarges and ftrfengthens found 
wifdom, ver. xiii. Ch. iii. 18, 22* Moderation, content- 
ednefs and humility, are noble regimens even for bodflV 
health. Curiofity is often' a fatal drfeafe of the huma^i 
mind. R. \ ; 

23 Rules tf caution* As feiT^ard pteraiKng motions arc 
either good or ill ; fo muft people's habitual conduft 1^, 
Pfal. xxxiv. 15.-— xxxvii. 27. A delicate branch of the 
leligiou* charadlcrf and too generally overlooked; 
Pfal. xxTi» I, 2» 



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Chap. IV- PRWERBiS. 5r 

the mq/f friva}lmgiS\xe% of.adhe life. Put 24 
away from thee a froward rajh mouth, and 
pcrverfe corrupting \ip$^iU ntore put far from 
thee. Let thine eyes of fober judgement look. 25 
right on the' rule of a pure life^ and let what 
may be compared to thine prefervatiye eye-lida^ 
look (^fo ftraight before tnce. Ponder by this 26 
means 9 the p^th of thy feet through a hazardous 
wridi and let all thy v/r/wor/i ways be efta» 
Uiihed after fuch manner as they ought. Turn i^ 
not upon any confideration to the right hand of 
God's clear infaUibk order^ nor to the left of 
it; but whenever what is tempting doth offer^^ 
that injiant remove thy foQt from prohibited 
evil. 

Refxectiows^ 

Un^itable lansoage proceeds froxpy and ftill £uther 24 
corrupts a criminal hekrt.* Inattention is no excufe, 
Cd. iiL 8, 9. — iv 6. Be not fai^iU^r with evil-fpeakers. 

The iye ts a chief inlet to the nwiuL beware of gs^ud- 95 
ing abroad. IainH>deft geftures.ai^edangerQus, , Study 
nues of f»^j and. virtue without prejudice. 

Weig^ wdl tb<^ naJUire and circ^mftances of each 26 
aftion. 

Seek not {^afiire QUt pf tlM ro^ of heaven. Un- 27 
ftafeoi^e cunofitx renders p^oplq both unhappy and 

CTtXSApSOm Mm : , , 

0, May we, through thy gr^ce, O rigbtwis Father^ con(ii- 
der wifdy and timely what oMxe^fptmiy an4 what our (£ia- 
gerts; and never reft in fuch pra^ces^ o£fenfualitj2Sxi^ 
i uSi m p a oHc ry as degrade men intoi>eaftsi or q£ Sojcb, priJt 
mutmaBce as tran^Ebrm m^n^into devils. 



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3f» F»0VtR«5. 

C H A P. V. 
FROM VERSE I. to 11 L 

1 ft me farther b^eechy that, you, it'^ 
nto my dear bougin wifdom, and 

' with fottcrtude to my f^^^^v^^ 
.t f underftaadiag. l^ha; ^?A 

difcrctian in youths and that thy 
? may }icep found fre/erv4(f^t 
' the benefit of others^ ^ 

'' FkOMTVER^E III. to XV. * 

3 FOR • amon^/i manyfe4ftc€mihisy the Kps of 

^ ' * Some^ althoughy as m Ex. xiii, 17. Dhi/. x*»{c.*f9»' ifl -• 
REFLBCTIOMrf^ ,3 

- I Tcut^ oihtfirii* llie ftiore Kazandbiifr and coRteQn 
terhptaticms are, the more wjfe perfua^Hve stft & 49it 
from parental lovt, chap. iv. kd,-^— ii. i4Si . ^ecver <^m 

^^ to advice. A go<^ teacher oaglll bfalliamfit^mito 
to remove prejudice. . . il^J: 

2 . Spiritual pdlu:f is llie beft prel^nrathie fenn £ilMi»>§9' 
. iblnld wicked Aiitres^ NoVle pt^rpofe^ ibcngthcn liy nt » t 

degrees of light, and are ufeful to many, Gm. xsmc 9^ 
diPijfoif/y is perceived too latfci y?[. . ' 'U-^ 

' Teach>V by dtfcoveririg tibe otiiervafioas we^tltttlr. 
^ade, aiid the ti^t^ ^c have* learned from 'the; atan^ 
feilations of tliee eur G^y tfl^ repteient tiiee tO'CM^uifl^ . 
ther, as mod worthy the ceWbvations of usaUf.andl4» 
join our voices and our hearts in the adoradon of tb^e, 
from whom we have received our being?, and in whom 
is the centre of our repofe. 
5 Immodeji womsn to htjhunned^ To gratify mnknal finfiy 
beyond the bounds of reafon^ » xtot true nsturtm In >t 



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Chap. V. PROVERBS. 3J 

a firange immode/l woman drop upon the un^ 
wary as an enticing honey-comb, and the 
word ofhtt mouth when defigned to captivate is 
Imoother thzn Jweetejl oil. Bat her end being 4 
accompli/hed is bitter as worm- wood it/e^, and 
fiiarp both to wound and t^ kill as a two-edged 
(word. Her feet, when followed after ^ go 5 
down to premature death often : her fteps con-^ 
tinued in t^ikefaji hold on * hell. Left thou 6 
&ouldeft have time to ponder the path of pure 
freferoMe life, her ways arc moveable between 
affected hve^ and the direct oppqfite evils^ that 
thou canft not well know the danger ^them. 

* Compare Job xvii^ 13. EmeL xxxL i6. M dmoling 
thetotni. H. 

Rbflictions. 
^ifoman it is pecvdiarlf odious. The^x^ thus cortupted 
CO into moft other crimes. A modeft teachable mind 
IS the mod fccurc. Soft fls^ering fpeeches ought ever , 
to alarm. An amhufcade is more' nazardous, than an 

Senfual ^ptes are dreadful to eafc, credit, buffinefsy 4 
health and Hfe. Yoimg peopk fbould tremble fbrtheTe. 
They buy repentance at the dearefl ratc» who delay tt. 
\aaSfl I Cor. ti. 9. Rey. xxi. S^ 22. 
' Insm ieldom ^ the voluptuom amend. 5 

The d^rees and deceits of unhallowed delight are 6 
icarcely to be numbereti chap. iv. 26. How different' 
do they appear in the time of being tempted, and after-) 
wards I To reftrain paffion is the true road to happinefu^ 
Jtdwce is then €£Sedual, when known means o£ feduSton 
are ded ftt>m» chap. iv. 15. — ii, 1 8. Who (hould truft a 
perfim who is bodi filthy and cruel ? The unadvifidfk 
muft perifli, P&L i. i, &c. How ridiculous for a nio- 
mentary pkafure to hazard lifi ! Gen. xxxix. 7, &<*. Luke 
XV. 30. An impure habii wiU confume the l^gcfft in« 
come, chap. i. 28, &c. 



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^ 



7 Hear me now* thcTc(ovc$, bf a li^fi 4eliberat$i 

choice^ O ye children o/rnyi/aul^ and depart aol 

even once from the unque/iwiUibk lm4^wd% of 

^ niy mouth. Remove early and f$T*tver U^ft; 

' way of canverje fjiv froirv her, and come wait 

9 ^ligh the door of her houfe io be tfmpted : kjoSti f 

. as many before ibeey thou iiyudiiioujly gi^wtt^ 

thine youthful honouv unto oihtts siiho* ha^ 

no real qffedionaie claims^ and thy y^X^ ofb^ 

future wretchednefi unto the Kt}^\d(iiru8htk\ 

10 enfnarer. Left, fr m lefs Jrefuenfiy ba^pem^L. 
ftrangers and even aliens be filled wUK f^' 
/r;W^ thy wealth, and the (irength j^f ^^iy^ 1 
hours for obiainm^ them be left a fcandalous 
prey tn the houfe of a ^.^tU detefiable ftrangci^^ 

1 1 And thou f moH horribly mourn at* the ht 
without hope^ when th.y flcfti and^(7^r remnanh 
of thy J body even to-fkin^ txnd bones are /tt#j 

1 2 cAout t^ be copfumecf. And ifay, uridir i(^6fi 
of defpair^ O, howhave 1 hated early parenii 
inftruftion, and my mad infen/tbie heart 

13 fpifed wk^kf^me reproof? And have not 
obeyed the voice of my tvi^ benevolent teac^l 
CTS, nor inclined mine attentive ear to then 

14 that moH patiently wdvuclcd me? I K wa»> 
\Gppo/kion to every joint effort eftbeirs^, aUnoft i 

2X\ forts tf brutal evil, and in th€ mtdft of thi 

congf-egation and aflfetnWy, who were mf ^i 

Jimilar bad purpofes. , • 

f See yo. tf. 29^ JO. t Compare lfa» x. $<K Nfk^ \ 
to. II Otbers traMate as a crimnalf I haw bemwva^' 
for every kind of offence before the tribunal and h^fort the t^ 
bly. See Prov^ x. 20w Ccn^ ^9eix, iS* .DmI* mx^ 2t* IL. 



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(%af V: W0VERB3. 35 

FROM VERSE XV. to XXIL 

DRINJK w:ktcrs for natural reVttf otrt of 15 
tkkie t>«rn ciftern ; and what may be compared 
inrefrtejhfut runtiiog waters, out of thine own 
ttidi. Let* amiabie and ufeful children^ the 16' 
^ysre beneficial prcdi4Ce of thy fountains, be dif- 
perfed ahroaid, and appear in the eya of mankind 
liievivtx^ ^i waters in the ftrects. Let them 17 
be only tliine own^ fra^i mufual tender com- 
placencr and not v;ith jujtice fufpeSied to come 
as from -adulter' tnts ftrangers with thee. Let 18 
thy ebc^n foiwrtain be Wefled by the tare of a 
regular fworn qffeiliony and thus ;^efoice as be^ 
comeiby with the wife of thy youth. Let her 19 
be as the loving carejfed hind f to its mate and 
favourite pleafant J rpe^ let her breafts akne . 

* Some mterrogattvefy^J^attthyfimntaUiiJthw ahoaj m 
thtfirtfk as rills 0/ water f H. f Cokpkre Prav. xnti'u. 
25, X WUd-^oat accQr£ng to Jbme^ Pfalm eiv* iB. JW 
xxxix^ I.' / 

^FLECTIONS. • 

Marringe^ honv to honour. The mutual inclination of 15 
. tlie fcxcs is wife and beneficial, chap, yx* 1 7. Iia< li. i, &c« 
Irregular fenfual indulgences, notwithftanding, are meai^ 
and cnicL The fair and chafte are thu$ , .negle<5ted. 
Spttrious ifftses oSxm more fo. Parcntf^e concealed fore- 
goes fqnoe of the fweeteft natural pleaivres. 

Gratification, from choice and mutual cooftancy, if 16 
unallaycd by inward checks. 

A numerous undoubted piogepy is quite endearing. 1 7 

Like fprings of plenty, they divide in time \o noani- x8 
fold profitable branches, and are (olumns to jiic Jt0e^ 
Pfalms cxxvii, cxxviii. 

How great are the confohiions of mild family difcourfc, 19 
and united religious homage ? Pfal. cxli, 3, 5cc. 



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36 PROVERBS. C%ap. V. 

fatisfy thee at all times, and be thou raviflied 
%o dlwzys 'with hcT pure grateful love. And bitV' 
* ; ^£ f^^ ^ ^^Z^ ^^ inft €9cpi6lant rfthy earlj 

^owed regards^ why wilt thouy& err; my dear 

fon, a\ ta be ravifhed with the fedu^ive mea^ 
fures of 2, ftrange immodefiyfOUxTkii^ yea^ and 

why injudicioujly embrace the bofom of a bafs 

21 harlot ftranger. For let the temptathns efje- 
crecy be ever fo plaufible^ you ought to know and 

'* be deeply qffehed by it, that the ways of man 
zvefull before the eyes of the impartial judgmg 
Lord, and thift with this view^ tofpeak after ike 
manner ofmen^ he pondereth all hisy^iW^ 
lefs than open goings. 

FROM VERSE XXII. to the END. 

22 THE fure dreadful piinifhment of b\s own 
ipiquities fliall take as in a fnare the wicked 
himfelf, and he fliall be holden like a cay^we 
with the cords of his multiplied attrocious fins. 

Reflections, 

20 Divided griefi leflen, and communicated joys mct^Stt 
Gen. it. i8. Job xix. 13, &c. xviii, 3cc. See the afe^Offk 

21 Ahmghty God is more privy to what we thinks ^Nlj^* 
afnd adl, than ourfelves arc, Zech. iv. 10. i Cor. i1r.^jp. 
Seek a remedy for impure pleafure in la<wfu! marr^mm 
No excufe can be for adulterous uncleannefs. 

We truft in thee, thou mofi high, that univerlaj rUh^ 
tcoufriefs Ihdl at laft univerfally prevail, when t^A. ' 
reafohable creatures, which will not be holy and religioQi^ ; 
fhall be fubje^ to an everlafting deftrudion from tfcf^ 
prefence and the glory of thy power. , ^ 

22 ■ Flee its onvti puni/hment* L,ooi't principles zre the CC||^«-i 
mon fruit of tad lives, and ferve to narden, ver. ti^^ 

• Efth. iri. «. 



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<3iap. VI. PROVERBS. 37 

He fliaH die by the Jirengthening of his evil ha* 23 
foVi, without being benefited by inftruclion, 
and in the great ncfs of his irreclaimable folly, 
he (hall gO wandering aftray Jrom mijchief to 
mijchief^.from hwn to hurt. 

•4.4 ^'^ .4 -4^4 '4 ^»- »■ »-»• » •»>>• »> 



C H A P. VI. 
FROM VERSE I. to VL 

MY fon, whom I am anxiom to warn in ear^ i 
ly lifey if thou, by ha/ie of engagement^ 
or (xtberwife^ be furcty for thy friend ; if yet 
more unwarily thou hi^ft * ftricken thy fro- 
mifing hand with a /»^r^ ftranger, Thou^irt, 2 

* The Hebrew manner ^ Prov. v. 10.-— w. 26. — xk- i6. 
— xxvli, 13. 

Reflections. 

Gutk after warning, doth greatly aggravate, Prov. 23 
viil. 36. 

Hefled be thou, God^ who haft exercifed thy good- 
ncfs in the produdlion of thy creatures ! Convince us of 
the depravity which is brought upon human nature, by 
Ticious pradices, and make us fo thoroughly fendble of 
the uneafineis of a guilty cbnfcience and malignant fpi- 
rit, as to be moved unto the utmoft zeal for reftoratioii 
by repentance X.O ourfelvcs, and hj pardon, to thy enriching 
favour. , - 

Surety avoid. Married people above every other i 
fliould be flow, thus to involve themfelves, Pfal. cxii. 5. 
I Tim. v. 8. Solicitation from want is full of artihce. 
'Trouble of mind is infeparable from raftmefs, ani 2 ' 
c>ften great outward lofs. Courts of law refound wih 
luch complaints of grievances. Rather give in part, - 

E 



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3S PROVERBS. Chap. VI. 

take my parental word for ity next to already fnar- 
cd with the rajh words of thy niouth, thou 

3 art taken with the words of thy mouth. Du 
this now, then my f very dear fon, while ihere 
is any hope^ and deliver thyfelf, when thou 
art come into the hand of thy friend engaged 

for : go, humble ihyfelf, // // were by pro/ira^ 
iion to the earthy fo* riddance of the obligation^ 
and make fure of ihy depending friend to pay 

4 of what is due. Give not a ftn%le bourns fleep 
to thine eyes, nor flumber to thine eye-lids, 

5 //// this be done. Deliver thyfelf quite from the 
nety even as a roe eniahgled firives to get clear 
from the hand of the hafleriing hunter, yea 
and as a more weak and fear Jul bird from 
the hand of the fowler. 

FROM VERSE VI. to XII. 

6 UPON this weighty point in particular^ go 

f Compare Prov. v. 2i. Jolh* iu il. I Sam. mv. 24. 
Gen. xviiL 5. /fa. Ix. ^. H. 

Reflkctioms. 
than bind for a whole. We (hould be certain of pof- 
fcfling more than we engage for. 

3 Suretyfliip is apt to make people remifi. We Hiould 
requeft o\xr freedom as humbly as another did our engage>^ 
merit. 

4 It is a prime juftice to know the utmoft extent of our 

5 own outward eftate. Deaths and loiTes in trade, may 
render difficulties inextricable, Prov. xxii. 7. 1 Tbef. 
iv. 12. 

6 Induftry ccmmended. Prudence and religion equally btiKi 
to take care of ourfelves and of our families, i Tim, v. 8. 
The affluent fhould take leifure and pains to give good 



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Chap. VI. PROVERBS. 39 

to tbe ant lifjslf^ thou fluggard, confidcr her 
judtcioiis fnfttuSiive ways, and be made wife 
from them, W^hich having no vifible guide, 7 
ovci feer, or ruler, in her fmall domains^ Pro- 8 
videth fiGlwithfianding a place for her meat in 
the warmth of fummer, maketh even avenues 
thither^ and then gathcreth fa/l together her 
fiore ©/"food in the harvcft time of little grains • 
Thus recolle&ing may I not expoflulate^ how long 9 
wilt thou flecfp on to mi/chiefs O infamous flug- 
gard ? When wilt thou, falfelj luscurious^ arife 
out of thy ^^t^ amidit fo viuch' danger f Yet 10 
faje^ thou by prjt£Hce, a little more fleep if tof- 
fible^ a little flumber at leafl^ a little folding 
jpl tJie hands ^^^ nothing better be allowed ^ to 
feek the next date ofeafe to flecp. tJo let the oh- i c 
Jervation cfi^es ajfurethee^ {hall thy deferved 
poverty come of a fudden^ as one that travel- 
l.cth among fhe word of robbers^ and thy total 
want as under the violence of^xx armed man. 

Reflections. 
.couniely and to ferrc the ppor. Poverty, from indolence 
or lioty IS a great crime, PfaL cxxxvi. 2f. Infh-u^Hons 
fxom, the book of nature may be Tignally ufeful to de- 
Tout field and garden walks. 

^X^^SfoaX in^tnds are orderly and harmonious. Oj>- 7» 
portunity (Kould not be let (lip. Sluurgards are unna- \^u 
tural s^id cum^rfome. The very belt incomes need to 
be ma^iaged with care. Delay brings new difficulties^ 
and leflen* ftreng^ Ch. xxiv. 33, &c.— xxx. 25. Prc- 
tence.to weakneis, is both common and falfe. An esceis 
of .fleep is crinriinal, Pfal. civ. 2 1, 23. Prov. xiii. 4. Sud- 
dion evils are the moft ievere. 

Xeach usg Gody in this our day of grace, and while 
die terms of reconciliation are ofEered^ to underftand 

li 2 



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40 PROVERBS. Chap. VI. 

FROM VERSE XIL to XVL 

12 A naughty dfjimbiing pcrfon, and a wick- 
ed cruel uncharitable nrran, walketh with a 

13 froward moxxih §f felfpraife. He winketh 
among thofe whom he would have I0 keep Jiience^ 
\Vith his eyes, or if nearer hcj/or Hie ends, 
fpeaketh with his feet, and when out of the 
reach of both, he teacheth even with \MJtgm7^ 

14 fingers, treacherous frawardnefs after all is 
in his heart, he devifeth niifchief/r(?»2 thence 
continually, he fowcth feeds of great and la/l^ 

*5 tng difcord among peaceable neighbours. There* 

Reflections* 
the things whfch belong to our eytrkfting peace alkl 
happineft ( and let tlftm not be hid from our eyes. 

12 Malicioui arts. A literttne lift leads to irrotuotu Jm^ 
mdfUs, for its own defence, chayp. iv.. 24. Flattering at:* 
commod^tion to every kind of company, is a hideoiis di!^ 
temper. Young people fhould tremble to oppofe iruti 
even in fmall matters. 

13 ^bafe heart ufes every member a<i inftiuments of mt- 
righteoufnefs. The d^vrces of fraud in particular are 
not to be counted. Tliat charaAer is very fufpicion!^ 
which declines the ufe of plain dfredl fpeech. A man l)f 
uprightmefs feeks no good which would hurt that rf . 
another, Ifa. Iviii. 9, 1 1 • 

14 • Out of the abundance of the heart, we both fpeak amd 
aft. Religion is a prime mover for peace. 

15 The repetition of ¥4rat proceeds from Secret deceits^' 
brings through time to fure contempt and ruin, Pfilib 
vii. 14, &c. Punifhmenls become the more dreadful 
when they are leaft expected. Some naturally flothfui 
people are expert in mifchievous contrivances, Mic. ii. i. 
Hof. vii. 6. Irremediable is their mifery, Job xtu 301 
PfaL Ixxiii. 18, 19. Space and means for repentance 
may be taken aw^y. 



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Chap VI, PROVERBS. 4» 

fare having made Umfelfmany enemies^ (ball hil 
calamity, at lengthy come fuddcnly upon htm ; 
fuddenly indeed (hall he be broken to pieas 
without remedy. 

FROM VERSE XVI to XX- 

IN the eye of heaven^ all vices are odious ; but i6 
thefe fix tilings doth the Lord hate above 
evtry oil,*er^ yea, vAen we add fcven to them^ 
tbey are no lefs than an abomination unto him. 
A proud contemptuous look, a bafe lying 17 
tan£ra€, and hands that chre eq/Hy brought to 
ficd innocent blood. An he^in from evil habit 18 
thit devifcth ruinous wicked imaginatk)ns j 
feet that be fsvift by frequent ufe, in running 
to all kinds of mifchief ; A falfe witnefs^ that 19 
^aketh defamatory fraudulent lied ; and htm 

Reflection-s. 

Victi mjft dboimmAle. Situ delighted in argue aa entire tSr 
arerfeheTs to ^9odl 

The iwollcn vaunting: fpirit may be feen in haughty »7 
ejes ; and is rarely feparated from contention* Such 
live in % continaed lie, to accompHih- unjuft ends. Ca- 
httXHij and flattering when found out become abo- 
minate to mtny as they ever are to God, Murderers and^ 
liars go hand ta hand, Jio. viii. 44. Ifa. Iviii. 7.' Pial. v. 
6b ^mtth. V. ai» 5tc. 

One who thinks with pleafure upon what is evil, is a 1 $ 
daring tranfgreflbr, Jam. i. 13, 14- 'Hiey who rott to 
injure others^ are frequently their own greated n^chief. 

Xhere is a peculiarly quick and ^tal progrefs in 19 
fyiag^, PfaL xxvii. 12. Zech» v. 3, &c. Jer. v. 3. To 
piide and envy-, the happineis of others h quite intolerable.- 
1^ f<^arate chief friends is a partial murder ; and fome- 
tianes warSt^ Schemes of unnatural divkiotv mud be 
deep laid te reader them^ iiicceisfriL As Aure as. GoJ ts» 



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4> PROVERBSv Chifr. VI 

that wkb his knowledge fowcthyWj af difcord 
aaiofig umiud Inethreii. 

FROM VERSE XX. to t^ ENDi 

20 MY dea'' fon, Ut me again enireat thee ta 
keep thy affe^ionate father's comirandmcnt, 
*nd forfakc not the law of thy no lefs tender 

2\ mother. Bind them rather we befieehy and 
even ordain^ continually upon the inmoll tableU 
tf/ thine heart, and tie them Itke a graceful or* 

S2 nament zhout thy neck. When thou goeft e» 

through the journey of life* it Ihall lead thee 

fafe; when ihou flcepcft, it fliall lihwije lict]^ 

* Ity after them, U inaccurate^, and Jbauld ke read 
tEey. H. 

Reflegtio»3. 
tRe above finncrs, without deep and folemn repeatancey. 
mud perifti. 
: ^ Reilore,, O Lord, thy &llen creation r and kelp ns to 
recover our primitive and original glory, by the renova- 
tion of our natures, and by the refoYmatioh. of our lives, 
according to the pattern of holinefs in thy Son. 

2Q Dehortation from uncleahncfs. The applicatory part ©f 
intended ufcful dlfcoucfe, faov^d be made very clofe and 
yet conciliating, See Ch. f. 8^ 

iL Next to jihn'tghty Cod Wiz greateft obliigations arc to 
parents. Even indifferent fathers and niothers wilh to 
have children better than themfelves, Eph. viw i^ Con- 
templation of good rules affe<fls the heart, chap, ixu 3. 
Deu% vi. 8.< — xu i8» There is nothing fo excellent and 
even glorious as religious virtue, Prov. iii* 23, 24. i Pet* 
iii.. I, &c. 

22. To lie down with a gpod confeience^ is wholefome, 
prefervatlve. So is the Seep of honed labour and tem- 
perance.. In waking hours of the night, devout and mfi^ 
ral mediutioxx» are^ delightful, PiaL iv^ 4.r-^it% 9.^ 



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Chap. VI. FfWJVr&RBS. 4) 

thee ; and when thou awaked it fliall talk 
with thee, /or pka/ures and bem fits uhfpiakable. 
For the caitimandment understood and ponder* 23 
id^ is a lanip fo (^certain the road ; and the 
Jaw i» ^^ light iife^ ^ and /A^ reproofs of fen* 
fonahle inftni<5lk)n arc the way oi aaowplijhing 
afurehappyWh. To keep thee tiv// defended 24 
from tht pejiive fnares of the evil immodeli wo- 
man, from \\it feduithe flattery of the tongue 
of a ftrangc A^r/c?/ woman, u;Ai? ^^//i offfhame. 
OA, luft not after her meretricious beauty in 25 
thine hcart/i?r ^ moment : neitheryi gaze upon 
her Uoks^ as 10 let her take thee eaptive with 
nvhat darts frofn under her eye-lids. For by 16 
Cleans tiffueh a whoriih woman, a ra^ un- 
thinking man is brotight from affluence jrequenU 
fy to 2l jnece of eoarfe bread ; yea, and the 
adultercft, who bus once begun to violate berfaiiby 
will eagerly hunt for ruin to the pure precious 
life* Child, in camparifon as thou art, let me afk if 

RErL£CTlON«* 

In doubtful cafes, the wxtrd of God is both moft need- 25 
cd and ufeful„ Pfal. xxx. 4.— ^zzxiii. i, &c.— *xix. 7. 

An unchade woman; is capable of ahnofl every thing 24 
bad. They come t© aft TLsfeductrt, 

liiiagination is thefburce of deQre» " 25 

The moft. natural and ufual confequence of a fenfual 2d 
Kfe, is want. Riots muft be fallen upon to drown con- 
fcience*. Villainous expofing arts to procure means.. 
Eftate and foul are thus thrown away together. Pre- 
^me not either upon fecrecy or refolution to break oflF. 

It is againft nature and experience, Job xxxi. it. 27 
Without refloring when in our power, there can be no C^c. 
fmcere amendment. Injuftice, cruelty and contempt 
of G9dy do all meet in the notour adulterer^ Lev. xx. io. 
Mat. ilr. 5..* Hence a rotting memoty and cndlels ruifa- 



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44 PROVERBS. Ch^. ¥1. 

iby bitheriQ ingenMout fouK can a in^n ukc fire 

in his bofom, and his clothes at lead not be 

a 8 burnt ? Can one go tmjbod upon hot coals, 

29 and his feet not in iike manner be burnt ? 60 
he who goeth in m/Zr a kwd diftgn^ into the 
bmfe /9/"Uis neighbour's wife : whofoc ver /AdT^ 

familiarly toucheth her unfeen by thi worlds 
(hall not long* be free 0/ trouble as innocent. 

30 One i?npiop€r dalliance is followed by a nvor/e ; 
and thi'n ihink of the danger. Men do not dc- 
fpife iciih rage a poor thief, if he only ftcal to 
fatisfy the in/iant prejftng want of his foul, 

2 1 when he is hungry. But if he be found m 
any fueb a£i^ and cannot evince the lawful motive 
for what is fo fufpicious ; be fhall reftore bf 
clear fiatute^ /a the extent cf no lefs than f feren-r 
fold, he Ihall give in thai manner frequently all 

32 the valuable fubftance of hts- houfe. But 
whofo committeth adultery with a married 

* ^ Compare Jer, xstx. 11, &fr. H. f A pirfi& Jewlk . 
mtmiert and to be refiriSed. 

Reflections^ 
Indignation, from irreparable injury, feldom mrfles aa- 
opportunity of revenge. Unbridled appetites are with- 
out tafte, friendibip, noble or tender fentiments- Their 
fole view is animal pleafure, which engender the moH 
fatal calamities, ver. xiv. chap. xxix. 3. R, The righ» 
teous live in perpetual fun-fhine as to knowledge. Kzp 
■ change not many words with fufpicious people. 

Grant, God^ that rightly xmdcrftanding the dcfigtv 
and conflitution of our nature, we may be convinced that 
our fouls have the fupremacy over our io£et, and that con^ 
fcience and reafon, which are allliled and enabled by the 
divine jpirttf can and ought to overrule, conduA and em- 
ploy tl^ inferior powers ia the cxercifc of virtue ia the 



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Ct»p. VIL PROVERBS. 45 

woman, lacketh underftandtng ^ qmte : he 
that docth it deftroycth in eourfe oftime^ ibi 
iixppinefs of his own foul. A molt certain 33 
wound afcharaSer and ^ir/r^//r^di {honour (hall 
he get, and his reproach ever after (ball not 
be wiped away* For /war//a/ jealoufy is the 34 
fiercefi rage of a man ; therefore he M'ill not • 
fparc in the day of pojftble vengeance. He 35 
will not regard yi as io accept any affer oft^xi* 
fom fromju/i penalties of law ^ neither will he 
reft content, but fpurn^ though thou give(i 
him many gifts /ir obtaining his forgivenefs* 

C H A P. VH. 

FROM VERSE I. to VL 

MY dear unexperienced fon, keep fafi the 1 
knowledge of my words, and lay up 
nay commandments which proceed from pure 
love and obfefvatien with thee, to regulate future 
behaviour. Keep my commandments, / again 2 
nrge^ and live in true delight ; and my parental 

II Lacheth a hearts 
Reflegtions. 
fight of our Creator, and ia the purfurt of that happi* 
nefs we were created for I 

Eameft parental coumfeL A£Ge6tion and experience i 
fhould meet with double regard. Impurity is tl^ fpecial 
bane of youth, Prov. ii. i.— iv,4 

Rules of life are our beft treafure- and ornamenty to a 
be brought forth for occafional ufe. The life oi reafba 
is ealm and lading; Mind, the eye of the foul, is no lefs 
delicate than that of the body» Matth ¥1.22, &c» Aa 
error may have great and lading eiffedls. 



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f^ proverbs; Oiiip. VII; 

3 law, ais %\\t tender apple of thine eye. Bind^ 
them/© ti^ /peak n^on thy fingers which ari 
pftfnjien^ write them too by frequent medttaiing^ 

4 upon the inma^ ubie of rhine heart. Say 
^nto the /wxidkotti of age^ thou art my beloved 
liftjsr ; and call prtddent underAsinding al/i^ 

5 thy imimate kiniwoman f. That they may, 
through heavenly grace, keep thee from being 
hurt by the ftrange lewd woman ; from the 
ftraoger to modeft necejfary virtue, wbkh flat- 
t<rcth with her Jmoth and Jiudied artfui ' 
words. 

FROM VERSE VI. to XXIV. 

6 FOR, however improbable it ■ may be thought^ 
at the window of my boufc, I looked 

7 through my J jcafcmcnt ; And beheld with 
eteep coincern^ a mmher of fimple fauntering pnc^ 
1 difcerned in parAcwar among the idle diffi* 
fated youths^ a young man void of undler^ 

8 ftanding, by his former viees |{, Palling with 

• Sift Deut. vi 8. — Iff. 1 8. t See Prov. v. J, J Or 
Lattice- H, \ See chap. i. 4.-— «»• 23. 

Reflectioms. 

3 We have that upon our ^/^-^ffdV, which makes t^ 
dextrous in bufmefs, i Cor. xiv. ult. 

4 Agreeable and ufeful fiimiliars are a htgh priyilege, 
Ruth iii. 2. Prov. ii. 1 2. 

5 Through natural and Judicial progrei^ vice hardens^ 
Earned teaching is full oi argument, and even of repeti- 
tion at times. Senfual frauds are peculiarly hazardous*. 

6 Female immodefly guarded againft. Cafes, feigned to the 
life, may ini^nid no lefs than real. . Corrupters of youth 
ihould be carefully guarded againfl, Ch. xx. 8. The 



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Chip. Vri. PR0VERBf& 47 

melefsnefs through the ftrcct, near \\tt fufpi* 
ims corner, and he went the way clife to 
\k opened door of htr houfe; In the twiKght 9 ' 
alter funfet he btgan bis career^ in the evening 
hnhus continued^ in the black and dark night 
iifeif. 'And behold there met him foon a bitfi 10 
woman, with the avowed attire of an harlot, 
and fubtile of heart, as Jbe was inimical to put e 
wtue* . (She is of truth known to be loud and 11 
flubborn in that degrading eharaSler ; her feet 
jw any iinie abide not to boneii workm her 
houfe. Now is flic without ogling her mote 12 
iijlant paramours^ now in the narrow ftreets, 
/9 folicii their near approach^ and if Jhe finds 
tifmii ^^ ^p^f' ^^^ *^'^ methods J Kech in wait 
foe/iduffion zt t'^cry other corner.) So flie 13 
caoglit tiicn, tfj though Jhe had been an intimate^ 
indteven kifled him, and with an impudent 
l9^mg face faid unto him, 1 have now peace- 1 4 
oil^Dgs • with me. to appeafe^Jhould there le 
need far it^ the wrath of hta^oen in full ; this 
day haVc \ already in part paid my religious 
vows. Therefore came I forth in J$ good or- 45 
der^ no lefs ihdfi fortunate time, to meet thee 
thus far from my houfe ^ diligently to feek thy 
face, wtth preference to many others^ and I have 
now^ thank God^ found thee at laji. I have, be- 1 6 
tween ourfelves^ decked my bed with new co- 

* To fttfhlch U was ufual to invite friends. H* 

Reflections. 
fenfudlrtXi^j attend where they might be convided, if not 
reformed. To fuffer one bad family, may be the ruin 
of thoufands. Youth, from want of experience, is much 



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4t PROVERBS. Chap. VII. 

v^rings of admirable tapcftry, with beaufiful 
carved work, abeut ihefe to lie upon^ and with 

1 7 fine wrought linen of Egypt. 1 have beftda per- 
fumed my bed with compofis of myrrh, aloes 

18 and cinnamon. Come let us take our fill (rf 
unmolefted love, until the morning, let us fo- 
lace ourfelves wi^b fucb fweet carejjing loves. 

1 9 For you muji know^ what we call the goo4 UMD 
4>fthe family is not at home iofurprife us^m 
will be indeed^ becaufe he is gone a long jojig- 

ao ney to provide necejfarieu He hath takcii 1* 
large bag of money with him/cr traffic^ sw^ 
will come home at the new-nioon day, accvtle 

a I ing /^ //;w^ appointed b^ him. / Awj with h^ 
much fair fpeech Ihe caufed him to yicWf 
with thtfatfe flattering blandijhments of tfll 

a 2 lips, flie as it were forced him. He gQfA 
after her ftraightway, like one d^ad to €%3^ 
thing ingenuous^ juji as an ignorant ox goeth 10 
the flaughter houfe^ or rujheth on to punijhmini 
as a mad intoxicated ^ fool to the correftion^af 

a 3 the ftocks. liil with the return of day^ atfi 

♦ Compare Ifa. Hi. i6, c8. — jcxiL 15. Jf^ 

Reflections. 
in danger. Idlenefs is a great inlet to debaucher jr* One 
a<5t of intemperance, is fure to bring on a wori'e, Dcot. 
xxi. 20. Hoil iv. 4, i^. Ex. xviii 26. i Sam. ii. »2. 
22 Where ichools of wifdom are, folly is the more unjufti- 
liable, 2 Tim. ii. 22. Hofl v. 2. How many fliun the 
eyes o£ men, who are fearlefs to be feen of GoJl Ch. i. 28. 
Female immodelly is (hocking, chap. v. 5. Some in 
effeA do afcribe their giiilt to God, i Sam. xxiH. 7* 
Zech. xi, 5. Seducers apply themfelvci to werj bodilf 
fcnfe. Lull js iniktiabk. 



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Chap. VIL PROVERBS. O 

conviBim together^ a dart flrikc through his 
liver, to the utter ruin of both foul and peace : 
as a bird of no under/landing hafteth to the 
fowler*simxty and knoweth not that it is 
there placed for his life. • 

FROM VERSE XXIV. to the END. 

HEARKEN unto me now therefore with 24 
anxious care, O ye who ate ingenuous children, 
and attend ^wr;7i^r^ to the words of my mouth. 
L^ not 'thine heart, even for once^ decline to 25 
her evil ways ; go not aftray in her deadly 
^ths. For be affured 0ie hath caft down 26 
tc^ny under a difnml woundtd /iate\ yea, many 
ftr^g nnen, as to natural con/littdionj have been 
utterly flain by her. Her houfe is the direde^ 27 
poffibk way to the fepukhre ^/hell, going down 
rmreover^ to the chambers of eternal death. 

Reflections. 

Adviice to youth. The more hazards people have to 24, 
run, the more cautious and advifeable they ought to ^c. 
be, Prov. i. 5. Deut. xxxii. 2. Check the firft motions 
and inlets to evil, 1 Cor. vi. 18. hs3& of reputation, 
eftatc and health, follow the lofs of freedom and com- 
fort. 

Senfual crimes are clearly certified of eternal de- 27, 
/huaion, 2 Pet. ii. 10, 12, &c. i Cor. vi. 9. Gal. vi. l!fc\ 

6, 7- 

Suffer us not, good Gody to imagine ourfelves under 
a«y neceffity of following the impreflions oifenfi^ and 
the violences of paffion againft our reafon ; and of being 
Irtirrjed by them into the exorbitances of intemperance, 
injufticc.and profanenefs, to the diihonour of thee, and 
our own utter ruin 1 

F 



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so r ROVER JS. 

C y A Pv Vlll. 
FROM VERSE I. to the END. *'.f 

^ ^ONE can be ignorant, unlefs they an wilf^ 

fo of what concerns them ; ]or ooth 13^ 

rehgious iznd mrtil wiftiom cry in /me /00 

yeay and d4>th not the bejtofall ufid<rflaiKii#| 

times earnq^ly put forth her voictforattemi 

2 She ftandeth up t9 be heard in the top ef 4^ 
places in governmeni^ by the w^y-Jide^tsa^^ 
in the places of t^ wg/? freauem^ rs 

3 She crieth audibly andfffian ^t the Gsiurt\_ 
at the entry of the large city, at the 

4 coming in >t the doors. Unto you, in 
are Ijer words ^ O men of rank I call, andl 

5 voice alfo is to the lonjti^i fons of men. O j 
^ imprudent fimple, then underftand thefex 

necejfary branches of wifdorti ; and ye n€:(t\ 
fools, be >e Ukewife oi an underftandijil. 

6 heart. Hear withjoliciiude and obedience^ foJrf 
will fpeak of eaiicellent things ; and the <>pe>K 

Reflections. 

1 The nainre^f ^mfdom €ind bs advantc^, Inktt^afilosi 
will obilrud Kenefit fioin the very bcft mea&s. W!ta| 
moil concerns the bulk of mankind is plain. Vehem^M^ 
is needful at times, to awake the carekfs. •"; '-^ _ 

2 Authqrity is proper to irtttb. God wiil require sna 44^ 
count of all our opportunities and other advantages.. ••.^ 

3 The immutable eternal diierences of good aii4 rrit^ . 
are fek ^t firft by every one. Couxts of judicaM^ 
fhould be guided by thefe, and concoUrfc for traffic^ . ^ . 

4, 5, 6 All ranks are interefled in the rule of life. The 
perfedion of man is to be afUmilated to jilmighty God* 



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d?iap. V!fF: PROVERBS. Jt 

ing of my Vxps too (hall be o/" right things, ^;?^ 
p^ofitab^e. For ray mouth fhall fpeak ibe 7 
r/^^r didates ^/ truth ; and M<? wickcdnefs e?^- 
poled t9 that^ ttJ an abomtnation to my fips. 
AM the wordti of my mouth arc in fupport of 8 
AMm riglltcoufncfs, there is nothing that 
l^j be dee^d with jujlice deceitful^ froward or 
ct^mve to a pervcrfe cour/e $f life in them. 
TW&I^ arc all plain ^^es to him that under- 
ftSMeth how to 'employ his reafon. and right in 
dWr 'confidences ^ to them that find o^t fuch 
H|b«flcdge. VLcctxvt my obvious neeejfaty XTi'^ co 
lln^bn ihen^ and not with the mnMtude be 
ifger M ' obtain &yy^rt and valw know- 
%r good^pra&tte raiikkQV than choice yfn^ 
'^Por /fe^A wilHom Is i^ven better tnan 1 1 
Krubics^; atid all things in fh^t that 
^^^ defired ofhighefi co,% are not once to 
W-^ftmp^red td it. i wifdom dwell /nv^r/Vj- 12 
*/f'with tt/^2^/ prudence, and find out know- 
Wgd of |/>tf imji witty ♦ inventionSj^br ^t;^'(/- 

^- Ticpian ni^ rafhfr rfgofid dcfigm^ Jcr* texx. 24. I/* 

Reflections, 
;prox^ifes nothing falfely 5 whereas, 'oke flat- 7 

J Mine^ wUis hot arbitrary, and far Icfs tyrannical. 8 
.50be heft thin^f unufed cannot he profitable. I7p^ 9 
i^i^^clcars die mind, Rpm. ii. 14, 15. Jo. viJ. 17, 
Pi^^Wipn dtUgence to the worth of things, Prov. iii. 15. 
.Jffmatmai hgaut'w^ are preferable to all that can be 10 

Ami4ft fnares and difficulties, prudence and forefight 1 1 
^tfquifite, Prov. xxviii. 14^ \z 

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52 PROVERBS. Chap. VUf. 

'3 i^g fnarcs of ruimus guilt. The fear of A« 
Lord which is my chief principle^ is to bate evety 
kind I?/* evil ; above them alU prJdc in the him^ 
and arrogancy of fpeech or ahing% and tberrin/ 
evil way, and the deceitful froward mouth 46 

I if I hate. Counfel itfilf is mine to pve^j^ 

found virtuous wifdom ; I am undcrftan(fi||g 

from above^ 1 have ftrength to carry tbiti^ 

15 By me kings of: the greatest eminence do t^^M 
and princes employed by them decree jvim^ 

16 By mc tbofe princes rule with honour and^ 
fulnefs^ and nobles too undtr each^ even aU^ 

17 judges of the earth. I love them a// ^^^Ifi^ 
truth tbat love aie, and thofe that fedt<,!||| 
early, after n dtligeiai manner^ fliall for 

1 8 find me. Riches and honour are ^th 
yea, durable riches and the peaceable 

1 9 righteoufnefs. My fruit of that fort is 
than gold for ufe^ yea, than fine nnaUojfod 

Reflections. . 

1 3 The beft rules are both eafieft acqiitred' swid kfept -SW 
membrance. There can be no regular gooduefs ynC ' " 
piety 9 chap, h 7. — ix. 10. Difdain of^ersan*i * 
ing, are infeparablc from pride^ Matth. vii. 5. 

14 Aiv honcft open temper, qualifies both, to ^ 
i:eceive counfel* Schemd^: o^poRcy are often ill 
therefore precarious ; wherfcas found wijSom '^Wttl 
the teft. H*.j: 

1 5 The Joctal cmpa3 is fecuredby good latvs and ea^it^tHf 

16 Rom. xiii. I, &c. Vl*- 

1 7 The nveakefi may bye made to uoderftand t^hat is Jft- 
tial^ Pfal. xix, 7. Early piety is moft profitably 'WJ 
principles arc worfc than none. *' 

1 8 Thofe who are eminent ^re honoured by imitation. QU- 
ly Unefs with contentment is great gain, and durable^ PtoT. 

iii* t^.— XX. 15. 



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i»4 otV relrcaue ift$ur/e *hi^li choice ptdijhed 
filbter* . • I lead in thc^rtw^y of rightcouf- 20 
^t^^^Gf^iam^jem; iatbc midft pf the paths 
of riwr judgc^acnt Tba^t I way caufe tbpfc ai, 
^k9kt\^nGerefy kme me, to inherit fubftaucc 
^ch, 4h$ tm>% Jlmdcroui iiaffs not ehalienge ; 
mmIIhiriH ft|J'«^ ih^irjiorf %t>Uh my hcneji trea* 
i§^^»^ iXlie ivord J^honm^ po&^ikd me in the %% 
b^^Aing^^qf km t^e^i'v^ way, before his 
wmkj^^if old. I was fef vtp in himfilf from 23 
«wNtfti^% fi-<>iJi. the beginning of tim^ or 
fiftr^W earth, was inlmb'iHd. When there 24 
J||«Wtnodk3i7t:hs iac9ntmn living creatures^ or 
^img6dfiywl^.} was brought forth, /o^ivi^ eacb 
■|L(^ /f&rfr 0xi/ience ; 'when there were na 
|liilfc^0& aboundiog with water /(?r current^ 
^mfjiind^ Befhre theflaountains wA/^/> j^/>/^ 25 
l%6 were fettled i before the ffiuiUer hills ^ 

Men cannot be w^f/^ who arc led by tvifdom'^ and do* 20J. 
ofteneft prol^jp?*. A fetdement of the foul upon true iv 
and eqital peate, is cotnpatiblc with temporal fuflfering^ 
*R^ »r^*ftarv€5 amldfl his hoards. The froJigai iboa 
v?8iptcs Tnmfc3f. . G«)^//j of the w/W cannot lie pilfered*^ 

,?^^ wa^s Ae ^JTtJng of a^ron in the M?Y>y, and is ir 
t1jSlJ|ilig. , ©7 Jier rides, men do partake of tlie dk>me 
«&nr Itmahapptnefsy Prov. iii. 1 9, la Under knowledge^ 
ttbmpted.ljy 7(CnDr, ft pleaftd the AhmgfHf to- create. Pfeiis 
yS^mdr^s pr6je<5led by the cbarhalh are joyous* 

Taib.^plp^ ofGodhzs and ftill continues to a<5l with 23 
ft^m,feen. i. i^ 8cc. How (blifs^itl F The moft commit 
Oft^/ (ST nature are the rhoft requjJUe, Rarticitlars beaii- 
*wy ideftriptib'n, 'iktid-are muA to iSic tafte o^'a^pioutfoul. 
^Qrtm^^fes both amaze and delight; Mpunttkm 25;. 
^ ffie ItnntdVeable ckanfers and rejiolit^orTes of fprings. ^5*"- 
^Vy make afwtct variety to weU turned mindi.. An 



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54 PROVERBS. <3b#r V^Kt 

16 was I brought forth. While as^yct he hadt 
*rot made the darth, ^ formthem^p- nor the 
open extenftve fields *, rtot the bigheft tJJ^Wf 

•27 part of the duft of the wcirkh When he 

Jireparcd the heav^ftSy f& tipite mitr i^^ffiA 
eauties^ I wa'9 thefc : when hr fct what maf 
feem like a cmnpafe/#r itMiUnefs upon^the &e€l 
28 of the depfh, u htm if elofe in. When M 
cftablifhcd' the cteiid« arbo^c from ibtnce t 
• * when he ftrengthened the Mtnasung fountains 
20 of the deep : When he gave to the hfif iK» 
tiUtnvs his decree, that the watera 01 m timi 
ihould pafs^ his cotmnanthnenf : wlten he ap 
pointed the hiddtn foundations of the eartfa^ 
30 io /apply thefe. Then was I by him, fw» » 
yme brought up with hhn ; and J was^ >daaif 

hi« deligh*, rejoiciBg alwaj^^ before 1^ iM 

' ''••*■ 

* According tojome^ all that fitrroundeth f/> the fnoon^fiup^ 
flanets^ heavens^, compart £%cL xL §. Gen. vL 14. M^ 

RBTLBettOK5., 

^om o/dujf is not beneath ittvine notice. . The hearkens cxr 
hibit a fcene o£ wonder, even to rapture. The more wc 
are ftudtous^ the more they aflfe(5t. . (roi? adapts every 
ihmg with infinite' precifion^ The balancings df thc^ 
fhudt are his;^ till being collefted thirk, they become 
hfeavy {or Jbo4vers o£ vegetating, weahh. How ^Mfeljis: 
the vaft ocean appropriated to be the caufe of thefcyattft 
taean rf univerial cwtnurce i God^t n»ayt in it are fcen 
with aftonilhment. The mQk famliqr fhould bc^-thc 
moft droQut. Be ferendly phu* and nothing will alarxiw 
jOmi^htfGodv^ttht aboVe las^ovni natural lawx, TBI 
the earth was completely provided,, there was no rttnmat 
wbahitant^ Ifa. xL 12, &c. Divine attMutU are foxnettmcs 
h^^v^ihxVij perfonlfied. An attentive ©bfcrvation of Ae 
rh 9f God xi a chief duty ^ and ought to be a chief de^glK 
fdom is a leading Jivitii attrilutct Ch. viT. 4. Lam. iv. 5* 



HKforit. 



ir^Jiwtt is a leadings 



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i^m ^ immjfM uf^.^vet^ieiy ; Rejoicing 5c 
mim particularh in the habitable parH of 
bfs earthy znatbi cbi^rf my delights were 
with the devoMi atunlkfe fons of men. 
Now therefore hearken unto me, 6y way of ^2 
fraefiU rett^m^ O/fc chHdren $fimtelligence, for 
Meied are they above all others that know and 
keep my ways. Hear ir»ftruAi6n kindly iffer^ 33 

tdnii& it liot npon any account. Blefled is tlie 34 
num.; that he?ireth me wit^ attention and perfs^ 
««hi27f^^ watching daily at my gates^ waiting 
fif.iadmffUn at the pofts of my doors. For J5 
^$k^ through care and diligence^ findeth.me, 
lo^b <Ar beji enjoyment of life; amJ; fcall 
eCilSn fpecial favour of the Lord. But he .36 
f^'tbi other handy that finneth againft me, ' 
jTcMi culpable igno'^ance^ wrongeth tf^e peace of 
m\mn foul ; and all they that by progrejftve 
wickedne/sy come in the end to hate me, ait as- 

Kefxections. 

Man was its principal produdlion upon earth) PlaL 51 
▼nl 5, ate. Gen. i. 26,, 3 u 

1 Tha free^i o# beitten are fruits of pureft tender hroe. 3 a 
AH eteatwpes underiaoir obierve divme^ ortkr $ and by 
^^am^tiiumfU iaftrui^ The cuwiom HeaikeO' withy^iSM^^ii^,. 

,iT0 hutr 9ted$€ntfy.is true wifdoiHt f Sxan, xv« aa. 33 
Faithful rebukes are kind, Pfal. cxli. 3« 4. 
: iSeek ocfr^ons to be mftru^fkdt P^lr i 2» &c. Hear 34 
.vhiioiit (HTfiufiice, . Pi^l* xxv. 9. The more one fiic- 
. €^s» the more defirous thej fhould be. . ' 
'. "Fho nataund tendency o£ rSgious virtue^ h to pronfiotc 3 jp 
kpikpleafure and jsrofit, PfoL X3a.iv, \it^^* ' O^r bett 36 
faculties impro\:f d» . , » 



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^ 



5«^ ^ft0«£ftB9l iCi)tfp.nlX^ 

ilhdUgk ihey zOei^if infitoHitng ujiniiw4t 16vc wfaR' 
death. ' ' ' . 

CHAP. IX. 
FROM VERSE I. td XllL \^., 

b^ more ine^cufabky thai fuprejni 
hath genetiiUjly ^'' builded Yixx 
\ ; file hath he^vn out her fcvcfi 
quai jujt iaHe and nrengih. SBif * 
me on her fnarriage day^ killed hc^ 
, (he hath nhingled h::r be^iyAiici 
every other way furniftied ^»/ h<|r ' 

3 hath fent forth her regularly hi^^ ' 
ns, to warn the willing guefls ; Ihtf .^ 
r means^ upon the higheft plincic^ '^ 

4 thronged Q\ty. And her affeSlionafi !• 

* Compare Ecch x/v. 15, Gf^. Seven wot ^ ferfeA \ 

number among ihe Jt^frs, . j 

Reflectiom). 

I ' ^^^m prtnidis and ittvke^. Bm^ahhn Ynoft ncH be 

tltakied tt) ft noHilfenfe m ev^ry ^n IdF them. A Gq- 

^re mUyd vafily obtains good knottiiidge ^md fmakt 

through promifed divine aid^. ArchiteAural tJiiderXlb ^^ 

. ^^t'rctilaHy plebfai\l» FteedCto iitti leafe %*€ the i%fiilt$. iki 

of wifdom. * *^' J^ 

'2 StspportS'ftre eflenltial to iliefoidy like meat ibr a ittloM' (irf 

-My, The^ diSvd): fotial'endearbg <iiee}fii]Bie& latfiii'*' 

Ifsu Iv. I, &c. ' '^ Vf 

Thofe who heartily love wifdom^ arc ttfieaionaiteljjwiij 

tntt by her. She fpeaks by cotffcicnce, provi 

fcriptures, and the miniftry of the word» ' ^ 

All are welcome to embrace religion. \ » 



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3 




(3Nip.,I3^ PROVEAB& IT 

Vfords one, vthofy \% mlinedi ie ihey ef ibt 
moji fimplc poar, let him turn in hither for 
profitable entertaiwne t r as for hiro that, owing 
to few years and nteani^ wantetH undcrftand* 
'yn^s flie faith (o him. Come, and delay not 5 
any^ longer^ to cat of my J^ritual tn-e^d, and , 
drink of the Jimilar fpiritual wine which 1 
lu^fc mtogled, ofpurpofe to- refrejhj as well as 
'fv^* , For fake hereafter the carelefs wicked 6 
and live upon my ufeftd in^ruflions ;, 
;o in the way of underftanding, without 
known departure. He that reproveth 7 
ate fcorncr, / am aware^ gettcth ,ta 
the {h^me of ne^leff^ ifnotinfult; and 
ait rehuketh.a wicl^^d maa^gettethhim- 
bfot at leaji. Whence my prime advice xmiM 8 
liter f young ingenuom em'vert reprove not \ 
er 0/ the above defcriptionjlcik he hate thee 
7^md&^ fpfe waver i " iui tcGnkcy wheif 
yment and experience may have fome proper 
dll{p^ ^ wife man hf be main, and he will not 
^ reform J but love thee. ' Give after inftruc- 5 
j tion to a wife man of that fort, and he will be 
yet wifer ;. . teach a juft nian to the rules rfpi^us 

RlFJU^CTlOMS.* 

..Wl^js vmfltffeitfitpve can never fatisfy» Ifa« xtxr. %. 5 
, 't^ firft TsidLX\m. o£ vnfJom,, is to avoid evil .manners 6 

»j CQQ^any* Our peao^ tixid comfort mud kicreaie^ 

1^ JSfl^W experience. 

I- T^m is always Im^ tiH fiorinmji. taloe% place, froin re- 7 

I jG^pu;]pn of being 01 treated will«#^ vindicate xcX^ 8 
liferi^ cowardice^ 
They who feel reproof znd love the reprover^ give great 9 
^cr, PfaJ. qxji. ^ |^^ OthjRTs thojald twx^c 




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jS PROVERBS: Chap. TX 

friendjtnp^ and he will be fure to increafc in 

10 lerirhtng. The fear of thc/overeign Lord in- 
4eed^ under which both of them a6l^ is the cenm 
beginning of wifddm: and the knowledge 
of the holy • arte improved^ is the belt of mi 

1 1 tindeftanding. For by mc v>ho Jirength^mth 
this divine principle^ thy days of\ virtuous feaci 
flialf be multtplied ; and the like years or tliy 

1 1 Bfe fhall be increafed. If in the manner rm 
propofed thou be wife, thou (halt be wife Jfor 
profiting thyfelf ; but if thou^ as too many others^ 
difregardefl^ and then' fcorneftf, thou alan« 
flialt bear the fen:erej>unifhment ofii. 

FROM VERSE Xlir. to the ^ND. 
13 /tND hetaufe fmii^ui lujis do 0ft0n tevifi k 

f. QrhdxJhl ^ it. ' f One vfJSo taught at l^Tetow* 
WoraSty and good mdtunrt^ Pfti* hxsevm. 151 e6. 

R&FLSCTIONS*. - 

IP Fear God but dread not, ^ the fweft prefervativc bm 
fm. Job xxviii. 28. 

1 1 The go9d live not according to humour but ortkr. Ar- 
piom men are both ttnfocflal and dxHi^turaU A Jiomf 
is but aiFcftedly brave, Prov. vi. 16. Ignorance ofit* 
ligion is the parent of all Viec^ 

We glority thy narae, ri^hieout Cp^aiBt^f^kot fcft 
exalted us men to fuch an eminent 4i6gree of %ei^a< 
to make us» a littk lowetr <^an the angJt, the inhibit^ 
of heaven, and conftant attendant) ^Vtpon the thrftiit rf 
: thy gloty^ Let us hearken 1^0 the yotce ^theeVir 
Cody calling unto us by the adnKmition of ow^ cb^ 
feiene^, by the-miiiiftry of thy word, and by tbfc bleo^ 
of thy Sou, to repent and ceafe fron> fin, that we vutf 
Kvcl - 

13 jIn immodefi w^man^ Dire^ appUcftfeiem is the life ('^ 



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iofpuius rUUuley remember tbut a fooljOi kn* 
modefi woman is inceJfknUy clamorous jfor a pa* 
iieni bedfting ; fhe is fimple however^ as u^ whai 
h gpod*^ andknoweth nothing^r^r. . Htwe^ 14 
f*ir ihQ Jbameie/sly \ fixtcth at Ihe door of bcr 
houfe, on a confpicuous feat in the high ^j/^//e» 
places of the city. To call /iranger pnflcngers 15 
ajide^ who elfe would go tight on their ways^ 
Aiid her whole harlot manner feems to Jay ^ who. .6 
io" ^ you is fimple, /?i /^ city cuiioms^ let him 
turn in hither ; and as for him that wanteth 
undcrftanding upon thefe fubje^s^ (he faith 
al/b to him. Stolen waters arc fwcet, and 17 
bread, if fear ce^ eaten in fecret is doubly plea- 

♦ ^he hath nofenfe ^f dtcency. H. f What a contrqfl 
to ver. If ^c. Compare Deut. xviu 18. Ex, xi, 5. I/, 

Reflections. 
dodrine. Hardened female finners feek out others for 
their ruin, compare Job xxix. 6. Hence early bafliful 
jears are much in danger. Safety for moft part de- 
pends upon a brave immediate flight Vifible want of 
(hame ought to alarm, fee chap. vii. ii, Sec. Idle 
fauncerers are eaiieft caught. 

Profanity and impudence are clofe conjoined. A 16 
(Kcw of argument tnifleads the unthinking. Tht fenfual 
life leaves neither time nor heart, for what is great, Kom, 
vii ^, 8cc. Difcovery is to them terrible. How much 
ta/mu binod have fuch to anfwer for ? How many more 
J^oyedfouU ? Eph. v. 5, 6. Abfence and time infeafi- 
bljr weaken hurtful attachments. R. 

In the ufc of fuch means, as thou infinitely vuife and 
govJ feath defigned, and thy £vine authoriiy hath cfta- 
bliiked, we open our fouls to receive thefe imprcflions 
from thee our God, of convi<5tion and fatisfa<5lion to our 
minds, which are fo much divine fufficiency and power, 
enabling us through p-ace to reform our lives, and to re- 



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6a 



I^OV£ltB6: 



dicp; 'Ml: 



1 8 fant. She ibks veils her ttwV/x, for more effec- 
tual fedudion ; but he, poor infatuated )fotiti^. 
knoweth not that the dead to every thiHt^ 
true fermament hetppinefs arc there : and nat ' 
her frequenting guefts are in near approacb%i^ 
the depths of helL 

Reflections. 
fine our fpirits ; to recover the re6litude of our natu 
and to invigorate that principle of rational life, by wl 
we ihall ierve tlice as dear children. 



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P ROFE RBS. 



CHAP. X. 



THE Proverbs of Solomon •• A wife aSl- i 
ing foD maketh a glad father ; but a 
foolifh fon in his behaviour^ is the very heavi- 
nefs of his mother. 

FtHtJ duty. They who are religioufly educated ought 
to reward parental diligence^ by proportionable increafc 
of wifdom, and good works. Their honour and ufeful- 
nefs is unfpeakable. No perfonal loft is equal to difap- 
pointment from a had child. Maternal grief \& enhanced 
by ftrcngth of former love, and affedUon for her hu/band. 

Treafures of wickednefs' profit nothing in 2 
the end ; but wealth by righteoufnefs deli- 
verrth from premature death. 

Riches tvhen valuable. How many fpeak to their chil- 
dren^ as though money could anfwcr all things ? Eccl. xli. 
13. Mic. vi. 14, 15. By means of unlawful purchafes^ 
Cometh lofs of credit, peace and happinefs, for both 
worlds, Liuke xvi. 19, &c. Pfal. xlix. 16, &c. Equitable 
righteoufnefs imports a mixture oi mercy. It is fufficient 
to ground a Proverb^ that it holds in common, Pial. 
xtxv. 25. Matth. V. 7. 

* P arables i appofiieJimHitudes. Here thofe of Solomon, 
ftrialy Jpeaking^ commence ; and therefore are rarely to b-' dif- 
tingui/bed by paragraphs. The antithejis^ or two parts of a 
Proverb, T^rv^ bejl to explain each other. 

G 



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6« PROVERBS. Orap. X. 

4 The Lord will not ufually fuffer the foul • 
of the compaffionating rigbteous to,faitiilh, from 
lack of neteffariei^ hut much nwr^ frequenllyht 
cafteth away f the i7/ acquired fubUance of 
the perfidious wicked. 

Menejicence profitable. Temporal rewards under the 
law were engaged for by covenant ; befides being a na- 
tive fniit of fober, religious virtue^ Pfal. jcxxiv. 9, &c. 
How often do large e (lutes come to nothing ? And 
how Utile /olid contentment do they yield ? 1 Tim. vi. 8. 

4 He /pon becometh poor, that dealeth wjli 

a flack prodigal hftnd | ; but the hand of tU 

' upright diligent mikcih prop0rthnably rich* ' 

Diligence and proSgoHty* The riottms confaniie ibeir 
pofTeffiohs fafti Sudden judgements, lilcewift, are to 
to overtake them. An uferal employment ift a^^A* 
heritance. It dii-e^s When to open the hand, and wbea 
Vojliut it. Sudden elevations are not eafijy kept op^ 
The oBive fotd muft be employed one way or odior. 
Sloth leads to dangerous evil methods of gain ; whereas 
Wealthy acquired by dtgfees, is generally fure and " 



5 - He that honejily gathereth m fumtner J fm^ 

ftn^ is a vfiit doing fon \ but he that fleepethj 

even in bufy haiveft with others^ is a fon tb4l, 

under jujl poverty^ caufeth ihame e'xtenftvt md 

durable. 

Induftry and Jloth. There is a time for every tl^j^ 
which ought to be laid hold of. Loft opportunities diB- 
uot be brought back. Wafte not the experiencfc of 

* Or life. f Or wiff overthrew the wicked for theot 

riches, \\ SonUy the hand ^ frauds Job xxvii. 4. P/d 
kxkH, 2. 2 Kings ix, 3. H, % Put for ft Jhafins in getU' 
raL § Put for indohnce. 



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rtiap. X. PROVERBS. 6$ 

want and pain, for inflru^ion. Take advice from- 
known tender love. Uie honeft gains with moderadon 
and ^heerAilnefs. Youth is the proper calttvatmg time 
for future life. 

Ma»i/old and lar%9 bleffings are io be feen 6 
upon the heid * of the beneficeni juft, but^A# 
marks of violence, v^ith infult cverwhelmingy co- 
vereth the f mouth of the wicked. . 

Jufiue dnd vi^kfUi. Tempore! goo4 wages to virtue are 
foquent» snd J^trifmi ones certain. Bjeffings poured 
from above eogkt to diffu& themfi^lves. Riung upon 
tkt hurt of othen is ever liable to diiloTcry and puniili- 
ttesit, Gen* xlii. 2|, 26. 

The memory of the beneficent juft, long 7 
after deaths is bleffed by multitudes ; but the 
Bameofthe vrick^d f ram negle^ fhall rot for 
ever* 

Reputation, Regard a good fame, as one end of life^ 
though nort the chiefj Rom. xiv. 18. Phil. iv. 8. To 
b^ thu^ iipproved of the ynk is true praiie, aid cheerfully 
paid. Worthy samples ought to live as long as pofli- 
Wet jn tlH brcifts of obliged perfons. Death unmafks 
hunjan cfeira^fUrs. Cven innocent relations may fuffer 
from rotting memories. Splendid monuments do but re- 
call their b»&iKsi^. 

The wife in heart will receive ufeful com- 8 
m^ndmeDts for bcib worlds ; but a mere prat- 
ing fc^l^ with the tittle he has ^ Ihall fall in time 
under complete ruin. 

Oov^rnmmt of th tongue. Our firft point of voifdom is 
to kno'W and fe?l the various leflbns. of reUgious virtue. 
Sach will ever grow fpiritually. Self-conceit would ufUrp 

* put for the whole man. f Or face. H. 



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64 PROVERBS. Chap. X. 

the whole of comerfatim ; andufiially from innocent to- 
pics, to provoking ruinous ones, Matth. vii. i» 2. Mo- 
deft worth is flow to fpeak, fwift to hear, Jam. i. 19. 

9 He that walkcth in tie courfe of his life up- 
rightly, walketh furcly to bath honour and baf- 
pimfs ; but he that of defign pcrvcrteth his 
ways of behaviour y ihall Joon be known to 
miferable difgrace^ 

Uprightnefs henefictaU Sincere words and practice cn- 
fure credit ; whereas, the lying tongue is but for a mo- 
ment. Who would not deal with an eftablifhed honeft 
man \ Good channfters (bine by clofe inquifiUoki. 
Troubles in the road of virtue, prove beneficiaL G^i 
and coHfcience are againft the perverter. 

10 Even he thzt proudly winketh with the eye 
t§ deceive^ caufeth to himfelfifivch forrow in the 
end ; but a perpetual prating fool, for conniv- 
ing purpofesy ftall fall, through time under teial 
ruin. 

Deceit anJf^lJ /peaking. Mifchievous arts are varions; 
and the lefs eafy they are to difcem, their hazard is 
greater. Signs of cunning fhould put people upon their 
guard. Hypocrify and rafhnefs tend to great hurt. 

1 1 The mouth of a benevolent righteous man 
is like zfalubriour well of life, for invigorating ; 
but the love of violence covereth * the mouth 
of the w\c\std from ufeful difcourfe^ andfhallfiop 
bis own for ever. • 

. Conver/atiott, Social natures need to be revived auid 
^Hreetened, as by water-fprings. The man of pious love 
ftudies to pleafe, that he may edify. Oatlff znd Jlandtrs 

* Somct lurieth In the mouth. H* 






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£haf. X PROVERBS. €$ 

$rt kis abhorretieek We ttpreCk hy nfgetftfmx's shtlsft 
iigas i^t w< ftronglf fcaL iS* 

Hatred, /r(7w any caufe whatever^ ftirrcth up 13 
v^xathus ftrifes ; bifl pure genuine love co- 
vereth /^ the utmoji all fins of others^ whik it 
fieks to amend' them. 

Love and hatred. Good neighbourhood is a chief fa- 
tisfedioo. Malice can never want pretexts for fpeaking 
asd doisig eviL It fees and nfiagnifies the fmalleft cfcapes; 
dwells ovL them, and prodaces much mifcry. A com- 
mcm foe of this fort ought to be run down, and fre- 
<piciitij is fo. Generous love is captivating, i Cor. xiil. 
4» &c. Eveu her rebukes are fweet, Pial. cxli. 4, 5. 

In the lips of him that hath good under- 13 
ftinding, folid wifdom is found : but a rod 
K fought for as it were^ to fcourge the back of 
Wm that is void of undcrftanding, for right 
cmduS. 

Pra3ictd knowledge. Speeches, gracious and beneficial, 
few from a pioufly enlightened mind- Some difcourfe 
only that they may appear learned, and call for con- 
tempt. One difcreet pracftical principle is of more ufe 
than his whole ftore. Wife fcntences contain often 
much in few words, and give the high pleafure of difco- 
vcring what was unexprcfled. R. 

Wife men lay up knowledge, /&r ufe and 14 
Mtiy ; bjit the mouth of the fooliCh withed 
doef, with all his boq/iy is ever near to deftruc- 
tioD. 

19^ mfifdom. Pious and moral principles (hould be 

Ifcpt in mind, often and carefully poiKlered. Few have 

ingenuity to retra^ unadvifed words. With advanced 

age, undcrftanding fhould ripen. R. Wifr men are 

G 3 



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66 PROVERBS. Cbs^ %. 

cautious not to fay too much stt once ; whereas the 
lequacioui involve themfelveSy Hof* xiii. it*. PiaL xxriL 

1 5 As the world Jiandsy the rich man's wealth 
IS too often his ftrong fortified city ; and the 
deftruftion oF the weak poor is mi unfeldm 
their pitiable poverty. 

Riches powerful. Wealth alone is able to make mafiy 
friendsy PfaL xii. 8. Poverty and negled frequently go 
J together, Eccl. ix. 13. 

Fruftrate, O Lord, the endeavours, and break the 
power of thofe who ufurp upon the reafon, and con* 
fciences of men ; and who by unjuft violence opprefsand 
cnflave them in body and fouL 

16 The labour of the righteous, in all rank^ 
Xtx\AQ.\\\ generally to an* happy life; but the 
fruit of the wicked fraudulent purcbafer to 
wful penalties from his fin. 

Indnftry, Riches and happinefs are not efientially con- 
nected. A good man limits his defires.to what is nccd^ 
£ul ; and feldom fails of fuccefs. In the mid ft ofplmtyt 
fome may be in ftraits, Jam. iv. 3. There is no end of 
avaricious amading. 

17 He is therefore, in the fure/l way of life, 
that keepeth clofe to wife inflrudion ; but he , 
that fcornfully refufeth even neceffary reproof 

from thence, both errcth himfelj^ and cmfeih 
i^her people to err. 

Happinefs* The bed and moft ufeful people lay them- 
felves in the way of being inftnifted. Serious reffard Is 
due to the judgement of proven affeflionate friend* 
Dangerous wandering flows from wilfol heedlcfsne6» 
Prov. xxviii. 14. 

•" Su/!enanciy Prov, Mxviir, 27. 



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Ob[k X. PROVERBS. 67 

Father of lights let thofe who are minifters of reli<« 
gion eflfeftually recofmnend it to the hearts of men, by 
flie wifdom of thtif difcourfcs, and by the bolmefs of 
their lives, fo promoting prefent duty and the eternal 
fidvationof men. 

He that hideth hatred in any cafe^ with ly- 1 8 
ing lips of fair promife ; and he that uttereth 
a flander out of like bqfe principle^ is a moji odious 
fool. 

Hatred^ ly'mg^ Jtandir. Diflimulation and evil-fpeak- 
ing meet often in the fame character. They appear fa- 
imliar, to pick out grounds for accufation If it be de- 
cent to item pleafed ; how much more to be really fo I 
I Pet. iii. 8, &c. Brotherly reproof fhould be fmcere, 
Lev. xii. 17. 2 Saiii, xiii. 5. 

In the multitude of words, without fuitabk 19 
preparative thoughts^ there wanteth not often 
cruel fin ; but he that refraineth his lips/r^/n 
too much hajle^ is wife to a great degree for him* 



Speech to be governed. To cover maike and to expoAs 
fcaBngt are common' crimes of thofe who fpeak r^uch. 
It is encroachment upon the rights of others to difcourfe. 
TranfgrefHons of the tongue, are eafy, various, and ex* 
preflive of charaAer, £ph. iv. 29. 

The tongue of the benevolent jaR. is for ufe* ao 
fuhfiefs^ as choice refined filvcr ; but the hear|t 
of the wicked efver dictates what is* little 
worth. 

Speech mfheri ufeful It IS fweetly captivating, and a 
chief diftindlion or glory of man. The iftore good 

♦ Or, // Rh draft, H. 



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«S PROVERBS. Cb^X. 

vrordsare eommsnicatedr the more b'tlie bcftcirer hiairelf 
enriched thereby. Food afj^cririu/ ^ is moft to be dc- 
' fired. 

2 1 The well guided lips of the- compaffimming 

righteous feed many hungering fouls after 

found beneficial hiowledge ; but hjpls of niad 

di/Jlpatlon around them^ die under greatly aggra- 

vated guilt, for want of fucb wifdom. 

Pi/y inftru^s. They who are judicious, foon give up 
tinth plaafibie words only. To affift others is the high- 
eft delight of a kind heart, Prov, xxvii. 9. Obftinacy 
ill vice IS loft even amidft the beft opportunities. Fit 
means for eftablifhing habits of virtue, arc conv^erfc with 
God^ m wliom is the perfc<flion of goodnefs ; and con. 
verfe with men, in whom is the image of God. 

ft 2 The dear prmfed bleffing of the Lord to 
upright endeavours^ it niaketh eminently rkh 
for both worlds, and he addeth no catife effot* 
row with it. 

Favour of God, Without GoBy fuccefs even from the 
^ft means is not to be depended tipon. Thcf both 
«nioy and i^^isi with the greateft advantage, who takt 
the Almt^y with them. Every kind of fraud, or 
vielM^ce, excludes the d&^ne blefing. 

As we have that in our conftitution and make, O Lenl^ 
which is proper and peculiar to man ; fo may we ieek 
THur final enjoyment frort^ thofe things which are the moft 
proper and worthy objects of our faculties 1 £n«ble ua 
to maintain pur cUftin^ien, and to glorify our God; £q 
fhall we have the eameft of our future happincfs, in our 
preparation for it ; and at laft attain the complete and 
higheft degree of it, in thy prefence, and communion for 
<verl 

23 It is a fport to a wicked fool, to do miC 
chief J but a man of real underftanding hath. 



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Chap. X. PROVERBS. 69 

as his pUqfure^ the wifdom of prudent applica^ 
iion. 

Sport how regulated. Impiety and obftenity arc the 
grand forts of criminal wit. There is nothing fo well 
adapted to reafon as true belief, and morals, Jude 14. 
The lead known fm (hould affe£l us with godly forrow. 
Let never the wicked exceed xhtgood in zeal. 

The jujl fear of the wicked, in foher cool 24 
hours ^ fliall come upon him for certain ; but 
the defire of the righteous, from clear, divine 
promifesy (hall no lefs certainly be granted. 

Hope and fear. The word of people cannot help re- 
ceding at times. Even fufpicions of future mifery arc 
icarcely to be borne. Anguifh after merriment becomes 
intolerable. Every defire founded in reafon, (hall be 
granted. 

Fit us, Otlou One Lawgiver^ Saviour andjudge^ to be evef 
with thee, and in the moft humble proftrations and rap- 
turous joys, to adore and celebrate thee, through his 
gracft who redeemed us by his blood, and favcd our fouls 
from death ! 

As the whirlwind fwiftly paffcth, fo is the 25 
wicked no more to be either feen or thought ofy 
but the righteous, by his extenjive good works^ 
is an eyerlafting foundation of peace and 
honoun 

The righteous ^andfrm. Noify and terrible oppreflbrs 
do not long exift, Pfal. xxxvii. 20, 23. Vhtue is a natural 
and grand fecurity, Pfal. Ixxiii. 15, &c. God loves all in 
proportion to their refemblance of his own moft perfe(S^ 
truth, l^auty and ufefulnefs. 

Let not, Lord^ any furprifes of temptations difpirit 
our hopes ; but grant that by pejfeverance in well-doing. 
We may become more than conquerors, through him 
who loved us, and died for us, and redeemed us 
from all iniquity by his bipod ! 



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jl* PR0T^BRB9. Chap iC. 

26 A& ^neg^r to the teeth ^r immediate hurt^ 
and as fmokc in like manner to the eyes, fo is* 
the loitering' fluggard to theiri that fend him, 
upon nny greaf df/tgnt 

SiptL In matters of truft, negle^ of duty ifi criiA 
Even flow execution majr bring pn ruin gnd grk4 
Matth. XXV. 269 5cc. Heb. xii. 12, 13, 

ty The obedient fear of the Lord prolongetlji^ 
days offweet enjoyment \ but the years of thf, 
wicked, and fet more their peace ^ ihall be t^- 
vioujly fliortened. 

' ^eli^um prqfitailt. ThlP moft eqijal prpp of yirtp^^ i^ 
rev^repcp for the ^uprme J^mZ' Hencg f orpeth l)Pf>(^||^ 
lyi^h heglthful eafe. Moft vjccs prpdupe troubjpj ^h^* 
iflue in death, Pfal. xxxiv. 12, &:c. Sobriety and ezerpi£ 
prevent glmoft every difeafe. R, The wiclj^d fear, te* 
c^uft th^y hate God. How gPQ4 ijs b^ tQ prpmife iftu 
^*jd$! Matlh. X. ?8. . , 

a8 The plea/ant hope of the righteous HdA* 
be /till more gladnefs in the end% but the cx^ 
pe^ation of the wcked, as bath improper and 
ill founded^ fliall ^r\^ forever. 

Hope. The j^ood raife not their hopes too high.fer 
this world ; and rarely fail of completion. How fooq 
muft the wicked die away from their keeneft earth^ put** 
fuits and enjoyments ? To win a roomexitary trifle,thiey 
forfeit an eternal cronvrt. 

May thofe above every other, ^mightv Father^ whc^ 
profels the gofpel, have their converlktion in heaven, 
from whence they exped their Lifrd and Saviour. At 
rifen with him, by their avowed belief of his religion^ Qi 
XtvAy they fet their affisAions on the things above, amj 
not on things of the earth ; that their lives being fafe i^. 
the hands of Qhfi/ii when he who }s to give eternal liftj 



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C)»p X. PXOVSRBSL 71 

untoMj mta fluiU i^ppcar, ibef may be al^rovid, and 

rewarded by him. Even fo, come Lord J ejus ^ come 
quickly ! 

TI16 r/^tfr commanded way of the Lord S% 29 
ftrcngth to the upright ; but certain everlajl^ 
injr ddlruction ihall be to the ^b/imaie workers 
of iniquity. 

Righteoufnefs Jlrengthens. The principles of true piety, 
with the promifes made to it, are moft rejoicing, Pfal. 
ilvi. 1, &c. Againft the wicked is the conrTe oTnature. 
I^r art aUb liable to judicitd ftrokes. Thtfir punifh- 
ment will be greateft, who oppoTe the cleared light. 

The righteous fliaU feU^m^ cr nevcr^ be re- 30 
xm^tA in Bitrly life \ but die wicked fliftU not 
d/b inhabit the earth. 

Bmh. fidus regular morals conduce both to per- 
Ibnaland dbmeftic eftabliflmietrt. Thepraife of parcii* 
tal integrity aflPedls their dutiful children, and leads 
them to imitate. Thofe who cleave fa (left to the world 
do leaft joyfully inhabit it. Premature deaths are full 
of hoktor often. 

The mouth of the beneficent yx^ bringeth 31 
forth iT/r^ri?/ ^ wifdom ; but the froward 
decettfnl tongue fliall quickly hcjiknced^ at if 
quite cut out. 

Conver/atton. The righteous incline, and endeavour as 
snich as poflible, the benefit of others. Their example 
fpeaks every where. How bafe iand impious is ^wicked 
difcoutfel Jam. i. 26. — iii. i,^cc. Matth. scii. 56, 37. It 
ii die halMt of ^ech that we ttivA look to, £ph. h. 29. 

The courteous lips of the righteous know 32 
what is Mely to be both m$^ ufeful mid acctpta- 



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7J PROVERBS. Cha^ XL 

ble ; but the mouth of the widced . fpeafesth 
all manner of treacherom frowardnefs. 

Converfatton. They who ponder their words^ randf 
fail of profitable} fweet and gracious utterance* 

CHAR XL 

I A Falfe deceiving * balance in irade^jk 
XJl abomination to the Lord ; but ^^^ 
fe6l juft weight is his great delight* 

yu/Hce. How ignorant or perverfe muft diey'J|p 
who feparate what is tiue, ju(l» and kind, from pp 
ideas of religion ! The arts of overreaching, are QMK 
to excefs. Without reftor'mg^ the unjuft cannot r^f^ 
while they have this in their power. To filfer^ Up^ 
appearance of fair trade, is treacherouOy cruel, Xjte 
xix. 55, &c. ^ J* 

2 When the effed of pride cometh, tBi^' 
cometh debajing fliame ; but with the loirfl^ 
in heart isfure manifejled wifdom. 

PAde and humtlity^ Conceit is diflurbative and ruiiiiifc 
None are fo weak, but have revenge, at times, in |JB^ 
power. Prudence and modefly conipafGonate htuslli 
errors, and obtain from thence wife praife, chap. xv^'|||f' 
— ^xvL 1 8. 




; The inflexible integrity of the upright 
guide them to what isfafe and ufefuhj but 
deliberate perverfenefs of tranfgreflbrs ihatt 

fooner or later deftroy them. 

* Pitt for every other fpectes ofinjufltcei Exodm xk* tjf» 
Lev. kix, 35, ^5*^. Deta, xxv. 13. 



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Cbp. tl PROVERBS. 7) 

Ufri^bhi^u Honeftf of mtenrion n eafily known» 
and no lefs generally approvciL Rom. ,xiv. f 8« Th» 
wicked aA as though they did nate themfelvc«. Our 
furvft ^ntS(, road |o,Aicceifi in .cqminoi^ is by fair deal- 
ing. Thorough acqiiaintance gives eftabliihroent to 
ibdi» Pial xxri. ii. Our r^ile ought to be G^d's ttm^ 
and Qot the nfforU. . 

Riches however carefully obtained^ profit not 4 
iheir owner^ in the day ©f wrath for of bey* 
crimes; but righteouioeis in the acquiremeni 
and uji of /^^i, dellvereth from whia is moft 
dreadful in death. 

Riihet when frofi^Bk. Every grain oi extorted fvealth 
wiBhaTe its naeafure ofiormetitf ^un. v. ij^&c. A^nfe • 
of mdt-dmngy aiki oi generous tUedsi give great fupport in 
^7^) Matth. xrr. 50, &c. EccL xxix. 8, Arc. 

The rightcoufpeft of the perfect in his aim 5 

ftall direft his way /o what is honourable^ (rnd 
i^nefcial; but the intentiQrtaUy wicked fti^ll 
i^\ into difgrdce and ruin^ by the weight o/hh 
own wickedncis. 

Atmt^ood and had. The plain road of wife churltaUle 
Mice is ever the leaft cmbaraflkig, ver. 3. Fraud u- 
^ Hrts fddom are, ox can be lon^ hid. Simple hints 
j»re,jK)t fufficient for the illiterate, aiid young. Sincerity 
'^ftefoul of- virtue, and ever doth facilitate it. 

Transform. us now, Lord^ into thy llkencfs, by the 
pra<^ke of all goodnefs, righteoiifjiels and truth ; and 
receive us unto thyfelf, whom we fhall then refemble, 
*'bcn we Ihall go from h^nce, and be no more feen ! 

The righteoufnefs of the charitable uptight 6 
fivall deliver them frcni being fufptdea : but 
/^^ kpa*Qift> tranfgreffors of aivtne and human 

ii 



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74 PROVERBS Cblp.^XI. 

laws (hall be taken, one time or other^ in the 
traps ^ their own naughtinefs. 

- Vfrtghtnefs and fraud. It does tittle htirt»to belli 
thought, and fpoken of, only by the maliciotts. Time and 
fearcn will render thofe more glorious/ Smooth faiaves 
and hypocrites cannot abide fuch trials. All their pro- 
tedion is darknefs, which will foon be over. 

7 When a wicked man dieth, his expcda- 
tion/rom the world (hall pcrifli ; and the hope 
of eafe to fuch coveting, unjuft men, beyond tbatt 
perifiieth. 

Covetoufmfs. The more vice prdfpers, the more bit- 
ter thereby is death made. How poor a compenfation 
then would even a world be ? And what (hall we fay, 
to future anguiih and defpair ? PfaL xUx. 6> and 14, Ac. 

Let us not reft, Lord^ in any good^ ftiort ot tlUt 
which is the beft and greateft ; but pkce our whoJeitti^ 
faction in thee, whofe loving- kindnefs is better tbaiiliftf 
and without whom, the whole creation would be a$ no- 
thing, and lefs than nothing, and vanity I 

8 The Jleadfc^ righteous, when triedj is cto» 
livered out of trouble ; and the wicked 
cometh in his ftead, tofuffer with continuance* 

Trouhk* to good and bad. By wife and kind appohit- 
ment, the beft are taken under difcipline ; but all ift 
meafure. Malevolence foon recoils upon its own bttA 
Prov. xxi. 1 8. Pfal. vii, 14, &c. The more that gbod 
people are oppofed, the more God doth care for them. ■ 

9 An hypocrite, who profanely hides his evil 
, hearty under a fair Jhew^ with his baf^ lying 

mouth, * deftroyeth/cr a time the charailer, ^ 

* Some corruptethf Ex. ictciu 7. jfer. xxxi 11. Mk, fv. 
II. Jf. 



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6(mp tt PROVERBS. yy 

his ihmceni, ujefkl neighbour; but through 
a purer eiannel of knowhdge afterwards ^ fhall 
the jjxxfi man be comp/ete/y delivered. 

^tt/^e ami hyfocrtfy. DtiTemblcd fricndfliip, for the 
fa]^ c^evil defigns, is terrible, i Sam. xxii. 22. £ftb; 
m. 8. Fight openly, rather than betn^. Beware of 
fiattmrs. ITie beft things perverted, become the worft. 
Be intimate with the fmtbfuU and the more that they 

When it goith well with the righteous, In 10 
A«?r credit arid ufefulnefs^ the city rtjoiceth ; 
and when the wicked perifh /rt?/;; among tbem^ 
there is no. lefs, univerfal (houting at heart. 

-f0iotk emmtmt, Stueere pious virtue is friendly to 
iiQMilbn j and, neict to divine acceptance, is dedrable, 
wfcr iiv; 1 8. The proftitution of high office, is pefU vc. 
men hck periflv ^e public are ferved. 

By the bleffing and aids of the henevdertt ii 
upright the city throughout is exalted ; but it 
»'<y^^thrc>wn by the impious makvoUnt mouth 
of the wicked. ^ 

^Hn&i^. liiftru<5lion, eounfel, prayev and faithful 
fflHis^e of high oflke, are fignal public advantages, 
titAi Ti^ ''14, Wit added to peatwcibus patterns, does 
Wofce'iHSrt, Pfal. ci. 6, &c. Jam. iii« 16, 5rc. 

X-ct all xht governors of the world, thou mojt Highy - 
c!|«dftl!y thofe ^ho are Chriftian, ba rcprefentatives of 
thee, our Godi unto men, by the difcharge of their officcj^ 
ti,^mn^krs of God to them, for good. 

He that is void of true u/eful wifdom, de- 11 
fpifcth, ^y reproach and calumnies^ hisfarjupe-^ 

f Others f thcjufi by hh wifdom prefemKtk kim, 

H z 



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»$ PROVERHS. etopwJH) 

rfw^ o^tghbolir; buf a man of prudent under* 
ftartdirtg holdetlr his pezcc from fv^y tbk% 
ofthatfortytopn^hyjyim. 

Cm/art. 'There is no obfigatibn Upon Us, to tsdk don- 

temptuonfly of the xneaneft, Matthw v. 21, ice. Mattm 

' ought not to be feen by halves. The (harped pointed 

t of all r^ach^ is thut of mocking. Who would chooie to 

4rinic of tears and bldodi 

13 A ij/^ tale bearer walking from botife to 
hou^ revcaleth fccre^s 5 btit he that is of a 
iwihiuXJfigenUws (pirit coricealfeth the matt^ 

Faithfulnefi and tak-hearing. They who talk much, are 
fold of i}^»w things. It \% in th^natarc^ <^/pknxjfi^,to 
XKift, Thereforct few evils againft hve nmdjuftic^fM^j^ 
aggiavatisdajs^f/rajnnf^v £ccL xiit. a<* IMit^fir^xAi^ 
lumny often go together, i Tiib^v* Jf^ ^adc* j^if a^f. 

14 Whei* fwy^j/^ o«tofel is,:/i^^«irtT^fwrf 
Ac governed people t^v^Meviiei^y' faH J jtat 
m the muUktele of abkjAdmom cmx^til^mi 
there h/ure public fafety. ; w 

' C<Mfek A cool-refl^ng fpirit is aUe to.^mfVi^ 1^' 
felf with advantagey upon e¥ery citoergeticy*: -Sejf cp* 
lidence tafos noafihftcey li^ xv %%. 4* One ia$)) IP^ 
znay ruin a Hhole fotiety. Without JiAti^uaiien!^^^ 
ckiT btf no gohrertinient, no fafetyv E<jcL x. i^ 
. Defend,. Godi the trutfv and pwity ©f .i:d'i!<»» 
a^tnft i^'the coffmptkms of the enthurmd,- ^nd fuper« 
ftitious ; and d^fen.d the rights and libisrties of the fyifit 
againfl all uAirpers and oppre^brs whatfoever. 

15 .He that; is furety, by es^prefs ^ng^gprnenU ^ 
^ a" ft ranger^ 9r one imperfeitly known to 6im^ Ihall 



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CBap. XT. FR0VZKBK 77 

prxfbMf famt for it •, when fbefalfiUfti^ btmr 
Mcome: and he that hatcth, and fleeth from 
forctyfliip ofthisjhrf^ is furc to efcape. 

Sttreti[fhlp» Ignorance of people'is (ituation, make* theniy 
ill cffed, fb^ngers* ' We mull not be cruel and unjuft to 
bown friends. In a matter fo deficate ayluretyftiip, thf 
titmofl: drfcretion is to be made- ufe of. Bu/inefs is liable to 
accidents, and debtors to become carclefs, Prov. vi. i, &c. 
— xvir. rS. Lofi and painM refledion together are 
fiard to fiipport^ 

A /iwrr gracious woTiian rctaincth her en^ i6 
ppn^ honour ; arhd wife f ftrong men retain 

thexv^ts they have bad from righteous acqui/i^ 

Pma&j^rattf and richest Every thrngTs beft prefervedF 
^y that which doth produce h. To eftablifh charaaer, 
avoid even flight indecencies, Eccl. x. 2. The earHeft 
rocans of endearment, muft not be departed from. The 
Pftfemtives of femde attraction, are a meek and 
jmetfpirit, under pure religious fenfe, i Pet. fir. j, &c. 
*^e<¥k of ftrengith and abiUties v^ould blufh to become- 
an cafy prey to their inferiors.r Female virtues outlivr 
*>ca«y, t Pet. in. 5. 

The merciful and beneficent man dbeth an inv- 1 7 
^f^U good to bis own foul ; but he that is 
^foef to the reai fooKy at the very infiant tFOU- 
WethhtsownJ: ffeflu 

^tnejuence tmd iruehf,^ A geturom fraStce takes its 
^ef leading from mercy^ A6ls xx. 35, Such compqffton 
janonlybe repreflfed by ftupidity, or frequent crud ads* 
*^ is a degree of rmOuai reTt^y, to weep with them that 

* Be fort Iroken in pucety PJal, H, 9. f • Otheriy m^ 
*^ of rapine extort plundery compare jfd xxx*dL 7, — xv* 2o«» 
^ii /jwttti. 14. ^, ^ Put/on the winfkman^ 



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7» PKWEKWI Cli#,9if:. 

ww^ Pfl*er ta do good is the . hi g Bett fmf ^g^ iM 
the great. . TbU is the moft refined voIupcuoufiMlk 
t>uch arc feldom Utt witkout a competency, or aiding 
friends, M^tth. v. 7. PfaL xlt. 1, &c. Ifa. IViH. 11, ii; 
People have enough, who have fomething to diftrilnitc 
to the unfortUBate. A, . ' .,.- 

] Gram, JLortf^ that Jtvery one who is named froqi 
Qhrifi^ may dejpart from that iniquity which is inconfiftei 
^ich their profijffion ; and that all fuch may be followcw 
of thee, mtr GoJ, as manyfefted to them inr the life ^ thx 
fcn. 

18 The wicked ing/eneraJ worfccth with nmcb 
lahour z dect\ifu\ work even for him/eJf ; but 
to him that foweth liberal rightcoufnels .% 
fliallbe a {wrt/ctisfying reward,* 

LihraBty and inji^ke. A complete righteous oka- 
fo-c^er Is to know and do what J^lmighty Itjfve hath feeft 
fit to enjoin^ They partake of one ble&d nature. A 
yricked courfe of life, only promiles what it cannot per- 
form, Job V. 3. &c. xii, ix. Whatever is falfe ias JV> 
ibuudatioiL 

19 As benevokni ri>rtiteoufne/s tendeth td 9 
life of admirable enjoyment ; fo he thaX p^r|^^ 

. evil, purfueth it to his orwnfptritual and ever- 
14/itng death. 

Rigbtetmffufi and wee* Canfe and cffe^ aft dofteei- 
joined. Gal. vi. 6, 7- Wicked nwrth 1$ fucceeded by 
double darknefs, like a fndden blate of thoxni. K' 
Souls, in their prefent infant (late ftiottldbc prejparedfor 
a fuccefCve unfolding of intelligence, and tappineis* A* 
Trud righteo^efs perfevercsto the end.^ \ ' 

20 They that are of a froward deceitful h'tzxU 
are abomination iijitf to tl>c aH-pe/feffLiiTd} 

t TLc Niirem %mri u ofkttufidfor fftcrey, P^ ^ 



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Mt fiicil) wtn'iipiA^fr wtheir waif rfbiha" 
^fito/V afe-tt^ ctm/iMt defigWi; i 

7% i^b^Md'jUmm^ Tiny wha Mn^ bad acIh 
are oppoicrs at heart o£ Alm^bty God^i .I!ke.!fiiUei^ ne* 
vcr incline, to apfteat above, what they really are* 
Thottj^the Tiroria ln<^ dl^m fiDtitiicyflBdM>ethide 
im^McaoBs hereafter. ' 

'. JU^ us aU be m o«r £«eo God^ wh(U we ace by our. 
ftf^Jum / that we may not mifrepreient bur religion, ' 
and difhonour 9ur Savhur^ by any contrary and rmaid^ 
od pia^ices^ifriiati^verk Mind us of the ihormefs and un* 
ccttainty 9ttime; of the boundlefs duration and yaft im- 
tfunwtof iiernky ; that^we may make thofe thines our 
^pfercife amd delrgjht in this world, which we (hall hnd ia 
t&e greatell perte^jon, in that world which is tO cotne* 

t.T!^^gb hand join ID IiaiiciW<! ^^^^ ^^^^- 21 
irfii ionjtdtracyy the wicked fliall not in tbi 
^ be U/t unpimiihe d ; but the feed of the 
righteous, as vhU as ibtrnjelves^ Ihall be complete* 
^ delivered* 

Effeai of virtue and vite. W^O <:aty%nd before CMy. 
when he is angry, and profper ? Crimes mcreafmg with 
nat><mitf,ent£i greater and more- Ia({h% wretchednefs^ 
EcdW: 1,1. 

CStete rn u^, jLorJf a veneratioti of tbrtfe prfccepti 
wKhc moral kw, which are cntirdy agreeable to thd 1 
4Nu^ |)(He<$iOYls f Abandon us nor, m^ rmreifist CreOi 
mi Hi the gr^d extremity, &om tht fountain of dl 
good ; coniign us not to tnetbm!iewts of a rutky anJ ' 
Jttfpemted confciQnc•^; exclude us not from all that b to 
^/bopecl ^<j.deYired; condemn us not eternaBy into '^ - 
Aat whfcK i^ f]/!^ tb be ftunned ^d di'eaded I . 

As unfesmlf a^ z precious jcvfcl of gold /ei in ^2 
Zivallowing fwine's fnput ; fo is a hir looking >• 

S^^oman >^htth ia[ vrithout difcretion in/peccb 

indpra^ict. '••-■*■. 



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9<r utovfiKits; etm^m:' 

TOurs, may be abufed. That wfiadb iiuficate«; meML 
qualities, ought to captivate moft, 2 Tim. iL 9. Pfet. m 
3. £7ar]p»r^ie£i«/iBrfttde» whereas 
ereafe» £ccL vw. i. ,.^ 

23 .The prevaiiing defirc of the rigbt^ousi % 
only towards good ; but thttriminal aims imA 
cxpeftatiori of the wicked /5^d;» the/e, >^>M| 

t^ifuein/ore.wnth. "^^ ' '/^-* 

JS^kir ^of virtue and vice. All -wllfi thefr <jwfr 
tige ; but too often ufe improper means. Fal^( 
violence and other vices, rarely fucceed in their * 
Fear of wrath, embitters their bejl cxtemsd 
dances. They are haunted with fecret invifible 

24 There is fo be met with one that fcatt 
his judicious alms ^znd yet incrcafeth the mi 
and there is to be met with alfo^ one that, 

fordid avarice^ withhoJdeth from the 
more than is meet, but it tendcth />&rj 
thht to abjedl poverty .r, 

I^eraitf and pemtry. Maxims of gexicromi vi; 
not comprehenfible by the bulk of mankinfl^ * 
divine promifes, clears up the rainA The ^her^ 
ixond unaceejfapieu A^fpecial prosudence watches oyer 
perfbns^and families \ and their end is ^v^lafting 
(i^. vi, 9, io» 2- Cor. IX. 7. EccJL xi. 2,. &c • 
and nature are eafily fupplied. 

J 5 The liberal ading Cowl 0iall be mjKfe 
with comforts ;. and he that^a/o^a^j^wa^trt,.^ 
others y in their drought of dijirep^ (hall be W!ft» 
tered atfo hUmftlifor many geTierations. - v /. . 

Lihrafify. Orie truly generous is inquifitive afitS^ 
need, to give relie£ .verr 1. B^ Almfgiving is aa 





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Cb9.JE& PSeVBKML: fi^ 

^kjmeoKif good' upderftaodutg miSb ptotf. Id" it vno^ • 
tered with joyous reflexions; and is <jft^n fet \^j the-, 
Almigbfy fer above want, Eccl. xi. i, &c. Bc like Godf 
^ in Iws ftcad, to nunibers, Pfeh ctii. 7; i» Ft^of 
future need ought not to bind ttp oi|f beti^s* BenevcK 
lencc enlarges with pradlice. Ads x. Jk^Cc 2 Gof. m* 

. He that in feafons of/carciiy withhoidath 26 
necefary corn A^f yiife- d/* ^l greater pricc^ thd 

wttfeirf g^; bur ricbpetmaneht bleflfog$ (ha11[ 
fe upotf the head of him that fayourtily, 

felleth It. 

Ef^ and extortion, Thej wha detain what is aaiK 
tei^s cannot, in Go^s Jight^^vt a mite of o&ia I^ull 
not back the moriil firbm att liungi^ motith. . tte drjr "* 
<i^ti« ittjured^* doth lentlir hite the* cats of tlte Aw/ ^ 

<^^ ,^.:l^ |> te. JShdartOe fmojkts tsikmitt^ Astf^; 

foBS of fcarcity, is great alms. The bleffings of pious 

gntitadcraife faxMiddd' from aSbVe, 'Mat. eiKi: f, kc. 

A«i vfii^ ji $• 

He tbftii diligeatlf id6ketlfc 4Pn#3&^i gfiod^ 37 
procure th favour from God and man ; bbt Hfe 
th^t, fcck;cth mifctjipf with .Me indtffirj[y^\X. ^ 
&aA ajfuredfjf qonie y.rito himi ^ , 

Jhiet^eate ahd chuhy,' CheetWll^ welc^bife'eVetT caff* 
of beij^fio^Hsc^i a^vJ i^wfy.nbt^ from !ltfirfr^dSeticyv> 
Bridle the narrow padions, which caufe many juft.f^e^v 
OaL VI. 10. None are fo cruel^ as they who are uncba^ 
'zA^, mpon-prctenc^^Cr^^ip^. . . 

He that, re^atdkfs^ofvJ^^t-U due U otketf^ 28 
trufteth in the greainefs of \\\s r\c\\t^ for defence 
fcall (ermrit^ faiiy Bwt the e^dlable kind ri^ 



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teousifteili floiarift as z btknthy from/it^ , mi 
merous ufeful fruiu. i> 

Th9 ufe andSib^i of riches, Pbwer from xvfe^lth \ 
appear with fplrit in deftnce orthe injured. ProuJ^i 
laid low, doth n^t foonrife again ; btrt like die blj * 
leaf, doth wither and die. Confidence in wealth '\ 
Up the bowels oi compaffioui Prov. x. i j. . " T S 

Blefled be tiff name, God^ 'Ufho haft made us nieis Ig 
be happy, by rfic fatisfadHon arifing from the exerc^'^ 
eopdmis ; without which we muft be miserable as .ti" 
devil is, by malignityj d^ravation ^nd degeneradfj 
vice, which is a feparatloii from andt enmity agaii^flt^ 
chief gifod! ' ' ' i : ^ ... 

fl9 He that troubleth ibe people if bis 
houfcj'^all iitherit tivert browing wreUhedt 
as from the Jiormji wind : and the very h 
time^ShzM be degraded like a iond-tervzw 
the/n^rtf .wife, meek and peace^bbe of heart. 

J)ome/H€ irovtkp Idlene&, with wai^ of 
lead to cruel, tmnatural habits of temper; whicli 
houfehold eafe, ver. 17. Winter ftorms pierce r 
c deep* ^ The {nroudeft cyxants ha^ fallen ^itto tk^^ 
abjed (^very* 





30 ' The natural fruit of the righteoxis mm i 
is like a tree of life, for beauty and pr^Ji 
and he that tkut, wfnneth fouls m)eT i^4l^ 
own^/t intdneji is is^ife^ m like'Tnanmr u beif 

them. ' . > *' ., .; 

Mildnefs. Pious virtue \^ a fweet, lafting and nfiltf 
fruit-hearer^ J^^* ^ii- 1 3> &c. In /^, this prevents 9H^ 
evil : and is gehdioui ^er detuh^ Dan. xii. 5. Ptcffsm* 

, *^ Others), for ^ aftraSefh the adwuratipfi of the fu^ 



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duq>. XL PitOVERfts; 63 

48. The cmtwrjm of the wicked ts to be ibu^t» and 
not their appUmfe. 

Raife our apprehenfions, Lord^ and defires above 
aU things that are ha*e below ; and^fix them upon the 
original of our being» and the pbjed of our^happine^-; 
that we may be fully fatisfied in our reaibn» that our em> 
ployment about thee is our higheii elevation, aiki ^cial 
pleafure, and that our religion is the foundation of that 
peculiar delight, which confuminate is our heaven. 

Behold, the righteous* when imperfeSlions 31 
require ii^ fliall be rccompenfcd with chajiife^ 
mnts^ in the earth : much more tremendoujly 
therefore^ the wilful wicked, and the Bbjiinate 
finncr. 

Dime recofi^ences. The natural produce offmaller 
tviU .ferve to corred themfelves, Heb. xii. 5, &c. A 
fwe pTdoi of greater and more lading vengeance againft 
tht impemtentf i Pet. iv. 17, 18. 

Satisfy, G0J9 the reafon of our minds, by the truth 
of things, and by die declarations of thy holy word, that 
as we were made for happinefs, fo it is only by our like- 
tit£s to thee, in tnith, and righteoufnefs, and goodnefs, 
that we can be happy ; and tlierefore, as we naturally 
and nece/larily defire happinefs, fo we muft rationally, 
and judLcioufly feek after it, by refemblance of, and em* 
plpyment^bout, and participation from thee I 



.4.4^^ ^^p..y^pm^p. »»^->» 



w 



CHAP. XII. 

HOSO loTCth the meum ^inftrucHon, i 
loveth prefervative kn owlcdge ; but 



* Orjimplyf the ri^htioui u rewarded upon the earthy much 



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^ E!KGEV!BfBBft O^p. Sit 

befifriends^X^^ and mt^i abide hruxifti. 

Ja^^i^H and repro^. Honeft advice is kind» aii&] 
^gvatcful receiver of it, is already .ina4c better to a 
-degrocv He invites like good offices. Love of pr 
^tnowfedge ^muft rgoice under its graciojus effeSs. .»^Pr 
ilaoid upon the defence cf v^hat is wrong argues attjb' 
curabk ftate, fttoth. vii. 6. Love itfelf muft j^ 
them over. .> -^ 

A good intending man cbtaineth favot^K 
the hwCi hnt.VL m^n>o{^\^hkt A^^btHtgk'^ff^ 
ff^cuUdyjio^icRi will he co«4«ffifi» "** 

Go<?^ afjd roil intentions. The generous at heart 
.<:oinb»t ^ncafures of vice. They ase. 0}fo prtv^ " 
fkt upon ,wh*t is right i ViU if p^flibk, .tlwy 
^iDftllers. bf it. .Pccafiflns and,meaiKs of ufefii 
peciiliaily bkfs them. Such are Uie-beft. iipagcs- 
,upou .e;arth; aiid.wnd<?ubted ob|jeSs of his cpmfiliijtin 
regards. They enjoy ;he . world, and yet ^aie . 
Haved by* jt. Rut how c«n the fcif- condemned 
Ibe eafy I Luke ;cii. 47. Km^pct }ti bufineis are 
than rohhen^ __ 

\ Lei a man thmk and^evife.m he may ^ be AbI 
not be ^(labliihed in pnofit^le tcredit by ^ 
yi/a^/i// wickednefs ; but the deep fixed rip 
of the righteous lliall not be moved by ' 
Qjany kind. ' ! 





EJJetls of ri^hteoufnefs^ ^and vic(, ^Methods of viol 
and fraud, feldom railc^hofe A^ho' pra<5life them abfii^p 
dependance. Their pofTeiTions are precai ious, and tinagh 
ielves J)at^d% PJai^ .ho©efty.jrife»lo^a:k>bfc\i|fiMfe 
*ftem, vjprdurc.and&uitfultiefe ar^iks.uft^honoutSi. 3pc 
prrifpfcrity of the wicked is all in appearancet Pikt bcxiil 



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gmp. Xli PilOVERB& 8^ 

A YiTtuou^ frtigal woman is likez crown 
fir ornament to her affedidnate hufbar.d: but 
flic that by wajirful imm^dejl methods^ maketh 
afliamed, is a nigh difgraceful curfe t9 him, even 
as rottenefs in his bones. 

Wivet, good and bad, G>nfianc7 and diTcreet manage- 
ment are ikining female honours, and prododive of 
much domeftic IbldTs. NeceiTary fnbfiftence fquandered, 
leads to painful mutual altercation. Pure relieious love 
fweetens cares» and heightens upright joys. Marriages 
from mere ieculxr motives, have mudi to dread from 
public infamy, with domeftic uneadnefs. Previous 
caution and prayer, are due to the choice of a wife. 

The very * thoughts of the righteous arc 
right, brfore an all-feeing ^xod ; but the coun- 
fclsofthc wicked f though fpecious, zxc fotmd 
to be cruel deceit, in the end. 

Thoughts good and had In the eye of heaven, men 
are juft what they prevailingly think of, and defign, 
ProT. iv. 23. A good man rejoiceth under new and 
clearer light. To hate vain thoughts demonftrates ex- 
cellence of chara^er, Matth. V. 8.— "12. 

The words of the wicked arc often to/educe 
others to lie in wait for the Jhedding of innocent 
bloods but the mouth of the upright, when 
attended to, fliall deliver ihcm from fuch hideous 

me. 

Words good and bad, A heart full of the world, ftands 
at nothing. Goodnefs employs itfelf much for the fafe- 
t7 of ptherjs. Job xit. 11, &c. Language ihould be 
uTedvirith great caution. 

* Ptdkj^fchemes^d^gmsyfhms^ Prov. xix. 21. — jwc tS.JI. 
t They Utidy ckher by fraud, or violence, to iyure. 

1 



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8d PROVERBS. (A^. JiiU 

y The wicked are often \ptddenli d^^rtkroVii 
and arc not fit jo rife again ; but the hau4ti 
as well as ihiferfm of the righteous ihilli 
(land hn^fecure. ' . * . i • 

EffeSs of rtghteoufiiefs and vice* Their lituation mti(; 
be dangeroully tottering, whom God^ and his beft-fiteriA 
arc united "againft. The crutl have been lciiQwn,-Ji 
many cafes, to deliver themfeives up to jufttce. F*ir 
hondl means are naturally exaltmg, and have addkicuii' 
divine fupports, Prov. x- 25, 30. • ~ . ■ . 

Let all the finners of the world, Lordy comply ' 
the wifdom of the juft, and fo become good ; and Ict^ 
good men daily become better; that every one may.|( 
in his proportion to one another, what God in perfe^_ 
is to us al], good and beneficent ; and^that all fraud wSt 
violence may ceafe, and be abhorred, as what is m)ifi|f 
fonable and unnatural. '**.. 

8 A man fhall be commended, accorditig^Si^ 
hh proven prailical wifdom j but he that u;j|f 
^falfe perverfc heart, whilH he affeils higb^§^ 
neficial knowledge^ fliall be defpifedycr bis ffitiS^ 
fett inconfi/icnces. ' 1' 

Pradkal knowledge, , Tht obje^s of genuine vriiij|p^ 
are juft ends, with fair means. Tlie Very worft f«^ " 
time ms^ be well fpoken of ; but wiien found oilt» 1 
are the more defpiled. Frqm the principle^ ^-e ^trm^__ 
judge. Do not fuddenly condemn, Matth. vL '1 '^w:. 

9 He that is defpifed in a virtuous condifSm 
from malicious envy^ and hath a iervant/^r^l^ 
fending bim^y is better, and more likely /« jifc: 

X Some would tran/latey look round for the kvkked^ Mijjjb 
they are no morcy H. 2 Kings v. 26. * Others under/nM 
iti fervant to himfelf ; or obHged perfkudlj to ^cmU^ Gmu 



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eb^. ]^h PROVERBSL 87 

tjkmtd, than he that proudly • honoureth. 
hknfdf, and yet^ fr$mhii evil fra^ices^ lickech 
meffary bread itfelf. 

'^If-e/tlmaihm, Som^ do what they can, to debafe the 
buinUa^ fr<Mn their Wiint of oiu ward appearance. Their 
competencev however^ is infinitely preferable to vanity 
from exUmalS) Pro v. xi^ 29. Thofc who are rnode^ 
pais moft comfortably through life. 

A mild righteous man f regardeth withpro^ 10 
ftr^ Mention the life of his bead; but what 
ovj^t to move the tender mercies of the wick- 
ed, are ^en accompanied with defperate cruel 

Wdnefi atui erueby. Trvat jufue comprehends in it 
t h4*^ud i^ Mh&e^ hfindt wfthm hath fubordinat* 
^4niite beails to man, for mianal advantage. Incrtafe 
^'thor ncceilary troubles. JBe not tyrmUs h^itproiea^n* 
Feed and laboor theni according to (irength* .From mir 
tendernefs to brutes^ cruelty to men is a common eafy 
C|»^on« Ff om iiich a habit, few people bcpome l^tuL 

H^that regularly tilleth.his land, fliall be" tc 
jfi^ fatiiific > with the medful Jujler»anc^ of 
wad; but he that negltfting bujincfs^ follow- 
cthvain idle diffolute perfans, is/oonjfeen^from 
his^tprmcf^ing wantSy io.be void of ufeful Mndtr^ 
ftanding. > 

indiifiry^ tifi^ tdlenefe. An inclination, to eat, and not 
work, leads to become cruel. Spendthrifts cannot be 
long rich; and foon harden even to fights of mifery. 
(Joaand nature are on the (ide of diligence. The dc- 
fitcs of fuch* are duly moderated. Hufbandry is the 

^ Qr^ maketb ajhiw* //. f See PfaL i. 6. Prov^ ttu 1 7, 



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SB PROVE R B». Ch9f. Xlt 

prime, i^nd moft Decenary of all occupations iccdltf; 
und therefore put for tliexn^- Gen iii. xp. £ph. tv* iS. 

1 2 The wicked per/on behaves as onf who de- 
fireth to be uxu^bi in the fejiive net of evil 
men, for ffeedf hurt ; but the rcK>t of the 
righteous, like that of a tree in good cultivated 
Joil^ yieldeth plenty of excellent fruit. 

The righteous and wicied. Thofc who arc faithfvl ill 
office, do greatgood to mankind, as well as to them that 
arc higheit. T^e wicked weave out of their own de*tt 
ing bowels, what may enfnart and prove pemidoiML 
The unfufpe^ing, too» are fometimes caudht bjr tbei- 
fubtilc arts. Extenfiyely good people hold their vali 
able places fureft, Prov, iii. 35. 

13 The wicked /r^aiz, with all his crafi, is tt/ualh 
fnared at la/i^ by the tranfgreffiou of hW^faye 
lips ; but the juft, though leafed for ittime^ fluujl 
come * honourably out of his trouble. 



Speech well or iU ufed. Severe lying words co« 
• the wicked's net. Self-contradi^ions, however, do i 
. ferably expofe him. On the other hand, good rqwta* 
^ion eftaMiftes with inquiry. Matters df fad require 
only a clear nervous brevity. R. Secret Jhwra arc tmttt 
,tabe dreaded than open eomitf. - *. 

14 A man f (hall be highly fatisficd with goocl 
done by the fruit of his mouth, and tfac re- 
compence of a man's n§ lefs generous hapdlS 
{hall much more be rendered unto him. 

Beneficence of word md deed. Kind a4vice may be 
of IcMig fcrvice. The delights of the charitable arc pure 
and hSUng. Tears, and words of fympathy themielyes, 

* Never he entangkd. f Or men, PJd. IxxiiL 5. If. ^ 



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^iWeer. ■ Retiffasrttf grratitfj<ie are fre<|iit»t, bat dieie* 
of fttwcreconipeiicc, fyixh more certain and tJUrable, 

Tfte way of a wickeJ fool is right in his 15 
own eye», and leads to fure affli6fi$ns ; but he 
thit hearkenctb xxmo friendly. cx>\xxi&{ i$ ^w- 
rg/C/irfi^.wife. * 

Silf'conceit, Thtj who fufpc(5t their own judgements 
Ipifc srre in greatcft danger 5 and moft impatient of 
«Wff^>Ma;tt^ Vn. 6. Thofe who difpute for viaory 
(H%k *t<r tremble. Prudential conduA is the pntife of 
wSJom. Vice is tlie greateft of all folly, Ronu viit 7.^ 
^hn.^i. 19. 

kfafftonate fool's wrath is prcfently known 16 
irm bisownfadfufferings; but a calm prudent 
am* covereth //ife^y^rffliame. 

^jn tempers. The riafli kmcfle at once, an^ are dif- 
^aced \yj their owiv ridiculous wards and deeds. Servants 
themfelves fee and defpife this* To ftifle the marks of 
iad^aation keeps up inftuence. Wrath. 1% a fliort, dit 
pacing madnds, 1 Tim, iL 8. 

, Hef that wrar/fzA/y fpcaketh truth ffrew- 17 
cth forth righteoufn^fs, itt one of its moji. necef^ 
far J branches; bMXtZ^('i\(t^i^nci&agmr^ oihers^ 
doibgrehiburtbydc€ciu 

TrwA: tttfd fi^ehadi Truth is the bond of ibctety. 
Ju^kijili teftimonies in p»ticular, ought to be firee, full 
wd unwnt>iguou$» ,Fartial truths ai^d doubtful phrafes, 
tend to miflead judges. Pro v. vi. 19; Bid xv. 2. 

lliere is that fpcakcth m malicious rage^ 18 

^ ^osmeih ignohmt jfan affinon^ f The truth ^oMijujI 
mm 4tchrt^andfptdk mtfj. hm^fdje mtmfi wUl equroocast^ 

1 3 



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90 PROVE&Ba OM^ SO; 

'idbat is like the iMtfrltf/ fncfcingi of a fwe^% 
hutwbai ijfuesfr^m the tongue of th^ Imt^ 
vokntly wife f , is produStve of pleafur^ Mr 
health. it 

Ragt and fikrutj^ The name of a man is Ks IS^ 
Matth. V. 2i» 22. Sweeten cnr cure tS ^oSd^ l|lii 
wounds of falTehood} PfaL cxxxiii. i^ ^C' — Iti. 2. 

19 The Up %A beneficial truth | (hall be 
bliOied in credit for ever i hut* a lying 
ble tongue is but for a moment. 

TnttB and lying. Truth is uni&nrm, inflcxfble 
nothing to fear. Selfi& and party views, are ds 
to this. Name and property are never ftfe witll 
Time is fatal to lying. Reputation Ucnimis 
mendable. 

■ "m 

20 Decdk is in the heart of them that ^H^ 
berately imagine evil §, along with others \ buCw 
the ingenuous affeilionate counfcllors of 
isfublinte joy. 





L^entfity and detetU Some natures take pleaftqre 
fenfion ; and ftudy for that purpofe. Solicitud^ a^_ 
difcovery haunt fuch cloie^ Generous delight A cvctf' 
, the r^. Harmon'kfts breathe in fweet air. TK^'^jjie 
fweet in themfelves» and g;reatly pleafe, Matl^ ▼« jji^c 
Bring all mankind, Lord, to the right undo*" * 
of'thee, and of themielves, that they may. not 
Irom the truth, through the ignorsuEice» and error lof I 
minds ; but having the dire^ion of tfue religieu^' J 
may live according to k ; andii\ all their nYinnr^ M|ffr 
forth the divine virtues of him, who hath called tbezo^ out 
ol darkaefs, to his marvellous; l^ht- - 

f Orhakib^^H^ X Ji ewr^fiiddyi i Chron. xvt^^'^ci' B. 
f Ort dija^tntedjhail he tkm,kopny . m^ frivaufy fmtad 
quarreL i butjoyjhall dky iMVCf who perJuadertot^pmU^'B* 



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Q^ Jm ^ROVERBS^ 91 

Thene &atl m> evU happen to the benevo- 1 1 
km juft, utbM ii is foible for bis friends to 
Wiordsffi but the ci^uet Ifing wicked (hall be 
fiDcd with /A^ mferable fruits of their own mif. 
chief. 

Bmnoknce and armUy* Good-will to mankin4 is glo> 
ripdSy prcfcrvative. Ovcrwhchning ruin is the native 
effd-of oUtinate malicious guilt. * 

jLyiog lips, above mod other crimes^ are abo- 22 
ttftnitkm t6 the Lord : but they that deal 
felly in their words and contrails y are bis pecu^ 
Jlr.afclight. \ 

y^^fit^ ami fedfi dtaltng. No devout pretences tan make 
gr^ want of truthy Pfal. xxiv. 3, 4. Mic. vi. 9^ lo, 
wbt^ aad afttons ought ever to accord with convidiou. 

Ak iRfeparabk from a virtuous charaAer, to hate the 

fij^ofite vices. 

^:A,prUdcDt tBMtn concealetb knowledge, 23 
fam modeSj ^ but the proud heart of fools 
fmdardiy proclaimeth their fooli&nefs, to 
ffieral tpntempt. . - 

]'' i || fj4^ amtpnjp* HumiU^ and tfood underftani£QA» 
>j£beft"nlee(. tHTeful converfe ihould be 'divided* 
Itim. obfcures the moiM for a while will make them 
fi^^tmh. in the end, £ccl. x. 3. Tb neferve ulbful • 
^^S&ecn to the' moft proper feafon is worthy of great 
fli^e.- The chief parts of converfationi fhould be 
<^fl|lded t& thoie of Bupmot rank and knowledge. Hol- 
low ve^els found loudeft. 

Tht hand of the diligent fiiall exalt him fo 24 
bclir bomSiirtMe role; but tht fe/f-deceiving 
Jiothful Cball be brought under vexatious tribute 
iafuperiors. 



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9« PRdVERBS'. d/p.lKtl'. 

DlK^Mce ahdjloth. Honeft aflfditttj' in youth, tnakes 
^to^re 4^7s both creditable and UfefoL Offices of (^f^ 
ua<5tion ai^e generally Wd bj-, merit, Prflv, x. 4. Jer. 
xlviit. 10. Imiolence degrades to feyvitudc^' bcg«» 
fraud, dlfcord, eflfeminacy, and 'aU (he fociat evus. K> 

25 Heavinefs in the: heart of a pian, niakqth 
it tdQ:o(Sp fr^m the Jij^ht andobfervaiion^of 
others ; 6ut a gObd conjQiing worcJjiM^kj^tlv.iC 
glad, j;i^/ wUlmg ts detlare the fame. 

, Joy . and htaiHnefu. Great compaffion »s . due tq *2ii 
wounded fpirit. A word at times may be of ufe,'JoV 
xli. \^. Hab. i. 1 6r * Perfuafive foftenings for evgrt fcil 
diibrder may be found in fcriptHTC. '^ . 

26 The* righteous is more exreiretit i^ »^' 
tuH^ than his Impious unjufl neighbour ; "bat 
the w^y of the carelef% wicked feducetb riiCTOr 
by mere Jhadaws of things deftrable. • :.* 

Rtghttms a^cefkncv^ £Ten the weked {c$^ed]^enerate, 
noble b^ne^cent firtue^ Anr hrfeiior -obje^ puriusA. 
• finks the foul to proportionable meannefs. Their pi[«^ 
"eiptes and ^orSs are built lipon error. Tru^ recei?c<J 
into the mind by knowledge, and convi«ftion, becomes 
one with it ; being tp the man what under (landing, is ta 
•tational agents, a' vital <iperative j^rihciple, to chfiice 
'^flR;6liohs tmd*c6hdti(5b. ' 

27 ■ The f flotjrful'ftoafn roafleth not thht which 
he took in hunting, like another mho^ forejfm 
the'fmnfui di/grac^ ^Viortt ; but the weli eatn- 

* Ory a jufl man galneth frc'emtnence over ins neigh^owrt 
iidtheftUh ^\U m^ked leadetb bm ajhuy^ : -f RaAer 9 ' 



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A/f^ftaace^ a cUligent man is (precious to 

tnd^try and iJlenefi, Regular cm|Joyincnt renders lir- 
Ing cnfditabfc and beneficial. It (lands in need of no 
bortful meafures for maintenance. An upright pur« 
t}Sik can be looked Upon, and doth not upbraid; nof 
Axh fbon fail, Dan. iii 7. 

In the way of ufeful rightcoufncfs is tbe 28 
true enjoyment ^* life; and in the/ure path- way 
^reof, there is no death <f faculties^ mr 
f§eadfafl rational bUfs. 

tft in virttte. Godlinefs is for moft part fiic- 
; and qualified to yield- confblations under tron* 
Vk% I>eut. xxxiii. 6. Defire of happinefs is the moving 
%fag of man^s heart. The divine laws arc not chains 
to feter us, but wtngs to raife us up to heavep. R. 

Orant, O God^ tliat thoroughly acquainting ou]:ielves 
im& the rules and meafures, the ftandard and exemplar 
d'oBT <kity ; tKe temper of our minds may be fully re^ 
«llided unto the pni^Bee of obedience ; that^the joy of 
Wibnls may be \r^ it, and our whole man harmonia^ 
tierewith! 



.4.4«4 .4-4 4^ •44»~>">*-»*^ »••• >• 



I CHAP. XIH. 

r . ' 

^ A ^^^^^ refpedful fon hisar.etb yj^kb due 1 
^tj^ care his affeilionate father's iuftru/c- 
tioo; but a profligate fcorner heareth not 
\oitb patience eyenfeafonable rebuke. ' 

* Borne bui tbe hje^^way leadeth unto deathf Jch xxviii. 7. ff^ 



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P4 



P.B«Vf:i^i. 



CUIE'PVl 



termincs tfo happmeu of life. "TTiey who Bnderrato 
wholeibme couhlcl are next to hopeleis, Matlh. riiA 
Inferiors, from years and experience, need to kc < * 
and tenderly .advifed, PfaL cxix. 9. A Ticked 
reafon fervcs' only to contradi«5l his defires» without \ 
* ablp to correft tVm. His pleafiires are deceitful jl 
pains' real ; his Hopes dlfortfedy and treaclv:rous.^..;J 
Prov. IX. 8, 12. I Kings i. 6» 

2 A man {hall cat what is good, by 
gentle fruit of his mouth ; but the Aww^ry ft 
of the perfidiom tranfgretfors^^^ rafijpi 
(hall eat with grief the effeQs of his vioknci 

Speech proper and Improper, A foft anfwer 
warm beneficent fi-iends, Pfal. xxxiv. 11, &c. Sa 
have neither good words \o t«ke or give, are ia a^i 
truly deplorable. * 

3 He that keepkh his mouth from wh 
prQvaki^g^ Iccep^th ^* of his be/i c9^oris in f 
but he that openeth wide his^ lips, /« j 
wifbctit advifement^^^'QiH] h^vt /ure and hll 
deftrudion. 

Tongue to he governed. Temptations to rafh 
fill fpeech are^ frpquent^ ^ J^ip. iij. ,2, &c. A chit 
of prudence is to fpeak little with others, and 
with ourfelves. Jam. i. 21. 

4 The foul of the flup^ard dcfireth v^bA 
has not a futtable fpirit to aSl'for^ and hathj 

' to nothing nectary \ but thfc foul of thej 
gen^t io contHve arid execute^ fbaU be mac 
from ^bkkdnnce^ * •' 

* Or, let him dread eviL 



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Qtaffl 3fcflD PROVERBS.' 95 

. DiMgtncit tuttfisth. FiW vices wafte fo much as idk- 
ncls. Keen appetite often riles with it. To ipeiid upon' 
borrowing is certain ruin, Prov, xiv. 23. In fbnne few 
cafes, the laws of nature may be overruled, for trying 
the be^cvoloice <tf others. 

A righteous man hateth the hafe r^fource of 5 
lying ; but "kfalfe wicked man \% foon rendered 
loathlome, and comcth to public Ihanie. 

Truth and ly'mg. Where people-are averfb to work, 
lather than ftarve they make ufe of vile deceitfol arts, 
Prpv. XXX. !,,&€. To magnify the value of what we 
feli and underatc what we defign to purchafe, is bafe, 
hnteftil, oppr<iBve. Money is tra/bi compared with 

Unvarying righteoufncfs kcepcth him that 6 
is upright in the way ofprefirnientand €afe\ 
but wickeduefs overthroweth the dijingenuous 
finnen 

Uprigbhuft. When once a peribnhas acquired the 
habit of juftice ; he is fecure in virtue, with all its pre- 
cious effadts. Vicious nieafures do thwart *each other, 
to expofureand ruin, Prpv. xiL 9.-^xu 24, 25. 

There is that inaketh • himfelf rich,/(?r a 7 
^whik by fraud and oppreffioHy yet hath Nothing 
ere long ; there is, on the otfHr hand^ that 
makelh himfelf poor, for ihe good of others ^ 
yet hath great internal riches, dnd not unfeldom 
tbje blejjing of outward opuUnce Ukewije. 

Bcnefiunu and avarice* Splendour is a frequent co- 
"v«ring to wretchednefs ; whereas, godlincfs with ccn- 

- * Or, that prHend tq It rithf whtlfl fame prettnd /« £e 
poor. H 



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95 PROVERi& Oidpi XIII. 

tentmem is great gain. A)ms*oaly feete to dMa^ 

fiores. 

8 The • ranfom of a wcked man's life fi-om 
punifhnunt^ are his corrupting riches ; but the 
innocent poor hcarcth not rebuke itfelf, 

Firiit€ And vice cwnpar^d. Before the bar of eqiiity, 
there is no refpeS of pedpnsr Sudden and large eftates 
provoke inquiries to fuppiefs them. They are happieft 
-who need rebuke lead. < Keep deftres within due bounds. 
i'ovjerty fecures againft reproach and envy. 

9 The profperous light of the wll kncfwn righ- 
teous rcjqiccth in clearn^^j ; bwt the high-blaz- 
i/a^lamp of the fraudu/enr wickcdj fliallySwi 
be put out. 

Succejfes of good and had compared, Ju ft tee* conciliates 
increamig regard, Prov. iv. i8. A iUdden blaze often 
prefagcs fudden extindion. The fchool of religion 
makes people agreeable and polite. R. Pride little thinks 
of i]ts own defers, and dwells much up<m thofe of other& 

lo Only by rajh arrogant pride, e'uen after wife 
counfel^ Cometh contention ; but with the 
well advifed part of, mankind^ is qukt orderly 
wifdoni. 

^ jldvlfidiknefi and pridf* . A bad temper is fraught 
with difturbances» and is t^o . vain to amend. Tlie 
humble are ever open to counfel. . Thofe who qnarrel 
oft Ihould fufpe*5l themielves, Matth. v. 5. Ptide is 
hatefully unjuft to God and man, Zeph. ii. 10, &c. 
Pfal. X. 2. 

1 1 Wefalth gotten by fraudatent vanity ftall 
be foan diminifhed ; but I^e that gathereth 

* Or/cretUf Gtn. v. 14. 



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etoLp XIIL PROVERBS. 97 

iy boneji though Jlawer degrees^ (hall iocreafe to 
great extent. 

Riches^ lawful and unlawfuL Sudden falls from fud* 
den i^ked rifes are frequent. Comfort and quietnefs 
are large increafe. Choofe an honeil calling, and adapt- 
ed to abilities^ £ph. iv. 28. 

Hope of future good^ when long deferred /r(?;w 1 2 
enjoying^ maketh the heart more fick, than if 
there had been no reliance at all ; but when the 
objeil e/delirc cometh to bi pojfejfed^ it n^for 
grw^tb and beauty^ like a * tree qt lifc^ 

Hope, They manage well for eafe, who wifely regu- 

,late their expectations from worldly things. Nature 

is fatisfied with ^ little ; whereas fancy is boimdle^ Be 

not impatient of matters uncertain, Gen. xlv. 26. Live 

for eternity. 

We render our humble acknowledgements, and thankf^ 
givings to thee, God^ for that thou haft made us capa- 
ble of the greateft happinefs ; and that thou haft affured 
*us of that happineis, upon our repentance, by the decla- 
ration of thy will, and the blood of thy fon ! 

Whofo defpifeth the divine word (hall hp 1 3 
for ever deftroyed ; but he that feareth to 
iranfgrefs the commandment fliali be reward- 
ed with peace unfpeakable. 

The ivord of God. The more that people are unpu- 
nifheci in this life, the greater will be their puniftiment 
hereafter. In what is commanded, we ought ever to 
regard xh^fupreme authority^ To know the relations and 
differences of things, is trxUh ; and to ad according to 
thefie, is virtue. R. 

Bleffed be thou, God, who haft defigned that by the 
pra<aice of fobriety, righteoufiiefs and godlinefs, ou^ rea- 

* Or the tree of life in paratUfe. 
K 



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98 . FROV15RB6, dhip. Xflfc 

fonabb iactilties (heuld bcexei«i&d, aad miproved, A 
fpiritual and heavenly (late fhoiild be fettled, and e^^ 
bliihed ; our natures and our actions regulated- and 

14 The law of the "mC^fram/crtfti^e^ is zfum 
undecaying fountain of hapfy life; kmdimg f» 
depart from the deceitful fnares of eterpal 
death. 

Lifi and dettth, trOiFs rulies are tfanS^ribed from fais 
own 9dl perfcd exeeilence. To obey tkecn is to bocoine^ 
at once noble and bleiTedU Principles and motives b( 
vice, require being vamifhed, in order to deceive. Re^ 
ligion is a fcience that dilates the hearty and fills it Tvith 
god-like fentiments ; a icieace which God only reveals to 
pare ntoids. R^ 

15 Good practical underftanding * giveth fsu 
vour in the eyes t^ M ; but the way of vA^ui 
caprrcimis tuanfgreffors is hard to endurek 

Fmme. Known wife princi|des lead to what is both 
fafe and pleaiifig. We are fure where to find a perfoa 
who a<5ts upon them. Axioms repeated often, evince 
their importance^ and ought deeply to aflfeft. 

May the knovdcdge, Gody yrt have of thee» aad <d 
ourfelves, reeoncila the reafon oiF our minds to the neccf- 
lity of our duty, and be the effedual recommendation of 
it : that we may livereligioufly,out of thefulieft conviifUon 
and fatisfadion, that everlafting righteoufnefs is as ne- 
cef&ry to us^ as what is moft natural and peculiar to 
man* 

16 EviBry prudent man dealeth with previous 
knowledge, of what he is abo^d to manage ;. 
but a fool from ignorance, laycth open his folly 
to contempt and ridictde. 

* Or ingttiuous marmerSf Prov. sci* 5> 6. Dcut* mmi* 4. 



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^9f %m PftOVERBS. ^ 99 

Prmkm^ m4 folly. U U aa cfTcnttal rcquifite in pru- 
ilefice, to fore&e and avoid evils. Ignorance is fro ward. 
Though things n^ed not be told either altogether, or all • 
9t onc^9 yet ilrkt truth ihovdd be obJ£rved» ch. xii. 23. 

. A wicked, ^ JJotbful^ or evil deigning tneflen- 17 
ger falleth into mifchicf : but a faithful exe* 
eating aoibaffiidor, is /are health both to bimfelf 
and others. 

. M^ngtrt good and had, Sverj degree of trad re* 
^iires attention, and honed diligence. MtAinderftand* 
iag and ruptures come of unfaithfulnefs, and provoke all 
concerned. Regular cxpeAed accompli (hments bj in- 
triors jield good healthful ipirits. The mean of a na- 
tloil's cprc, will alfo be certain of its love. 

Poverty and (hamje (hatl be to him that re* 18 
b^xh iind^ feafonahle iodruAion ; but he that 
regardeth reproof, rather ihm to Uv^ under 
trr$r^ fliall be honoured at lati. 



^ , and t^tfrorf. Hon^4 oovrrty is respec- 

table. That from idkneft and extravagance is 
odious* Attend to fecret warnings. Take with juft 
chafti&n^ent. 

Tht lawful earneji defirc accoinpliflied is 19 
fiweetto the hbonrmg foul; bijtt it is aJ3pmt<» 
nation to Jluggardly riotous fools, to depart 
from obfiruding evil. 

D^fM and dUigmce. All would be happj^ but few 
dioafe jthe fcber, righteous and godly way which lead- 
ctfa to this. Habits of vice triumph over wife defires 
often. 

Suffer us noty Lord^ to continue, and to increaA 

* Or a lymg meffenger hrmgeth ul to Sfc^hr^ compare 
Z Sam. JC4F« IS* Dan* xi* 19. H* 

K a 



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20O PROVERBS. Cbtp. Mli; 

our incapacity for thee, by the pra^lice <rf fuch widced- 
ttefs as is inconfiftent with thy nature and favour ; that 
knowing where our true and only felicity doth confifif 
we may reafon ourfelves out of love to thofe fcnfbal 
gratifications, which are below the excellency of oar 
being, and contrary to the proper exercife of our fecul- 
ties, and ufe of ourfelves. 

20 He that walketh familiarly with wife, vir- 
tuous men, fhall be wife in time even as ihej 
are ; but a familiar ♦ companion of wickd 
fools, (hall be broken to pieces and dcftroycd 
with them. 

FamiRars. A chief expedient for becoming goQ<!, !$ 
to be intimate with thofe whofe prefence is alcffon j and 
their difcourfe much more. They who bear withe^ 
at firfl will come to relifh it. Friendfhip, the grcateW 
all felicities, is hard to be met with. Frailties eitharcoM 
It or difturb its harmony. R. 

2 1 Evil ajfliaive circumjiance purfueth abaniiffi' 
ed finners ; but to the unfeigned righteous, 
good/(?r both worlds fliall be repaid. 

Virtue and vice. Unexpeaednefs doth greatly a^ 
vate trouble ; and is the native produce of maflMo 
' crimes. The good of righteoufnefs is large and con- 
ftant, Pfal. xxxvii. 2i, &c. Sinful pleafures are mo- 
mentary, mixed. 

22 A good charitable man not only hath wkri' 
with tofatisfy him/elf but very often leaveth an 
inheritance to his children's children ; and 
the ill acquired wealth of the finner is w^ 

frequently laid up for the yx^fuccejfor. 

InJuflriotu aeonmy. There is a blcfling of heaven io 
♦ Or, he that ftedeth fools Jhall be corrupted. H. 



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lS%^7jpiu:<:b9^.trcafiftrc$. Prodigal heirs do often 
Squander ; whereiis thofe brought up under pious tuitioa 
liow both JUow to lxv.Q^ and kt live, Job xjcvii. i6, 8cc. 
Eoft^tjr \i <Mic of o^ chirf obJQi^^ m whom we Kve 

Much vecejfary food is in recompence rfiht aj 
feafonahle tillage of the poor : but ♦ there fs 
that of like fort is deftroyed for want of judge- 
ment how and wkea Jo labour % 

Ittdujlry nvitb judgement. Diligence and frugality, are 
the two hands of fortune. Some are ham to more than 
they are able to keep. Idlenefs argues want of under- 
ftaoding. The rich ought to be God's faithful ilewards. 

He thdtifrom indulgenefi fpvcth his correSling 24 
«Qd hatetb in tfieS \iX^,ewn fon : but he that 
wifely loveth him, chaileneth him with mea* 
fure and hctitn^s. 

htrtnUil c&rre&kn, ^Ic is prudent to begin children ear- 
ly t© know «nd obey. Check the firft appearances of 
cvij, and encourage what is ^ood. When undcrftand- 
ingiswcak, imd frnfitive delires ftron^, there is moft 
iKedofchitft?nin^« ' Ground muft be cleaned m order 
to become fruitful^ Prov. i. 28> 8cc. 

The righteous eateth in moderation^ Md yet 25 
io the Satisfying of his foul ; but the voracioHs 
bcFly €^ the feiifual wicked^ ikiW fuffer gr^ut 
want. 

Moderation of affetiu. Defires and incomes ought to 
4e propovtkmed. Honsft i^dui^ry lives in much con« 
tent{ iAkidtk is the trueft ji^pinefs, £ccl. ziL 13. It 41 

* Or, there am fime whof 4br&ugh fUih^ are br\^^U Ifi 
^wi«^, Piw»^^4, 29.-*-*^'. 24-.— «fi^-y. iL 

K3 



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itif PROVERBS. Chs^ XIV. 

a fublime fcience to fly all pleaAxres, which injure at once 
both mind and body. 

Above all things, Lord^ fuffcr not that which k the 
degeneracy and vafTalage of fin, to be chofen by us, as 
if It could afford any dcfirable pleafure, fince thofe de- 
ceitful pleafures end in tormenty and fuch a deluded life 
•nds in death and deflrudion. 



^^^ •<~4^-4 ^^>~>->»>»>' >• ►•>• 



CHAP. XIV. 

1 "p VERY wife frugal woman buildeth her 
JlLj parts of a houfe ; but the foolifli wa/ler 
plucketh it down as with both her unnatural 
hands. 

Wives y good and had. Much depends upon obferving ro» 
lational duties. A wife's concern is chiefly domeftic. 
Tit. ii. 4, &c. Mates ought to draw as in one yoke. 
What a terrible vice to riot and live with eafe upon the 
fielh and blood of our own children. A chief regard 
ihould be had to pious and moral qualities in choice of a 
wife. 

2 He that walketh in his uprightnefs ihroufb 
life^ giveib clear evidence that he fcarcth tnc 
Lord ; but he that is pervcrfe in his ways, 
giveth no lefs certain evidence^ that he defpifeth 
him at heart. 

* Fear of the Lord. Devout principle is the moft eqvtal^ 
conftant and (Irong. They are ignorant of the woild» 
v> ho would reform the wicked without this regard. Ob- 
jeds of fenfe require a powerful balance. Evil meafures 
are various and uncertain. Cuftomary diffolote beha* 
viour> demonftrates an impious, heart. 



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Chap. XIV. PROVERBS. tof 

We have profanely negle^ed thee, G0J9 and our* 
felves ; not improving thofe faculties thou didd inveft 
its wkh, nor ufmg them in fearch and inquiry after thee> 
the author of our being and objeA of our happinefs. 

In the mouth of the profane foolifli is a rod 3 
of pride *, to punijh itfelfy but the Hps of the 
fiws wife {hall preferve them out of great mif'- 
chief. 

Ckfvemmefa of tie tongue. Self-conceit negle^s (upe- 
Tiorsy and tramples upon inferiors. Strifie indulged is its 
own punifhment. Lips exercifed to charity, are moft 
conciliating. Impious fentiments darken the mind^ 
deny confblation to.the heart, and ar$ defbudive to fo- 
ciety, Matth. xii. 23. 

Where no oxen arc to labour, the- crib is 4 
dean of food ; but much increafe of that necef- ^ 
faryfupport, is by the well employed ftrength of 
the ox. 

Jndu/lry. Means for working are eflential to fuccefs. 
The right order of them is a fure fim of thriving. 
What is mod neccfTary even for the world, is firfl to be 
ibughty Dcut. xxiv. 6. Prov. xiiL 23. 

A faithful witnefs, in any cafe^ will not lie: 
.but z, familiarized falfe witnefs will utter lies in 
abundance, nor ferule them upon oath. 

7ruth and lying* , No temptation can be an excufe for 

deviating from truth ; the foundation of ^Ijuftke^ Eph. 

iv. 25. Prevailing national falfehood portends inftant 

'tiational ruin. Prevaricating upon oatbis the height of 

'-abandonednefs, and mod difficult to repent of, Zech. v. 

' 5, &c. Mai. iii. 5, &e. Be tender in fpeaking. 

* Some, for the excelleni* H* 



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m4 PftOVfiftBfi. Qmjf, KiV. 

6 A pwfime icor«er feekcth vt£iipiii go ^p. 
fearttnce Mid yet ^ndxnh it B&t ; ^t intnejkid 
knowledge is tcafy nnto bkn that \m<kr« 
ftandeth y;&^ momentous nature of hh own vp* 
right defint. 

Vpnghtnefs andfcorning. *Vht rufing paflSon of a^efw 
Tor is to fet afide aol cornmon ofHnion^ i^ truths. liie 
worft are gradually led to this, by the love of favoittiie 
vice^ Pfal. i. 1,2. Evidence and argument are loft up- 
on fach, fVoT. ix. #.-— lin. i • Tt> indkie Tmdl andibcidi- 
Ggent, is in f»ood meafiire to iMderfbs^ iirhftt as 9&n^ 
ffoneft men tafke evidence as it is. Akngbij/i G^dt fKf^ 
fbn and^natin*e, are vMi fudu Scefd^ifm.is ailale^of 
difmal obftmnty. iR. It anaaoa% guaois agaisft £^ 
£idtory ideas. 

7 Go iLfthfpeed from the prefence of a fooii& 
leaking man, when thou perctiveft not i« 
mm the Hps aSpure and ufeful knowledge* 

FooR/hnefs to he avoided* To offend againft clear diVme 
'w^ is the taah fbookm^ ^aU abfurdities. The p^ce* 
•aUe amd jpaiiont of adyice^ have a claim to familiar ^ 
^tonacf . OQe flvho «iifui^ >lbe whole of difcourfe b ap 
unprofitable companion. Beware .of the fedu^ve abovf 
every other. Leave pailion to ibften and cooL 

S The • wifdoin of xhijrf dejire whb thjB 
prudent, is to underftanxi his way df^ right and 
u/eful behavtour ; but the folly of rools, to co- 
ver their guili is certain deceit. 

Trudence andfoUy. Sveiy wile tra^^dkr iprQl cgmRdm 
the road in whrch he -fealks ; to prerent hurtiaaid ^wm« 
derlng. So religion weighs things as theyjme^ aod niyt 
as evafive vice would 4iave them. Stratagem ipud in 

* Ofy it *is the ^tfdom ttfa imfe man^ to know bunfelff hut 
it is the folly ofjoolt to deceive themfehes. H» 



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Chap. XIV. PROVERBS, US 

t&e end be obnoxioas* All qualities and mcliiuitfons 
nattiral may be made fubfenrient to the difcoverj of 
truthy and the ezerciie of virtue. R. 

Impious • fook, more than every other^ make a 9 
mock at threatened punijhments againji iSn ; but 
aaiong tht^foher difpaffionate righteous, there 
is mutual favour, and that of heaven which is 
en^rlalimg. 

' The affiiSled heart knoweth his own bitter- 10 
x^fS^ ; and a ftranger to what is hid from human 
nfiew doth not neither intermeddle with his 
pr^fperous joy. 

Joy and forrow. Of real happinefs and mifery, by 
'viidt is external, no fiire judgement can be pailed. The 
acivantages of outward fortune fbmetimes fliarpen the 
edge of forrow. Divided griefs grow lefs, 3ndjayr in- 
creafe. Virtue gives peace to the foul, in midft of misfor- 
times. R* Extreme grief cannot be uttered, and fhould 
be treated with much lenity. 

The apparently eftahiijhed houfe of the 1 1 
^cked ttiall be overthrown in time % but the 
frail tabernacle of the upright in virtue^ fliall 
more and more flourilh. 

' Hm^s eftahR/bed hy virtue. Tremble for fecming fecu- 
rkics upon fraud, robbery and blood. A homely dwel- 
ling, which may be called one's own, is likelieft to be 
permanent. Ornamented buildings often fall by their 
own weight, or by a fecret curie. They are obnoxious 

* Or, Jinners laugh at fools ; hut between the upright, 
there is mutual good wilL Or^ Jrnners concealing themf elves, 
enter into feigned frtenMips ;. whereas ^ among the upright ^ 
tiere is mutual good wilL H 



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io5 PftOVBftitS. C»«pi »l*^ 

Ifkewifr to tbc6 vbe ha;ve crueUf AiSm^ &<>^ tbmr: 
trcaioxL Prodigal heiffi ^©ofume. Job. v. 5, fee. ' 

1 2 There is a way which, from want of ingenuous 
attention, icemcth right unto a man i but the 
end thereof are to be nttmbered among thcjiirw 
ways of tremendous dezth for both worlds. 

Self-deceit. Appearances of good ruin the un'wary. 
What we -mihfram treacherous appetite^ to be reasonable 
and juft, we too often believe to be fo, Eccl. ix. 12^ A 
near approach of death and judgement opens men's eya» . 
iVafHcal errors are the moft fatal of any, John iii. 1 9-— ^ 

Let not, Lord^ the (uggeftions of fenft, andthe h^glf^ 
of paflion, and the vicious cuftoms of the world, and As 
bik prioctf las-^onrcafenablft ment deceire us mta 4a} 
d«»nger#tts siflalKf about iMirtT«ebkflednd8; asif ogfr* 
puriuit of that vere to be directed, not by the tnttk fC. 
things, and the ddig!R9 of 'diee in our creation* but if. 
the «Korb«taiit motions of krft and humour, 9dA b j $im 
arbiti^ry plea&fic flf osr&bKs. 

13 Even in mad riotous laughter, the heart is 
ofttn forrowful ; and the end of that fnir^ h 
compticate faeavinefs. 

Tnu andfalfejcy. Airs of jorUkyand freedonx ^n 
aflumed by the fons of vice, to betray others ; and. hf 
wjgiy of iel^-ymdicatioa. The piincipieji of viitue ace ^po 
deep laid, to be entirely ejetacd. When vicious 9arvaS$^ 
ment is over, vengeful refle^ipa CuccetKU* , The ivjcM 
]7Qanisatonceanad^Qial»rai»dan<e9«0^pf hisoi^ M^ 
tifre. R. Whtupofiotts ar^iatisfied, thsnconoes rMwod^! 

We thank thee, gracious God^ who haft convinced us If 
the opcraiion« of otur nature, that ive iiaire kearts gue^rt cr 
than the world; and that ive are made for what is moffe 
^Ecclk»t ; that as there «is none upon earth that we cttft 
aefure, in comparifon of thee,!b taae isttpaeiaiieavctt» 



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<5hap. JfV. PROVERBS. . ',o> 

\m tbou diat m&lteA angtU and tbyiMf h?ippy, that 
can make us fo. 

The backffider in heart, /row ri^bt principles 14 
flwrf conduit^ (hall be filled with /r}^/zrf ^e^s of 
bb own fttfi/ ways ; and a good Jnctre man, 
«» //^ oi^r hand^ flnil be Iktisfied from within 
inmfelf. 

Happinefi. They fin "vmh pccuKar aggravations, who 
hsjrtne had fbme former experience of that which is good. 
HorttJT and pain can he divtrted from rice only for a 
wKlc What fo great a feaft as inward peace ? Prov. i. 
31. Etery hoar nts cafy upon a good man, who knows 
vthst to do. Who can fuStciently prmife a cool candid, 
temper. An €iBi|>ire over paffions and defires is more 
glorious and fat'isfadory than the £Edie hiftre of royalty R% 

By dependence upon thee, our Gody^xid hy obedience to 
thee, do thou refine and enlarge our fiiculties, which are 
appropriated unto thee ! Nmke them Bt for that em*r 
payment which is above ; and wherein the happincfs of 
all reaibaable beings doth confift ! 

The credulous ilmple believcth tvtty fpeciom 1 5 
vord, and is mifled by them tc e$Urtme htirt ; but 
the prudent inquiring man k>oketh well to 
"Jfbat qfeds his religious and moral goingj, and 
ufafi. 

P^wAnee anti^mpiicify. The prtper fphere of prudence 
isadion, ^^gcn csfe» ace difficult. Varying condud i«. 
ftifpicious ; but what is inconfiftent, mod culpably weak 
ttd^i^^Gd^ Cautious procedure is a credit to both ' 
Bamre and profeffion^ £ph. v. 15. Quick and eafy ap- 
piicatioa of raks, argues common ie^, and is of more 
value than mudi liucature^ Faith ovghc ever to bo 
ft'oportioaed to rM<&iic«^ 

A prudently wife man (c^rtih Jituatiom of 16 



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f o8 PROVERBS. Chap. XIV* 

danger and thus departeth from evil ; but the 
weak rajh fool rageth at oppofttion to hispleafw^^ 
and is confident that no barm can befal tillm- 
fery undeceives him. 

Cool and hajly tempers. Caution is a proof of difccni- 
menty whereas ignorance and perverfity are dangeroufly 
rafh» Prov. xxviii. 14. Hearken to advice, rather than 
to inclination. Years of repentance ibmetimes mak 
not up for one blind paflionate hour. Youth is moft 
in danger. Sovereign reafon ought ever to be the rule 
of willy R ; and that the greater our conc€!ms are. 

17 He that is foon angry, from either real or 
fuppofed injuries^ dealeth fooliflily ; and a man 
of more fecret jullen wicked devices is ai mucb 
hated as the other expo/eth himfelf. 

Anger and malice. To govern wrath is a chief point 
of religion, and effential to happinefs. Speedy refcnt- 
ment both fays and does often what is ridiculous; and 
who can ftand before deep pre-mcditating malice ? D^ 
liberate revenge is the guilt of a little foul, and ufually 
fruftrates its own end. Such have few friends, and 
muft lofe many good offices. An open enemy is generous, 
compared with 2iJHll one. 

18 The ignorant (im^\c^ from freguent mifconi^^ 
would feem to inherit folly ; but the forefeeini 
thoughtful prudent are crowned with v^rim 
beneficial effeds of their own knowledge. 

The prudent andjhiple. Thofe who choofe ignorance 
from carelefsnefs, muft fuffer. Even plain ufeful princi- 
ples and rules are hid from them, Prov. xxiii. 23. Hu- 
man faculties unexercifed will dimii^ifh. The nobkft 
luftre of our rational nature is religious virtue. Weak 
minds are ever in uncertainty. R. 



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Chap. XIV. PROVERBS. 109 

Thccvil mcommon^hovrdown before the good; 1 9 
and the wicked, much contrary to their wills ^ do 
wait asfuppliants at the gates of the righteous. 

Honour andjbame. Promotion is a natural and often 
an immediate eflFeft of well ufed underftanding. Such 
become nccefTary to the public when it weaiies of others. 
The proper boaft of rank and truft is good behaviour. 
Mukiply'mg evil ads brings on difgraceful ruin. An 
ohl^g manner makes many friends^ Etth. v. 6, 7. 

The poor is tQ$ frequently hated, even of his 20 
own (A?^r.neighbour, only becaufe he is poor ; 
but the rich, be he ever fo worthlefs^ hath juji 
as often many bafe flattering friends. 

Ktches and poverty. Conditions of nearly equal want, 
ftould lead to mutual fympathy. Yet where mifery is 
moil felt, there is often lea ft compaifion. Prefcnt in^reft 
with fuch is their chief aifociating motive. Riches and 
defire of ufefiilnefs ihould go together. 

He that defpifeth his afflicted neighbour, 21 
fincitih himfelf to Jure punijhment ; but he that 
hath mercy on the mi/eroble poor, happy is 
he in his difpofition^ in bis exercife^ and in his 
pmifed recompences. , 

Mercy, Not to aid want is to defpife, Jam. ii. 13, Sec. 
Get as foon over the fir ft difficulty of giving as poffible. 
A generous joyouB habit, is the higheft prerogative of 
outward diftindion. M:iy none of our pleafures tafte, 
t^ this is experimentally known. 

We blefs thee, our Gody for the fecret principle of 
divine truth, which controuls all wickednefs from vsrith- 
ni ; and which we can neither prevent, nor fuppr els I 
Enable us fuccefsfully to accomplifh the deiigns of tliee, 
^ho art of purer eyes- than to behold iniquity, againft 
the impreffions of fenfe, the violence of paffion and the 
cuftoms of fm ! 

L 



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no PROVERBS. CJlinp. XIV. 

2 2 Do they not exceedingly err agcinji their <,um 
enjoyment^ that devifc evil to olhtn ? B«t • 
the ineffable delights of pure communicative mer- 
cy and truth fliall be to them that dcvife 
^en more good than their hand tain do. 

Mercy. Compadion is natural to the cmcomipted. 
Beneficence therafcre miift be a ibnnd bledjng* To 
plot hurt and ruin, is the tein|>erof miferable hell. $iicli 
as lay mifchievous kacte^ are ^Peqoently caught in tbcm. 
The fublime of generofity, is liberal devifement, Ifa; 
zxxii. 8, &c. And^of bleflednefs Bkewiie. Ev^en the 
modeft and timorous dare apply to them. Enpkj 
thought^ where /ofu^ is wanting* 

23 In all honefi labour, there hfure permaneM 
profit ; but the mere talk of the lips ufon ini- 
portant things tendetb only to certain laJiiK^ 
penury. 

Labour andJptMimg. Moft lawful callings are fufi* 
cient to reward the diligent. High talk about bufine^ 
can never excufe indolence. Beggary and boaAing are 
near a-kin. It is good to fave the time, which c^hen 
lofe in vam fpeecbes, Eccl. i. 3, 4. Prov. x. 19. 

24 The crown of the laborious "wifc^ even for 
this world, is their honefily acquired riches j 
but what indicates to all the fbolifhneis of 

Jluggard fools, is the fad vifible and long ctm^ 
tinuedeffe^s of their folly. 

Richet and poverty. Wealth gives infhience and ex* 
tenfive power to be ufcful. Such too, are apt to be 
obfervcd and imitated. They are dreadAil to vice, 
when vefted with authority. A confpictrous fool is 

* RMher fince. H. 



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Chap. XtV. PROVERBS. i.i 

pafnful to h«ar of; an J ft ill more to fee. People arc 
rich, according to the uft they make of wealth. 

A true jirttTicfs delivereth (onh from trouble; 25 
but a deceitful witnefs * fpeaketh di/irejjing 
lies. 

True andfalfe wttne/jhig. Bravely to (land up in the 
(fcfencc of truth and right is blifsful to the innocent, and 
p«Wic at large. To preferve credit is to prefervc lift. 
£quivDcal expreffions in witaeffing is £diehood ; and 
Vi^OQoath is perjurjy Mai. iii. 5. £ph. iv. 25. 

In the well edablijhed fear of the Lord, hf 26 
dev9ut aSls^ is a ftrong ground of confidence 
f^ fi^^^f^ ; an<l his children after him, fhall 
have a place of refuge in the friend/hip of both 
heaven and earth. 

ReRgm profitahk. SJanu/b fear cafleth out all confi- 
toce ; whereas that which is J^ia!, rejoiceth and maketh 
ftfOftg, J6h xxxi. 23. Piety is a fteadfaft principle of 
good; and leads to bleffed hope. Godly parents tranf- ' v^ 
mit both their excellencies and delights. Such increafe ^^ 
with tkeir being oppofed. R. 

The fear of the Lord is zfure fountain of 27 
^yafpinefs through life ; to depart in particular 
(torn the faares of the wicked^ leading to fre^ 
mature death. 

Religion and hapfUnefs, Nothing refrefiies or abides 
equal to devout content. Fear weighs attentively the 
true nature and value of objefts. No temporal evil is 
to be compared with the difpleafiire of heaven. 

We blefs thee, God^ for that religious fociety on 
eaith, which prepares us for the bleffed fociety in hea»- 

* Or hrtcUher mtU 

L X 



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ti2 PROVERBS. Chap. Xiy. 

ven ; and that thofe a^Hons ipdiich are made by natm 
reafonable, are made by Chrlfiianity religious. 

a8 In the multitude of well governed people 
is the king'syj//? honour ; but in the want of 
fuch people is the certain dcftruclion of the 
country and prince himfelf. 

Public hapfmefs a(id mifcry. The good of fubjeds 
ought ever to be the end of rule. Arbitrary enflaving 
roealures are not tolerable, Rona. xiii. 4. Lofs of love 
foon ends in murmurs and rebellion. Mutual regaioi 
is a ftrong indiiToluble bond. Happy land whofc fove^ 
reignty is limited by law. 

29 He that is flow to wrath, ^iw</ ig its impul/es, 
is of great beneficial underftandihg ; but he 
that is hafty of fpirit, exaltcth tie folly ^ 
vtyiile procedure to all. 

jinger. Believe not the firft appearance of vhat 
would irritate ; but attend to probable alleviating eir- 
cumftances. Peace is preferable to various> outward ad- 
vantages. The credit of a wife man rarely acconjpanics 
one who deals in proud wrath. They cannot long hiclc 
their fhame. 

30 A found benevolent heart is the cheering\^^ 
of the flefh ; hut grudging ttiv^ of what doib 
fro/It oihersy is like the incurable rottcncfe 
which has penetrated to the very bones. 

Benevolence and envy. Salf-govemment, like one of 
good bodily conftitution, is lull of eafe. To rejoice 
with others in their good, is a true charitabk frame, for 
alleviating human ills 5 whereas malicious envy fcarcc 
admits a cure. How dreadful to pine at profpcrotts 
worth ; and live upon their wretchednefs ! To be, and 
to do good, is the way to be avenged of them. Calum- 



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mes im^icate the fare exifteofe of envy; A good con« 
fcience with the joy of beneficence arc unfpeakable, 
ttov, XV. 13. 

. He that, if additional miferiei^ oppreflcth the 3 1 
i^muuB poor, reproacheth his wife maker ^ but 
he that honoureth him, who alUtsfucb beavf 
trials^ hath fubiiantial relieving mercy on the 
^ioot fugerer. 

Befttfieence and tmekf. The Icfs able any one is to re* 
fift, the more bai« and cowaidly rs it to injure. Supe^ 
Tiors are made to reward thofe who accommodate thexft. 
Oppreflbrs fight with power, that will one day be an 
orermatch for them, Jam. ▼. i, &c. Pitying benefi* 
ccnce, is as in the {bead of heaven to the indigent ; aad 
e«D<Qgt ^U of an adequate reward. Cruelty diffuiet 
every where hatred and difcord^ and the heUifh pai^ 
lions. R. 

The wicked * is driven away from all n* ja 
fmtrctSf by cfymgin his wickednefs; but the 
Jincere bwtiMe righteous hath gladdening hope, 
in agonies of his death. 

Deaths of the good and bad. What through life amufeg 
the impcnrtent vicious, will not do fo at 6ft. l'*he ap- 
^pfehcniion of future pnnifhment, leaves them comfbrtlefo 
and diftrafted. Then confcience is eftabliihed in full 
power ; and as their juft fear of God*t wrath is, fo is their 
torture. I>ivine afTurances never fail, Pfal. xxiii. 4. 

Smftr Ms not, Lwd, to defift fix)m the ftudy of wit 
,4oai% til) we become wife unto falvation \ or from the 
pra^ftice of holinefs, till we fee thee in glory ; that by the 
lympathy there wiU then be between our faculties, and 
our religion, we may be accomplifhed^ and prepared for 
an everlafttiQg fiiiture blifs. 

* Orjtnieth tinder hts calamity* ff. 
h 3 



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114 PROVERBS. Chtp. XW. 

3 J Wifdom relketh Jtlent in the heart of him 
that hath good underftanding, //// there is a 
proper time to /peak ; but that fmall portion 
thereof which is in the midft of fools is im- 
properly made known, and ferves by this means 
to expoje them. 

. Speaking in feafon. True wifdom thinks oS ufc, and not 
pride of oftcntation. Some have only a few feled fub- 
j«^s and anecdotes, which they inceifantly broach, and 
wear out people. Succefs of good defigns hang oftm 
upon previous wife counfel and fecrecy. 

34 7he prevalence of rightcoufnefs among aH 
tanks exalteth the reputation^ and power^ and 
grandeur of a nation ; but fin much increafed 
is a ruining reproach to any people. 

National profperity. Social virtues are infeparable from 
fecial ilrength ; whereas, generaWice is fure deftrudioB. 
Much depends upon the impartial executing .. of wdl 
formed laws, Jer. xviii, 8. Valour, conqueft, luxurji 
anarchy, is the fatal common circle. 

Cauie us, good God, by fuch converfe as truth and 
juftice, as knowledge and wifdom makefafe and de- 
. Jightful, to enjoy others, and to enjoy ojirfelves ; to com- 
municate to, and receive to the tranfcendent mutual 
conifort, and fatisfadion of the whole. 

35 The good king*s favour is toward a wife 
behaving * fervant ; but his juji wrath is 
againft him that by his wicked carelefsnefs^ 
caufeth public fliamc. 

Favour and wrath of kings. In the body politic^ as in 
the natural, each member fhould contribute fomething to 
the common life. R. Subordination of ranks ought to 

♦ Or minifies H. 



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Chap. XV. PROVERBS. iij 

be prefcrved ; without expofing the nMr to envy, oi the 
mtaner to contempt. R. Paternal love is due from kings, 
PM. ci. I, &c« 



••<-« •« •4-4-4-4 •4^>-»->»»->' »►>*»•» 



CHAP. XV. 

[JN the cafe of threatening coniejl^ a foft an* i 

fwer* given turneth away wrath ; but 
grievous exafperating words ftir up anger to 
the height of rage. 

S<fi and grievous words. From inadvertent efcapes of 
the tongue, even good people may be miilaken, Jam. iiu 
ly &c. Some have diabolical pleafure in fomenting and 
perpetuating quarrels. Small beginnings often iflue in 
dreadful retaliations. .-> Even truths and trufts of fecrecy 
are little regarded at the time. Wrath and weaknefs of 
mind are uiually conjoined. Conqueft over paflion is 
glorious, I Pet. ii. 20, &c. — iii. 8, &c. 

The tongue of the wife ufeth knowledge * 2 
infeafon^ and aright ; but the mouth of rafh 
fools poureth out in abundance words of foolifli- 
ncfs, leading to mifchiefs. 

Good and bad ufe of the tongue. Wifdom is the applica^ 
.tion of knowledge. Occasions and circumflances prove 
.the man of real under (landing. The more he is known, 
.the more he is fought after. Say nothing derogatory 
to a virtuous charader, Jam. i. 19, &c. CoL iv. 6. . 

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, 3 

, * Or gtveth gr^ce to their wifdom^ Num^ xxiv. 5. Gen* 
sdix. 15. If. 



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1 1« PtOVBRBSu Cfatf Vt. 

bebotdtiKg eke cyiI^ <a Oft^n^ tMr imfittktni 
guiltj afvd the gockl m fwpof$ ta nwm^dthtifu 

God omnifcUnt and Impartiah A deep fcnfe of divine in* 
fpe^^ion is. a furc principle rf univerfal virtue, PiaL 
xxxvi. I, &c.— cxxxix. i^&c. He fees and will jud^ 
of what is moft fecret. Bitter afflidions are not lud 
from him. 

4 A wholcfome tongtre ever aiming at good 
\%^for /weetntfs and benefit^ as* tl tree of life: 
but pervcrfcnefs therein is ^fure\ breach it 
the Jeff enjoying fpirit. 

Management ofdi/courje. A perfbn in health ftdseaTy^i 
equal and ufefuUy conmiunicative ; fo the face of a kiiid 
fycTtltsr Ihfnes, an^ their remembtante k fek. Tiief 
msidt as a cottering from b^fts. BreadM^s of fncDd^ 
sre node by Ibad tongaes. in c^nTerfatton, eseh per^ 
as in eofftmerccv flkycdd be-z^owed to fomilh ibmetbiDg 
•f hid own. R, Happy they, vHk> reduce mery tkbg 
tajhtpttprimifkf} and throw, by this mtaast Hj^ iipot 
ebfenre points. A. 

5 A vain wicked fool defpifeth even his fi- 
thcr*s gentle inftruftion ; but he that regird- 
cth reproof itfelf^ however painful at the timet i 
illufirioufiy prudent. 

InfiruSton and reproof. There is little hope of thofc 
who woidd wall, when tnieakeft, without a fiqppDrt 
Special trnfi ts doe to audiority, experience and knif. 
Reproach and ruin convince too late. Snccefe is tfe 
ordinary child of prudence. Strong pafltops bliod e«tt 
good natural nnderftandings. R* 

In the houfe of the righteous is much 

'^ Or, the tre^ (fUfe. ff. f Or M$ € de/hiOivi tla^ 
Jffa. xxvii. 8 Jfer. iv* 6* Zeph* i. io« 



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Ckap. XV. PROVERBS. 117 

am^artablj enjoyed treafure ; but in the /// ac^ 
qmred revenues of the wicked, however abun* 
dant, is heart-felt trouble. 

Honefi and til acquire J nveakh. The power of lawful 
rkhes is botH great and lading, Dent, xxviii. 17. Con- 
tentment is treafure. IS^e light of criminal purchafes 
is grievous. Hag. i. 6. Prov. x. 2. 
, May we, Lord^ under thefe conviAions, be ever able 
to recommend our fouls and bodies into thy hands ; that 
witether we wake or ileep, live or die, we may be ever 
with thee, fecure of thy ^ivour, and bleffed by divine 
refemblances! 

The lips of the generous wife difperfe ufeful 7 
knowledge ; but the contracted heart of the 
fooU(h doeth not io profit othen. 

Ufeful fpeecb. To improve multitudes yields pure 
delight. Want of power b a misfortune ; but to hurt 
with it is hellifh. The fame things repeated may 
charm from newnefs of manner. R. Plcafures of con- 
verfadon cement love. R. 

The facrifice and prayer of the §bjlinate 8 
wicked is abomination to the Lord ; but 
the prayer of the obedient upright, is his/^^«- 
Uar delight. 

' True andfalfe devotion. To evade by irreligious yorw/ 
the fubftantials of religion is, and ever mud be, dete(lable» 
MGc. vL 6, Uc. Ifa. i. 1 1, &c. It is worfe than vain to 
flatter omni/cience. The beft returns of prayer are in- 
creafe of virtues. God underftands mute language no ' 
lefs than words. R. How fublime a thing is religious 
fimplicity. R. 

Tht falfe, unjujl^ cruel way of the wicked 
is iain abomination unto the pure^ alUperfeSl 



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Lgrd: but Be loyeth him unatferabty that 
followeth bard after every kind cf right^ou^ 
nefs. 

Vhrhu tmd vitti A good confcience, and tlic fayoor of 
G^ K like a wtJi of life. Purpofes and a(5Hons habitual 
arc a man's way. Thofe of the wicked are politic at beil 
Love of holinefs leads to eminent progress, Phil. iii. i\* 
Ma€th. V. 6w Mora^y and good policy do mutual^, 
fupport and fortify* 

Su£Ser ns not, grachas G^dy to feek for contenting 
in focb pofTeflHofis as are worldly ; but in the efliplof- 
ment of our higher faculties abqut thee, upon whicK is. 
imprefled the image of the father of fplrits^ and whid 
have a fpedsd refen^ for thee, and initablenefs to thee! 

10 Even mild corrcftioa is grievous to him 
that forfaketh knowingly the good way ; and 
he that abof^ker hateth reproof, ihail ik 
under wretched gufff. 

Rtpfwfi CottftioTKteTT^rmggmlt, makes the rcbtite 
of a friend odious. Such wicked are often early cntdPT 
They muft be honeft and brave, who abide by trutL ifc 

1 1 Dark * hdl ti^/Md deftruaion, which Mb 
Uiij arc /ktf before the Lord; how much melt 
then the mo^ concealed hearts of the cHJdrwi* 
of men ? 

Drvim (mmfiknet. An ever prefent deity muft be aft- 
knowing, Ral. cxrxK. 7, &c. Job xxvi. 6. It is tk 
effence^ of God that fupports all hrs works, Jer. xyii. ift* 
I Cor. iv. 5, to. Religious credit will ever brighteii* 
Leave defence tofytereign rea/hn* R. 

12 A {corner $f good loveth not one that re- 

* Orih grave* 



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Chap. XV. PROVERBS. 119 

proveih him €ver Jb jufily ; neither will he 
go unto the wife, for/uch reafon^ tfpojftble. 

Rtpnof. Habits of evil darken the ir.ind ; and har- 
den the heart. To droll with things fdcred is an irre- 
claimable iymptom ; and often terminates in mean fu- 
per^tion. 

We confefs, Lord Gody who fearcheft the hearts, 
and trieft the reins, and knoweft what is in man, that we 
Jwvc fmned againft thee, contrary to gratitude and con- 
icieace ; and by lone cnftom enfiavrd ourfelves Suffer 
OS not to add ftupifymg opinions, that would lead us to 
expeft a change to be wrought by thee in our la ft mo- 
inent39 which is a work of time, and the ordained exercife 
o/our faculties ! 

A merry heart, fromfincere goodmfs^ maketh 1 3 
a cheerful c^tivating countenance: but by 
forrow of heart, under fenfe rf guilt ^ the fpi- 
rit IS broken to the clouding of plea/ant looks. 

CbeerfiilMfi and forrow. Body and mind do fenfibly 
ato each other. Virtuous joy forgets flight affli<5lion. 
Carnal mirth adds to difeafe and wretchednefs. It is 
daftardly and enfeebling, Prov. liv, 32. — ^xxviii. 1. 

Bl^d Godf when we (hall attain to the refurredlion of 
the juft, may we be clothed with bodies which are fpi- 
titnal ; and behold this world reduced to aihes without 
Tq^ : knowing that we hare a far better ftate which 
ii^cr can be changed, and an hoi:de not made with hands, 
eternal in the heavens. 

The heart of him that hath good under- 14 
I ftanding feeketh clofe after found praSlical 
knowledge : but the mouth of fools, out of a 
vain corrupted Jiaie^ feedeth upon effe3s ofetc^ 
treme pe/iive fooliihnefs. 

Sound inovjledge. What a foul delights in becomes 
an objed of chief purfuit. The man of underftanding is 



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lae PROVERBS. Cbftp. XV* 

filent before thoie who are able and willing to inftru^; 
whereas the wicked are fond of corrupting error. Infig- 
nificant difcourfe itl'elf is odious. The mind (hould he 
habituated to difcover eflential truth. R. Sonje adopt 
all vulgar opinions as principles, in order to degrade r«- 
ligion, and make it feem mondrous. R, 

Grant, merciful God^ that when we (hall appear be- 
fore thy tribunal^ to receive our final fentence, and our 
eternal portion, we may be found in full reconciliation 
with thy nature and will ; and be able to lift up our 
heads with joy before the face o{ xht father of our fptriu, 
knowing that our redemption from fm and mifery \s fuU 
filled : and that we (hall be ever with God^ to be made 
unfpeakably blefled. 

15 All the days of the afflifted, by means of 
iranfgrejjton^ are evil ; but he that is of a 
righteous merry heart, hath a continual yir^r^ 
feaft. 

Conference good and had. An anxious diflruftful tem- 
per muft be miferable, Matth. vi. 3*4. Prudent fore- 
fight may prevent and alleviate troubles, Phil. iv. 6, 7. 
There is no order in vice. 

When thofe frail and mortal bodies, God^ (hall decay 
and turn into duft, may our fouls afcend with the grcateft 
ardours of divine love to thofe regions of hoKne6 
where pure and heavenly minds find tne moft agreeable 
company and employment ; and where there is nothing 
to difturb their repofe, or to interrupt their cxercifcs 
for ever. 

16 Better is a little fuhjiance with the tLtfe 
fear of the Lord, than great treafure aad 
trouble of mind therewith. 

Religion and happinefs. Sound compofing principles 
and manners yield an equal and abiding joy. If pure 
devotion be wanting probity fails of courlc, PfaL xxxvii. 
i6. Under gilded appearances there is often fore di- 



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Chip XV. PROVERBS. iit 

flradHon contradtng dedres is the way to become rich. 
It is eafier to live without wealth, than . to improve it 
properly. A little of God will do what tlie world with- 
out him cannot. The beft wodhip is a folemn vow, for 
fvcr to love virtu*. 

Grant, God^ that we may be of that happy company, 
who ihall follow their triumphant Lord and Sawour^ with 
togt of gratitude and eztacy into thoie maniions where 
they ihall keep an eternal fabbath ; and where God 
n for ever glorified ^nd adored of all thofe that have be* 
lievcd in him, to the faving of their fouls 

Better is a dinner of plain herbs, where mu- 1 7 
fual unfeigned love is ; than a ftalled ox, in 
various forms offood^ z,nd jarring hatred there- 
with. 

Love and contentment. Noble convivial fouls make al- 
nioft any thing good, Prov. xxiii. 6, &c. Job xxxi. 6, &c. 
The profeflions of infmcere minds arc hateful. True 
love doth eminently fweeten domeftic life, Pfal. cxxxiii. 
This i& put into every perfons power. No affluence can 
make up for the want of engaging looks and deeds, Pfal, 
1^.12, &c. 

A peevijh wrathful man ftirreth up ftrife: 18 
but he that is flow to anger is peaceable bim- 
filf^ and appeafeth ftrife to the utmufi. 

Peaceahlenefs and wrath. Quick incautious tempers 
<Jo widen differences from mere trifles. OutW4r4 fignf 
of di{pleafure ftould be well-weighed, Prov. x v. i, 
Matth. V. 5, 9. . Contention is a chief plague in human 
Ife Tni^. politcn^s excludes at t}^ fame time infenfi* 
W{)f, and too inuch* eamejn^fs. It forgeu^^in order tg 
fcek^what.way be agrceabl? ip ojj^er^i. R. Wrat;b io^ 
jnres health.. * ' 

The, way of the flothful man is a$ /xmong .»9 
(ropjings from an hedge of thorns : but the 
M 



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122 PROVERBS. Chap. XV. 

way of the diligent righteous is made up u 
bonoury and plain. 

Dilsgence andjloth. The indolent foon defpair and give 
over. At beft they creep as through brambles. Ho- 
ncft action is a chief part of duty ; and does no^ eafily 
take fright. His work becomes not only pra(fticablc, 
but plea^nt. Let zeal be ever proportioned to the va- 
lue of things. 

20 A wife obedient foti maketh a glad father; 
but a foolifh refraffory man defpifeth thnm* 

fort even ofh\^ tender indulgent mother. 

Filial duty. Gratitude ought to be warm and incrf 
fant, chap. x. 1. Underftanding without good woas 
is worfe than none. Parental joy from the honour and 
ufefulnefs of children is not to be exprefled. Moral ex- 
cellence is a ftriking beauty. To live againft early good 
education brings gray hairs with forrow to the grave. 

21 Wicked prevailing folly in the uorld is joy to 
him that is deftitute of found wifdom, W 
fled for his own excufe ; but a man of rd'j/ un- 
derftanding, in the face offuch oppofttion^ walk- 
cth uprightly to the end. 

Vprsghtnefs and folly. To take pleafure in thofe^ 
tranfgrefs is extreme vice. Sincere virtue excepts 
againft no part of duty. 

Moft hlejfed Gody the Creator of all things, and the au- 
thor of all good, help us to remember and Aew our- 
felvcs men ! Being made for the imitation of thee, ifl 
righteoufncfs and true holinefs, may we cheerfully !«»• 
der that homage and glory, to thy moft gracious pater* 
nal indulgence ; upon .the continuance whef eof v^e can 
expert any enjoyment ind mercy whatever ! 

22 Without previous counfel, /r^m men' of e^' 
perience and f olid judgement^ even ^r^^/ purpofcs 



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Chap. XV. PROVERBS. rt$ 

arc o/ien difappninted ; but in the multitude 
of fuch counfellors, they are eflablifhed. 

Coun/eL Raflmefs is ever hazardous. It is no cxcufe 
for want of fuccefs, to fay, we did not think and advife. 
Some difappointments are not to be helped, Prov. xii. j^ 

A man hath joy, by the fuitable anfwer of 23 
his mouth: and a word fpoken in due fca- 
fon, how exienjively good is it ? 

Seafonahle tvords. It is every one's duty, to feek advice, 
when they have opJ)ortunity and power. Like wife, to 
give. What an immediate iatisfadtion to be acting upon 
uic fide of right ! Truth at once enlightens and in- 
flames. R. 

The way oi hap^y life is above mere animal 24, 
demands to the wife : that he may * depart 
from fnares which lead to the pit of hell be- 
neath. 

Rathmal and animal Ihing. Regard to happinefs, in 
the way of perfection, is the chief end of life. Wicked 
men take up with mere fhadows of good. Bodily enjoy- 
ment, without that of the fpirit, is degrading ruinous. 
The objedls of religion are high and noble. They lead" 
to refemble hira who is the Ifie^eJ and only Potentate. 
Beath and the grave are juft emblems of wretch ednefs, 
rfa. xiv. 9, &c. Virtue can be fully rewarded only in 
heaven. R, 

Teach us, Lord^ to confider what the fpecial nature,- 
employment and fatisfadlion of reafonable fpirit s are; 
and in comparifon to which thofe of bodies upon which 
we now dote, are no moie than manfions, in which our 
^irits dwell, and inftruments which they ufe ! Make us 
mindful, that all we can fufFer or enjoy is in our fouls, 
which are ourfelv«s ; ^d that according as thefe are af- 

♦" Ortw^h'ubacL H. 

M a 



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iH PROVERBS. Chap. XV* 

icAcd,- fo we 2rt pleafed, or difpleafed, fo we joy or for* 
row, fo wie live or die for ever. 

25 . The Lorjd will tear up, and ullerly dcflroy 

the houfc of the proud oppreffor^ believer jf^ 

Jimnjhing ; but he will both extend and efta- 

blifli the • border of the much leafed^ widow 

by him. 

Proud opprejjton. HaUghtinefs from affluence isbj 
far too common. They who live in luxurious eafe 
foon. become cruel ftrangers to the fufferings of others, 
Ezek. :xvi. 49. Am. vi, 3. Tears make a loud cry fa 
fevere vengeance, £xod. xxii. 22. 

May we have a firm belief of what flisdl be hcrcajiM^ 
righteous God^ that it may have a continual and pow^ 
erful influence upon us, for the balancing and over- 
filling all.thofe violences of paflion, and all thofevicKHis 
inclinations, by which we are tempted to fin and perifti 

a6 The thoughts of the wicked lead to iDords 
which arc an abomination to the Lord ; but 
the words of the pure mind and heart W 
pfleafaxit profitable words. 

Tidughu md wcrdi. They who (hut out Godt fe», 
tfceir minds, make fure eafy. way for what contra^ 
bis holy nature and will. Words do natively ilTue^ 
afl inward habit. Devout kindnefTes are highly orna^ 
menting. The fmalleft allowed defire, contrary to Grfr 
order, is a tranfgreflion on his rights. R. He is ddicate 
11^ his loVe; and cannot fuffer a divided heart. R. 

27 He that \sfo greedy of gain, as to fetajiit 
the pooir from his rights troubleth his own 
houfe in the end; but he that hateth andjpun^ 

* Or landmark^ Deut. xhc. 14. Ex, kxiiu $V H» 
f Peculiarly calamitous^ andpuf/or every oticr in wattt. 



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Ojap. XV. PROVERBS; i %f 

^b the offer of bribing gifts, Ihall live kng and- 

happy* 

Avarice. Evety fbrt and degree of covetoufncfs, is 
difturbative. The joyous, in themfelres, diffufe like 
feelings among others. He who robs is in perpetual 
c&nger from difcovery. A premature death often fruA 
trates the end of all their endeavours, Hab. ii. 9, &c. 
Giving and receiving bribes is accumulated bafenefs^^ 
chap. xi. 17, 29. 

^ The heart of the righteous ftudietH to^ an- a$^ 
fwer beneficially ; but the mouth of the un^ 
thinking frozvarcTwic^td poureth out at all ha* 
ajtfr(/j evil things. 

Hearts g(^d and bad. Religious deliberation (peaks to; 
pttrpol'e, Pfal. xxxvii. 30, 31. Tilings ill timed, thougK^ 
juHand true, may thereby become evil. 

The Lord is as on$ far offivom the wicked' 29^ 
man's petition ; but he heareth •zt'//i6 acceptance 
the humble ingenuous prayer of the righteous. 

Prayer. Between God*s cflintial and comforting pre-- 
isxict, there is a wide difference. The wicked do not 
pray in cffe<fl ; but fpeak and diflemble. Even bad 
li^ures will ^^W under trouble, though without >&<:^^.- 
Divine homage fits for the contemplation of truth. R.- 
^adi man is then made better for his devotions, when ^ 
ie lives more foberly, righteoufly and godly by thorn,. 
There is a cTofe conne^flion between that rePi^ious worjhip ' 
which is fmcere, and that religious ohedlcnce which is necel^- 
lary, Pfal. xxxiv. 13, &c. 

Make it our delight^ Lord, in religious exercifes, £0 ' 
to contemplate thy divine holinefs, as that we may gaia^ 
fnch reremblanccs,'as will diftinguiih our fpirits for thofe- 
whom thou wilt own, and delight in for ever ! 

The light of what is agreeable to the eyer jjp 
M 3 



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ii6^ pifovekBs; chwp. x« 

rcjpicctfi the pious benevolent he^rt ; and a 
good report to any one*s advantage niaketh the 
bones as it werefetm fat andjirong. 

Pious and charitable joy^ A fcnfc of divine favour is 
fweeter than light itfelf, Pfal. iv. 6. That of men like 
^od comes nighell to this. Look above the creature to' 
the Creator, and be bleifed. What is moft woiiderfulis 
not fufficiently admired, becaufe common. R* 

31 The ear that//?//V»//y heareth the reproof 
of found judgement leading to life abideth in 
cioje Jelhwjhip among the wife. 

Reproof y and good company. To advUe axkl be advilU 
mark the chara<5>er of true fricndihip. They mutuaftf 
enccurage. Good converiation poHihes the young. 

Let not the difficulties we may meet with, G^}^ 
performing our duty of repentance, and renci^ingtuf 
obedience from the effe»fl pf former unreaibnable ana un- 
natural ule of ourfelves, ever difcourage our rcfolutionl 

32 He that refufeth inftruAion, to corred what 
has been amifs^ defpifeth the profits of bib own 
foul, but he that obediently heareth jufi rfr 
proof getteih more underllanding than evm ' 

Wtfdom and tghoronce* The unwilling to Icart Ifft 
tlieir trueft happinefs cheap, and muft perifli. Wirdi 
of the Wife are as goads and nails ikilfuily apptiei 
£ccl. xii. II. At one time the credulous zrcinthu/iafr§ 
at another, yr^-/iifiirrr. R, 

33 The humble fear of the Lord is the princi' 
pal inftruAion of true wKdom : and bcfoiC 
exalting honour is juch devout fubmijfive hu- 
mility. 

Pkty and humdity* Sound nooiiilfi, and crediti gp tp* 



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cether. Derotidn k th^ iiippoit df beth. Modefty 
leads to ooncesd ulencvor to diicover them with muck 
ditfidence. R. God rarelf fails to puniUi an ioiatiablc 
thirlt of dominioii. R. 

Make us happ7» bj communion with thee» our mq/i 
ghriottSf mnd gracious Lord^ hj the reOitude of our nature^ 
and hj the habiu of righteouihefs, which axe the ftate of 
reUgion in us, that we nuj experience our duty to be 
our privilege f 



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CHAP. XVL 

THE preparations for difpojing will of the i 
heart in man, and the /uiiabie anfwer 
of the tongue likewife^ is from the fioujly ac^ 
ktiowled^id i.oi:d. 

If^art mndion^me. A fenfe of deity^ ought to be im- 
prove by, means of his own appointment. Even the 
comit^oneil operations of life cannot pertbrm without 
him. Ads zvii. 28. He can overawe the eloquent, and 
Ufc up the modeli to bold beneficial utterance. Up- 
right dependent endeavours will not be allo\^ed finally 
to eit. Hutnan underftanding alone can never attain 
to the knowledge of divine things. R. 

All the ways of a man, from f elf partiality ^ % 
are apt to appear clean in his own eyes : but 
the omnifcient Lord weigheth the inmojt recejfes 
of the fpirits. 

Self-decttt. Mod people look only to the fair fide of 
thc.r cwn characters. Divine judgement reaches both 
principk and afle^ion, J Cor. iv. 4< Pial. xix. ii» 



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, ,^ PROVERBS. Cbap. XSt 

Love of truth is a diicf bond of unionr among the rdU 
ffious. R. Men are often more tenacious of their own 
mvention% tlian of clear divine appointments, Matth. 
XV. 9. ' S^-iove feduces, andfalfe good dazzles. R. 

3 Often and deliberately commit thy works 
unto the Lord; 2Lnd thy deftgnins'' thoughts 
Ihall be well eftabliflied. 

Prayer. Impious pride, of all others, was not made 
for man. To tiull God, in the ufe of upright endea- 
vours, is the way "to avoid folicitude, Pfal. xxxv. 5, Sec. 
Phil. iv. 6. He is willing to aid, but not to^or^ free in- 
telligences. R Love is that worfhip which is moll 
worthy of him. R. This he requires for the good of his • 
creatures. In prayer we adore olivine authority, juftiff 
his laws, and put our confciences under a diftin<fl obliga- ♦ 
tion to duty^^ 

4 The Lord hath made all things f for tk^^ 
difplafof hirafelf ; yea even the wicked lo be 
upheld for the day of infliding evih 

' Glory of God. To communicate happinefs mud have 
been the fpring of divine aaing. For that very end, a 
day offevere recompence became neceffary, PfaL xvii. 
13, &c. 2 Pet. ii. 9. Contempt for religion can only pro- 
ceed from ignorance. R. Godczn draw an hfinlte gooi^ 
from a tranfient evil , ^ , r n n. - 

Remind us, O mo^ great and good God^ of our firft on- 
, ginal, and of our laft end ; that as we began, ft 
we may terminate in thee, and not forfakc thee, by ob- 
ftinate impenitency, which cannot but be fubjea to thy 
power, and fall at lafi: under hideous vengeance.^ Co* 
vince us, that, as the perfcaion of righteoulheft is iii thee, 
fo thou mull either overcome all unrighteoumefs, or be 
affronted eternally by the prevalence of it ! 

* Compare Pro<D. xvh i8, — xv. 22. — 9emx. ZU •• 
-^ Or injlrumentalto his purpefes. 



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Qtp. iVL PllOVEItBS. ujis 

Every one that is proud ia litart, to fhi ne*^ 5 
ikS offnous regards^ is an abomination fo the 
Lord *, therefore^ though hand join in hand 
mth much firmnefs of purp^fe^ he (hall not aU 
waji be left unpuniflicd. • 

Impious pride. Ranks and dignities arc but the (fca^ , 
dow5 of grandeur. R. Unlefs when accompanied with 
merit, only outward homage will be paid them. 

We coEfefs, Lord^ tliat wc have made ourfelvcs left . 
than the leaft of all thy mercies, and obnoxious to thy , 
jttfticc and dilplcafurc, by our repeated aAs of finning ' 
ag^ft thee. Enable us to repent, and turn to thee^ . 
and do works meet for ripentance ! 

By mercy to the poor ^ and truth of adherence 6 

|o divine dijcoverieSi former de^/ement of iniquiiy 

i? t purged ^/ and by the fear of the Lord 

^f>wards^ men depart from committing th^ like' 
cvit 

%^, /ntfi, and the fear of God. Charitable works 
^**«r accompany true penitenccj Dan. it. aj. ^or- ^ 
ptftlaefs of God prepares for the worft crimes. Let 
jw unpenitent (inner think of his prayers, as an appesit 
^l cqniFalent inftead of obedience. 

^jben, a, man*s ways pleafe the fufremt. 7 
^P^ed Lord, he often maketh even his worfi 
enemies to be at peace with him. 

^tftte*- Y God The wife, for themfelves, truft thoTe . 
**Mpn»dide more than any o^ i Pet. iii. 13. Good** 
'^^ndearg and foftens, Ifa^xi. 9. Rom. riv. iS. 

^^ercas, holy God^ the habits of fm have been efta- 
Wiftcd in us, give, hereafter, fuch time and refolution 

A that engageth In con/piracy ^Jbatt come to barm. H. 
^ Or cancelled. H. 



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ijo- PItOVERBS: Chjip. XVI. 

as are neceflkry to tiie recovery of oitrfelves i Help us 
to workout all difpofitiqns which are vicious, and by de- 
grees to refettle confcience and reafon m a blifsfiil ca- 
pacity for communion with thee ! 

.f Better is a little, for pure regular enjoymenf, 
witjb*. righteoufnefs ; than. great amaftdxt" 
venues without confcious right. 

. Upright wtahb and pon>erty. Much of good charaftcr 
and comfort depend upon mutual fidelity. Glare ci 
wealth blinds the bulk of mankind. Money ill acquiitd 
cannot abide refledion, Jam. v. 4, &c. Jer. xvii. 11. 
* To be contented with fmall matters argues a noble 
pious miad. 

BkfidGodyWt praife and magnify thee, xh^fathcrofour 
^ritsy for the glorious original of our nature, and 
for the glorioirs defign of our creation. That thou 
haft made our faculties fuch, that they are greater than 
this world, too good for it, and cannot be fatisfied with' 
It. They are, by their exaltation, appropriated unto- 
thee, fit for, and capable of thee. 

9 A man's heart devifeth his way, to obtain 
profit ; but the overruling Lord dircfteth his 
fteps, for a more general lajlvng good* 

Providence* Human powers are limited, to reader 
them pioufly dependents Ungodly prefumption is 
complete fooliihnefs, Jam, iv. 13, &;c. Since the firft 
mover has fo much power and wifdom, he muft be ready 
to fuccour thofe who have need of his aid. R. 

. L^e of all Jbeings ihew thyfelf to me ; make ine to 
know what thou art, and what 1 am ; come and fiiccour 
me, in the moft needy ftates i R. 

10 A divine equitable fentence is in the lips^ 
of the wi/ey faithful king ; his mouth, under 

* OrhoneJIy. H. 



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Chap. XVI. PROVERBS. 151 

cel^ial rule^ tra&igrefleth not in /^^;;};2 judge- 
ment. 

kings. All judges and magiftrales are accountable. 
Their crimes notwithftinding Oiould be mildly and 
ufefully cenfured, Rom. xiii. i, 5cc. Sound underhand- 
ing and integrity are the glories of high office, i Kings 
iii. 25,&c. Job xxix. 16, &c. 

A juft weight and balancc,/d?r commerce^ are 1 1 
the Lord's exprefs ordination ; and all the 
weights of the bag are to hiniy as his own com^ 
plete work. 

Jufiice. Equitable ftandards in carrying on bufi- 
xxS& are efTential to good order, Deut. i. 16.— xxt. 
13. That can be no fmall matter, which has been £0 
attended to by infinite love, Mic. vi. 10. 

It is an abomination to kings, above every 1 2 
other, to commit wickednefs ; * for the throne 
itfelj is eftabliflied by righteoufiiefs. 

. JCtngt^ The examples of the great have an immediate 
good or bad effed. Hence their iniquity is aggravated. 
Equity is more than ftrength. Happy prince, who 
reigns in the hearts of his fubje<5ls ! Pfal ci. i, &c. 

Hcfled be thou, our God^ who haft repeated, and rein- 
forced the laws of religion, by fupernatural difcoveries; 
and thus haft given afi advantage for being virtuous, 
and god-like, and happy I 

Tfue righteous lips are the delight of judi- 13 
ciQtis kings : and they love him even to rapture 
that fpeaketh right at all hazards. 

Truihfor kings. To fay what Ihould be, and not what 
is, is the way to win upon fuperiors. Faithful cp\iniel, 

♦ Or, hecaufe. H 



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iij^t FROVERSd. Ghap. VII 

.though fuieafy at the tinw, obuku dtfepraifeaft ew i ifi i 
Sovereign power ought to be well direded. 

1 4 The wrath of a king^'k$wever caufeltfi^ is as 
meiTengers of death; • but a wife/tfifi^ 
man wUl pacify it, through time. '*" 

King/ love andwrath* Death m difmal apprehenlioti 
is to repeat it over and over» £ilh. vii. 8. Approvedin* 
tegrky is a man's bed vindication joined with vM 
pliidence. To command with moderiitlon, and to ttf 
with readinefsy is a found political Aate. K. . '.v 

15 In the /miling light of the good king's coun* 
tenance is the heppirufs <^/life, to ihofe wh^ cm 
nigh him y and his experienced fairour^is asi 

firiHixing cloud, full of the latter rain. 

JCings' love. Sovereign affe(5lion may, and (houldbc 
fought, by all fair means. Love may be read m tnoft 
people's looks, Pfal iv. 6. — xi. 7. Power and wealth 
conjoined afford various means for doing good* C^ 
Temors (hould reward, as well as puniHu 

16 How much better is it to get diriSiH 
wifdom through life, than gold which pff'J^ 
eth f and to get the ufe of right tindcrflandfcg> 
rather to be chofen, than tbeftneji of filvcfl 

' Wifdom. An improved mind, vjrith fyitable practice, liads 
to lafting cfteem. It is a ftrange proof of human weakncfsi 
to labour chiefly for what win be f^n over ; and vBicb> 
being alone, has no merit. J 

Blejed Gcdy as thou haft diMbguilhed us Atm ^e 
beaftsthat perifli, by tliy creation of us, and haft eialtcd 
us above them ; and given us faculties and capacjiies 
which s^e not in them, fo Idt Us ^ift up to' pur nateral 
4ignft|t and elevation;- and never be perftaded* 'tbst 

* Rtuher^yef. H. '+ Orfhefatneft of. H. 



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#it4sthiefafl fa ti rf iij f} fH V ofantafiM^ 

fotoouK! • ^ 

Tfa^^iii0y^ h>gh«wa.y of tlie upright is to 1/ 
depart from all known evil : iit$d ne that t^ 
dfierwardt keepeth his way cffincere viriae^ 
prefcrveth the Jure peace of bis own fouL 

Vfri^tnefs and peace. *Hic good are in heart whJtt 
thejr ittm to be. Their p^ is clear and lifted up. 
Confcience muft ftet be bribed. This fnggelh minudD 
ddicate admg* 

Mjrtce us Jjappy, /^iiifi by the praftice oft that duty 
we were iS^de for ; and reconcile our minds to thy fer- 
riee, a» t;hat whk^ is <^ur perfe^ &ecdam and oor great- 
«ft privilige ! 

Halfitual pridtf goeth before deftrudion ; 1 8 
and even a lefi 4<gree of haughty fpirit be- 
fore tjh^erei falL 

?rtie amd wo. Love- oi precedence generally defeats 
itieif. How ill does this become a frail neceflltotis con- 
tiitioni .God will ftand up in good time, for the fi-iend- 
kfi and inipotenty ^laL vk r. 

Better it is to be of an humble patient fpirit 19 
^itji the lowly in t^eir own ejesy xhznpr a 
time^to divide the f ipoiX of wealth with the 
cruel oppreffive proud^ • 

ffumiRty and pride. * Nothing can long conceal the ex- 
treme evit of vice* Meek cbntentment yields pure and 
fcgular delight. . To Tit low is often to fit fafe, Pial. 
zlv. 4* Such €00 are acceffible and ufeful. 

He that handleth a matter for pradice wife- ao 
ly Ihall find much rejoicir,g good ; and whofo, 

♦ Or thief totUern of^ \Sc^ t Or plunder. H. 
• N 



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9s« novBKOBi chv m* 

. rtmi behamng^ iniftctb it^ S a t&e Lor4^, bad 
py is he in every outward Ji ate. 

Kmwtei^e an J irujt m GdJ. To attempt fthat we bare 
00 ability for is cHtninal* and expefes to imt dif|^«i 
Ponder ferioufly both ways and means. Pr«y«p is l^v. 
fruit of humility, and diligence an expreiHoQ of taiA 
nefs. In a way of duty GoiiwiM be found. A dcvort* 
foul becomes more and mot^ exakad» delicate, ffj^^ 
rous. i^. " . i j 

31 The wife in heart, /r(?w /^^/V profitahkff' 
dttff^ ibiJik/oon be called and tre/Ued 0/ ^1^]^- 
miliatt as prudent f; and the fwcetnefsflfw 
Vi^^ in particular \i incrcafcth nect^arj \tfi0 
ing. ^ 

Prudence and learning. True wifdom iunt^lfes 
diotight, afie^tion and behaviofur, Luke v«i. 15. Xa<*t^' 
ledge (hould be laid out for the beft advantage of fldKffc* 
The feeling of great truths gives an dioquent maulhr^" 
trance. Words ofthe gentle are gracious, jTffn.iite 

Let all thofc means, Almghtj God^ which thou wk- 
provided, for informing men concerning the truths rfl^ 
ligion, and for making them truly religious, hlivete'# 
figned effedt upon their hearts and fives ; that 1j# 
prevalence of univerfal righteoufnefs^ goodne&#l 
truth, thou mayeft be eminently: glorified by thoi^jPi-* 
bear the name of thy fon ! 

2 2 Clear underftanding is like %falubrious ;i^-. 

fpring of happy life* unto him that bathji^^ 

fare poffijfion of it ; but the inflruftiofl «fc 

weak wicked rook is like folly itfi^^ %»10'' 

leadeth to utter ruin. 

Vfeful hno'tx>tedge. The mind well ftored overflows to 

• Or.Jhall have hu Ueffin^s. H. f Rather but, Gai* 
iu2j* X Orgiifeti grace to wf^m* M* 



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a^p. %Vh PROVERBS. 4is 

^e rcfreibnient of others with new Itg^t and heat. PUce 
yoiirfelves ever nigh to fo great a blefling. Vain and fri- 
volous, at heft, mull the converfation of others be. Like 
poiiened iprings they often \nie6t and ruin, from their 
flsam. The weak never epcpofe themfelves to inuch» a$ 
Bpon high fu})je4s. 

We miigaify thee, our Goti^ by whom we arc made 
{soret that it is thy glory to communicate thy perfe^ions 
towthy creatures ; and to#naintain the fovereignty of 
goodiiefs, righteoufnefs, and {ruth, for the benefit of the 
mtelle^laal world4 

, ^jrhe heart of the wife man tca^eth hij 23 
m^m^h ti^/pidi^from agreeable eMfcrience ; and 
addeth the beji ef aU learning anmig ^tbert te 
his well ordered hpj. 

W^ twmerJkAtm. l%ere is an eligiUe mtfWMr, as ix^ 
»/fnfm» far enrj thbii^» R«ni« vr* 1. Soch ftrtke out 
new ideas to thenuelves, £ph. iv. 29. Col. iv. 6. The 
cm^mg of others ought to be managed with ddieacy and 
ttajy aife R. E^ierafe aids both ]w)wkdge ^ ^j^oicfay 

^^i^^^^ ^'^ W^f l**^* 

_Pira£int • words arc deftrahk as droptfrm 24 
aa- honey-comb; fweet in tbemfshM ani^ ^ 
Itrntftbening to the foul, even like healtht ^ 
dffMy to tnc ^ery bones. ^^^ 

. Wmdr.fJei^.afuljtfefid^ What flows w\A hk from 
a Wdl improved heart is generally captivating. Here 
l]^i^4he vAiolt fccf et of valuable eloquence. Virtue muft 
hidie fiwiyfiUion of fao4 linking* Fierce .oppoTition 
tmm iox Bioft pait to irritate the yonng. R. 

There is a way that fram love U vice i^aii- 15 
cth ri^ht unto a man ; but in the end thereof 

^ Or vmnk oftkqutnfe* JST. 
N z 



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fj€ PROVERBS. Chap. Xn 

iris felt that they arc the ways of ceridn irr$ 
mediable death. 

^ Carelefsncfs and felf-Jeceit, There is hope of one,' as 

long as his confcience is not filenced by a mifled juclg^ 
tnent, Luke xi. 34. Pfal. xix. 1 2. Ingenuous diligence 
and prayer, will fuccecd, Pfal xxv. 8, &c. Yondi In 
general, are moft hurt by the joviaitits of vice, which arc 
quite dclu five* Errors of tkc human mind are nearly 
the fame in all times. R. /■ 

Let not, thou good and holy God^ fuch a delufionei^ 
take place in us, as to think there can be no inverting^ 
order of mature to oiu: prejudice ; but that our tm^ 
might be emplojrcd, if we fo refolve, to make provifiott 
for the flefhy to Ailfil the lufts thereof. 

a6 He that labourcth, hboureth for «/*«/ 
himfelf cannot fubft/l without ; for by the iren^ 
$f appetite^ his mouth continually cravethitof 
him. 

• Diligenee. Need is the prompter of inAiftry , abtt 
with the hope of fuccefs. Every idle periba is mwm 
to his own perfon, and a nuifance to fociety, 2 Thcff iii- 
10, &c. It is not charity to fiipport fuch* Religious 
diligence is fpecially landing. 

«7 An ungodly man dig^eth up evil twMii' 
ceffunt amplication ; and in his lips there is, 
for defraying J what may be compared to z b^i 
burning fire. 

Impious devices. They who have no fear of God^ *»• 
not be good I Malice feeks to triumph over pitiable bu; 
man weaknefs. It is from the inteniion that our omai' 
fclent witnefs will judge» Jam. iii. 1 3. 

a 8 A mifchiwous frowzrd /peaking man foweth 
ftrife, to wide extent ; and a privy whifpcrer 



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ikn had Jived 04 chief frieaiis. 

Fnwardnefi and whtfitermg. Some ^cliCTC fittJu 
lt<^ a fevere cruel dtfpofitian. Few wait the ^vent of 
(^.inquiry. A dctraftor iindeiinmes, aiul yet vMh^s 
1^1^^ Jiiinfelf, Jam. iiL 17, to. Artifipe is uiwortby 
oyjf$at fouls. R. 

'K violent man cnticeth his ^mpii neigh* aj 
^our ujoin ; axid leadeth him, under falfe pre^ 
iar^^io to the way that is not good,yV d- 
^ private or puhiii weifare. 

/TfiJW. CoafiJwi: a^itiopp stre rnrnanng. The 
jpi;^ of tile muUitucje ftruple not to ajdd. Difcoverf 
of truth becomes fatal to fucb. Virtuous fouls da not 

fii wh$ 1/ mifchkvous at heart (hutteth his 3^ 
tyts to devife hurtful * froward things ; and 
fUrag his Hps, in confequence of fuch artful 
Wfibrei |, he bringeth tvW frequently to pafi. 

^_4W«p. Deliberately intended mifchief is horrible. 
^Rtey projc<ft means and mutter them frequently over^ 
to under faU^ood the more ^^(ible. ■ Succeft in vice is % 
AMfidence ^eafmcityig ami the forenmner of ag{r«p 

The ^ed hoary head h like a refplendent 31 
^»wa of glory, if it be found ki the ways of 
^p approved righteoufnefs. ' 

/ -Migkeou^ oid agfi^ AppeaKuure of advanced goodnelS 
"twaeiaWe, Lev. rix. 3J. ^iwrori have peculiar claims 

* (kmpare Prov. $tvi. 28.— w*. 14*— t;«ff. 13^ H. 
t Htfumtl) m eKcmtipH tiervil^ or «f/ roi/. //. 
N 2 



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ijg PitOVERBS. Chap. X?l. 

from their naturally adorning garland, lYal. xciL tt^ke* 
Religious virtue oftenefl attains to old age. Job y. m/^ 
Sound judgement is better than quick parts, JL 

3a He that is flow to ^, under an impul/k^ 

.anger, is better to himjelf^ than the niighv 

conquerors of others ; and he that calmly rule^ 

his provoked fpirit, than he that taketh a dt|^ 

by artifice orjiorm. 

Sefffovemment. Age and underftandmg toecCl^) 
mellow the temper. It is defirable to be praifed by 
competent judges. A patient equal difpofition argu0 
a noble mind. Good difpafiionate men are image^^ 
Jlmighty love. To foi^ce fubjedion againfl truth a^d 
right, ii fliocking public robbery. It deftroys nature^ Wd- 
dcr pretence of improving. R. 

Su£Fer not our fpirits, O thou comp^onaie Faiher of 
them, to be in conjunction with, and I'ubje^ unto any vi- 
cious, and accuried fpirits, fince we are redeemed bf 
the blood (^ thy fon ; but take us into a conjun^ion 
with thy own good fpirit, which is infioite and infalliblfii 
that we may live under the dire^ion and inBuence of it 
all our days ! 

33 The lot is caft/<?r adventure into the * lapj 
but the f whoJc difpofing thereof, tbofu^ijo 
appearance accidental j is ot the gracious inJfi^U 
Lord. 

Lots* Both great and fmall things are obje^s <^^ 
vineft^erintfndanee. How comfortable ! He diffX^of 
what is mod fecret. J 

Grant, Lord^ ^ thou repeateft thy mercies, ib we xi»T 
repeat; the feveral duties of ourTe%ion ; and thus .ad- 
vance nearer to thee, by that likeneis, through which wc 
are ever with thee> amd by which alone we can dra^ 
nigh unto thee ! • ^ 

• Or rofiven f Or its dicifion. H, 



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PItOVERBS. ' isr 



CHAP. XVII. 

BETTER is a Arffcanly morfel, for trug % 
en/oymenty and quietncf* therewith j 
than a houfe full of good cheer* ^ like /^/w^/f^facri- 
4ces, with near vexatious ftrife. 

Dcmeflic peace. Quiet and holinefs mark the chll* 
&r^ of the b^befl ; and render fociety bltfsful. Pure fo- 
. dal meats are ^crifices dill of thankfgiving. Liberal 
ftnd joyful fpirits affe congenial. Affluence often pro- 
iiHles what it doth not confer. Want is not always mi-^ 
ierable. Perfonal peace of mind renders others fo. 
Noify contentious feafts are burdenfomc. Peace is bet- 
ter Uian delicates. Invite not the peevifh to table-fel- 
towihip. 

A jr wife faithful fcrvatit, whm known^ fliall a 
have rule over .a fpendthrift ill-doing fon, that 
caufeth fliame to his neareji relativei ; and 
fcall come in time to have part of the inheri- 
tance by pur chafe J among the brethren. 

Faithful fifvants. Fidelity is proved by time and care. 
Negledt itfelf is unfeithful, Pfal. ci. 6, 7. Eph. vi. 5. 
Mail is not born for himfelf alone, but for fociety. jR. 

. The J fining-pot is ior jpuri/ication of GXvtr^ 3 
ind the hotter crucible furnace for precious * 
gold ; but the fovereign bleffed and holy Lord § 
tricth thejiearts of bis be9 beloved people ^ for 
"^ their good. 

^ At *whicb Jrttndt were entertained^ • ExoA xxho, 5. 
DetU, xvUu 3. /^. f Oty a wife guardian conirouldb an ^ 
imprudent fan ; anJ dinndeth the inberitance among the hr0» 
then. H. X Or melting crufe. H. J Ptovetb. H. 



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I4# PROVERJM^ CbaikXVlL 

J^fMons fanE^ed. Man's knowledge reaches not tbtt -- 
defignsy principles and movements of the foul, Roqic 
xiv. 4. I Cor. jr. j, Ac. Afflji^iansy t^en with patience," 
refine the very beft, 1 Pet. i. 7, &c. Mai. iii. ir &c. 
Jcr. vi. ^. Tbejr majr^^^, but n^Tercan * 
the good. 

4 A wicked doer glvcth ^afy heed to 
tnjuriniX\^%\ aad a liar, inparikular^ giw 
quick ear to a ^^ oaughty tongue like Ji9r 

£vil doers and Sars. A bad heart b the con Aai>t pme 
ciple of cruel deiamatibn. 5uch conibrun^ of othersJ|(; 
what they feel. Their ma\im is, the more niifchicf 4 
jbetter fport. Compare i Con xiii. 6. Pfal. liL i, to^ 

5 Whofo mocketh the poor, m that acc$mam 
reproacheth his alUwife maker : and he XMt 

: is glad at calamities brought upon otbtrsj &aS 
not be long unpuniihed. ..;'. 

Poverty andaJUQ'ton. It is the extreme of cruelty t^ i|^ 
" creafe wo, Eccl. iv. |, &c. Affli^ions try and fubB- 
mate excellence. Mtfconftnift not divine judgements. 
To fpareriw^, the misfortunate are too often ftylotf -vfr 
cious. *Inis is to add murder to the robbery of wj# 
ritablenefs, Deut. xxiv. 14, 15. G(?«^ efpoufes thcrip^ 
of upri^t vrant, Prov. xxviii. 27. * 

Let the confideration of that great and terrible ^ft of 
judgement abide, God^ upon our hearts continQiUl^) 
at which we fhall awake out of the doil of death^jM^ 
fee the Lord J^j God made mamf^ in the fiefh^ ccmiein 
naming foe, to take vengeance on all thc^e that kn^vr n^ 
God^ and that obey not \i\% gofpel : and beftow ^lor^, 
honour and immortality upon thofe that obey htm f 

6 Children's children are the moH frequmi 
4rnam€nting ctQ^n oivinuQUr old men j aad 



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C^p. XVn. F4!U>VSRB& 141 

the glory ^/mb chtidren are ihdt mfi ^i^ 

ful parents. 

Parents and children. They who earlicft honour divlm 
9fier^ do ofteneft live in a long race of defcendants, Pfal. 

cxxvii. 3, &c cxxviii. 1, &c. Pious offspring rife up 

to bids their infant, youtliful proteaors. How incfti- 
itf^e and beneficial, to be thus defcended ? 2 Tim. i. 5. 
wbS^ up noble excellence, by cldfe imitation, i Chron. 
jgenii. 9* 

Excellent fpeech becometh* not a weak 7 
vAckediooX to meddle with ; much le& do lying 
lij^/uit the cbarailer ofz prince. 

JEbquancet and lying* Van perfons will fometimc*. 
affea the praifes of truth, to the diftrcfs of all who- 
toa^than. Stations of truft, and office^ require the. 
ttoAeft attachment to what is fair and equitable. . Falfc*, 
fy)0d is the moft dired reverfe of divine nature and will, 
P&t V. 3, 5cc. Rev. xxi. 8, 27 — ^xxii. 15. Minifters of 
idinon are fpecially bound to faithful fpeech. An 
«^ rifing vanity, may one day obfcure great qualities. 

Af gift from pure grace is captivating^ as a 8 
precious ftonc in the eyes of him that hath 
^ poffijion of it i whitherfoever it turnctb, 
if Mr/ handj it profpercth with fuitable prai/e. 

: G^. Bribes to the hurt of right arc curfed abufcs. 
eS wealth. Gifts of grace are juft the reverfe, Job xxxi. 
7^*4cc We always love with pleafure. 

• He thatj coverethaj(7/^A/tranfgreffion,/?r 9 

♦ Or the languag$ of dignity beeometh not^ Gfr. H. Com-' 
pare^ Luke xxH. 25. \ Or a bribe is Rke a beautiful gem 
mUt.eyes of him who loieth g^fis / H procureth a manjvceeft - 
%P wbatfoever ht attempt^hj Prov, xxiL 24.— <• 19* i/. 
t Or concealeth an ill word, Prov. xi. I'j* 



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HI PROVERBS. Cbaf). XVrb 

p$/Hefak€y fiaeketh. and pruurzth cfint the bt^ 
Jing of pure love among neighbours ; but he that. 
bafely rcpeatcth a matter of that fori [ep^xr^i^ih 
very intimate former friends. 

Lovf and hatred. Many efcapes ought to be burlcS- 
ih filence, to reform the tranfgrefTors, and do goo4 to 
fbciety. Adraonifh fccretly and with mildnefs. Cat4 
not at every femblance of evil. Some that are real ad- 
mit of extenuation. Difcord is a dreadful element to 
live in, Pfal. cxiu 5, &c. Col. iii. 12* &c. - 

Way the confidcration, how much we (inncrs are re-. 
^yed againft the rigour of the taw of God^ by the me- 
diation of Jefus Cbrylf prevail with us, in obedience to 
thy divine authority, Lordf and in gratitude for the 
divine compa^n, to abate all rigour m thofe demand 
which -we make upon our brethren, how much fo ever 
tiiey have ofiiended tts ; and asirre hope to be fbrgiveib 
may wc fi)rgivc ! 

I o A judicious mild reproof enter^th more deep 

into the profitable convidim of a wife €anm 
man, than an hyxn^rtd fevere ftripes into fhd 
; ofz fool. 

Reproof. Thought, ingenuity and teachablcnefs iff 
•haraderiftics of prudent wifdom. Neither divinCi'W 
haman llripes, m\\i cuve the obfttnate, Prov. xxvi» i^ 
Truly wife people are jealous 0/ their own hearts^ d^i^ 
invite people to be free with them. 

I I An accuHomed evil man, feeketh only hazard^ 
ous rebellion ; therefore one time or another^ ^ a 
cruel meffenger (hall be fcnt againft hxm^fit 
condign punifi>ment. 

Difcord. Habkoal fin gradually hardens, and leacb 
tp feisk 4&er ftuf^ifying rebellious i^nsons* Men of 

• Or mimtcr of ven^eanci. 



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Cbssp: XVtt PROVEUBS. 14I 

{iWy jmagiiutttons, afe cemmonlj the leaft folidy and * 
»oft apt to create broils. R. 

' Let B, furious bear robhed of her whelps 13 
ineet a dtfencel^s man ; rather than a fool in 
the rage of his folly. 

YR^» Revenge is ba(c, and totally incompatible with 
rcEgfon. Loffes are apt to increafe wrath. How, like 
ta miltal favage fiiry h rfiat of the ruffian ? They have 
more inftrunients of .cruelty, than boars. Overcome* 
tvii with good. 

^hofo ww^r^/^«///rewardethcvil for good, 1 3 
the punijhmenf oftvW fhall not long depart out 
fi^om his houfe. 

InjratituJe, To negleiSl, and maltreat a bcnefa<flor, i& 
black, horrible guilt. Generations unborn may have 
caufe to weep tinder it. Honour even fmall favours 
wctii thai^ul remembrance. Whoever is capable of 
fofTgctting a benefit may be looked upon as an enemy ^ 
toScicty. 

The beginning of {Irife/A^^affi/Jjiw//, \% liable 14 
to gradual increafe^ as when one letteth out a 
gr^fit weight of water ; therefore • leave off 
attending to t&e ground ^contention, before it 
be-iLtfell meddled with. 

Strife. A clofe guard is due to things of importance. 
Trtvud cfcapcs may piove faul. Stop the flood gates 
of. jcaloufy and paUion, while you may. Jam. iii. 5,;8. 
A dying ember may be fohlown upon, as to do a world 
of harm, Eccl. xxviii. 11, &c. Prov. xxvi. 20, 21. Be' 
not aihamed to afk peace. R. 

* Some therefore meddle not with that which may bring -m 
^(mieniiotu H* 



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144 FROVERBS. Chap. XVtt. 

15 He that juftifieth the wicked with his km^ 
{edge as innocent ; and he that,/r0;R like bafen^ 
of mind^ condemneth the juft in bis deaHngjs ; 
even they both are an abomination to the 
Lord. 

Righteoufnrfs and vice. Plead not for a bad caufe ; WfjA 
bx lefs fet it eloquently off. To abufe the feat of juijS^ 
menty for fuch purpofes, would be peculiarly hotra^ 
£xod. xxiii. 6» &c. 

Teach us, Ltrrd^ to confider how much of our^me 
of life has been already confumed in the fervice of fiflLnd 
how little may remain for the neceflary exerctfi m. 
pentance, by which what was ill done, may be 
and the contrary habits of righteoufnefs, may be 
duced and fettled ! Left we be conftrained at 
take part with thee againft ourfelves ; and to 
ourfdvesy without daring to afk^'or hope, for that 
without which we muft perifh everlaftingly. 

J 6 Wherefore is there a price put in the fttMJI 
of a weak wicked fool, by opportunities^ to Jjgt 
beneficial wifdom, feeing he hath no pn^ 
heart * to make ufe ojix.^. 

Means and occaftom How many fit ignorant Vlfihr 
the beft advantages for inftru^ion ? To want 
city and not to ufe it are nearly the fame as to 
quence, though not as to guilt, Pfal. xxxii. 8, 9* 
xii. 47. 

17 A j^wr^rtf friend lovech at all times f, atkf s 
brother-/r/>«rf, is born Jorfpecial aid for ibi 
day ^adverlity. 

Friend/hip. Conftancy and fortitude are the touchftotte 

* Or, no difp^tion. H f Some^ yea a brother wB 

he be. H. 



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Oiiap. Xyil. PROVERBS. 145 

^ true lore ; from kno^edge, goodnefs and experience. 

tch will prudendy allow for human frailties ; and grow 
afiedion with trials. To conceal fentiments and 
adjii^ons is cruel to friendihip. 

'a man void of underftanding ftriketh 18 
hands in hafte^ and thus becometh furety for 
'moibery even in the prefcncc of his judicious 

fl$sild, whom he might and ought to have con-- 
fuHed. ' 

^jhreijflnp. To engage from love and friendfliip, the 

p^tfity and circumftances ihould be well thought of. 

|^|8 imjnfl to do this for more than we are worti, and 

y fometimes prove cruel. In many cafes, they do 

who become bound for another, without their 

dge, chap. vi. i, &c. 

■ffc a3s as one who lovtxh tranfgreffion, that 19 
Jbvcth to be engaged where ftrife is ; and he 
H^lfL proudly * exalteth his gate, behaves as one 
mi^i&tktth fure miferable deftrudion. 

' PfuU. Make peace with fpeed, ver. 14. Pfal. ixxiv. 
K|i, Pride and bad temper are xx2x intimates, which 
^refifteth. 

'^^^^e that hath a rajh froward heart, leading 20 
S^^fe words y findeth no good from thence, but 
much evil ; and he that hath a perverfe jfhuf 
JImg tongue falleth intoyJr^ milchief. 

• ^\Froward heart and fpeecL Violence, immodefty and 
ftubbomefs, are fure marks of a froward heart. They 
wifh to fee things in their word lights, and pay no re- 
gstrd to convidlions, Pfal. vii. 14, i6cc. 

* SmnCf bulkUtb hhh hU houfi. H. . 

o 



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146 PROVERB.^. Chap. J^\l 

21 He that f begetteth a weak impious fool 
doetb it to his frequent forrow ^ a^id the fa^ 
thcr oifuch a fool hath no joy tu alt in hinu 

IVlched children. Vice is worft than fimplc weabhefs, 
yer. 25. Education n^kdted is hideous. YonthiU 
lufls often lead to ruin, Hof. iv. 4* i Pet. ii. 11. Giv" 
ing pain to parental tendernefe is little (hon of parricide* 
Beilt. xxi. 1 8, 5tc. 

22 A merry heart, frem upright virtue^ doeth 
good to both fold and body^ like a refrefhful m^, 
dicine; but a broken dcjeded (pint, uni^ 
horrors of guilty drieth the very bones. - 

Cheerfulnefs and d^e&ion. Sweet and eafy tezopexs 
have ufually moft health. It balances often a natural 
weali condltution and fome degrees of want, ftal. 
zzxvii. II, 16. Joyial heats are of no dbratios, anA 
followed, &r moft part, with double uneafinefs. Qridf 
o( repentance is not without what is quieting ; whereat 
$)rrow of this world workcth death. JBolkitude detett 
itfelf, Eccl. XXX. 24. 

' We acknowledge, OLord^ mofihigh^ that the obecifience 
of our whole lives is due unto thee> our creator, and th^ 
every alienation of ourfelves from thee is profane ami 
facrilegeous. But having done a^s of edrangement 
fi-om, and hoftility againft thee, we confefs, that wctrt 
vicioufly difpofed thereby, and both unworthy of thy £te 
vi>ur, ;a)d, remaining impenitent, incapable of it. 

23 A wicked injuring man taketh a gift out 
of the bofom, to pervert his ruler fr 0m ^c 
ways of judgement. 

Britery, When the means of repairing wronj^ ar^ 
abufed, the perverfion is infufFerable. lie who bribes 
acknowledges^ the. badnefs of his cauTe; and he who -re- 
ceives is impious, cruel, bafe. Such do fet the wxpx)|^ 

t Rather^ hath htgottetu H 



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Cbnp XVII PROVERBS. JI47 

ed to falc, only bocaufe Uict' have been hurt by them 
before. Happy ifles where freedom and laws have their 
due courfe, Eccl. iv. i y £cc. Qualities in leaders are birth» 
intrepidity, temperance and experience. R^ 

Tbej rule of tqmtable wifidom is evir be- 14 
fare him that hath underftanding, to enecutf 
fbe duiies of his place ; but the eyes of the mind^ 
in a weak indifferent fool, are as in the ends of 
the e^rth from true right. 

KumtMgt 0fpBed. A roving eye, with vaeuing car* 
rlage» 4>reclaims wnptinefs. What perfe£b uie humai^ 
fiiculties are the proper things to be known by a reaibn- 
aUe bemg. Mere fpecmlauon« ferv<e only to amafet 
Jam. L 31, ^ Phil. !▼• S« Corrupted minds can have 
w rdiih for heavenly troths. R. Johxu iii. ip, &c, 

A fooKfh ill'bebaving fon is zjivere^ grirf 15 
to his father, and bitterneft it/elf to her that 

'BaJ ^hildrgfu See ver. 31. Parents may grieve, and 
even be anffry, in order to wife chafHfement* A mbther^r 
jwrfn is absolutely confuming. Ye next to bowdeis chit 
dbrenthitikofth^e things. 

Alfo to puniQi the juft like malefaffors is a5 
not good for either them or the public ; nor to 
ftrike princes for their laude^h tneafures of 
equity. 

Rukn. Hade and paiHotv xlo not eicufe erroneous 
Judges* High ofiice abufed portends ruin to a^ftate, PfaL 
»u 8. A civil war is the greateft of aH calamities. 
Frectpitate changes, however ufeful they ma^ appear* 
te« atarays dangerous. R^ 

^ Jnthc cwMimanof ^ a ^Mman^ tvj/Hom ^^ofw/ii^ 
fuf the ^ ^^Jool roS ^ m^ircu Mi t i<W&^ 

Ok 



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i4« PROVERBS. Chap-ltVIIt; 

2J He that hath deep knowledge fpareth hii 
words ; and a man of real underftanding is 
of an excellent cool fpirit. 

Tongue-government. The more people know, xht more 
fenfible they are of their ignorance. Fluency and mutS 
ipeech do not always chara<5lerize judgement. He 
affe(fls leaft who knows moft. Cftentatlon is hatefiiL 
Self-command argues calm thought, and eminent vir- 
tue, Jam. iii. i, ficc. The beftcauicsare fometimeshurt 
by rafhnefs. Be fparing in words, when circumftanccs^ 
ipeak fufficiently for themfelves. R. The wife inftriift 
by hints, rather than by long elaborate difcuffions. R^ 

a 8 Even zjimple ignorant fool, when he hol4f» 
eth his peace, is counted wife, by thofe wk 
are Jir angers to him ; and he that fllutteth 
c/o/e his lips, for the fake of hearing oth^rs^;)f> 
efteemed a man of underfianding. w. 

^eech andftlencc. A convidion of weakncfs fefOnc 
good ftcp to become wtfer. Modcfty conciliates an4i^ 
dears. Pride is unteachable. Moft infants blufli 'to^ 
fpeak, and fhould not be taught forwardnefs. To ^ 
vem fpeech is mercy lo ourfelves, and jufticc to .1^ 
wprld. " p 



CHAP. XVIII. 



■T 



H ROUGH ♦ an earneji defire i^fi 
knowledge^ a man having feparatcd 

* A retired man purjueth the refearches be dcUgbUtk 
in ; and hath pleafure in each branch of fcience* H* 



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Gimp. KVIH^ f«OVKRJft 94f' 

VmMffrm the kfl^ world fceketh witb M^ . 
gincey and in proclfi rf 4ime^ iatermeddletii 
with all profiiable wlAlom^ 

Si£hde md medbatm. UaderftattttKng l^tk die 
fi>ul» M^ttb. yi. Z2f ftc. Earned defire and diligence 
flowg from afFedion Succefs is the reward. Hie mibd 
of man fees but a fmall humbet OJf ideas, and lhoa}d tt- 
▼iew them. R. Agreeable fequeftercd places fo6th the 
ibul to fweet fpintoal muiings. JL Prize a life of 
peace and tranquillity. R* 

A f vain fool hath no delight in U0der« t 
ftanding great /ubfe^j^ but that the depth of 
bis heart may difcover itfelf. 

Trm knowledge. T* fpeak and \A be fydten 6f fa a 
f^ud man's object* nat to .beconae good. The tender 
pa£bns lofe their force, and their <£licacy, ^iAiea xhef 
become diilFufb. R. 

. ' When the wicked cometh /^ he fully kmmm^ 5 
then cometh alfo juji contempt, and witb 
/itf/^^;t^rtf/ ignominy reproach. 

Cctdemfi and reproach. Evil habits lead t# hardenioe^ 
Matth. Tii. 6. PlaL i. 1, te. 

The enriiblng words of a j[0odFmm'sinoiitb', 4 
are inexhauftible as deep waters ; and the large 
vell-fpring of wifdom ijfues forth pleafantlj^ as 
a X pure flowing brooks 

Good eonverfoHon. A wife holy tiian ceafts not to litb^ 
fKtrvt both mind and heart. He grudges no l«^onable 
aids to others, and thereby quickens thought, ch. i*. 1 1^ 

4- Afod deRgbtetb not m knowledge ; hut in the dtj 
•fiu ewn thougbtt. H. \ Orfouaiamjiream. 

O3 



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150 PROVERBS. Chap. tVHL 

5 It is not good, but rather hideous^ to accept 
the perfon of the wicked, to overthrow bf 
this means^ the undoubted righteous even in fi- 
lemn judgement. 

Crminal partiaiUy. Bad governors are worfc than 
none. Guilt eafieft fkreened is more hateful, Ler. 
xix. 15. 

6 A proud fool's lips enter into violent con- 
tention, and his mouth, as it were^ callcth 
loud for vengeful &r ok es. 

Contention. They who blow the coal of mifchief arc 
fure to fuffer. Indifcreet fpeech iffues often in extcnfivc 
cruel difputes, ch. vi. 2. — ^xiii. 3. 

7 . A fool's mouth is his fure deftruftion al 
la/ij and his fal/e injuring lips are as the fnarc 
of his own foul. 

. Speaking eyii. See reflexions ver 6. .The fight of 
eminent virtue overwhelms with reproaches, even irfico 
they feem to triumph. R. 

8 The words of a whifpering tale-bearer arc, 
by their apparent kindnefs^ as deep killing 

- wounds, and they go down, through time^iv^' 
to the innermoft vital parts of the belly. 

JVhifpertng. Smooth cuts, given with art, are of all 
others the worft. Some a£Fedl to mean no harm, foisc to 
fcrvc religion, and all to be avcrfe. 

9 He alfo that is flothful in his work // rui 
ft to fro/per^ and/oon it will befeen^ that he i« 



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Cliap. XVIIL PROVERBS. 151 

hrother-'iraf^gri^ffor to him that is a great 
riotous^ wafter. 

Idlenefs andp&otrty, Man is intended for labour. The 
nobleft bleffings of our earth are inward peace and re*' 
potation. People are unjuft to fociety, ¥4io do not 
Wiprk. The idle and intemperate feek immediate plea« 
fure, which iflues in various miferable guilt, ch. xxiii* 
23, &c. 

The graciom powerful name of the Lord is to 
a ftrong tower ; the righteous runneth from 
evils of every kind into it and is kept fafe. 

^rufi in God. Every divine attribute is a defence to 
the pious, or effe(ftual fupport, 2 Cor. xii. 6, &c. God- 
ly fortitude will conquer the mo(l violent oppotitions. R. 
Leave to omnipotence the care of accomplifhing hit 
own decrees, without prefcribing the means. R. He 
flbth not abandon the forrowfiil. R, ' 

We blefs thee, our Creator and Governor^ that in all 
cafes, even the mod afflt^ed, we can approach thee with 
good hope of finding favour and help, feafonable and pro- 
pOQtionable to our needs* 

The impious rich man^s wealth is his chofeh 11 
|bong city to abide in, and as an high wall in 
1^ own conceit, /uperior to all oppojition. 

Rkhes abufed. Religious confidence appears as folly, 
to ungodly pride, Job xxxi. 24, 25. Wealth ruins 
more than it fupports, i Tim. vi. 9, 10. Every wick- 
ed acceffion is a new plague and provocation» i Tim. 
^L 17. Pfal. iv. 9. 

Before deftruftion the heart of man by his la 
looks is often obferved to be haughty, and before 
honour is the captivating grace ^humility. 

» Or robber. H. 



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enemies and difobligcs {nends« Pr0Q>erky is apt to ia^ 
flate, Pt-ov. xxix. 23. i Pet. v. 5. 

We mate mir appUcatton to thee^ who art j^ibrrM^fa 
Mm^ aad ei^age ourfelves in the work of eur reqo- 
¥erf» as Arong in the Loidy and in the power rfhis 



13 He that anfwereth a matter before lie 
heareth \t fully ouU it is in the end folly ttm^ 
tfmptible and ctriain long fhzmt unto him* 

R^ juMig* No one can do jnftiee without (uAf 
weighing ^ mat can be faid. Shame is a natund con* 
ftquence of difgrace. Anfwers ought to fuit the plain 
sneantng and purpofe of what was alked. They moft 
nnftake wlio hear only in part. Such company is unfiife 
at tiBic^ and always unpleaiant. 

14 The pious paiieni fpirit of a man will fuftain 
kis mnhAMl iafirmity ; but a cwfciom wound* 
ed fpirit /r^iTi ptilt^ ^rib^ can bear ? 

Paitena and de/pmr. Piety, fakh» fortitude, CTOW hf 
affli{tiona Jam. i. 3, &c. Rom. v. ^^ inc. Wde princi^ 
pks are powsrful 1 whereas fuperftttien weaketis aad db» 
tefes. Virtue r^uhtes the j^iffionst but does not ^ 
tiiupuifh tender ientiment. 

We confefs, Lord^ that the terror of a guiky mtt^ 
jaakes it difficult to bdieve our reconciliatiQa vnth am 
offended G4)d; but by^e death of Chrijly there is a fiill 
vindication of the divine law and maintenance of erer- 
bfting righteou&eis. Hence* the moft facred ohliga- , 
^n is laid upon us, and the moft gracious promifes co^ 
finned to us. 

15 The heart of xht forefeeing prudent getteth 
knowledge ofpre/ent precarious outward enjoy^ 
tnent ; and the ear of the wife feekethyW3 
knowledge wiib/oHcitudi. 



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a^. xvim; pkoverbs. jsz 

^ PmieM ^ . If we are not aWare of what may ghre 
paki and difappointment ; they come with much force. 
It is prudent to guard equally againft defpair, and what 
may happen. Proportion earncftnefs to what is valu- 
able, and ufe fit means. Pra<fHce edabliihes habit and 
difpofition ; fettles a conditution and temper : a good 
heart, and a good life. 

A man's gift maketh frequent open room 16 
for him \ and bringeth him before great ' 
men. 

'^fit. Bafe fouls prefer felf-intereft to thatof the.pul>« 
licr. P^al. Izxii. 2, &c« . 1 2y Sec, Merit ought ever to 
fi^^y vacant offices, P£d. xiL 8. When counfels 
cbimj|;e ofteuy. the powers of fadion and money are 
g^Uy to be dreaded. Few natkonal judgements caa 
be more avdfuU Ifa. xi. 2, &c* Gifts* as marks of mo^ 
tual agedlion, are valuable. 

c .' 

.;Hc that is firft beard in his own caufe fccm- 1 7 
cth juft J but bis more righteous neighbour 
coineth afterwards and fearcheth him out to 
d^^race. 

^dgemeta impartial, Pardes mud be called and at- 
tetJaed to before an equal fentence. The beft are ia . 
danger from felfifh (Iretches. Sufpedl no more than 
caiii^ dearly proved. The law itielf is judged, con^ 
daiuibdt when people do otherways. 

jCaJiing of th& lot at times caufeth con ten- 18 
tfpns to ceafe; and parteth/(?r w^r between 
tfie mighty difputants, 

^Lott. Some cafes are replete with unfurmountablc 
difficulties. Appeals therefore muft be made to heaven* 
Previous to this, every proper human mean fhould be 
tried. * The will ©f God made manifeft ought to fdence 
all controverfy, Ads L 24. To riik a great ftake, with- 



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^54 PROVRft«, (JufrXVlB, 

«ut ntceflity, is moft crimmal ; tnd anife ^ nA^- 
choly dhputes. Hazard games may be born^^th^tf 
an amufement ; bot become intolerable, as a h^&afi, 
Tbiak if jfou eaa lofe withoat iinpatienc«» or dAf 
wrong to others. Pro v. xiv. 42. 

19 A brother by blood officndod is often harder 
to be won, than a ftrong fortified city ; wd 
their mtt/ti^/ contentions are Wkt Jhuttin^tk 
htn bars of a caftle upon each other. 

Offcruet and cmUtnJ^mu. The otmoft prudence ttHttd^ 
M where near relatnres are parties Delicsfte ^W^. 
broken reader fubftqnent union next to liopckis. mf*^ 
Ueto ofiPend of afitdden, and againft nu 
dearii^ offices. Cbift ont cnw andl pride, 
aefsy nader pretence of being UmQiar. It i 
done, that man (bottU fubone man. J?. . 
cord broken is not eafily joined aganiy Nam. n* %«. 

ao T]&f ^8»;i^fr i^a man's bdly fiiall be Mse 
fied in many cafes ^ with the ji^dci fruit i&Vf^, 
wfefpeaking nu>uth ; and with the fi'^^''^^ 
creafe of his ufeful lips fliall he be qwU flfil 

CktmrJaieH t^ui We fiiiKild fismd Sn awe rf#f 
the Airy/ ^Gm/ has hud fogrest ftreft upon, Ja!ii»Jl| 
P&I. xxxix. I. TKoughtletoieffl and pmoA ajejljjr 
eal to ri^t ipords, P&L xxxiv. 11, Ac, CeoIWi 
and die J07 of fpve«dmg vfefil JeiMmledge aitf 'i' 
^iritual advantages. 

f I Not un/eUhmde^th and life ibemfehes ai^ 
the power of the tongue; and they wT 
love to* dire^ it <hall cat the ggod ftjM^ 
thereof. 

Tof^pte^ovemment. The greateft umber joC p^ 



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CJap. Xmih PROVERB* 155 

undo tbtmfeltes, by weak or evil fpecch. There is no 
recalling what we once utter. Speech is the leat of per* 
fuafion, and ought only to be applied for beneficial mat- 
ters. What a burden upon neighbourhood are mali- 
cious evil-fpeakers ? How great theii danger ? Matth. 
xii. 35, &c. Jam. iii. 5, &c. 

Whofo findeth a true wife, findeth a good a 2 
thing above mofi others ; and obtaineth Jignal 
favour of tht/overeign Lord. 

Wb^/. Only a meet help merits the name of a wife 
Wfcik and evil choices, from motives of this world, turn; 
•Wbften and jtiftly to be vexatious. Neither huibands* 
nor' wives become perf«& all at once ; and partiM- 
ftAdd expert this. Sweet temper and prudent love slU 
tetiase ratetimi cares^ chap# xxxl. 11, dec. Seek accom- 
ipKfltmeiits of mind ztkd heart, rathef than even eood 

''The m9de/l poor, tat^bt by his circumjiances^ 23 
ufeth M conciliating btreaties, but the rich, 
pn^rfbis «;^^//A, anfwcreth thebeji roughly.. 

Weabh and poverty. Large outward fortune feldom 
flparates from pride. A low ftate is intended by hea- 
ven to humble, and is preferable to the abufe of wealth. 
Koogh anfwers are an infult, Jam. ii. 5, 8. 

A man Aat hath real friends muft fhew 24 
Wmfelf friendly, iy kind offices ; and there is 
i^lfnd of this fort that fticketh clofer in bene-- 
fiiait affedioHy than a A/0(?c/-brother. 

' Prieiki/hsp. The £icred tie requires both nice care and 
conftancy. Referve is wounding, but to dlftru/l is ktUing. 
To outdo by mutual kind ads is becoming ftrife. Every 
nt^^4t£ivaQr juftifites former ones. Reltgioiis virtue is 
wife and ftable. Whoever looks for m friend without 
imperfedions will never find what he feeks. R. We 



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156 PROVERBS. Cba^ XVIIL 

are not always equally content with onrfelves. R, Wti 
a friend, we (hoidd (hew ourfishres fuch as we are. Jt 



«4>««««« H-4~44»»»«»»>»»-»»»« 



CHAP. XIX. 

1 TYETTER J as to peace and credity IS th^x 
X3 f^^ that walketh in his integtity, 
than he that is perverfe andfalfe in his^ 
and h foon dif covered to be 2, wicked fooi ^ 

Integrity an J fcdfehood* Pra^ical errors are of 4e 
worft coiTdfequence, Matth. vi. 22. A habit offpuch 
and aflion is what determines integrity. Time andw* 
perience makcth this manifeft. Generous worth is 
ufually revered by the worft. To be hated by the Wck« 
ed is real praife. 

BlefTed be thou, God^ who didft create all ^ 
very good (good in themfelves, and good for onctflO' 
ther) and who wilt maintain, and defend thy creatiWJ I 
and either work falvation for thofe reafonable crca?tteJ 
which degenerate into evil, or wilt deftroy that'M 
which is contrary to thy will and nature, by thcjBWp 
tion of thofe who obllinately adhere to it. 

2 Alfo, that the foul be without JV/w'^ 
feeing knowledge, it is not good for i^b^ \ 
world ; and he that carelefsly hafteth with-ii 
feet to a^j often* finneth to great hurt. 

Forejtght and rq/lnefs, A juft difcerimient of wiat 
(hould be done is fafe and comfortable. Caution uiMki 
Godi% our beft prefer vative, Phil. ii. 13, 14. Thcfir^j 

* Orjkmhkth. H, 



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Cawp. XIX PAOVEABS. 157 

Aefa of rice. &cm to be only innocent amufements f 
CQOiplwioce with received cuiloms^ and a liberty which 
may be allowed in order to pleafe. R. 

So carry us, Lord, through this vain and tranfitory 
worid> this finfttl and temptiag ilate, that we, preserving 
ourfelves firom aU pollutions of the flefh and fpirity and . 
perfeding holinefs in thy fear, may be fitted for the fulled 
rhanifeftations and communications of thee, "^ho filled 
all hearts with raptures oi gladnefs and joy, as i^st z% 
they are capable to receive firom thee, the boundlefs ocean 
of ^licity and glory ? 

The rajh criminal fooliflinefs of ^? man per- 3 
vcrteth his way ♦ of acting; and when hefuf- 
fers from thence^ his heart impioujly fretteth 
agsdnil the Lord. 

In^imis rq/hnefs. Want of fine ere love to goodnefs is 
the mod frequent caufe of pradical midakes. Inatten- 
tion from pride ruins vad multitudes. Even the natural 
^unifhments of vice are not patiently taken. They 
would have God and his righteous edablifhments to fuf- 
fer, on their account. 

We would remember with all gratitude and joy, 
Lord^ that all evil is contrary and inferior to thee, whofe 
goodaefs and ibvereignty are tranfcendent f and by this . 
the happmefs and life of the intelle;dual world are fecur- . 
cd, fince thou wilt not fuffer any fuch evil to prevail 
agatinft thy fervants. 

Wealth Uo often maketh many profef/ing 4 
friends ; but the humble deHitute poor is con* 
Umptmufly \ feparated from his next door 
neighbour. 

JRich and poof. Wealth gives power and influence ; 
which is right, when properly laid out. But to flatter . 

♦ His affairs^ dcftgru^ pm^fes, H, f Or, deferkd 

iff* H* 

P 



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158 PROVERBS. Chip. XIK. 

and cajole the wicked rich is abominaUe. Much foK^ 
citude is due from the wealthy to manage. Rom. xil 
i6» Jam. ii. i, &c. 

5 A falfe witnefs of any kind fhall not be un- 
punifhed/(?r a langfpace^ and he that fpeakcth 
lies uponfolemn oaihy above every other ^ mall not 
efcape the vengeance of heaven. 

Falfe witne/fing. Equivocal dubious terms, when pf^ 
ing evidence, is real falfe witnefs bearing $ an afiront to 
fimn^x^n^^, that defies ju (lice. Zech. v. i, ^c. MaLin*'5} 
5cc. Ads of fraud and violence do often iffue in per* 
jury, Prov. xxx. 8, 9. 

6 Many, for bafe ends^ v^iW fycophantifbly en- 
treat the favour of the reigning prince, be. hh 
character everfo bad; and every man almoi 
is a friend in appearance to him that giveth 

frequent gifts. 

Selfi/hnefiy and gifts. Be not eftranged from a poor 
virtuous man. Affedions may be known from peoples 
looks. Even a king's favour fhould not be pur chafed 
by a crime. R, Sincere benevolence would do good 
without hope of recompence. R. 

7 Itfometimes happens^ thai all the brethren of 
the poor, who have been brought up together^ do 

fo hate, as iojhun him only for his want ; how 
much more do his later profejfing friends go 
far away from him, when need is greateii i He 
who is deiiitute purfueth both ^them with ear* 
neH petitioning words, yet they arc cruelly want- 
ing infupplies to him. 

Poverty negleSed. Nature and faith require us to bear 
one another's burdens. Former good circumftances arc 



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Ch«|^. XIX. PROVERBS. 159 

MO Toon hrgottMn, along with paft farovrs. To (land 
aloof from certain honefl misfortune, is practical hatred, 
Pfal. xli. I, 5cc. I John iii. 15. The remembrance of 
former eafy fituation, adds to fufiering want. Job. vi. 
14, 15. 

He that once getteth u/e/ul wifdom, by pro* 8 
per means ^ loveth the happinefs of his own foul; 
and he that keepeth underftanding in exercife 
ihall find certain everla/iing good. 

Pr^itaUe knowledge. The mind is incapable of equal 
ai^cation to two oppofitc interefts, i John ii. 15, 16. 
Right principles, with pious charitable difpofitioas, eon- 
ftitute the lift of the foul ; and are put into the power 
d'all. Happinefs, from thence, is rationally progreffive 
coaftant. 

A falfe.witncfs of, any kind fliall not be un- 9 
puniflied/^r a longfpace ; and he that fpeak- 
eth lies uponfolemn oath fiiall inevitably periih* 

Fdfe witneffing. See ver. 5. Truth ought to be (acred 
in every tranfadtlon ; being the ground-work of juftice 
and union. From fwearing and lies, in common convcr- 
latioa, the progreis to what is falfe in judgement becom- 
eth eafy. Check the firft movements to di^embling in 
childrenr Prov. xix. 5. 

Tbejhow of* great delight is not feemly for 1% 
either a weak or wicked fool ; much lefe for a 
fervant of low ranky with incapacity to have 
rule over reigning princes. 

Oftentatiatu pleafure. Animal gratifications in their 
height, difgrace reafon. The body was made to be 
fubjed ; the mind to govern. It is both unpleafant and 

* Or of elegance and Sgnity, H. 
P 2 



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i^o lilOTERBl e&ap.«& 

teurtful, when peopk of little uiWlerftancNiig atesdhraiMsed 
to authority, PfaL xii. 8. Prov. xxx. 2i. 

1 1 The difcretion of a man dcferreth his r^i 
fentments in anger ; and even when he finds juH 
caufe for difpkafure^ it is his glory to pafs-ovcr 
a tranigreffion. 

Difcretion in anger. Virtuous fcniibiirty feels wrongs 
yet thinks cither how to excufe or alleviate : Tnic fee* 
(nan greatncfs. Quick revenge is followed with ftainri 
and other fad effeAs, Luke xviii. 19. I^rov. xvl. 32. 

13 The king's wrath is tremendous as tU 
roaring of a hungry lion j but the effelt ^W 
favour hfweetly beneficial^ as ih even^dcvr up- 
on the heated grafs.'i 

^ ting's favour and wrqt^. It is a chief duty, nfith^ 
to give nor take oflEence, iif pofliblc, Ecd. viii. 4. Av^fl 
difputable points. Provoke not dear c(miAMH^diti(^ 
fig}>ty chap, jux* 2. Profperit/ yields afrjcfhening.klO^ 
^ Pet. ij. 12. 3cc. llie moft excellent laws are tsQiIds, 
without ftable execution. R, *^ ^' 

13 A wicked fooUfh fon is the fevere caX^n^}^ 
of his pieus father ; and the ctamorous coiW^ 
tions of a wife zxt like a continual dropping 

^ of water through ih€ roof. ' ;:' 

A had wlfi and cbUdren, Family peace founded on Jg 
ligion is a chief Source of enjoyment, and excitefliro 
to gratitude* Few trials zrk morje difficult to bear, ^M 
what oppofes this. The worft pf people do feel it. ©UJ 
joyous looks ought to reward labouririg for family t>r^Bid« 
Continual dropping leads to wifh ft change fi^om ^«f|iiK 
no outward advantage cati remedy. How muc?h' w 
reverfe of Chriftian love ? i Tim. ii. 8. 1 Pet. iii. 4,-7.^ 



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jQhy. KIX. PR0VE1LB& 161 

Grandeur ff houfe and riches are the /r#» 14 
(^uera iahericance of faithers ; and a Jkilfd 
prudent affifling wife it a AiU higher favour 
trom the Lord. 

Fmak prudence. Some fiiTOiirt we owe to lieaven 
moft dire^lj. In the choice of a meet help, this fhould 
bethought of. Virtues of a fingle lift promife well, and 
claim an attentive regard. Bodily properties do not al« 
vafs clothe a reafonahle mind. It is pious to fuppoic 
that God diredts, when he is acknowledged. 

if ^j^/V^flothfulncfs, /;&r^vfA //Vw, caftcth 15 
into ^kind tf/'dcep flccp; znd fttch an idle 
fool (ball fufifer extreme hunger. 

5W. Indolence fees and wifhes but will not work. 
Where no op|>orition doth fhew itfelf, it can go the 
length of refolving ; which for moft part continues till 
an alarm is founded, out of time. The greater that 
concenu arey the greater danger there is* 

He that keepeth the divine commandment 16 
due care^ keepeth the peace of his own 
foul ; but he that defpifeth the right govern^ 
toent o^his ways fhall die, under reproach and 
mfirj. 

OheAenee to God, In no period muft the rule of life be 
nq;leded. Self-examination and knowledge are chief 
fccorities. In momentous cafes to be carelefs is to 
d^ttfe. By defcribing the effe^s of vice, man is brought 
to know himielf ; the heart is touched, while the mmd 
is delighted. R. 

Hoiy Faiber^ as we have the ftandard of true religion 
in the goljpel of Jefus Cbrt/ly who is our Lord and Sng ; 
fo let us, who are Chriftians, confider thee, our God^ as 
mantfefted by him, iiv whom dwells all the fulneis of 
the godhead bodily ! 

P3 



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l6* PROVERBS. Chkp. «t; 

17 *' He that hath beneficent p!ty upon the t^ 
r/^A/ poor lendeth unto the Lord, who wait 
thetnfo J and that which he hath given, frm 
generous motives^ will he umply pay him 
again^ 

BeiufUence. Compaflion is the ^urce of good charita* 
ble deeds. Motives from this world may lead to abpt 
which Gm/wiU not reward, i Cor. xiii. 2, 3. Seaixb 
out the afflidledy 2 Cor. ix. 9. The pleafure of dda^ 
^oody for its own fake, is unfpeakable. R. Obje^ m 
iWrrow fhould be obferved with refpe^ftil fdencc ! R. 

Relieve, gracious Lord^ and fuccour all that art in 
nectdity and diflrefs ; and be a fuitable help injStir 
needful time of trouble ! Support them by thy ftxei^ 
rcfreih them with thy confolation, exercife themiMM) 
iheir profit, and prepare them for whatfoever is thy fell 
concerning them ! 

18 Chaften thy offending fon, while there is 
hope of his awenct?nent ; * and let not thy ieo 

V indulgent foul fpare for his crying to (kji/i.. 

Parental correSion, To punifh corporeally fhould be 
a parent's laft refource. When needed it h nfercSisl 
feverity. At the fame time very moving, Prov. tl^io^ 
Heb. xii. 5, &c. 

19' A f than of great wrath (hall fufier pu- 
niftimcnt ^» account of his violence in ho^^'iot 
if, to prevent this, thoii deliver hitn. om^^ yet 
thou mull do it again, or leave him in thehmis 
of his foes. 

l^rath. The divine commands arc truly parental. 

♦ Sonuy hut do it not in wrath, lefi thoufl^y hhn, L^* **• 
j^. Lxod. iv, 2^. H. f Or, let a man of gre&t u^ath 
Mer. H. . . 



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Even th6& "vrfio ftetn to be religious do not oftexi gft* 
▼em th^ t/cmpcTf £ph. ti* 4* Wrath lofes its own encl 
at the time, becomes an objed of general fcom, and fe- 
vere revenge, Pro v. xxix. 22. — ^xiv. 17, 29. Begin 
atnendment barly* Grace aod ill oei^bours do not 
dwell together. 

HtzT early good counfel, and receive * in- 2^ 
ftruftion^r right ^oftdu^ i that thou mayeft 
he found wife, as to happinefi^ in thy latter ead* 

Good counfel The more danger there is from dif- 
obedience, the more attention . is due to &ir warning* 
To fbrgive is noble, and ftill more to overcome evd 
with good, Jam. iii. 17. Be ever open to argument, 
and glad to have faults made known, PfaL xc. 12. An 
inward calm refembles the repofe of G«/, whofc infinite 
agings- do not diminifb his perfe<5l tranquillity. 

There are many devices in a man's heart, a i 
to evade obligamn \ neverthelefs the counfel 
of the Lord,/^r duty and happlnefs^ that ftiall 
fiand immoveable. 

Self-decik. £vents are of divine permiilion, or of im- 
mediate appointment. How eaiy is it with him to con- 
fbmid the wifeft appareat meafures? Prov« xvL i^ o. 

*Cur beft prudence is to acknowledge the Ahmghty. The 
cocdud of Oo^ only offends us, becaufe we are finite and 

onortal ; jndging only from fmall pieces. R. 

We dmfdi it, O thou grtat mndhl^ed God^ to be the pri- 

' vilege and exaltation of our nature, that we are made 
for employment about thee ; that we can imitate the 
virtue of tnee, whofe name is exalted above all blefling 
aiul praHle, above all acknowledgement and admiration ! 

The \ defire of a man is to obtain his neigi- a 2 

* Some, corredwn, H, f Or the glory of a W'Un u bit 
leneficence, H. ' 

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f«4 PROVERBS. Chap. XIX. 

bmtr^s kindncfs ; and a poor unable mao^y^om 
upright compaffitm^ is better than a mere pr9mf' 
ing liar. 

Kmdnejs. To ghre is natural to fympathj, and god* 
like ; refines the underftanding ; ezercifes our bcft affie^ 
tions ; and £;iTes freedom and opportunity to inquire fyt 
' the affliAed. Bountifulnefs is the higheft luxury. 
Some are made up of promiies, and only d&ppoint, add* 
ing to woes, Jam. ii. 15, 1 6* 

33 The fear of the Lord, which leads to cbeen 

ful obedience, tcndcth to the happinefs of Mc; 

and he that hath it in pojfejfton (hall abide & 

tisfied: he fiiaU not be vifited with wmt* 

whelming evil. 

Fear of God^ and true happmtfs. Solemn regular a^ 
of piety maintain filial reverence, Eccl. xii. 1 3. Tht 
blHs of contentment is fuperior to every other, F&L 
xzxiv. II, &c. Criminal folicitude is often worfe tfaaft 
a^ual fuffertng. Eternal life is a balance to the great|ft 
natural evils. The truths of God have a great powqr 
over the minds of men ; and whilft we recount the(e jm- 
worfliip, we are moved to divine refemblances ! 

Caufe us,0 God^to adhere fteadfaftly mito our religi|% 
with rational approbation of every part of it; t^, 
keeping thy equitable gracious commands, v^e may hm 
the high reward naturally confequent thereupcm $ «^ 
* at lad obtain eternal life, the final confummation^ and 
glorious recompence thereof, which is the life of our 
Eves ! 

24, A flothful man grows fo alarmingly in bis £^ 
fordery that he * huleth his hand from labour 
and coldy in his bofom, and will not, without 

, * Or droppetbhis hand heiow his plate f 2 Kings and* 13. 
,1 Cbrofh Mxxv. 15. jlrab. H. 



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mf. XUt PROVERBS^ t6s 

filuBante^' fo triVich is bring it f$tib to fak 
moutli again. 

SIoiL Indolence is progreffive, and fruitful of mi- ' 
fcA&s, As long as demands of hunger will ftiift off, it 
ttMfA. be effectually roufed. Even w^ methods of 
befe)Wiittg diarity, fooic of them diidain. 

^Sfnite ^fooltjb fcorner, and even the fimple 25 
will beware of imitating them \ and reprove 
imib mtdmjj one that \\%\hfme good under- 
ftanding, and he will come more extenjively to 
U^deriland tffeful knowledge. 

^^Corredton dnd tetroof. Different Knds and measures 
of vice recraire different treatment, Judc xxii. 23. Ma- 
Bcioos bbftinacy in fin wiftics and endeavours to pro- 
p4igat6 it among the ignorant. Irreligious ridicule is 
Wt to be borne. One chief end of tfifcipline is to warn 
othttt. Be mild, while there is hopp from thence, Pfa. 
cfB.i,^c. Prov. xxviiL 23. — itiv. 25. 

•Brag us at laft, Lord^ to thcblcffed focicty of faints 
aJSIangels ; and fit us to meet our Lwd^ when he fhall 
dSfcttw frbw heaven, at the time of die reftitutton of all 
things; aad make txs* capable of that pardon, which he 
fcalfbeftow Tipon thofe whohavebeen renewed by rcpcn- 
taiftce, and reconciled to righteoufnefs, and to him. 

tHcth^ waftelhfA^/ti^ii;frf (?f his father, a6 
aiW * chafeth away his affeSiionately remonfirai* 
ing mother, is a fon that caufeth infant (hame, 
Vid bringeth on bath more general and lafiing 
rqwoach. 

Prodigality and £fohedUnc€ to parents* The woril kind 
of parricide is that which eats a father's bread, and 
<^nks. Jjis tears. Supreme judice is the only .adequate 

* Or therehy drheth out Ui mother* H,- 



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i66 PROVERBS. Chap. XIX, 

avenger of flich. Who can think of being hanntcd day 
and night by this tremendous ghoft > , As yoong peo- 
ple hope for God's blefling, they Ihould ifeek that of their 
parents. 

27 Ceafe, my dear fon, upon the earlie/i notice^ 
to hear wilh compofure the pretended infiruc- 
tion that caufcth to err, from obedience to the 
words oi found knowledge. 

Seduars, There is a gradation in vice, (Pfal. i. i, 2.) 
though next to impel ceptible. Wicked example, and 
folicitation, ought inftandy to be fled from, 2 Pet. iiu 
J 7, 18. Beware of wit and pleafantry from fuch. Hie 
whole fyftcm of infidelity is erring from knowledge. 
Think of the fentiments which can meet death. 

Grant us time, Lordy for our amendment ; and l]Ba^ 
all the events of providence, and circumftances o^^MT 
lives further us herein ; that before we die we m^ie 
fit to live for ever in that place, where the perfe^Hoo of 
holinefs and righteoufnefs has a fovcreignty in all Heaxls>, 
and where all the exercifes of men fliall be an uninterrap(- 
ed employment of their faculties about thee, «mr Geidy 
perpetual imitations of thee, and giving glory for V9tt, 
to thee, who art xhtjirft caufe^ and the chtefeft good: xht 
original of our beings, and centre of our reft I 

28 An ungodly witnefs fcorncth both dmtit 
and human judgement ; and the mouth of 
the flagitious wicked, by that means y devouretb 
for a time large wages of iniquity, 

Palfi wtneffmg, " One who deliberately perjures mnft 
be to the higheft meafure abandoned. He dc&cs Goit 
and fetteth afide all juftice. At how jnean a rate do 
they fet their fouls to fale ? Zech. v. i, &c- Mai. iiL 5. 

f9 Judgements of dreadful nature are prepar- 
ed for. impiom fcorners, and flripes wkbwt 



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Cfcap. XX. PROVERBS. ,67 

number for the back of carelefs fools, whom 
they carry along with them. 

Impious fcoffing. Profperous vice is too apt to flatter 
itfelf ; and thereby become more inexcufable, Rom. ii. 
I, &c. Pfal. 1. 19, &c. A good father will never make 
Bfe of punifhments, when he can gain his children by 
mildnefs. R. Not only juftice, but goodncfs, requires, 
to punifh the guilty. R. 



C H A P. XX. 



WINE, when addicted to *, is like a mock- 
^ er of noble faculties \ ftrong drink ^ 
any kind is what leads to violent raging ; and 
whofoever is deceived thereby, with thefpecious 
language of drunkards^ is not at all wife. 

Drunlennefs. The creatures of God are good, and to 
be gratefully ufed, for the benefit of foul, as well as body. 
Excefs is ever hurtful. The fight of a drunkard affords 
m^crating inftruftion. Caution and prudence ceafe 
wljhtiildue quantity, Jam. iv. j, &c. Even the warmth 
ofl&iality may fometimes deceive, Chron. xxiii. 29, &c. 
They. who have leaft reafon to fpare are the moll apt to 
part with it. 

5*hc juji fear of a dijpleafed king is tremen- : 
doUi as the roaring of z fierce lion let loofe : 
whofo thus provoketh him to anger finneth 
much againil the peace and happinefs ofhi^ own 
foulr 

* Compan Prov. xxiv, 9. — wc. 18. — «v. 12. H. 



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i68 l^ROVEttBS. Ob^.^ 

IVratb of kings. Eqintable rulers arc a terror 01^ 
to evil works. Derpotifra is horrible. It is injudicioitf 
to contend, where there is no hope of fuccefs. Rage, 
armed with forcey is like tlic iea in uprojur* 

3 It is an honour for a. man to ceafe from 
ftrife as much as pojjible^ and HUi more from ft* 
meriting and perpetuating it \ but every weak 
wicked fool will be efficiot/JJy meddling uifb 
ivhat doth keep thefe up. 

Strife. The beft at times are too apt to take offence, 
and even to exceed in wrath, Watchfulnefs and refo- 
lution, therefore, are eiTential to genuine excellence. Be 
not officious in other people's buunefe- Beware of &Hc 
honour, and taking to a paity. 

4 The fluggard will not plough in proper ftW, 
by rcafon of the famijhing winter cold ; thcti- 
fore fhall he be forced to beg en)€n in harveft, 
and have* next to nothing when others livet$ 
eafe. 

Sloth, Opportunity loft is often irreparable. &- 
dolence, though deteftable, wants not forne excufror 
Other. Selfpleafmg is at the bottom of all. few da 
pity them. Begin life with diligence, fo as to ac^ttire a 
habit. 

5 CpunfeLf in the heart of a judicious mai) is 
hid out of common view, like the bottom of deep 
v/ater : but a man o\Jimilar goad underftaed- 
ipg will be able to \ draw it out. 

Deep counfeU. Human nature ought to be "wwH 
ftudied. Thofe who live in public iiations are ^Oiok 4:««- 

* Or obtain. H. f Or defign. ^ Rather draw it yp* H' 



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dtp. XZ^ PRJOrV*ERB& t6y 

ftraecL It ia ^afant to fat the traces of uudi tn all 
ftajtions. 

W« bleis thee, m^ grachas G9J9 for the cxceUene^ of 
that realbnahie nature thou kail tnvefted us men with f 
and that by our diftingnilking faculties^ we are but a 
Ikde keurer thaa the angels, ha^tw domiiikm oeer the 
0(her works of thy hand^ in diis riuble world. 

Moft men will proclaim aloud every one 6 
Ks own bounteous go6dne(s; but zjineere- 
£iifhfu^ gitHn^ mM> who cznfoon Ihid? 

Tme generofity* To give is endearing, and yet ought 
im to he boafted oil Tr«ft not large fakers upon 
beneficence. Moded and cheerlbl almontzers encovn-age 
the ne<}e€ito«u to aft. A bountiful heart is pleaftd witb 
eccafions to affifl. What a treafare is fuch an one > 
What a fruitful fpring of good ? Few rices difgracc hu- 
maBkymore than ingratitude, Lxk^ xvii. 17. 

The juft charitable man walketh clofe in his 7 
integrity through life; his children */ that 
'dery means often are bleffed witb an agreeable 
cmpetency after him. 

Upright beneficence* An illimited juftice comprehends 
the whole t^ duty ; aad muft be the fruit of principle, 
iofcegrity is proof againft temptation, and renews i^rength 
undi ks own experteuocd weakneil^. To a right feafe 
<^ things, charitable jdliice is the htgheft of ali luxury % 
zrA is tor moft part rew^irdod even in time. Domefttc 
<a& is leldonn, if evsr^ hurt by it. Exaitipks make ar 
deeper impreflion than reafoning. R* 

A patriot king, that fitteth in the d ii/t hrone 3 
of judgement, fcattereth away all knjwn evil, 
wth his firm impartial eyes. 

King and government. The end of rule is to preferve 
property and good 6rder ; which requires Aiperiors t<i 



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I70 PROVERBS. Chap. XX, 

be watchful, intelligent, generous. A king is anfwer- 
able for fubordinated governors. Fidelity and not rank 
is the glory of office. Prefence and look of high worth 
is terrible to the wicked. Subjeds who experience good- 
ought to be grateful. It is mad prefumption to give 
out mere will for a law. R. Princes fhould be accut 
tomedy as an eflential part of their religion, to hear daily, 
the ftrongeft and the moft falutary truths. R. 

9 Who can fay, with confcious truths 1 hav« 
made my heart perfedly clean, I am pure eim 
from my favourite fin ? 

PerfeBton unattatnahk* In proportion to the greatodf 
and weight of people's obligations is the danger of 4M 
falling mort. Thofe who are the moft humble and t^K 
take the wideft views of duty, Jam. iv. 17. SandSS^i 
tionof the heart is indifpenfible, Jam. i. 14, 15. Pro^S 
23. Sinful thoughts furprifethe beft. Watch unto prayot* 
Be humble Feel the need of mercy ; that is, oi gofpel grm^, 

10 lS\vtx%falfe weights, and divers yj?^ mea- 
fures, one to purchafe^ and another to fell put 
wiihy both of them are alike abomination to 
the fovenign equitable Lord. 

Trading jii/tly. Appearances of piety render knotra 
immoralities along with them quite (hocking. Take 
not advantage of the young and fimple. The wgfld 
was not made for one perfon. Diead divine more than 
human vengeance. The reverfe of Ged*s nature aqd 
will, he muft hate, as he loves himfelf, Ezek. xxziii. 14, 
15. Pfal. 1. 16, &c. 

1 1 Even a child, above mere non-age^ is known 
by the prevalence of his doings, whether his 
work be the effedl of pure innocent difpojiiion^ 
and whether it be like to ijfue in what %mii 
afterwards prove right to him. 



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CW- XX; PROVERBS. 171 

Tyifpo/Uums natural What people love, or hate' moft, 
is foon determined by their tenor of adding ; eipecially 
when keen as well as frequent. Some probable judge- 
ments from thence may be made of the earlied appear- 
ances among equals, Prov. xxii. 6» 

The hearing ear, and the feeing eye, the i% 
Lord hath made even both of them^ to be fitly 
uftd while youngs and ever after. 

. Bodily menhtrs. Each part of the human frame is ad- 
jured with great beneficial wifdoin, and ought to be ac- 
knowledged with warm pious gratitude. Jam. i. 17. 
Depend upon, heaven in a way of diligence, for improv- 
iig all good gifts. The knowledge of God and ourfelves, 
fliould DC the chief aim of all our refearches. R. We 
|ieed only our own exiftence to be convinced o£ God's, R\ 
Thou art worthy, Lordy to receive glory, and ho- 
nour, and power ; for thou haft created all things, and foi: 
thy pleafure, they are, and were created ! Thou art the 
firft caufe, and the laft end. 

Love not unneceJfaryHtt^ylt^ ihon Jbould 15 
come to abfe^ poverty ; open thine eyes, for 
Jetting about work^ and thou (halt be fatisfied 
with bread. 

Jndufiry andjloth Think, contrive, execute and per- 
fevere. Contentment is eflfential to happinefs, Pfal^ 
' xxxvli. 4, &c. Greed and difgraceful indolence are 
often united. 

It is naught, it is naught, faith x\\t felfijh 14 
deceiving buyer; but when he is gone his 
"way, then he boafteth of a great bargain. 

Fair trc^. The negle<a of lawful means is a ftrong 
temptation to what is injurious. Over-reaching bu(i- 
neis is deteftable. Numbers and frequency do not le/Ten 
this, 1 Their, iv. 6^ Why wifh to fhock the ingenuous 



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i7t PR0VE&B8. Chitfi. %X^ 

(eUer? Blitft fcr juftice «irf itSigiMi ^K^lieii theimisk 
«re dcUbfm^lHiitt F&L v. 4, Sec. MutiMU wxQmmo- 
cbition bj ttttdc is a great privilege. 

15 Tliere is we^^/^ cfi^/ilrf ^#r gold, and a rotiJ* 
titudc of bright Jhwing rubies ; but the lip§ of 

^ i/>2 wA^ has found ufeful knowledge are a nwch 
fuorf precious ornamenting jewel than them afl 
together. 

Vfeful andjeafonaik nuordu Every kmd of kno^e^ 
IS good, which conduces to the advantage of pnvtft^ 
and Focial life. DiKg^cc dcmojiftrates edimation Ml 
upon it. No jewel iis to be compared with that of 4 
good conscience, the fevour of Qtd^ and the bop^<f 
eternal Kfe. . "* 

• We acknowledge, Lord^ tJiaj we JSnd ourfelveji ji^ 
ratified after all Uie ide and enjoyment of the thh^^ 
this woHd, which prove no better to ns than vanl^ anS 
vexation of fpirit. We havt defircs of good grt^pcr 
than thefc worldly things can fetrsfy; and we ioit 
<«p?icitic5 of go^i greater than thefe worldly thii^sx^ 
fitf. We are ftill deftitnte and cravhij, who WilTftev 
tts afiv good ? How large fo ever our portiott, Ml 
htm tMc fotver oar indulgefice is, me to finfible^attRv 
tainments. 

16 , bw0t4/dhfr$fier,werefv(hatiingja^t^^ 
take ♦ his m$J ^i^^^&rj garment, that is UMA^ 
for a mere flranger, /o recever your twn tfgsiko 
and take a much higher pledge of him wbtr'^ 
e^ges ibr a ftrange mmad^ vfoma^Um 

Suretjf/hif. Great rifles ought only to be run fi» 
approved good peopk, MsnA. v. 42. 

1 7 Bread of wil/kl deceit is iweet at the time rf 

♦ frejent for the fviturt. 



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Qi^ XX; PJtaVERB& f7j 

acquifithn^ to a ba/e injuring man ; but after- 
wards his mouth ihall feel from Jhame and 
grief J as though it were ia be filled with 
vexatious gravel. 

Fraud, The proper ufe of riches ts to obtain by 
diem what nature ftands in need of. Imagination en* 
Urges want beyond bounds, and leads to unlawful (hifts* 
When paflion fubfides the peftive nature of vice is felt. 
Trouble enhances this, like a morfel of ftones inieparable 
from the teeth and gums. It neither can be fwallowcd,. 
mcH- fpit out;, but ever feems to fay, reftore or be 
damned. 

Every purpofe whatever \^ ^^ eftablilhed \% 
\t^ judicious counfel ; and above all other ^ with 
political good advice make and c^ndstd even 
necejffury war. 

CounfeL Strr^ly examine defigns by confciencc antf 
fcripture. Pious experienced friends arc ineftimable. 
Difappointments are foothed by having done our be(U 
Policy is often more requifite than Jtrength. Difcero-- 
mcnt with courage mark genuine prudence.^ 

He that goeth about as a tale-bearer of what 19* 
he may have had in confidence^ revealeth thofe 
lecrets to the hurt of many ; therefore meddlfe 
not with him as an intimate that thus flatter-- 
eth with his unjuji cruel lips, 

Fhatering whyj^rer. A- tale-bearer^ afFe^ endearing; 
re|^ards wherever he goes, and is a complication of vil* 
folies, Jer. i*. 3, &c. They who betray others, want 
only time and opportunity, to do the fame with thee. . 

Whofo either in word, or in deed^ curfeth his 2^ 
father or his mother, his lamp, (hining at the 



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fivie ever Jo br^u ^>U ^ Af«igl^ be put out 
m fhiekefi obfcure darknefs. 

ParetUs ohufetL The higheft degree of mmaturalitj is 
to annoy the inftnunents of life, and infant tuition.' AO 
•^attcM toimrds UVing, xn^ ^e undtrftoodas an ^Hm^ 
dtned em^ Exod. sxi. 17. Bcut. zzL it^jkc* Tiik 
vof iiftme is a blot upon human kind. 

21 : An mberitance oay begotten haftily/;! 
m/ witwtx. It Che beginning rf life s butti^ 
end thereof fliall not be Uefied with tm^tif 
hng enjoyment. 

Coveioufneft. To acquire honeftly and lay ont with 
reafon are eilefitial requifiteft to prudence, irHgimi aid 
happine&. Uptifflidy obtained pofTefllons, thoogb&d' 
den, may be botti pleafantly and piofitably emojedf 
I Tim. vi. 9, &c. A divine curfe lurks in finfui pur* 
ieliales and sMift eoaAime tbem. Job xv* 29, lee. Hab> 

2 2 , Say not ^o\x inwarHy^ I wiQ recotnpeoce 
f ;2 7f;r j//^ the evU t^aUcib i ji i^r^ iione ; ^t ri- 
/A^r wait with patience on the all-wife^ onmifd' 
ient Lord, />z /^^ ufe of proper cmciHating ntmSf 
and he (hall fave theej^^m greater injury. 

Trmf in €^^A He is^wlty of revenge 'Who two* 
angrily over mifchief. T\) retaltace« as private perfimsi 
would be to ^tnefs and judge in one's own caoTct 
Ron. xiK i<^ 16c€. !.«¥. xh. iS. Redmik may be Meek- 
ly fouffht froon rulers, Rom. xiiL i, ^cc« 

Make us fenfiUe, O i&Mi m^ htghi^^ of the power Aoa 
haft give* «s«ver otBielvef, for the govenunexA of our 
affe^ions and anions ; and ftrengthen our fpirits againll 
iJI (breiga impreffioas and violence, by the- cosfideratioo 
•wf our dependence upon thee, and of thy all-fufficicacy | 
for US} and fovereignty over all things : that we majt is 



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Chap. XZ. PSOVEXBS. 175 

dK martt oimard'Con^ttMtV&tisfied in thcc, andpof- 
fe&our £omh in patience 

DiFerf yb^ft weights^ U buy mtd fell cut witb^ 13 
ttt an abomina^tion unto tk\tfu^reme tquitabk 
Lord; atid a £dfe deeeitfkl foahince is not 
good neither. 

Falfeboodm trade. From the greatnefs of 'wHe people's 
concern to avoid cert^n «vils, we may judge of tlacir 
ioialignkyy ver. lo. ckip. xi. i. The number of offi»» 
ders will but enhance punifhment» Prov. xriii. 5.— -jEvii. 
26. 

IVIan'« vamtes goings arc appointed of tfae 24 
Lord; how can a man then;, MtUe/i hi bepiomj 
underftand his own proper way r 

Fr^videiice, Oblig^Hjns of piety and VHtoe, though 
dear, re<)utre an upright iobtt- jutting mind to perceive 
and feel their influence. Do the beft and leav^ iflues to 
heayen, 

O^OQ Crem^r^mmikmd^ majoe tbemall partakers of 
tliy image and favour i And t9 that end, make th^ 
-m^jf^ and thy &», isnoim upon the earth, and thy iav- 
ing health among all nations i Reform the ^te of re* 
^ion, ^x4uch vas iet up tn t)K peffe&ioA ef wiidom and 
Ts^tn^etfoSsi^ by Jifiu Chr'^i Aftd kt not the power 
«ef it be abated and loA, by groft niixuirefi of enthufialm 
«ndiftjperfUtiottl 

It • is a vexing fnare to tlic man wTio dc- 25 
'Sronreth atramiam, ckat which is holy; ^nd 
after folemn reli^m vows to make ioquiry 
<onciermng the netture^ wvUigations-ofibenL 

* Infnared Is he that hath eaten of the Mring ; hut^ re 
JUl^ngim %k t)#«rx, ^iehye1% to perform Jhem^ JJe&t. weiis^ 



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176 PROVERBS. Chap XX.: 

Devout Jerioufnefs, To withhold piotis and charitable 
dcftinatlons for private ends is undoubted iacriiege; En- 
gage not r^ilhly, nor be indifferent about the perfor- 
mance. Wreft not holy things from their original pur- 
pofe, Deut. xxiiL 2 1. £ccl. v. 3, 4. A6U v. i, &c. Be^ 
fore a man makes vows let him confider well, and not be 
infnared. 

26 A wife benevolent king fcattereth like ckqff 
the /«/«r/of/j wicked; and not only fo^ but* 
bringelh thef vfVccl of condign punijbriient ovtt 
them. 

Kings, Fidelity and diligence are eflential to high 
office ; that difguife itfelf may not efcape, Pfal. ci. 2, fltc. 
The happtneis of a prince fhould be that of his peo- 
ple. R. 

27 The intelligent fpirit of a man is the candle- 
light of the Lord, fearching all the inward 
parts of the belly. 

Confcience* Power to refledl and judge of anions is 
our grand prerogative, Matth. vi, 1, &c.* That know- 
ledge is mod c(miplete, which improves the underlbmd* 
ing and ennobles the heart. R. 

We blefs thee, mofi glorious Lordf for that having, 
placed in the beft part of us, our reafon and confcience, 
the fovereignty over our fenfations, imaginations and 
affe^ions ; which being inferior according to the law of 
our nature and creation, we are bound to obey. 

a 8 Mercy to need^ zudjlri^ exercife (/truth , prc- 
ferve, like faithful guardians^ the king in bis 
rights : znA his throne of eminence \% Jieadfq/ilj 
upholden by mercy more than pomp. 

* Or tumeth round, H. f Wheels were made ufe of to 
feparate the hujks from the grainy J/a. xxviii, 27. ff. 



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Ctoip. XX. PHOVEaBS. 177 

JGi^i. The honour and comfort of high ilation is 
ufefulnefsy fuitcd to the extent of their power. Even 
neceflary punifhments Ihould be with relu^ance. Kings 
ought always to be apprchenfive of thofe who never con- 
tradi<Sl them. R, Regard not perfonal inclination m 
the affairs of ftate. /?. 

Let true religion, Gody be faithfiilly taught, and 
nniverfal virtue be effeAually encooraged by the wtf- 
d(Om and power of thoii who govern ; and let every one, 
in- his peculiar ftation and relation, adorn his behaviour 
by fbbriety and righteoufnels ! 

The exii^rnal glory of youn^ mtn is their ag 
ftreagth for adion ; and tht like beauty of 
oid men is the grey Jitvend bead. 

Qtd^^gt mndifmoh. Vigour and tq t p wie ate, imm years 
togedKT, ^o %na31y cooidiice to piublic good. Happy- 
they wWe temper aecords irith praonHiag outwsmf 

The* bluefie&of a/jMriwoiiii4>irrfrr«0u 30 
im cl^aQfeth away evil, like a medicine ; to 
do ftrilpes^ with that fame view, the inward 
psartg or a man^ which feem to affeSl the belly. 

CorreSion. Some tranigreiTors are not to be reclaim- 
ed but by ftfrere meftits. Harfh potions irfben benefit. . 

* Or the eUanJing of im mimmd famtih an 4vilf fujcm. 
Jfr^ tiatjai da^ M/a tht ho4y* H* 



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i7« PROVERBS. 



CHAP. XXK 

I nnHE king's heart is in the hand of tic 
X fupreme Lord, even * as the rivers of 
water are ; and he turneth it whithcrfoevcr 
he will. 

Providence and imgi. Public temper and happmtft 
do much depend upon people in ftation, i Tim. ii. i, Sec, 
The worft deiigns arid aftiohs are fometimes graciood^ 
overruled. How much more excellent is die intelleAMV 
than the world of matter ? Pfalr xxxiii. 15. Divine pit^ 
f^nce and operation pervades every where. He is cftt 
nigheft to aid and comfort where he is moft refembkd: 
Corruption in courts extends itfelf gradualty. i?. 

Unite us unto thee, Gvdy by the love of righteoofiiefi,. 
who cannot finally ptofper in nnrighteoufne^ any more 
than we can prevail againft omn^ence I 

a Every way of a man, at the time of a6ling^ » 
right in his own eyes ; but the Lord pea- 
dereth the real ft ate of his heart. 

God ommfctenu Even good men may be partial ^ 
themfelves, chap. xvi. 2. i John i. 7, &c. God ofixA 
fulfils his defigns by fuch methods as would feenx to QS 
calculated to difappoint them. R. 

Suffer us not, Gody to deftend farther into that dc»' 
generacy, which renders us incapable of any delightful 
and Welled converfe with thee, the Moft Holy ; but grant 
that we may feafonably bethink ourfelves, and uic a& 
proper means for the reformation of our lives, and fiw 
the refinement of our fpirits : that fo we may by a con- 
ftant improvement of ourfelves, at lail be prefented unto 

\ Or^ Rie as rOls of water* 



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phap. XXI. PROVERBS. 179 

diee, through the recommendation of thy fon, impreilcd 
with thy divine image, and be accepted of thee by him. 

To do impartial ju&icc znd uv/// judgement 3 
to our fellow-men is more acceptable to the a/U 
perfeii equitable Lord, than ihe mofi cojllyfplen^ 
did facnficc. 

• jhfi^^ and facrtfice. When worfhip interferes with 
works of righteoufhcfs and mercy, thefe lad are to be 
performed, Mic. vi. 6, &c. Heb. xiii. 16. ^ 

. 'Wc afcribe unto thee, God^ the glory of the greateft 
goodiufsy dire^ed by the greateft w^dom^ and exercifed 
by the greateft power ; and as nothing is glorious but 
g^ocbufi^ fo we honour the greateft perfedlion of it in 
tliee : we own with humble gratitude, that it is the pe- 
coBar privilege of our nature, that thofe moral perfec- 
tions* which are in themfelves divine, are communicable 

to us ; and that we can imitate thee in them, and refem- 
Me thtt, by them, and both enjoy thee, and enjoy happi-^ 
nds, in the enjoyment of thee ! 

An high contemning look, and a proud heart 4 
which leads to this^ and the ploughing of /// 
acquired property by th€ wicked is heinous fin. 

Pride and inju/lice. Self conceit becomes quite infuf- 
fenible through time. Rather part with an advantage 
oTcr others, than hurt humility. What the proud in- 
tend for immediate confolation, doth often turn out tlic 
very reverfe. Job xviii. 5, &c. Pfal. xcii. 7. By a 
! havtghty eye a man's vice of pride is difcoverable. 

The planning thoughts of the upright dili- 5 
gent* tend only to plenteoufnefs ; but of 
Ijicvery one that to avoid h^nefi labour is hafty of 
enriching themfelves by injurious means^ only to 
\iifgracejful want. 

* Or, wUl bring certain abundance^ If, 



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10D pRovERts. t^ net. 

DiBigmce and avantt. Moft metBo^ <^ be coming 
wealthy, without fair etiipk)ymeiit» are crimmaL Res- 
fonable competence is infinitely preferable. Gradual 
increafe is iafeft and moft lafting. Keen varied fekemcs 
for fecular profit feldom iifue weU. 

6 The getting of large treafures by a lying 
tongue is a vanity w/jicb will di/appoini, even 
0^ thefajfeh^od has been * tofled to and fro 
of them that feek death, at H were by JkB 
means y infieadofwelljnjoyed life. 

Covetoujnefs, Buying and feUing has much to fear ttt 
the way of guilt. There is an eating xftoth in erilttini 
purchafes. Lofs of chara^er is ftill more certain, ^f;fl^ 

T. T,&C. * 

We acknordedge, God^ with fatisfa<5fion, that ^mt 
fc no power on earth, or in heaven, that can di^p&Si 
with thofe laws of nature, the reafons of which ^rc eter- 
nal and unchangeable ; as being eftabllfhed not only 
by the fupreme authority of God^ but as being copies df 
thofe imitable perfedlions, the (acred original of which is 
m thee! 

7 The robbery of the wicked flrail, in tbr itit 
both torture^ and deftroy them ^ becaufe,^^/" 

fake of pojfijjhm^ they refufc to do re^ii^ 
judgement. 

Robbery, There is a falfehood of djsaling as^ wdl asrf 
i^eech. Legal adminiilration of puxuihn^ent is £o€ b(il)b» 

8 The way of a depraved man is f i^flft^ 
forward, and iffues. in Orange unhappy e;ffiA ; 
but as for the pure dejigning perfm^ his worl^ 
is invariably right on* 

* Oryjhallbe driven by his^di/honefty hnoJkareS ojidiaathm JR 
f Or, is full of turn'm^s.9 Prov. v. 3,^— -vii* C..^jS» 



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C&ap. XXL FROVERBf. 181 

Intm&ms good and had^ The principal OsxM of fome is 
to cheat and undermine. Equitable works are the uni<* 
form produce of fidr compofed intention. 

To thy divine truth, holy God, onr fouls arc made 
fubjedt ; fo that when it is peiceived by our underftand" 
ing, we can no more command our fentiments, than we 
can cexnmand the nature of things itfelf. 

It is better to * dwell in a narrow fecreted 9 
corner of the f houfetop, than with a brawl- 
ing contentious woman in a wide elegant houfe 
for company. 

Female contention, InconfiftenCy of near relatives are 
peculiarly vexing. Want of fhelter and freedom are 
fufferable, in comparifon. Eafe of mind is difficult 
apaidft perpetual furious ftorm. People given to ftrife 
fee every thing in the worft light, and arc foon irritated, 
1 Pet. iii. I, &c. * 

The foul of the wicked defireth to fee and 10 
purfue blameable evil ; his mo/i harmlefs neigh- 
bour, therefore^ findeth little or oo favour in 
his eyes* 

Jqfurioufnefi. A hcMt fet upon vice ipuft be tranf- 
greffing. The uncharitable are fufpicious and apt to 
misjudge. Moft people are blind to their own iniquity. 

~ When the rude infulting fcorner W^condignly 1 1 
punifhed, even the fiinple is made Wife, by re- 

jle^iion ; and when the wife to a good degree is 
inftrufted, he receivcth yet more knowledge. 

Inftrualon. Scomers lofe ^ moded regards and muft 

* Enjoy quietnefsy Gen. iu 3. \ Or on the top of a tur^ 
ret J 2 Kings xmU, 12. Ifvf„vi. 9. Zefh, iii, 6* 2 Chron* 

Kxvi* l^* Hm 

R 



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not be tenderly iMLHugtA. PoUkr pm&mtm m 
tneant to mtimidate. Magiftr«tt«s are ckal^eaWe with 
what they migk^ have |]frcvented. Me 'who is faithfiil 
l)cfHends tntttiy. Uapfy th^ -ivho ai^e ^er op<i to 
cotxvi^oti* 

I a The ^Jtrjceretif^tecnifi man wifely collfidfi^ 
€th how the houfe of the wicked has been ad' 
varued, and doth not envy him ; but Atmighii 
God^ Jloner or later Overth'roweth the widfed 
for their injurious wickedMft. 

Unlawful richeu We fhould endeavour to view thi 
events ot life, fo as to be inftnided from them. Few fr 
xnilies by upright means are all at once exalted fh^ ^ 
circuraftances. He more that ievils affe nbw ftcin^ 
the more will provideBce take revenge, Job V. 3, &c ^ 
xxzviL 36. It is a fafe rule for ohe*s hotife to deanfc fitlft 
every finful increafc. High rkiik augmetfts JialwA 
haughtinefs. 

13 Whofo ftoppeth his ears at the fetrtimk^ 
cry of the poor, he alfo fhall cry himfelf, uni^ 
frejfures of indigence, but fliail not be hWd 
with acceptance. 

Vntendemejs. They do not properly h^r the t*krf 
diHrefs who would keep out of their way, or contiivt^ 
ful excufes to avoid aiding: Luke x. 31, 3*. r^ 
<:hara^ers strc more generally deteftable. With wwt 
ground of confidence can they pray ? Ifa. i. lit te» 
Men are brethren, and each man has a right to 'A^t- 
ever he has need of. 

14 A gift conferred vci fccret pacificth anger} 
and a larger reward known ta ie iaid f^ in ike 

* Or nvben ajufi man ginyeth p'ofidrky h Hn ioifi V"* 
nvtcked; be feducith bad men umojtrt^ Jofb. i. 8. Jir. ft^ 

21. H. 



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b&Som fir $n$^ 'MAtf ha been btitriivan bf ^onf^ 

€^f/h. T(y concHiaie we ought tt> rt^eA our former 
mjurioos pra(5tices. He wha grrcs ^a ficft oflmice >ut 
m^fi act to diltruil. The more delicate both as to time 
aord maimer, the more eficacioas are kind deods> Gon* 
x*si4. 25. 

.^It is the ftire/i and mo/i hjiing joy to the 15 
generous juft, to do ^yw/V^^/? judgement ; but 
Jure grief and deftruftion (hall be to the cruel 
pfaers of imqpiity. 

muk frami Vprig^ ^vjp are obiiifly. dilBn^ 
hf tJbe pleaAite lk^]| ha^TQ ifv (t^liig gopd 1^ o> 
1^ like unto their msik^r; J^ npt too i^tgidf A 
heart is the feat of rjc^gi^P^ CpQ£:i9^f> guik is 
to real enjoyment. Thofe in high office ihould 
l^eatee a bomg aftprel)^ \iMaU Gte^Dfeds. oidy 
UhjV^ ^e wic](!^ qiieiN ta ^iqr pwn. paffioQS,. and im- 
HlgyfrTy ^^ ^co^e ipif^rable. i?. 

'•QnfE^ b dqd; th^ all in their feveral places a;:id ca« 
p«lties may glorify thee, by promoting that e¥erlaft- 
ing and univerial righteou^c^ ivhich is thy gracious 
tp advance unto a juft ibvereingty among all 
~>)e brtngs-^ 




VMm tkal, mihhis knowledges, waader« \6 
e|^ 0Ut of the way kA preftribed ufKierftandw 
ii|g^ 0^ timoughc time remain fafi in, the coa« 
grfiiii^^ioQ Q|f the wicke4 dea4* 

O^flttMcy. What o mf i i pn t u^hve prdbri^M i« the higb- 
e% i^e^n f and is n?iarked with clear evidence. How 
iiijfer4l?l» a ftatc vs it to be driven to and ^o^ by divers 
fbolUlr iiifts ? GaL vi. 6, 7. The wicked go ftt>m^ one 
ft5|g t|^a]9iot}i^tillt;h«.un4ejrftandin^ boqoaies.infHtu^ 
cd, the h^an and^et run to all forts of crimes. R> 

Make us fenfible, O L9rdj that as none can ibbfift. 
R X 



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1 84 PROVERBS. Qaip lU. 

"frithout thecy fo none» (uch as are enemies to rigfateoot 
nefs, and therefore enemies to thee, our God^ and chil- 
dren of the devily can fuppOrt themfelves againft 4he 
Svine fufremacy which is univerfaly and agsunft. that Sr 
vinepowtrf which is irrefiAible ! 

1 7 He that ♦ lovcth mere bodily pleafure, flbaD, 

from expence and eagernefs together^ be a poeMf 

man in the end ; he that lovcth infoxicatir^ 

wine, znd fweet fcented oil in particular y fijall 

not be ricn for any tin}e. - " 

jintmal gratifications. Prodigality and lloth are bl^ 
ways to beggary. Even a life of mere amufemcnt can- 
not be innocent. One finful indulgence leads to ailo- 
ther. The foul which fickens under thefe mufliiavc 
been made fox higher things. They who live abo^c 
the largefl incomes muil be ruined. 

• * 

i8 The wicked, from their Jrequeniy and grmi 
mifpendingSy fliall be obliged to fell cf, and bi" 
come as a ranfom for the thriving righteous; 
and the more lavifh tranfgreffor, for the m- 
fiexibly upright in dealing. 

Vice ruinous. The removing or abating of pABc 
guilt becomes an acceptable ranfom for thole gooJAat 
remain, chap. xi. 12. An habitual honeft aim comcfto 
be well known and recompenced^ 

19 It is better to dwell in the mofi deferivfk^ 
dernefs/(?r f elf enjoyment^ than with a pee^P^ 
contentious, and an inceffant angry f womal* 

Bad female temper. How ineftimable a bleffing is do* 
ipeftic peace ! ver. 9. How great a duty. Tney ttB- 

♦ Or deRghteth infeqflingi 2 Kings x$c. 30. Gen. x»m» 
18. I Kings iv. 20. B. f Or wfe^ Gen* U^ 29. -^ 



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tgiarj; for devQtion and love. Contentious hafl>ail4^ 
ought alfo to thln)^ of this. 

There (s a competence of trcafure to be dc- 20 
ftr^cj, aad if;b^t may turchaje ^m /fare ^fri^ 
yant oil, at^ timh. ^A vl>e dw^iHing of the 4ilh 
lent wife; but a w^k ^^ 'QOUftk n^W 
fp^adcth it q^uickly up.. 

-Q^b^Kf^ ^^%- '^ifdom unde^ftai^cb. the pro* 
per ufe of wealth ; an4 is often fuccef^ful* RaOi, pro- 
jc^ors defirc too much, and in too fmall a compau of 
<^?. l^j^y 4fi? Ij^e faft from ei^jje^^atipn. Intempc- 
Ij^^^i^ a. cru^fli(^l^g vi|^e. 

Ifc, tKat followet^h after irigliteoufticfs ^^- ai 
/^tafttt »«% amd' moAy aii(| j'f/ rj^ree^im^k ni^r- 
cy tQwartfs^ the poor^ findeth a life of pure enjoy*- 
tnent^ and aiding righteoufneis, wben his Jituq^ 
lm may require itj atid certain honour. 

JWfo mi m^^' I>*vi^ PW^^ft s ^e only i?[ia4e tp* 
tflc affedionately good, Matth. v. 6. — vi. 35. Profefc 
foQi vithoat jttftijDQ and ajmsgii^ina v^l nexer do. Bc- 
fcr^^an^ one can br Kberal he muft ^ jifflj. Tbp mpft 
ftUbnt de%l^ k to imtatc (%^* ipifin^refted wjortb 
M)Kt&p£aii£.. 

A frmleni wife naa>!» ft^tjetba fi. to fpe^kx ^hat 2 z 
^ ke i&mpared to tl>e city of tke migkty, 
tod cajfteth down, n^t unfetdomy the boa/ted 
ltcengtl^ of the coAfid^enQe tl^ereof.. 

fru^ince. It is oxily bj menj^l prQ]Lis,atid moral ac- 
wmpKfliments ^;^t outward advai^tages aie rendered 
ttfefm. How frequently hath art lucceedcd againll 
ftrength. Such noaintai^i, ^Xtty fwH^ ^^P ^^ ^^'r PJ^^ 
pds, Eccl. ix. «3, &c. 

R3 



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ia6 PROVERBS. Chap. Xf.U 

33 . Whofo kccpcth the words ofhU mouth aad 
his tongue in converfation^ kecpeth the' life of 
hi$ foul from various fore troubles. 

Tonrue-go^emmeni* What knowledge and experience 
doth trequently repeat mud be important. Avoid fttff 
ufelcfs filcnce and obferve the good rules of ipeech. Be 
ever mild and condefcending. 

24 Proud, infolent and haughty fcorncr is his 
riame, who regardlefs of God himfelf dealech 
in proud contentious • wrath. 

Wrath and contention. Hade is for mofi part both im- 
pious and uncharitable. Man is a weak infufficient 
creature, whom lowlinefs doth well become. Attempt 
not to rile upon the real or fuppofed blemifhes of aiKH 
ther. Avoid fatyre* Pity rather than publilh feults. 

45 The unworking defire of the flothful killeth 
■him in time^ through torment of want^ andfc'- 
vere bodily difeafes ; for his hands, when\mqfi 
' able^ refufe to labour even for a maintenance. 

Sloth. Demands incrcafe as to ftrength and number 

by fluggardly wifhes. Such an one is ever craving and 

ever deititute. The affluent themfelves have a call to 

work for others. To be idle is at once to (leal and mux- 

" der. 

We confeis, Lord^ that while we very carefidly ob- 
fervedy and very much regarded that good and evil 
which is natural^ and were exorbitant in our dedres of 
pleafurcy and in our averfions to pain ; we have little 
regarded the much more important di£rerence of mora/ 
good and evil ; and fo lived without that religious obe- 
dience, which fliould have rendered our anions agpreeable 
to our nature, and obfervant of the lawsof thee^attr G^tL 

♦ Or lavfhft dieds. H. 



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Chap. XXI? proverbs; ig7 

He coveteth greedily to live in eq/ij all the 2$ 
day long, and is an abje^ beggar fromJloth\ 
but the honefi diligent righteous • has a compe^ 
tmCj and giveth, alfo to the difabled needy^ 
and fpareth not. 

Diligence andjloth. Continued defire is fatal to enjoy- 
ment and leads to covet \ yea^ often to fleaL Benefi* 
cent charity is a debt to want ; and grateful pious re- 
tiMrn. It confults with affe<5lion more than expediences^ 
Eccl xi. I, 5cc. Matth. ▼. 7. Pfal. jdi. i, 5cc. 2 Thefll 
iii. 10. 

The mojl expenftve facrifice of the wicked is 27 
an abomination ie the Lord; how much morb, 
when he bringcth it with a ba/e wicked com* 
muting mind /or known trefpajfss^ or to acquire 
a name. 

Hjpoeritkal Jevotian* Some place all their piety in 
bodily ejiercifes ; being either ignorant or evil defigning, 
Ifa. i. ii« &c. Mic. vi. 7. Jam. iv. 8. Our reSgious 
worfhip is an adoration of God; and our religious obe- 

.dience is an imitation of him. 

Grscious Father^ as thou addeft new days to our lives, 

. fo let us do the proper work of thefe, under the condu^ 
and direftion of thy good fpirit ; until we come to that 
reft which is provided for thofe who anfwer the relation 

: they ftand in to Chri/if and are followers 0/ Godf as dear 

. diildren, having Cltr^ formed in them. 

A hKc /peaking witnefs, e/pecially i/ upon oath^ 28 
fliall perifh for ever; but the man that heareth 
the words o/it^ to declare as he knows ^ fpeaketh 
conftantly in/upport 0/ righteous truth. 

True andfalfe wtne/fmg. Even a common liar will 

^ Or hi* defiret are fully gratified^ Prov. xzi* \y H. 



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Hi\4 ufcftilnp/s, U.Ullin|(t;9 43rers^tn^$, iidb%t.^7e.ar| 

opt certain o(. 

19 A wicked man hardenc^tb his bic^, j^mtk 
attending to wife feafonable cout^\ bot ^ Cm 
tbc uprigbt in bis aims •^ b^ diredetl) |iis 
V^y (fbihaivifiut ^ clf^ remmkii rtife^ 

Upfi^hfnejs^ Some are at p^iiis, to dbgeive tfaqnftAnefu 
"J^^Qie who/ ^^ fmcefc do fearcK an^praj, as in fb^ 
cxix. 33» 54. Vice is progreffive^ &• vif. 8^ te. Pfiju 
L i» 2. 

QrU^^ a^I men> frofwmr Godt to tb^ knowledge of the 
true religion ; that it majr have a weighty influence ep- 
on tlv^m,. fbr the transforming them into tho liltenefe of 
iSkrifl s and grai^t that CkriUians may not only bo i9- 
4ir aa e«tei^al deaofmoatacm 4^9p theif religion i but 
may be endowed ^th a principle of life by it> and that 
Chrifi may live in them ! 

30 . Th^e ia. i^fucc^efiful wifdoin, nor>(2rfi^ 
^Tindnsfftanding, n^r indeed cQundS^l/r^/y .4|f 
eruarierj agatnft th« unerring^ rigbieous- XmA 
God 4lrmgl?tyi- 

Provuknci. Ovr bed ju<^;efneii^ b ta fellow. ffiJMJiirf 
ifevoutly to requeft 1^9 aids, Pfal. czxxi«» i, kc. * 

Keep it» Lord^ upon our minds,, tkit^ ^le timk 
lhort» in which thoie who are good can {v&r- ftnuAi 
power and maKce of thofe who are h^\ and v^ 'mUk 
thpfe ^haar^ bad fbould, repent and become gopd : asi 
that as foon as this ihort time ia ended, there w9i bM 
fepavs^en ^tbe<me feoi» thcodKr ua|o etei»ityu 

31 The horfe is prepared ky hu judicious ri^ 
againft tbe awful day of battle } but viS^ 

* Or> be c$mSft6 bis gom^. 



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ChaR. XXII. PROVERBS. ilfi 

rtous f fafety to iM, is of the i^^btliUe^ otnhi* 
patent Lord. 

.,, Plaory. Providence doth cither blaft or promote hti- 
i^an defigns, Pfal. xxxiii. ii, &c. Ifa. xxii. li. — xxxL > 
i/Scc. 

' Let the conQderation of thy providence, Lerdfirnkt ' 
us patient of our prefent momentary Offerings, and 
compalConate to all others who fuffcr ; if by any meam 
-we may be inflrumental to reclaim fuch as make them- * 
ieires miferable, and to hinder thofe who (as far as they 
are concerned) make otliers miferable t 



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CHAR XXIL 

Good name from virtue^ even among 
^^ „^ men^ i$ rather to be chofen of all who 
Jiu^e aright^ than great /tore of riches ; and 
their intimate loving favour rather than heaps 
^Jine filver and gold. ' 

Meputation. Charadler is valuable on its own account^ 
maAtOT the fake of eminent advantages from it. To be 
M||ardlefs of fame is to become abandoned. When this 
k^aafelefsly injured, integrity with patience of hope will 
te-our refourecy Matth. v. 9, 5cc. 1 Cor. iv. 3, &c. A 
man's good name is his life \ and wo to them that mo- 
kft it. 

: Here the rich and the poor do meet toge- 
ther ; the fame great good Lord is the maker 
of them all y&r mutual benefit. . 

f 2 Sam. xxiti. 1O9 I2.< 



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bond of union. They who labour for others,, laftbfni^ 
under an obligation of juilice and gratitude, Mat ii. lo. 
ligr iiu i^jt* AuH)9 via. ^ Tb&fi ought tOf be nfii^ 
Iq^Uixig, npr ewj. 

Grant, fupremt Lordy that thy moral pcrfeAton|,of 
goodoefs, rrg];iteouix)ief& andt truth,, being conaimu;v4C3^ 
tp all thy ct«itiirQi. that htc intelligent,' ajiivobntajy, 
tl|p5F imiy be to Qne anQilv:c,,aceoidi;\g tptheii; aVditits, 
n^at thai), mt, to tbem. ali« juft a^d^good* xso^ergfiil a^d 
b^ne^eiit, 

3 A prudent man forcfecth the afproaclmi 
evil, and hideth VwaifMfrom its power ifpy* 

Jible \ but the carelefs credulous iimple pafi oa 
unprepared^ and zxt often punifhed by extrem 
troubles. 

Prudeau and, mmtt[fin^Qp^ Caution is requifite id 
ttcry ftep of life. Weigh attentively probable circum- 

4 By humility and the true filial f^ar of A» 
Lord, are noble, fatisfying richjes and honoBf 
%viib right judges^ znd:fweet enjoyment g^Kfc* 

Hi^pkeft. A habitoal devout temper is mod^ 
VR^at ^re aS the.wil^ft and bed comparra'with himtte 
is Infinite. aijLdfin&lHbfe> G«K%ie^&proA»t^u^ii^ 
t)^gs» P^L exit. If &<^.— 4kxxiy4 H* 

5 Thorns cfiHfiant froubhy^ v^ fftai>e» hot^^^ 
down to what is yet worfe^ arc in the way qt 
the froward tranfgrejfor ; he that doth keep 
bb foul to be gowrmd By a divint nda^ fbM\k 
hx from tbecn botb^ 

Mildnefi and wrath. ImpuUes of mere humour are 
liable to afflj^Ma^&y^^ul)^]^^^ Though quiet 



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firft emotions erf" evil to repreis them. 

Sy4befanple method of catechixmg^ train up 6 
a cWId in the phus^ju/i^ ch^irUabU way of life 
fee fiitM^dl go : and wtieii he is o\A^f mm joyous 
habit and cujlofn^ it is more than probable h« will 
not d^>art from it. 

Educaitim pfchiUMi. <5t(vertidts bf yoftth have tm 
*t*il chargfe. Cajteck Afe buddings of vice by miM 
r^monftrance. Principles 4{>e tKes^l to T^hc beko- 
viour. As reafon unfolds it ihould be addrefled in pro- 
l^Hkm %o ihaieWr ^at is pood. Eaff coa^efceniinff 
fe%i4s *f ^ch icroght all along to be ufed ; -and tte 
ftK)ftiliipbrtfflit things oftenefttofifted upon. Inftruaiv* 
l)[SAorfefs have a fine ^fib<^ A frfw melancholy unaatm- 
Val etC(K)MSk»iite ftoold not be urged againft comnioa tt- 
ptfkaet, ^ph ti 4. IS^en xvlii. I9. Lead the mind 
l^radtially «ii and make truth relifli. R. D17 naxixins 
and cold precepts difguft. R. Heb. v. lo. 

This ri<:h in Hiommon rtileth with a high hand 7 
WW tht poor, and the borrower is too ofter^ob^ 
Uged to be ftAmiJfifue as a fervant to the fevere 
felffh lendcn 

Muenee unB ^iepenitntei. Favours from men ai^ 
A&Aj to hc^fahied by the vie^ with which they ai^ 
given. They ftould be iniade to fe eafy bo^h m thek 
manner and expeAed returns. It is dreadful to kaxWs 
tfal^ whom we (hould fupport. Better to want for a 
titte than to be under t)bli|;ation to a proud fuperior. 
£t:eii the natiEral burden of gratitude is not fmaU to a 
de&ate mind Parents themfelres are to be obeyed \h 
the Lord* 

He that foweth iniquity fiiall reap the vex0'^ 8 
thus vanity of dijappointment j and mth the 



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191 PROiriNUH. Ch9^ ILXil 

very enfign^Tod •• of his cat^tkfs vioUnt anger 
be (hall fail f of his hope. 

Vice decettfuL There is a natural puniihment aftoez* 
ed to mod kinds of guilt. Job iv. 8. H<^ x. 9, A ▼«• 
atious rich man, v^ilT meet with his match in time, Ul 
xiv. 9, &c. Beneficent people are the moll happy. 

9 He that hath a bountiful aiding eye fliall 
be blefled in himfelf^ and by others y for ht 
giveth largely of his bread, and like fvi^Wfy 
to the well known regular poor. . ..\\ 

Liberality* Thofe who are covetous hardly fee «^ 
thine which they do not wifh to have. The chai^liblie 
are fotisfied and ready to fpare for modeft wani* \jS. 
fight of wo with fuch is equal to an eameft p^i^pn. 
It is accompanied with felf-enjoyment, the favour c^f GbJ 
and of all the good. Obje^^s of beneficence aj^e a$ ^va- 
rious as human wants, 2 Cor. ix. 6, &c Matth. xx. 15. 
Prov. xxiii. 6. 

10 Caft out the proud mifchievius fcMner," and 
contention fliall foon go out ; yea, upbrm0^ 
ftrife and mutual reproach fliall /?r ever cc2$t. 

Pride and contention. Vain conceit enilames 1^^ cftr 
ilighteft difappointment. To vilify and fcgff isjsbat 
moii people can do ; and yet is feldom forgiven* .Sw- 
ken not to a reviling tongue, Ffal. ci. 5. 2 TEe^ra. 
11, 14. . " ^ 

1 1 He that loveth purenefs of heartyi/^^n^bi 
to government^ for the grace oifpeech out ffSs 
lips, the king him/elf QidW be his friend. . 

Suhmiffion to government. The upright deal in fbit ctto* 
ciliating methods, and are the bond and joy of fiidal 

* Orjfceptre^ Gen.klix.io, H. f Oir^he hroiJn. H* 



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Gbap XKIT PROVEKB& 193 

V£sf Jer^ ix. ^ ftc. There is a dk^uty and fveetnefs in 
honeft words. Thofc of ftation Iftiould be defirous t« 
find out and rccompencc them, Pfal. ci. 6, 7. 

May all thofe, God of infinite majefiy and ioWf who by 
tiicir office and dtftin^ion, are charged with the tempo- 
ral weMiU-e and eternal falvation ot men, faithfully ac- 
quit themfelves ; Co diat they may give a good account 
o[ their truft to thee, in the great day of the Lord ! 

The complacent eyes of the Lord prefervc 11 
ibofe who have thorough praSlUal knowledge, 
and he overthroweth in his anger^ the mif' 
dn^votti words of the deliberate perfevering 
tranfgreffor. 

God^s love and hatred* No fpecious appearances can 
deceive infinite wifdom. He takes lefs delight to dwell in 
heaven, tiiart in the foul of the juft. R. 

The ds^y is thine» Lord^ and the night alfo is thine, 
who never flumbereft nor fleepeft ; be thou our perpe- 
tual guardian and prote<flion, who haft declared thyfelf 
to repenting finners reconciled by Jefus Chrlfi. 

. The habitual flothful man faith, to extenuate 13 
his guilty there is a lion of hinder ance without, 
I fhall be flain outright^ if I meet him even in 
the ftrcets. 

SlotL Indolence is quick to invent excufes. Necef^ 
feiy projeds are often much retarded by it. Where 
God and duty call, let no man fear. 

Suffer us not, gracious God^ by the confideratlon of 
any unwarrantable example among ungodly men, or by 
the confideration of any difficulty and uneulinefs, to be 
prevailed upon to give up ourfelves as loll ; but remem- 
btering our glorious original, from whence we are fallen,. . 
oar remainmg poilibility and cat^acity of reftoratiou, 
may we fet ourfelves, under thee, our kind Creator ^nd 
Frderver, to become again focb as thou mayeft own, 
and delight in 1 

The mouth of flrange wborijh \i'(incn 14 



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194 PROVERBS. Chap. XXIl. 

U dangerous U virtue^ even as a dcq> pit : he 
that is abhorred of the Lord, for profligacy of 
manners^ Ihall fall therein byju/i permtjfton. 

Immod^ women. Females loft to virtue ought to be 
mflantly fled from. They who deliberate have already 
forgot G(m/, and are in the utmoft hazard of being aban- 
doned by him. 

We confefsy Lord^ that cftrangement from thee is 
an alienation from our proper ufe, and from our nece^ 
(ary happinefs, and from ourfelves ; but by dppo&m' 
and enmity againft thee, we pafs into another contvary- 
nature» and arc fo far, not any part of thy creatioin^Vi^, 
the moft unaccountable defedlion from it. Help ttsr ji 
remember this, and fhew ourfelves men ! . *. - 

15 Self-willed fooliflinefs is too often bouDdijb 
in the heart of a child indulged^ but the rodl 
of correftion ihall drive it far from hirii* / 

CorreSion. Moft yoijng tempers may and ougiit.lQ. 
be win by mild methods, without unfeafonable yiekftM^ 
Correal at firft by tender expoftulations ; and 9^t» 
wards if need be with more fmartnefs. Defift not-jldi 
there is good hope of fuccefs. 

16 He that oppreffeth the poor to increaft* 

his more than fufficient riches, and he tjbn^ 

giveth to the rich, when they ajk^ fliaU fiiM|f - 

come to want. '>•- 

j_ _ . 

Opprejlon, Plain truths are the moft beneficial. '18 

got treafures do not long laft, PfaL xlix, 14, i^ifLdt^ 

jLxxvii. I. Sighing and groaning fetch help from hfK*? 

17 Deliberately bow down thine car, hear toliul* 
attention the words of the wife, and appty^ 
thine heart unto the proper ufe of my divm^^ 
knowledge. 

InflruBion, Obvious truths (bould be put into varioiur 
lights, and be honeftly prepared for. 



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dhap. XXII; PROVERBS. 195 

For It is a pleafant thing at the very time, if 
thou keep them within thee to meditate upon ; 
a?td they fhall withal be &tted for ready ft it' 
ai>/e u/eful converfe ^ in thy lips. 

Medttathn and converfe. The progrefs of wifdom is 
imfpeakvibly joyous> aiid mukes expreflion eafy, Matth. 
xU. 35, &c. 

iberefore that thy firm truft may be in the 
Lord yehovah^ I have made known, as above^ 
to thee this day, the pleafure and benefits of re* 
ligious difcoveriesj even to tho/e that fend thee 
al/o, for being tn/iru^ed. 

Lemoning to Be encouraged. No principle or rtdc of piety 
bttt is to be found in Solomon's Proverbs ; and moft 
of them often repeated* The more we advance in com- 
fortable divine experiences, the more doth Almighty God 
approve of us. In the darkneis of trouble he will be 
our Ifeht. 

O meffed Lord^ and univerfal governor of heaven and 
eanli» may we thy creatures and fcrvants whom thou; 
li^ft endowed with underflan<Hng and reafon, and fo 
niade capable of knowing, adoring and trufting in thee, 
preient ourfelves and our acknowledgements often at * 
thy fbotftool ! We do not forget that the fufficiency of 
W creatures is in conjundlion with thee the Creator? 
and that we who can do nothing without thee, can do^ 
all things through bini that ftrengtheneth us. 

Have not I written before to thee excellent 
things, in refpedl ^counfels for good behaviour^ 
in d knowledge of various other important things 
bejides ? 

Cout^els and knowledge. Right rules of life adimilate 
the foul of man to its divine original, in difpofition and 
happinefs. Subtile refinements wrve often only to fpoil 
chc undcrftanding and corrupt the heart. R. 

^ * Jis maxims or proverbs* H,- 

S a 



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196 PROVERBS. aap.«Xn. 

2 1 That I might make thee know the W- 
dpubted certainty of the words of telejiid 
truth ; and that thou mightcft anfwer witb 
confidence the words of truth, fo clear ftmm 
and authoritative to them * that lend uato 
thec/(?r being fimilarlf injlru£led. 

Inftriidors. The fnre grounds and evidences of whit 
we both believe, and Aoy Ihould be well uaderftoodi 
1 Pet. ill. 15. Rom. iv. 22. Reft not in mere ieaS- 
knowledge, Ifa. Iv. 3. \ 

Caufe us to take cognizance of thee, our God, thd'fe 
make juft acknowledgements to thee, by words of wK- 
bration, and ads of obedience ; and not tmgfBtflftfif 
to di&wtt thftt bounty by which we fubfifl : and eoo- 
trary to th^ convidton of rcafon, the ingaiuity of ndtHWi 
VBid the demands of confcience, to contemn 9x4 ^ 
Vhat ir moft glorious and adorable ! 

22 Rob not the poor m any degree^ bccavfek* 
is poor tp reM; neither jet more ^tifOf <[p 
preft the afflidcd/rww want or /tigering v^ 
thou eanB not but kmw^ in the very f g(^ 4 
judgement. 

Qpprejfim. No outward circumftance is cxcemed ftW» 
being juft and jnftly deih with. The more gui It ^^ 
gravated, the levercr punifbment is due to it. Exa44»t 
with rigour. Pity and aid the fimple. Dread ^*ys 
and means which require concealment. Courts of j«' 
tice ought ever to be accefiibk, and to retain pkaden^ 
the poor. 

123 For the Lord God of fabbaoth will plead 
their caufe withfuccefs in the endy and mjer* 
ably f fpoil the lovX-peace of thofc that cr\d) 
unnaturally fpoiled them. 

OppreJU^on. The feat of divine judgement is impartial 

* Thy branches or children^ Cant. iv. 1$. + ^^ ^'^ 
ofjufike^ Deut. xxi, 19.— xxv, 7. If. % Or harafu A 



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GhMf. X9{^ PROVERBS. 197 

mA a model to every o&er^ Zech. rii. 9, flee. Ex. xzit. 
2 1 . Job/ zxxi. 2 1 . God cannot fu£Fer an eternal blemi{h 
in his work ; and therefore light with goodnefi^ maft 
triumph over infernal darkneis. R, 

Make no friendihip with a quid angry 2f 
man) zfid with a furious refentive man, thou 
flialt not often go even for commerci ; left thou aj 
learn from example his rafh hazardous ways, 
and'ger, in time, a/^/ii?/ fnare to thy foul. 

Tr'undjbip. A nece/Tary engagement to the comfort 
of life, requires both delicacy of choice and future beha- 
i0tour« IThofe who are apt to take offence, muft be jea^ 
louv proud, domineering. Exchange- of fentiments 
and hearts prove more and more endearing. 

Be not thou one of them that baftily ftrike ad' 
hand3 of agreement for life^ or of them that are 
Jimilarly rafh fureties for debts. 

Engagements andfuret^lp. A neceflary duty binds all • 
who are able ; but in different cafes we are bound to> 
ddd>erate much, chap. vi. i. — xi. 15. Engage not for 
XDCffe^than canbe paid with judice. 

li thou haft nothing of money fufficient to if 
pay for failing of a principal^ why ftiould he 
who is creditor have it in his power to take away 
thy n)ery bed from under thee ? 

Suretjifl^ Eafy tempers have much to feat amongft 
j^ necemtous and artful.. To become liable to fuffer 
from law and firiA judice is an alarming flate. Hard^ 
lying and painful reflexions are not eafily fupported. 

'Remove not, with thy knowledge^ the an- 2S 
dent dividing land-mark, which thy fore-h^ 
tilers have fet to determine property. 

Ipji^iee. Fraudulent encroachments are the. moft 
criminal, Deut. zix. i4.-^xzvii. 17. To vitiate writs 

S3 



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t9« PROVERBS. . CSjap. XXHl 

Is a ^oHt of like kind- Everj one ou{bt to enjoT* vAat 

is their own in peace. 

2^9 Seed thou a mstn £6a/ 1/ diligent in bis pn* 
^r buiinefs ? he (hall fiand before king&^ lie 
ihall not ftand always before mean ^fcurt 
men. 

Mujlry* He who earefollf di^tches work ezckes 
attention* acquires credit and wealth, fo as to be «vea 
courted, Frov.xzi.5. Gen* xlL 19. 



-«^^-t^-«.'4|'»- »> »■» »»H 



CHAP. XXIIL 

V \\7HI;N thou fitted upon invitatian/lo 
W cat with a ruler of opulence^ cou^ 

fider diligently * what is laii before thee ; 
^ and be cautious^ as though thou didft | pur a 

Jharp-edged knife to thy throat, nr place of thy 

mauth^ if thou be a nun given to gluitomuizp^ 
- petite. Be not eagerly defirous of his rare 

expenjtve dainties : for they ar« decel^ 

everleading meat. 

Gluttony. Temperance is a chief irirtue ef vdigipai 
Rich people are nioft in danger of ezcefes. The pioois 
bj being feldomer tffnpte^ are fonnetimes put Into 
great hazard : then teafoii o^ht nwft to be coniUted. 
The meats may be jjplendid, if people fet not their hearts 
upon them. Hofpitality, and diviiion of remains amoni; 
, tl^e indigent, is truly noble. The throat has been often 
fatal to both health and life. Conliitt with real and not 

♦ Or^ in nvbofe prefen€t ihm art, H. f Or^ put a r^rmri 
t^n thitti appetltcy Hob, A 1 3. Dent* Viii* 9. H. 



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Chap. XXni. FROVEUDS. 199 

:fTow{Acd appetke. Bewatt of acquiring a talb ab(rm 
fiadon. Thiuk of your young rifmg fanmy. 

Labour not with an affiduoUs fotkitude to be 
fim rich ; ceafc from thine own early wer* 
^ued wljfdoai. Wilt thou Jiill fct thine* 
§ager eyes upon that which in comparifon is not 
fiHH bi tb^ugi4 nf among real important things f 
For riches, be tbey amaffed to the utmofly certain- 
ly make themfelves wings at la/K they fly/ir 
ever away from usj as an t^^cfwift andjirong 
doth toward the ehuds ^heaven. 

jfvarice. WorldOy goods are BOt|obe defpifed but 
fbught f(yr in meafure. Money is not an end but a 
mean of temporary fuj^pt, Mattb. vi. 33. John vi. 27, 
A ptouS) juft, charitaUe heaity is the only meet one for 
a better ftate. Tbiligs of time pev^r yi^ what they 
^fromiie, befides their being ihort and uncertain^ i Tinv 
▼i. 17, 9. 

., ^Eat thou not when that* canji avoid it, even 
the necejary bread of him that hath an^ evil 
' ^eeit/ul eye f , neither deiire thou with eat" 
nejinefs an invitation to dc^ept of his dainty 
meat$. For as he thinketh in his niggard 
l^eart} fo is he moA bafely dijDkmbling ; Eat and 
drink plentifully^ faith he with bis lips to thee, 
but his heart of real affeiiion is not at all with 
t^e<. The morfel which thou haft eaten, 
Aalt thou vomit up ta him, noi only in bis 
thoughts, but in his fubfequent vijitsfor more than 
impie reiurn ; and ^us Jhah thou lofe the lat^ 

* Om^Mre Jfiu uc. I. Stcl t>. *l. 1 Jo. il rf. 
^ B9tb errorsi and virSites of thi mind nrnke ufi oftodify 
members f chap, xxH. 19.— -;rxMi. 4) 5* '^l^^fi^^ tisy an 
named. 



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torn VKDVEKBSk Chip. XXUL 

affarent benefit of thy vA%U fmrmir fwcet 
words. 

Niggardly di/J^muUtion* He who corets worftipi mm* 
moa. The generoufly hofpitable* deal not at lam m 
fair fpeechesy that are often confuted by a tremblii^ 
liand) dejected look, or fuUen peeyilh* manner in the ea£ 
The very bed things from a fordid mifer are undeiinbl6 
Their fead is proverbial Love without ^^irwlarinfr 
Be pleafant and not teafmg* 

9 Speak not gently into the ears of a weakft* 
fiinafe fool, for in place of amending^ he will 
dcfpife the very wifdom of thy words. 

Rebuke. Couniel, with admonition, ought ever to take 
place where there is probable hope of being ufcful b 
any other cafe they only ferve to increafe guilt, Mattk 
vii. 6. Prov. ix. 7. To s^pear con^ftent the wicked 
affeA di(belief of both principle and rule, Pial xxxix. 
1, &c. 

We, thy creatures, holy Father ^ who have been alienate 
ed from thee, and depraved in our nature, by cuAo* 
maiy and habitual fins, lift up our fouls unto thee^ im- 
ploring thy compaflion towards thy offspring, the work 
of thy hands ; and making our requefts to thee, for re^ 
ftoratioB and recovery I 

10 Remove not the old hind-mzt^i^fordhifton 
of properly ; and enter not thus * into tkc 

11 fields of the unexperienced fatherlefs. Fot 
their proteffing Redeemer from injuries it 
mighty : he fhall plead their caufe vitk 
thee, //// thou art expofed and reprobated w^ 
verfally* 

Iryufiice. That is fearful hurt n^iich is done to weaki 
diftreued people, chap. xxii. 28. Eccl. iv. i. No hv* 
man laws nor evidence can reach to every cafe, DftOt 
xix. 14, &c. £z. xxii. 5, &c. Divine kiu>Wedge| aoi 

♦ a Chron, xx* 20. K 



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]iowery extend to all poffibQities, Job. xxi. 3O9 I3» tec. 

£ccl. XXY. I2« 

*\AppIy thine heart unto ibis momentous in- 12 
ftru^ftion, and thine ezrs from tbenci to the 
^ords oi found faving knowledge. 

-^ lemming. Even the cleared obligations of juftice arc 
too apt to be overlooked. The utraoft extent of duty 
ihould be known and pondered. Some feldom hear 
ai^ always with prejudice, John. iii. 19, &c. Noble 
firwmknefs in diicourfe, fhun^ all evafions. R. 

Otir time, Lord^ which ?s in thy hand, may be very 
fiiort, and our death may be rcry near : and how (hall 
w!^. fhen accomplilli the work of the whole day in the 
ctl^le of the eyening, when the night approacheth where- 
h| iiQ.nian can work. 

- Withhold not needful corrcAion from the 1 3 
cbiU of thy hfart ; for if thou bcateft him 
vitii the rod, 'when bis erbmis are ag^ravated^ 
Imf ihall not die under judicious difciplme. Thou 1 4 
ftidt beat him, / repeat it again^ evm with the 
ftid, and flialt thereby deliver his foul from 
premature deaths leading down to the perdition ef : 
bell. 

Cprrealon. Youth and unreile<fUng levity are deiign- 
ed hy heaven to be under authpritative governn^nt. 
After gende methods it would be cruel often to negle<9t 
what is more fevere. MiR^aken tendemefs increafes new 
hupFOper demands. A fullen pbftinate temper miift 
net be yielded to. The hell of a wicked confcicnce is 
worfe than death, Prov. xiii. 24. 

My dear fon, if thine heart be wife, for reii* 1 5 
gbus and nt)ral obedience^ my tender heart fliaU 
them Tqoice, even mine. Yea my mo/ifecref i^ 
reins wall rejoice, when thy lips, in more ad* 
'uanced age^ (peak 0/ right things, to the im- 
provement and bappine/s of others. 



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tot PROVERBS. a)ap.XXlll 

GooJ children. Under God^ children are mod indebted 
to the inftruments of their exigence. Filial aflfedion is 
a kind of inrtinA and not to be violated without horror, 
Rom. i. 30, 31. Son is a term of love, which cannot be 
commented upon. 

17 Let not thine heart envy frofperous finnerst 
but be thou in the fear of Xhcfupreme andonli 
Lord all the day long. 

Fear of God, For the trial of goodnefs> vice is foaw- 
times allowed to fucceed, Pial. Ixxiii. 11, &c. Envf 
itfelf is impious. Belief of unerring wifdom, add the 
future ftatc, ought to quiet every folicitude, Pfel. xxrK. 
1. Strengthen thefe by meditation> reading and prafer^ 
No fcheme of virtue can anfwer where Deity is t«)t 
taken in. This afie^s all. The moft improved glorf 
in them. 

Separate us, God, from vain imaginations, that we 
way be at entire liberty for the ufe of thofe means bf 
which we have facred communion with thee ! As evcrf 
day prefents with opportunities for the important care 
of our fouls, which is to end in heavenly life ; fo recetre 
us for that purpofe, into thy protetftion, guidance and 
Hefling r 

18 For, be the wicked ever fo great for a timj 
furely there is an entire end to them^ and thhic 
cxpeftatiott (hall not he finally cut. off. 

End of good and had. What catches and detains the 
fenfual eye will foon and for ever ceafe. What ends 
the (Inners joy commences and finifhes out blefledaefsto 
the righteous. Profperous vice is an argument for aiu^ \ 
ther. world, Pfal. xrxvii 3^ &c. 

Holy and merciful Father, let religious difpofitions be 
eftabliihed in us, and unchangeable refolutions of liviiq; 
tgreeable to thy revealed wiU, upon fiill fatisfa^ion^ 
reafon andjudgement, that what thou doft commandls 
entirely for our good ; and that thou haft been exceed- 
ingly gracious in making us capable of fuch an obediencc» 
and laying us under the moft natural and indifpeniablc 
obligations, to it.. 



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0|ap. XXIIl. PROVERBS. 203 

Hear thou, with attention, my dearly beloved 19 
fon, and be wife to avoiiJl intemperance \ and 
guide thine heart it/elf xn the foher ufeful'^'^y 
if true virtue. 

Temperance. Be not feduced by appearance. Advice, 
though unpalatable at the time, may be kind and bene- 
ficial» upon the whole. Underftanding, memory and 
affe^on, fhould be full of what is right, chap. iv. 23. 

Be not often among known wine-bibbers ; 20 
among riotous eaters of flefli nicely cooked. 
Y ox t\it fhamelefs drunkard; and the glutton 21 
likewife, Ihall come to abje^ poverty : and ha^ 
bituaJ Jluggard drowfinefs, ftiall in time clothe 
a man with mean tattered rags. 

Luxury and idlenefi. Corporeal pleafures wafte antjl 
ruin. The utmoft weight of argument becomes necet 
ikry to thofe who are juft entering upon the world. 
Studioufiiefs to eat and drink demonllrates a low fenfual 
turn, Rom. xiii. 13. Luxury muft have conftant new 
gratificatfons. It is alfo the moil cffedual mean to fink 
courage. R. 

glorious and holy Lord God^ we have too often lived, as 
if we were made only, or chiefly, for the exercife of the 
body, and for the enjoyment of this world ; and have 
been governed from without by the objeds of fenfe, and 
lAceatives of padkm, rather than from within^ by the con- 
du^ of reafon, and the dire<flion of conlcience. 

Hearken diligently unto thy father that be- 22 
gat thee, and defpile not the pious warnings of 
thy mother when £he is old. 

Parenis to he honoured, Senfual lufts are often too 
ftrong for the cleareft powerful arguments. It is of ufe 
to bala>M:e one ftrong paffion with another. Mar not 
parental happinefs. Study tempers of the young. 

Boy the XTMlhof every kind, with all due pains , 2 3 
and fell it not away again for any thing fecu^ 



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SC4 PROVERia Cha^ XXIIL 

lar^ 2l\{o prudent wifdom and inftruftion tcihe 
tvelJj and underttanding of neeejfary reqmjm 
belief 

Truth, No one is fufEcient foon and ^elf to dtred 
bimfelf. What is valuable requires labeur of body aod 
mind. Truth is often clouded by prejudices and abound* 
ing corrupt maxims. There is no good (o eftimable as 
found praAical knowledge, Wifd. chap. vii. This w31 
either govern or condemn. 

The truths of thee, our God, which we were by nature 
fubjed to, we have not confulted i but lb ikr as the^ 
were unwillingly perched by the reafon of our minds, 
we have rebelled againft them : and though we could 
not fubdue and dcftroy, we have forced and overruled 
diat governor within us, fet up and authorked by thy 
divine wifdom and love. 

24 The father of the righteous fliall greatly 
rejoice in the u/efulnefs of his advanced life\ 
and he that * begettcth/^/r/^ a wife child, IhaD 

25 have joy even 10 glorying of him. Thy attention 
t9 teachable years^ and thy folidtous ^Either and 
mother Ihall be glad indeed; and Ihe that bare 
thee Ihall thus rejoice to her latter end. 

Good children. No delight can equal that of "Worthy 
immediate deicendants. It more than balances ki^ 
mer folicitous hours, cares, griefs aad labours. The 
reverfe is pain above every otlier. 

^ My very dear fon, give me thine heart /« be 
in(iru£ted^ and let thine eyes of judgetnent e'oer 
ajicr obferve n\y prefer ibed vj^y^. 

Knoijukdgt upplttd. W^ithout the heart ia religion, 
there can be no bipe of i'ucceis. Fear may deter iroBi 
fui \ but edeem aod affection fgQow hard after go«<L 
Treafure and fuiui defire unite dole, Jam. i. z%, 

27 For to caution againfi me mod frequent ruinous 

* Or, hiah bfgott^n. H. 



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Cte^ XXIll. PROVERBS. 805 

yke^ remetnber that a whcxrc is like z covered 
deep ditch, which betrayj and drowns ini.o horri^ 
hie vexatious evils ; and a ftrangc prdjHttaje -wo- 
man is a narrow pit'/all^ whence there is no r^- 
cav^^ or but rare. 

Jmimd^ wumen. Scandalous debafing commerce be- 
tween die fexesiofes all rcfpcd for ennobling qualities. 
Each party prcj&ffes that which they are entire ftrangerg 
to. Few difficulties in convearEon arc fo hard to over- 
come, Hof. i. 11. Crufh it in the birth. What en- 
disnts with fweetnefs ends in ploifon. R. 

She alfo liefh in wait to f educe as robbers do 28 
far a prey, and thus increafeth woftdly the 
wwiA^r ^/tranfgreffors among men. 

Immode/I women. Purity is or ought to be a chief fe- 
HU^ t|ewel. One unguarded moment doth often ter- 
vm^Xt in Ipathfome impudence. Arts of love gain 
itSdltoo much eafe upon the unwary. 

... Who * hath wo ? who hath bitter farrow ? 29 
lisJilO tath frequent hoi contentions ? who hath 
j^je/iiw babbling ? who hath wounds with- 
out J>roper caufe ? who hath rednefs of eyes, 
t^ dif grace and injure agreeable looks ? They 30 
that tarry long. at the wine, they that go to 
&ek -with foUdtude mixt choice wine, to enfiame 
their appetite. 

I^tu n i e nt uf s^ l%e deformity *pd wietchcdnds of a 
tironkitrd arc great deterring arguments. Queftions 
\xkeE and clear do elegantly exprefs abhorrence. A 
corrupted blotted confHtution is the fure ifTue of an in- 
titeperate habit. Quarrels become next to unavoidable. 
Stose fleep their lalT by means of a furcharge. They 
liare tiot ftiendihip in their power. 

Look not thou with eager defire upon the 31 

^ Or, te whom heiongetb* If* 

T ■ ■ - ' 



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2o6 PROVERBS. Chap. XXUI. 

wine, when it is red, when it givetb his en* 
iicing fparkling colour in the cup, when it 
moveth itfclf aright, by Hrength and good 
keeping. 

Bodily fenfes to be governed. Heart and head are often 
led by the eye. Avoid temptation if you would be fafe; 
and what has formerly proved dangerous. Drink and 
cat to fubfift or to cheer at mod. Forego not at any 
time the power of ufefulnefs. 

3a At the laft however pleafant and generous the 
liauor moyfeem^ it biteth and keepeth faji bold 
like a provoked ferpent } and ftingeth to death 
like a poifoning adder. 

Drunkennefi. To horror of mind after an extreme 
debauch^ is added a feverifh naufeating ftomach and 
racking head. Such live not for moft part half their 
time ; and then die under cruel agonies. Often iaddqn 
^ind infamous. 

33 Thine eyes, with liquorijh heat^ (hall fee% 
after and behold ftrange dijfolute fenfual wo- 
men; and thine ungoverned heart fhall lead 
thee alfo to utter impious perverfe didurbat'tve 
things. 

Intoxication and whoredom. Drunkennefs b the vay 
parent of uncleannefs, and fometimes perjured adulteries. 
Hof. iv. II. How cruel to deareft intimates ! Impor* 
tant fecrets too are revealed ; and thereby chief firiends 
divided. Mad wretch ! And all for a fenfual moment. 

34 Yea, thou (halt ht from numerous thick-fef 
dangers^ as he that lieth down on Jhip-board^ 
while in the midft of the wide raging fea, or 
as he that yet more hazardoujly lieth xxipowfome 

35 narrow room on the top of a high maft. They 
have ftrickcn me, (halt thou i^y ^ by fad effects ^ 
and yet I was not fick to death ; they have 



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Chap. XXIV, PROVERBS. 207 

beaten mtfore^ and 1 felt it not,yj as to amend; 
when (hall I awake to former foundnefs ? I will 
feek io repeat it yet again. 

Druniennefs* Tippling no lefs than frequent hard 
drinking, render people fottifh. They both endanger 
trade and health to a great degree. They become at 
once the caufes of ftupidity and obftinacy. Even 
fmart fufering doth not reclaim. Defperation crowns 
the horrible guilt. 



^■4 4*4i*4-^-^4'^^>*^*'^ >~>^»- 



CHAP. XXIV. 

BE not thou envious againft evil pro/per^ i 
ing men ; neither defire, on account of 
their f^lendid entertainments^ to be often in com^ 
panjvriih them. 

Eirty. To live above the world is a great and dit 
ficult duty, I John ii. 15, &c. Fret not at fuccefsful 
vice but rather compaflionate. Frothy delights promife 
ihorc than they are able to make good j and cannot 
bercfleded upon with eafe, Pfal. cxfi. 3, 4. Fly from 
infefted houfes and companies. 

For their heart being full of the world* ftu- 2 
dieth what mufi lead to deftruftion ; and their 
lips from thence^ do principally talk of mifchief. 

Evil company. When the animal fpirits are up, peo- 
pie arc apt to be unguarded. Intemperance is the mo- 
tber of various crimes, Pfal. cxix. 115, 118, &c. Sepa- 
ration is the proper mean of cure. R. 

Not throMgh fuch negka butfleadfad e^erdfe 3 . 

* Or medkaUih on rapine. H. 
T % 



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ac« PROVERBS. CIrap. XXW. 

of wifdom is an houfe of goodaccomrnvdaHtm 
buildtct f//), and by the injiuence ofjimrlar pru* 
dent underftanding, it is lon^ eftablifticd: 
and by continuance of knowledge fhall the 
chambers be filled up with all manner of ptt- 
cious and pleafant riches. 

DamfJ^ wfdftm. Rfght condu^ cannot fiibiid witii> 
out a ivell informed mind. Having fixed upon a pi»p?r 
end we lliould next think of the proper means. Wbcfl a 
family has been reared, its credit ihould be kept up. few 
in comparifou arc ruined by real misfortune. "WUfeed 
heirs deftroy (bon the purchaKs ofmuch honeft laboiBt 
Sobriety is the bafis of virtue. That poilefiion ts ffah 
fant which is clean from meafures of fraud and violence; 
The poor alfo receive from thence what is their duc> 
which renders the fare of life doubly delicious. 

A wife behaving maa is fti:ong,/rMi» hhffH 
habits and friendjbipi ; yea a n>aft oifucb etic^ 
Unt beneficial knowledge incceafeth fixengti^ 
zvhite be lives< For by wife coiinlH, %ob^i Uh 
needed, thou (halt make thy war : aiwi iq tkc 
multitude of counfcllors, like biniy tberr is 
unqueHionahk fafety. 

Strength from Inonvledge, Application is the glorf'rf 
underftanding. Skill cS* men and things is far fagfyn 
to bodily vigour. Hafte from paffion is ahways a I511 
of weakncfs. Men of (kill and prudent fore^aft ore 
fitteil to command. £xpe^ not national virtue frota 
effeminate characters. Job xii. 13. i Chron. v. i, &c. 
£ccl. ix. 16. 

Wifdom ofdifcourfe is too high for a iveak 
diffipated fool: he * openeth not his mourth IB 
the gate/ of general and learned ajfociates. 

Ufeful converfation. Schoolkaming extends to ra- 



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Cbap. XXIV. PROVERBS. aQ» 

rions fubjc^s. Of thefc, to judge and plead ably arc 
mod important. They who officiate in courts ought to 
be (ludious, cool and impartial. 

He that with his knowledge devifeth new % 
ways to do evil, {hall be called withju/iice a 
mifchievons expert pcrfon. For the preme* 9 
ditated thought of hurtful foolifhnefs is fin ; 
and the fcorner of virtue is an abomination to 

EmI devices. Fraudulent and violent meafures argue 
a bafe ftate of heart. Thoughts are then evil when har- 
boured with delight. To fcom at good demonftrates 
obdinate guilt, and is a common nuifance. 

If thou faint from patience and virtue in the 10 
day of adverfity, thy * ftrength of religious 
principle is fmall. 

. Patience. To forefee and provide again ft trouble h a 
chief point of wifdom. Genuine fubmiffion admits of 
fenfibility, Heb. xii. 5, &c^ ; but finks not. Trials arc 
the touchftone of fincere virtue, Rom v. 4, &c. Jam. L 
a. Hypocrites will ferve God under bright fun-lhine. 
£ven death changes not the fentiments of pious fouls. 

Caufe us, good Lord^ to fubmit willingly to thy chat 
tifements, which are the remedy of our fouls, and the 
"difcipline of our benefadlor; who doft. not neceffarily 
afflid or grieve the children of men, but if need bef 
caufeft them to fuffer adverfity in order to their amend- 
ment, and the bringing forth in them that are exercifed 
thereby, the peaceable fruits of righteoufnefs. 

If thou forbear the ufe of proper meansy to 1 1 
deliver them that are drawn unto clear ha* 
zards of death, and thofe in particular ^^ that 
zxtjuji ready to be flain : If thou fayeft, m la 
defence of thy cruel Jluggifhnefs^ behold, wc 

f Or, in fortitude thou art tv anting. H. 

T3 



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ir# PXOTEKBS. Cfiop. XXIV. 

knc^^ It rtot: doth not he that pondcrctk 

the hfart confidcryS as to diUji It? And he 
, that kecpcth thy own foul in tife^ doth not 
he mojt affuredly tnow it ? And ihall not he 
render to every man according to what his 
works really are^ though mifunderjlood by othmf 

Untenderneft, Wliere ability and knowledge arc, there 
IS accountablencfs for truft, Jam. iv. 17. A feint- 
hearted filence may prove deftrudive, Pfal. lixxii. 5, f 
lii). Iviti 6» 7. They who are floWiTo do good an fo 
far iinjuft. He who may know fhould know. Falfe- 
lKK>d added to cruel negkd 15 an extreme aggravauon. 
God is privy to our moft iecret fpirttual recelFes; and 
has all our inter ells in his hands, chap. xxxi. 8, 9. Job 
Sixiv. II. 

1^ My dearly beloved fon, eat thou honey, 
whin in thy power ^ becaufe it is in mofi cajei 
f^ood Jor healthy and thcyfr/? drippings oftl)e 
honey -comb, which n pectdiarly fweet to thy 

14 unvitiaUd Ui\c. So like both (hall the dijiind 
knowledge ot prailical wifdom be unto thy 
foul : when thou haft found it out^ and bad 
fome good tptperitnce^ then there fliall be a/«/'^ 
immediate reward, and thyexpedation, ^/^ 
another eternal worlds ihall not be cut off. 

Octafwns to he ohferved. Regard to tafte and pfofe 
(hould be conjoined. What the divme goodnefs doth li- 
berally provide may be under ftood as nxo^ valuable. 
: This holds efpccially true as to religious and moral 
rales with their principles. Ouf moft godly homage is 
purity of virtue. 

We confefs, Lord^ that if we were afTured of as 
much time for the renovation, and tranaformatfon of ow 
nuture, as we have fpent in the depraving and corropt- 
iiig it ; yet the profped of a difficulty like that of the 
tthirpian changing his ikin, an^ the kopard his fpot^» 
might juftly terrify us who are accuftomed to fia> and 



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Chap. XXIV. PROVERBS. an 

nc^ at krft, upon oar ntmoft perils are obliged to learn 
to d&welL 

Lay not wait, O wicked injurious man, 15 
againft the dwelling of the barmlefs u/efut 
righteous; fpoil not his refting place. For 16 
imw^ that a jtift charitci>le man falleth by way 
ef trial to his virtue^ feven times, and yet under 
his Almgbty friend^ tifetb up no lefs jrequently 
again ; but the obfiinate wicked nian fhall faU 
inco irretrivabte mifchicf. 

Innocence fupported. The beft of people are fometimet 
cruellj Oppo^, yet providence befriends them as to 
their chief intereft, i John iii. 9. i Cor x 1 3. 

We thank thee, fupreme Lord and governor^ that 
being rightly inftruftcd concerning thee our God^ we can 
cxped^ from thee nothing lefi than what infinite goodnefi 
does beClow ; and we can fear nothing worfe than what 
the fame goodnefs doth infiid i 

Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth into 17 
fore affliction ; and let not thine heart be glad 
when by cartlefsnefs or worfe he ftumbleth into 
grofs cri?nes ; Left the equitable gracious Lord, 18 
as muii happen^ fee it, and it greatly difpleafc 
him, and he turn away the effe^sofhxs wrath 
from him to tbyfelf. 

Reverse, The noble fpirit of religion is to do good 
to all and harm none. Who fhould think of hurting 
iuch ? To rejoice in the miferie* of others is fatanilh, 
John viik 44. Mat. v. 9. To pardon others is an eifen- 
Ual term of our obtaining p^don, Rom. xii. 17, &c. 

We extol and glorify thee, God^ who will not fuffer 
any evil 10 happen, or be done, in any part of thy uni- 
verfe, but what thon, rojho art the chiefefi good^ dort; per- 
mit among thy creatures, to whom dbou art original; 
and wfiich the moft unerring ivifdom orders for good, to 
tbofe who are capable of it. 



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212 PROVERBS. Chap- XXIV. 

19 Fret not thyfclf agaln/l divine permijion^ be- 
caufe oifuccefsful evil men, neither be thou 

ao envious at the greatly profpering wicked : For 
there ihall be no dejirable reward upon the 
fvMe to the impenitent evil man, the bright 
Jbining candle or the wicked, /(?r a timSj (hall 
be forever put out. 

Subtmjfum and envy. God's love and hatred cannot 
always be determined by people's outward ftate, PfaL 
Ixxiii. 3, 5cc. Be not uneaiy and far lefs arraign divine 
condu^. His plan is unmeafurable. How bitter is the 
remembrance of death to the wicked? 

Bleffed be thou, Lard, who haft fo ordered things, as 
to make that mifery, which is the punifhment of fm, in- 
ftrumental for reftoring that duty, which is the happi- 
nefs of us reafonable creatures ; and that there is no 
fuch feverity, as delighting in the death of a finner, bm 
hadft rather that he (homd turn from his fin and live. 

2 1 My fon, fear thou to ojfend agmnji the Lord, 
and againji the king ; and meddle not in the 
moji dijiant manner with them that are given 

%% to hazardous change. For their calamity 
fhall at length rife fuddcnly, and who know- 
eth fo as to defcribe the utter ruin of tiem 
both? 

Fear pf God and the King. A habitual belief of &• 
vine prefence and infpeftion is proof againft any trial 
Even a king's orders are only to be regarded in thr 
fecond place. Motives of wantonnefs or felfifbneis 
ought to be abhorred in changing, 2 Pet.ii. 10, 12. 
Jude 1 1. An oppreffor of mild government is a public 
peft. 
13 Thefe things alfo belong to the wife w 
high office. It is not good, but the reverfe^ to 
have refpeft of perfons in judgement,yi as u 
favour them. 



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Cfair: XXIV. PROVERBS. M3 

PartkSfj^ PtiKknce and equity fhouild be well 
thottght ttpen by fuperiors. Parties ought firft; to be 
heard at lengthy and then their claims honeftly dcter- 
noincd, Dcut. 117, &c. 

He that faith unto the wicked, either by 24 
wrd or deedy thou art to be bonoursd m righte- 
ous ; him (hall the people who fuffer from 
tbem curfe, whoie- nations fhall abhor him* 
BiJtt to them thart honejily rebuke him/or hh 25 
guilt fliafl be delight, and a good general blef- 
fifig IhaH come upon them. 

, Imfuirisality. The laws of. truth and the conviiflion of 
oWr own minds are to be held fkcred. Flattery is odious, 
peftire. What things are e<|uaihftve the common {Jai£s. 
of mankind upon their fide. It is fuperhtti^ely pleafant 
tQ ad. above felift defigns, and greatly conoiliating, Job 
xxix. 7, &c. 

Every man (hall hcm^ defiru cf e^m and 26 
/iMir, 'whicb itould kad U ki& his grjthus /alu- 
tofj: lips, ib^i giveih a right JiafonabU' aiafwer 
mjudgement. 

■' Graekuu truth. Be feri(»2s, aedriie, confult and judge, 
I Tim* ii. i> &c. Such rulers- are above all vaiue. Juft- 
te£& of thought leads to graceful expreffioni and maaaner. 

Prepare materials for thy work without, and i/ 
make it fit for thyfelf in the ficW \ and after- 
wards build up orderly thine houfe. 

Qrder^ Difcretton in buimefs is pleafant and fuccefs- 
fuL The diligent avoid all flops from want of necefTary 
articles. Good examples become ufeful to many. 
Things moft requifite merit our heft thought and execu- 
tion. How ungraceful is a fan* large houfe among 
grounds wild and uncultivated ? A fmall neat dwel- 
^mg fbrprifes, dfelights. Prudence disappointed obtains 
"UTiiVeffal pity. 



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114 PJIOVERBS.: C3iap. XXIV. 

28 Be • not a witnefs of evil againft thy offmi- 
ing neighbour without /owe good caufc ; and 
when bound to /peak truths deceive not purpofelj 
with thy lips. 

Trud in nmtnejjing. Mankind arc brethren, Ltilce y 
30, &c. There is much danger in ra(h uhroneous vit- 
nefling, Matth. V. 22. Think with fevere caution. Be- 
ware of equivocating. Repeat not in difcourfe evM 
real evil ; but for fome great public advantage, 2 Tbc4 
ill. 6, &c. Cruehy and falfehood mark what is infernal 

29 Say not, when provoked^ I will do fo \u re- 
venge to him as he hath cau/elejly done to mc: 
and I will, as occqfion offers^ render to the bafi 
malicious man according to his hated work. 

Revenge. Rules of public juftice are not to be applied 
by private individuals, Matth. v. 38. The guilt of the 
aggre/Tor is exceeded by him who imitates. It is weak, 
impious, hurtful, Deut. xxxiL 35. 

30 I went by the field of the flothful, and l^ 
the vineyard it/elf of the n>an fo void of UB- 

31 derftanding. Ad d \0y in place of good for hy- 
man bene/t^ it was all grown over with choaking 
thorns, and thick deep-rooted nettles had co* 
vered the face thereof, and the ftonc-wal! 

' thereof was in many parts quite broken down* 
3 1 Then I faw with indignation^ and confidcred it 
well; f 1 looked upon it contemptuoujlj again oni 
again, and received much beneficial in&rniAon. 
33 Yd /aid the wretch of a man, when it was in bis 
power to have addreffid his own /oul oiherwifei a 
little more fleep for the pre/ent, a little flumbcr 

* Or^ hear notfalfe te/llmony againft thy neighbour f fteiiper> 
influence others by thy perfuafions* H* \ Compare EccL iv» 
14 ff. 



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Cb:ip. XXV- PROVERBS. 215 

at hafiy a Httle folding of the hands Ko procure 
defireable fleep ; So fliall thy poverty like hisj 34 
when imitated^ comt fudden^ as one that tra- 
velleth in hsHe ; and thy extreme want Tis/rom 
an unconquerable armed man. 

IdUrufs. Order and diligence are needful to fuccefs. 
The very pidurc of floth is deteftable. Ignorance itfelf 
may iinprovc from thence. Regard ftrong natural ap- 
petites and domeftic eafc, 1 Tim. v. 8. Weeds and 
wUd beafts war againft the indolent. It is wife to mora- 
\\2A upon the clear effe^s of vice, , chap. vi. 10, ii« 



«< 4»4-« ^^•44^^»..>.>.>«^|p 



CHAP. XXV. 

THESE following are alfo Proverbs of So- i 
lomon, which the men of Hezekiah, 
kin^; of Judah, one of his moji religious fuccejforsj 
copied out * from among/i his other valuable 
writings. 

Proverbs. Thefe fhort fayings of Solomon refer to 
laofb momentous fubje(5ls. Kings ought to have their 
fubje^s as much improved as potuble, 1 Chron xxi. 31. 

It is the glory of God, whofe government is 2 
uni'BerfaU to conceal a thing \ from numbers^ 
till their minds are advanced ; but the chief \iO' 
nour of kings is to fearch out a matter of 
right and found policy. 

Providence and kings. Go3, as wife and good to his 

* Compare Gen. xtcvi. 22. yob, ix. 5. For tint end they 
went about. \ PtH for bis pwrpofeu H. 



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^i6 PROVERBS. Oba^. XK1P* , 

offspring, iitdes not what b<nece&iy, Rom. ii. i^ ip 
P(al. XIX. 7, &c. Yet the moft exalted cannot find,5)ut 
his ways to pcrfed^ion. As faculties enlarge, fo will cop 
"prchenfion and delight, i John iii. 2, &c. i Cor.xffi.9, 
&c. The high truft of rulers admits not cither <rf tb* 
being indolent, or fuperficial, chap. zvL 10. Job nift 
21, dec. Infinite wuifdmn will be able one day tojuftify 
what is now impenetrable R. Laws ought to be fiBt 
pie, fhort and clear. R. 

3 1 he heayen for height is remarkable^ as^ 
the earth for depth, and th?e heart of ii«g», 
compared with the Jimltitude^ is iinfearciiabie; 

Kings. Clear principles of law and equity do higli 
honour to rulers. Contrivances for national fecunty 
and (Irength nmy amd ought to be more out of conimon 
reach. Faithful fubje^ts will beware of meddimg. 
lliefe may be impenetrable without being falfe. R^ 

4 Take auTiy the mfwre-Axok^ from ^thc 
precious filvcr, and there (hall come forrii a 
vcffel frem thence^ for great credit U) the felcr# | 

DiRgenct. WorJcs ofurt are much hurt by bale va* 
tenals. Natural improvements lead to ianpoxtaot^ 
tual ones. I 

5 Take away thtfelfijh wicked, from bc&?« 
the king, whom^ be would mi/lead ysmd^i^ 
throne mall be eliabUihed in Jure equal ^0^ 
teoufnefs. 

>Km^s. Men of eminent ftation have great pcwcr, 
Hal. xii. 8. Prov. jcxix. 2. Kings cannot be «»af 
where fo as to ice with their own eyes, A nartow co* 
vetous teniper is not for rule. Difficult charges ought 
j?atbcrto c«me a:> be fought for. Princes of good parts 
govern thofe who govern under ^thcm : The great «t 
^f ruling. Kaiaves are inventive to ehade juftice. 

6 Put not forth thyfelf proudly in the pre- 
fence of the king, and Hand tnot, witiout n 



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^ aip. XXV, PROVERBS/ 117 

eally in the place of great men whom he em* 
ploys. For better it is, in point of honour and 7 
ufefulnefs^ that it be faid unto thee. Come up 
hither and officiate^ than that thou Ihouldeft 
be put lower^ on account of thy effronterf^ in the 
^ry prefence of the prince, whom thine eyes 
have but lately (een, 

HumiRty and honour. Jufticc ought to be impar*i;il ; 
and modeft worth brought upon the Held. Ignorance 
^d vice are hatefully afFuming. No country is fo well 
as when nierit is fouffht after, encouraged. They who 
impudently folicit will foon come to flatter and bribe. 
Splendid virtue is ftrength. To be modeft is conciliat- 
ing, LfUke xiv. 10, &c. 

Go not forth haftily to drive, when thou art 8 
provokedy left when far gone in revenge^ thou 
know not what to do in the end thereof 
when thy more powerful neighbour hath put 
thee to open fhame. 

, Revenge. In matters of ceremony yielding is mod 
dccenu Sacrifice a little to felf enjoyment and the pub- 
Itc good. Great fouls ifve far above quick refentmentt 
Wrath is a flioit madnefs, wherein much evil may be . 
Ipoken and done, Luke xii. 58.- 

De-bate thy caufe of cUfference in a fober way 9 
with thy fufpe6led offending neighbour hiuv 
felf; and difcover not before thisy a fecret * 
grudge to another. Left he that heareth it- \o 
afterivards ^wi thee to Ihame, and the punip^ 
merit ^thine infamy turn notfoon away. 

^ietnefs and revenge. Make fure of the goodhefs of 
thy claim ; and then apply for rcdrefs after a meek man- 
ner. In rage beware of revealing what fliould be kept 

* Or, thefccref. //• ^ 

u 



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ti* PROVEUBS. Ci^XXV. 

ifccet, for w<bich there can bf na cacwfc. It k crttd> 
treacherous. 

1 1 ^ £w» a word fitly fpoken, anda^ upon wheeUy 
h/or beauty^ at 'well an far profit, like apples of 
gdd * Jftin frame to piAures of fiiy^r. 

Seafenahk nuordj. Tbe meek and lo«rIy heart iA ^ei 
to advice and moderate, Pfal. cxji- 3^ 4* Wif^fpecd 
points to its ptoper end. What is rare we moft admire. 
SplAidour and jurt proportion together do captivate all, 
Let occafion and manner be ftudied, Eph. iv. 29.* Cofc 
iv. 6. Age and experience ought ever to prefSdci ^m 

13 As an ear-rioig of goldjhw^ly p^Ji/be^'mA 
. ao ornament of fine gold, fo attraiiwe &; llSff 
tt;(?r^ ofz wife reprover upon an uprigki H^ 
< dient ear. 

Reproof. Beautf and drefs i^ motuall^F aSe^ A 
-willmg learner is dcfirous «f evecy proper m^m. On^ 
iqrhc^ pities: and; eonre^swtb judgement is a credit .and 
blefTing to human nature. Next to him is a min4 tvet 
open to convi(f^ion, 2 Tim. ii. 25, &c. 

13 A3 tl^c cold of winter ino^ f iept/otnttxit^ 
with wMter, in t6e i^wyj' time of fearveft, & it 
a faithful a^ng meienger to tiienEi that fad 
him ; for he byfuccefs rcfreflieth Hy m4f t0i( i ~ 
drink, the foul of his mafters. 

FaMfutfirvice. Works of kboor require {pecial&f^illb 
Where climates ade warm even fountain wat^$ fli^^ 
be helped* Wife orders o^ght to be punduaDv execu^ 
ed. Inattention of fervants is real difobedience, CoL iV« t^ 

14 Wbo£^ boafteth himfelf of a falfe gift» 
which be mvei^ did intend^ is like di/appohttifg 

♦ Or,/ft$ntfiJ^k^ H. I/a,.u. 16. jf/^hheHTrxpin^ 
ftuitB propriety, f Kept by means of fame hoUono n^efit^ 
\2 Chron.^ xxv, 5.; FfaL fcxxv. t. A cufiom which JliU 
obtains in the eqfi* 



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dou4« in drf»fght <of /mimer and 'wind w^icb 
yhems i0 pmmife rmre^ yet without rain. 

Gifts. To appear full of liheml defigns and not to 
execute is cruel felf-convriifted mockery rfwalit. Jam. iv 
15> 16. I John iii. i«?. To raife hope and aggravate 
wretchednefs is bitter evil ; like that of lovpring weather 
with Wreh wind, Judc i a. 2 Pet. ii. 1 7. 

'^y long and patient iorbt^nn^ t^ complmn 15 
h fven-iSi prince ptrftiadcd, who has taken offence^ 
and a foft ufe of the tongue in Jelf-vindicatiou 
1>re^keth the hearty wbieb '^as hard as a * bone« 

Miti fiffi^mtmtoc. When paffion fuUtdts resifon U 
ki^artM^^ uutt). A degree dP venerattdo is due to rank* 
^ ^eftr and "forbear ara chief roles of religkm. Malice 
k^ may be oTexxrome with g<K>ck Politeiiifi is corn 
ftion to cldioate ibob' R» / 

' Haft tbt>u found delkitm hottey? Eat fo x4 
ttitich> 4rt^d M mfirij as is fufficient for thee, 
left fiibittfife thou be filled therewith b€jtond 
t md fm rv^' afid vonut it widgr nofmalipmn and 

ibtikb. Gratkttd^ and mo<J(ftratfon gre to be ufed m 
W»Awls*. Sociality requires us to be j^eafed, but not 
to wA(i Let aUbaikre their fhare. Dif^uAnot the 
kkm} diapi xKiii^ 1$ 10. Temperance and exercife pre» 
iB^fl^feebling^ ver^ z. R. 

. Withdraw tlry foot hom m frequent fan^ 17 
^ar-vijiis in thy neighbour's houfe: left he be 
mary of thee, and fb ai lengthy come to hate 

F^ts, It IS prudent and beneficial to be fpjunng. 
Some from warmth, of temper may mvite too ftrong. 
Give and receive fo as to keep up the hospitable temper. 

* Comp^tre Gen. xlix^ 14- /^<» 
U 1 



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t20 FRDVERBR. ChtpC XXVi 

}i ' A man that bcareth falfc witnefs againil 

his neighbour is mare cruel to him^ than by the 
ufe of 2l heavy maul, and a fword iifelf^ and a 
fliarp full aimed arrow, 

Falfe w'ltnejfmg. Truth is the bond of fociety. Tb 
fwear contrary to convi(5lion is the moft bafe, cruel and 
impious of all Valfehoods. What can ftand before it i 
Pfal. cxx. 3, 4. 

Difpofe us, O thou fountain oflove^ according to the 
diredion of wifdom, to do right and kindnefs to our^ 
felves, by doing right and kindnef^ to others ; en&aring 
them to us, and thereby fecuring all that which frienSfia^ 
and love in them can do for tts : and let us not by jaro- 
■voking and exafperating them, through the pra^icc of 
falfehood, iiyuftice and cruelty, engage them to do us d 
the miichief, (even in their own defence) which th^ 
underftanding can contrive, and their, power can ^Et& I 

19 Confidence in an unfaithful promijing oiaa 
in time of trouble, is vexatious like a new 
broken tooth, and a* foot out of joint. 

^ Prwmfes. Some obligations are natural and odMCt 

f ofitive. Bargains and promifes of friendly redre£r mfc 
tigate the evils of life ; and cruel difappointment lieigb- 
tens them. ^ 

ao As he that taketh away a neceffarf '^t* 
ment in cold weather, and ^^fharp v mc g gc 
upon nitre, which fets it a working ; fb -b-ne 
that fingieth fongs to an afflifled heavy iMStrt* 
Mercy. Drefs, which one cannot live withojit, is hard 
to fpare, and may prove mortal if taken. Heiglrten fw* 
diftrefs ; but fpeak of forrow te the afflidcd, and wccfk 
with them. Prayers, fdence and tears go wondrous 
lengths. Job ii. 1 2, 1 3. Reverence is due to grid; £ccks« 
xxii. 6. Pfal. cxxxvii. 3. Coropaflion melts into ^0k 
guiih without being able to anfwer. R. ' 

* Or iff rained. H. 



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be hungry, give him * breld^ to eat : and il 
be^brtMrfty, give him ^aler to drinks For 22 
thus thou (halt oi in a €9nfir^ heap coals of 
gently frffetting fire upon his head, fi^ as H con* 
dltate\ and^the Lord of in^nite^goodnefs fhaU in 
on a^e nmnner f reward thee. * 

For^glvenefi. Wli^re love of edeem canlMt ht eterefftd^ 
f&at of compaiTiott is xh^ more doe, Matdi. v. aj, &c. 
To preferve life we ought to ofe every l^ind of ineaii» 
Tk^3^^ xxii. I, 5cc. Ex. xxiii. 4, 5, Either give xip with 
religion or revenge, Rom. xii. 20, dec. The fire of love, 
•ftd the heat of good works, who can refill ? Think et 
Jofeph and his bredix>en. Likewiie i Sam. xxiv. 1 5, 5cc. 
Prov. XX. 23, 24» Above all the example of Cbrt/l. 
BiCankind are but one family, whereof God is the 9011U 
xnon father. R. Enemies are ftill men when they are van- 
^mfted. R. The right rfconqueft is thelcaft of any. if. 

The f north wind in common driveth away aj* 
heavy clouds ofrzin ; fo doth an angty coun- 
tenance, tvhenjhewid with Judgement agasnfi % 
hzc\AAt\ngJtandr0us tongue. 

J^IH^. Teft^atfom to revenge ikould not be 
lafttly yidded to. It is brave and beneBctal to oppofa 
ftiAders. Give feafoAable checks to diftant, cru«i hints, - 
febieiotis figns |knd phrafe«. Anger at times, may it«t 
mf be innocent, but pi«y<Mtorthy, and^ven bumsne^ 
Ihidi meh md n^ep at hesirt. Lies md mifrepmfeiu*' 
lions gai^ier doiKb of miitraUegoik* 

It ii htxxtv Jbr fafety and eafi^ to dwell in a $4 

fiitft narnm corner of the houfe-top^ tliaa 

* 

^ Fta for food ((frofry ih^. JJi f Or ut^ttU ptace" 
^firiMjgr tft/wy £x. 9$9rtm. 3. Zcw. afvi 12. Amos ^ 22- 
J Mv^lirt exhaled from 3ajtabem hmty an opj^vfiit Jfronf 

U 3 



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siz PitOVBRW. Ctep« XXVi 

witfa a ;&r«r. bra wfitig woisaiv^ and in a wide . 
elegant, weUfarniJhed honfe. 

Dome/He peace. .Open female rage ts a fore dtfiippbiat* 
mcnt to genuine love, chap. xxi. 9. Calm felf-poffeflioii 
is preferable to every outward convenience. Married 
women given to paffion difgrace the honourable ftate. 
Strive to fee every thing in a pleafing light* liove 
from this is the efTence of domeftic felrctty, Pfal. cxxxitL i* 
I Pet. iii. i, &c. 

25 . As cold • waters refrejhing to a thirfly fco/; 
fo IS good news brought from a far country. 

Go^d nefvs. Bleflings do rife in ralue to the need wc 
have of them, and the difficulty of their acqui&bo. 
What is common we are apt to overlook. 

26 A righteous man falling down to fuppHcdti 
before the wicked apprejfor is painful to ivitnefs 
as a troubled fountain of good water^ and even 
as a corrupt pejiive f fpring. 

Oppreffion. The liberal heart is a public extenflve 
good. A Ihort fpace of fever e fuflPering appears long. 
Oftices that are high bind to be generous, chap. ix. 2. 
Hab. i. 2, &c. £ccl. tv. 1,2. - 

' Make us ^ife, Lord^ by the knowledge and Ixlief 
of the lail amazing iifue of things \ and help us A ro 
live> that we may be numbered among the nghteGte%at 
that day when all thofe diftinSions of men^hich aie'^(> 
euliar to this world (hall ceafe : and wnen there fta2^he 
CO other diffierence, but what is made by their obi^ciice^ 
or difobedience, their righteoufnefs or unrighteouixieis* 

xj rtisn6t %ooA for health i to eat much ho- 
ney at once ; fo for J men to fearch out wtb 
eagerne/s their own glory, is nol real glory, 

* In a land of few fprtngs what a comfort is water f Such 
Is friend/hip in a world tike ours^ Ahfence is Me a tbmchf^mg 
t9 what is reaU 3 John 4. AHs xi. 23. f ifxiher 

Jhcamfrom thence, ll^ % Some^ bat in deeds of virtue to €u- 
ctcd is ^hrioue. H. 



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Chzp. XXVI. PHOVERBS. 125 

Giofy. Whstt ni modevfltion is pleaGint and fKendl7 
hurts hj excefs. Motives and means of virtue from 
tbis world ftould not be our chief end, Matth. vi. 
i» &c. I Cor. iv. 3» &c. Be not infenilble to praife; 
but love to deferve it R. 

He that hath no proper rule over the defires 28 
^his own fpirit is expofed to reproach and ruin 
like 1^ fortified city that is broken down hy in* 
voders y and without /w^^/V?2/ walls of defence. 

Seif-govemmeni. Let reafon keep the throne» and in- 
ferior appetites obey, Gal. v. 19, &c. Prov. xvi. 32. 

Tkou haft laid, Lord^ the foundation of our happt* 
ncfe in religion ; to live according to our ccJnftitution and 
frame, according to the nature of things; and thj own 
unchangeable moral excellencies. 



•4^ «'4-4..4«44>^»- ►"►-► »-»">" 



CHAP. XXVL 

AS fnow is vexatious \n midft ^fummer, 
A^L 3nd as rain alfo ts in the bufy weeks cf 
Mrveft : fq an improper mark d/ honour is not 
ieeoily for a weak wicked fool. 

The efTence of wifdom is to know and do wdl^ EccL 

. ii. 14. Fools have no fixed purpofe in life, ver. 13. 

j[^ievoas e£Fedls cannot be obferved with eafe, £ccl. x. 

16, 17* Oijalitics alone ought to influence, public 

leadets, EcdTiv. i, &c. 2 Sam. xxtii. 4, &c. 

As the * bird gives no cffenceh^ wandering, 
4md as the I fwallow in particular prejudices not 

♦ Some^fparrow when itj^artefh^ PfaJ. Ixxxiv. J, H^ 
-j- Qthersy ring-Hovf, when ii rangeth. H. 



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by flying, fo tiie curfis canrfticfc ^Miimm^ 
my ftall not come to petfs. 

, Wrt^fii curfing. Id paflion the tongo? is not ealttf 
guided. Jam. i. 27. — ^iit ib» Sec No caufe vbatfoem, 
wHl jttftiff horrid oaths, or imprecations. Pity is do^ 
tmto ftK:h. 

3 A whip at times is meded for the horfe, % 
bridle for the ntore in/enjible afs, and in ftk 
manner a cha^ening rod for the wickid fbdV 
back. 

CorreSion. Indolence and (lubbdrnefs mark exttei&E 
tice. Mild areuments will not do with fome. Well 
^oportioned cnaftifements are favours tn the maiiL 
Pefts of fociety muft be fought out and punifhcd. 

4 Anfwer not a vain ignorant fool according 
to his folly, left thou alfo he found like unto 

5 him in rajbmfs. Anfwer z, more pAtile ml 
minded fool according to his Je^ere methods fj 
folly, left he be more wife in his own conceit 
than ever. 

Attfimrs. They i^ho weakly hnagine affronts fcarcc 
Mtm a r«tutfi ; but' leaft of all in thrir own mj* 
Ile^ merit has enough in themfelves m anfwer tksn^ 
A momcntViilcBce, or two, obtaifts compkte vKteft 
TTpbnuding^artful methods ought to be cheeked by drab 
arguments* Some are weak, yet iogemiotts; odieM 
«ea& and prou4* 
\ He that fendetb 2 mefi&ge of impwrtanu^ by 
the hand of zjiupid drunken fool * is injunnna^ 
to himfelf4fs one who cu tteth off the neeeffitrj fcc| 
fir ekecuiian^ and drinketh tigp^ damage ofviolena 
p credit^ fortune and life in abundance. 

Mf/fengers. Want of knowledge and confcience muft 



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Chap. XXVL PROVERftS: ns . 

prove unfkithfuL It is hard te be dt^ppointedby thoft 
whom we fubfift. Fidelity, as before GoJ^ is a devout 
exercife. The reverfe is injuftice and ingratitude* 

The legs of the lame are not equal, therefore 7 
noffeemly to walk with ; fo is a parable ofexceL 
lent impart in the mouth of weak fools, wb9 
can neither explain nor apply them. 

Pdrabkf or fine words. Beautiful fentences require 
much /kill both of men and affairs. Their appofitenefs 
doth conftitute iheir value. Decline oftentation by bor- 
rowed words and fentences. Such are foon found out , 
and hated. Better to be ftlent. Priv^e converfmg 
difcovers the real man. 

As * he that bindeth up a ftonc in a fling Z 
has no power to hit ; fo is htofnoufe to the 
public that giveth places g/^ honour andtrujl to 
a vicious ignorant fool. 

Honour and truji, Difgrace fbon fucceeds to injudi- 
cious exaltation. There is danger from them to the 
promoter. 

As a thorn from fevere falls goeth up deep 9 
into, the hand uf a drunkard, and makes him 
^/agreeably loud^ fo is a f parable of good bene* 
fidat import in the mouth of ignorant mifapply^ 
if^ fooh. 

Parables. The ufeful effedh of knowledge arc its 
glory, ver. X. 11. Good words from the wicked hurt" 
thexnielves and others. 

The great J God that formed all things, lo 
both rewardejth the evil ading fool with con- 
digh punijhmentj and rewardeth yet more dread- 
fully the bold incorrigible tranfgreffors. 

* Some^ as he who adds a precious Jtone to a common 
heap. H, f Or ^ fine word % •^^'"^> ^^ gf^^ot wife mafter 
doth all things wellf who both rewardeth^ l!fc. 



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PktmfkKkmt ^ vkt, Wfcrdif titfpred w«1kw th)c 
dioiigHt OKiil be hurtfol. Ccitaki victs arc thtir owti 
reproach, llie worft of all fbiiy b hi^ truft abuMi* 
Pfal. xii. 8. 

Suffer ns not, CoJ, to deceive and Impofe upoa oor. 
fclves any longer, hj fuch falfe fuppofitions as tend only 
to gratify tlu ctiemy of our fouls, aikl to wialce us utterly 
incapable of thee, aud of our own firoptr amJ only hiipi 
pinefs ! Grant that now, before it be too late^ we i»ay 
"Rifely and Headfaftly refolvc to fetupon the great buiih 
nefs we have to do here in time ; that fo we may r^, 
deem what is pad, and ourfelves from being lofl for ever 1 

It As a dog kf owr-eMfh^j rcturtieth w bw 
vomit for eafe ; fo a wicked in^daimabk foKh 
retutncth ijlftrr Jte^uekt ftr\mg connABiom^ to 
tht rtpeatingof his folly. 

CdifuiSkti. Whtfre iheit is little -ktSt to work ^Ofi,. 
refolutions will be weak ; but.b^ itielf ccB&Cliy w^e» 
modefty and felf-tortures are overc©n>ew Appetites long 
gratified crave with incrcaiing violeaoe. Be courageooi. 
and ieek grace. Fe%r prejudices, appearances aad 
padion. 

We have cl^lkd upon 'lhee> 6^ G6d^ for that he]|> 
which ts never wanting* as if that were the onlv thW 
we ftood in need o{^ and we did not taakk ufe of tb^ vh 
gour which thou hadft put into our fjpirits, by conviffioa 
of our jjidgement»5 and the working of our conicknce» 
for the recovery of our reafonable nature, in fubferviency 
tothe^aad'd^jMedhigtipon iliee^vHto doft'alway^ accoo 
pany OULT ea^^vtours with thy affi^bance for.our good. 

12 Seeft thou a man that is wife in his own 
conceit ; there is more liopfe of g^ even 

/r9m a modeJi tuelt meaning fool, than of him. 

, Self-eonceit. The lowly meek may be jperiuaded. Tlie 

proud never caa, Miicth< xk 25. Sennbtlity of woak« 
nefs leads to earned fuccefsful petitioningt Matth. vi. 7. 
Fom^ifts are frt«ft liable to cotfceit. 

13 The Ilothful man f«ulh to exa^e J^inf/e^^ 



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Chap. XXVL B*avaSllIIS* tj7 

There h a defraying lijon in the way ; a lion 
b got ho/e in the very ftreets. 

Sio^. InJoteKJc fa{)rr<r4tes the rood ridicnlons aiid 
numerous apologies, ver. i6. Therefore grows ikft 
upoQ^uman nature. 

^ As %ht door tn^netk bcjci axd/orward npon 1 4 
h\s fixed hinges^ wil^mt advancing, fo cteth the 
flolliiFuI hiierer upon bis X4Mrm bed. 

S/oa. The idle teRta^ wifh md hope to awake ; yet 
tife not' in tim/e to work. A habit of^fclayin* h moA ■ 
ba2:ardou& 

In the d^y of our repentance, God, we have refolved 
according to the reafoa of things, and the laws of our 
■digion 5 and again in the day of our temptation, we have 
afted accordmg to our vicious inclinations and habits. • 

The /am {LoihM man hideth his c9/d h2tnd 15 
TO his bofom, and it gricveth him J:ke on^ 
mary with feverc labour^ to bring it again 
from thenck to his mouth, which nepct tjQ .invo- - 
hmiari/y opens fir fQod. 

SkiL Frequent breach of purpofe becometh like 
one dead to adion. It is flavery of the moft debafinff 
ruinous kind. ° 

And lc tompkte bmfr wretched rit^fi and guilty i6 
the aupid flug^ard,/^ long/pokm of, is wifer in 
his own conceit^/jr devif^ng meam ofiaureafe ta 
fi^h peJHve d^Jorder, than izvtn chofen men, 
Aat can render a goodfufficienf reafon>r wife 
behaviour. 

. SktL Wifhes may be ferious and yet not effe^ual 
from want of inftant execution, chap, xix^ 24.-^xxii. i«! 
Such muft be felf-condemned. ' 

He that paffcth by *, and meddleth in 

* &» NunuxkiL 18, 6. H. 

r 



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Ml BMIVBM& €%3^'XXIfl. 

f^tkas hified rage' wfilt ftrifeit« fa>U»Hgi fi g irol 
immediately to hinv/tslikeone^j" J!Sfew/i9!,'*lSi! 

Strife. Tt (hews a ftnng^ ^foori«tdtf>e^^cdil>t ^M^ 
and to fuffer from it. Thofe;iUSitif<iHbWt%(f:}iMi;ft(&. 

1 8 As a /nriout-taxd iMLtt^^thon^cUSkntkn-mtg^ 

where around hint ffmfim-l^ii-ii^MSi, ift''^ 
timcijharp poikied arr6w?»»v3if te' 
to lar dreadful 'lhfinminh"bfWi\^^^''^^9^^ 
man A^t deed^^K^fi'ttMHBtfui^Wft^tf 
fpecitfus to T^iat'hhH'i ^&K^m;^in4ff\m(f^ 
Am not I in fport ? .<iloib> u^i 




ciety. '■ Dread 'ifB?CT<i -Vit;'\ «poiI^fi(ft^ffi»t!PT»f »8i£ 
gives another pain. ■«'■''' '"t^'' -."" "' ^' *"noUfsiT s3J 

ao Where no drrcd'WodQ \ijerfe^t,\.\f^ the 
fire goeth out ; fo where there- is nW fSbp^ 
perint ' tale-bearer the one principal ' tau/g af 
?lrif?ceafetK. -^ ' -'\ ^ " ^-^ 

Tale-hearing. The mofl awful Solpt.ure pafigtsr 
^o not always intimidate even fome religions prdfiSSrsi^ 
Piklnis 1. 1 6; Commonefs ofictinaes does li^ leflTet l3^ 
malignancy pf them. Treachery and evil fpeak^ are 

often conjoined. . Ai^-ows 1Jiq| i 
bafe : Rom. xvi. 17. Some" 
ftcnch of difeafe, Prov. xvii. 

21 As coals are an addition of heat to Jjurning 
coali^, and wood to ajloi^ j^fe; fo .is.i..c^* 
tentious man to ViviAXc fever e ftrife, j v- ■ 

Strife. Be not quick to take provocation, or to 
execute revenge. Open hatred is preferable to fecret 
undermining. Put not the worftGonftrti(5tion upon things. 




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Chap. XXVI. PROVERBS 229 

Learn to rufierfmalllofles. Good temper is a noble ufeful 
ornament, Jam.iii. 149 15. i Pet. iii. 2, 5cc. 

The words of a talebearer, who offers 22 
friendjbip^ are as /^/^«/ wounds ; and they go 
down for deadly torture into the inncrmoft 
vital parts of the belly. 

Talebearing. Dread thofe who v^ho are talkative. Smooth 
bypocrites draw out fecrets to hurt» Eccl. xxviii. 1 3, &c. 
To ruin innocent cbara^ers is cruel murder. Make 
not even bad things worfe. Weep over faults. 

Difcordant * burning lips, and a wicked 
cruel heart, which leads to this^ are like a hot 
pot-flierd, covered with bright filvcr melting 
outo/drok. 

DifcorJ and cruelty. Specious lies . kindle devouring 
flames. Falfe varnifh doth not long ftand the teft. Dil- 
appoint not confidence ; reveal no fecrets ; betray not 
the freedoms of an unguarded hour. 

He that cruelly hateth diffemblcth 24 
often with the fcft fpcech of his lips ; and 
layeth up, as a treafure^ Jiore of deceit within 
him. When he fpeaketh fair, believe him 25 
not to be in earneH^fo as to truji^ for there are 
|fcven hideous abominations of mif chief in hii 
heart. Whofe mortal hatred is covered by 26 
plaufible deceit ; and \i\%fecret implacable wick- 
ednefs fliall be (hewn in full light before the 
whole congregation. 

Deceit., Revenge unexpe<fled is the more dreadful. 
Be not rafh to judge amifs, nor yet to truft. Criminal 
artifices will be laid open, i Cor. iv. 5, &c. by flames of 
fiery wrath. 

* SonUy friendly Jignsy and a hafe heart H. Compare^ Lev. 
xxvi' 28. If.. , f Puffer many; Gen. xft. 29. J^d. xxx. 33* 
Zepb. i. 15. Prov. xxvU. 16.— ocjcn?. 16. 

X 



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ajo PROVERBS Chap. XXVII. 

27 Whofo diggeth a pit,/^r ruin to ethers^ fhall, 
one time or ether y fall therein him/ elf; | and 
he that rolleth a ftone upwards ^ to let ioojeffm 
the height upon thof^ whom he di/likei, it will re- 
turn upon hini with rujhing violence. 

Revenge* Secret ambulhes are the mod criminal and 
hazardous. Violence of temper blinds and niins, Pfel. 
vii. 15. Eccl. X. 8, 9. By feekihg to extend power, die 
- foundation of authority is dellroyed. R. 

28 A lying tongue, natfatisfiedwith this, hatcth, 
fo as to perfeeute without interruption^ .thofc vhat 

are caufelejlj afflicted by it ; and thsfame way^ a 
flattering mouth, /o compafsfelfijh endsy worketh 
ruin. 

Lytngand Jlatiery, One who lies fears to be expofed ^ 
whichleadsto heap injury upon injury, as if deferved. SucE 
arc leaft eafy to reconcile. He is no Chriftian who dealt 
in calumny, ilander and divifive whifpcring ; Jam. i 26. 
Folfe policy makes ufe of mean di(iimulation. R. 



"4 «~<-4 « A-*^*"*' >">••»"♦• >- 



CHAP. XXVII. 

I T>OAST not thyfelf of y^^//7^ to-morrow; 
X3 for thou knoweft not what ^Jingle day 
may bring forth* 

Time vncertam. Medhation upon death helps to mo- 
derate all earthly purfuits, Jam. iv. 14 To glory in 
future fchemes is foolilb, mad, impious, Jer. vii. 9, 10. 

Be thou our God, and our guide, how fhort, or how 

f Compare. Job, xxx, 14* Gen. xxkL 6. 



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Qhap. XXVIf- . PROVERBS. 231 

long foever our lives may prove ; that in the end of our 
days we may attain the end of our religion, and the hap- 
pinc/s of our fouls, through Jefus Chrift our Lord. 

jLet another msLuhave leave to praifc thee, 2 
and not thine own nnouth ; a ftranger ju/ily 
pleafed with thee in the main^ and not thine 
own proud lips. 

Pralfe and Vanity, Be not lifted up, even where fuc- 
ce/shai been agreeable to expe(5l:ation, Rom. xii. 3. Jam. 
i. 17. The denre of fame is reafonable, though not as a 
chief ^nd, Rom. xiv. i&. Phil. iv. 8. Dread ftrong fclf 
complacency, even in good works The praife of dif^ 
cernment is true praife. Mode ft youth is timorous. , 

A ftone is heavy, and the fand when collefled 3 
is weighty ; but a rafh wicked fool's wrath 
is heavier to bear than ,them both. 

.Wrath of fools. A. wife man is put into anger, only 
from inadvertence, or great provocation. It is the glory 
of a man to keep this at under. Wife argument has no 
goodeffedt upon rage, wWch aggravates both guilt and 
punifhment. 

Sudden wrath is frequently cruel, and bl(m,n 4 
up ie fettled anger is outrageous; but who is 
able to ftand before the malignant fpirit £/* en- 
vy at another* 5 ^od? 

tVraih^ anger and envy. The fretful and peevifh are 
difficult to live with. Still more, they who are implacar 
bly rcfcntive. Yet, time and patience, under God^ may 
cure both. Not fo the malicious vice, that pines at ex- 
cellence. They do little good who are not envied. Fair 
virtue may have its blemifhes, which this evil fpirit is 
(lire to tax, under appearance of hating guilt. Some a^ 
invidioufly. Jam iii. 1 3, 5cc. Chaftife faults, and fparc the 
tranigrelfor, i John iii. 9, dec. 

Open free rebuke when needftd is betteryj>r 5 
human profit^ than fecret timid love. Faithtftil £ 

X a 



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tit PROVERBS. Chap. XXVII. 

to true affe^ion arc the wounds oifmart advice 
from ^ ftncere friend: but the kiffes of an 
enemy at heart are deceitful, asjealoufy itfelf. 

Rebuke i JideRtff fnend/hlp. Mutual angry reviling is 
quite incompatible witn friendfhip. Honeft warmth is 
refolute an^ prudent, both as to times and mannei^ 
Convidlion of wrong is not feparable from pain. Lev. 
xix. 17 Math xviii 15. Smooth not over faults widi fiir 
names. Let love be without diilimulation. 

7 The full foul from eating loatheth even the 
fweetnefs ofzrx honey-comb; but to the hun- 
gry foul every bitter thing of food kind is 
fweet. 

Want. .How apt are men to defpife common neceC- 
fary bleffings \ What all need, and many have, are of the 
greateft moment Superfluities are foon loathed. Whole* 
lome ezercife and lawful induftry relifh plain living ; 
fo doth ftrong ingenuous fpiritual appetite. 

8 As a bird is in danger j^h^t wandercth from 
her neft : fo is a man tof^er want^ that wan- 
dercth from the duties of^ his place. 

Officicd Duties, To bound defire is the way to be rich, 
Prov. xxxvii. J 6. A conftant courfe of iuxttrious Uvmg 
mars its own end. How many hazardsdopeopleninabroad, 
for what might eafier and better be found at home \ 
Wanton prodigality tempts to rove. A competency 
among fnends is true fecular wealth. JDetermine not 
haflily in an employment for life, and take advice. h€L 
with firmnefs, and feek to exceL Variety of projeifts 
divides attention and time too much. 

9 Soft\ ointment and perfume rejoice the 
heart: fo doth the fweetnefs of a man's 

10 friend hy wife hearty counfeU Thine own 

* Or^ who dejerteth its home. If. f Certmm mams 

of fragrance arre/i htb ftght andfmelL 



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jfjffierienced fnQodj and thy father's friend for- 
fake ncu, on account of mere ujj/iarU ; * neither 
^o into thy brother*s houfe, which thou hq/i 
long avoiJedy in the day of thy calamity : for 
better is bloving neiglibour that i^ near, though- 
vtbetwife unteUteJ^ than a brothcr-^^wj;i far 
off. 

Prkmt/hip and retuthn. Tlie facred tip is rcftorativc, 
hsLS joy5 and rorr(»ws in common to increaie the one, and 
■divide the othei". Even fine fentimcnts relifh nloft among 
ktxjdred.fpirks. The Very look of a jiulictouis intimate 
inilru^svindcomfort^^. Doubtful, dangerouscircumftancei, 
trytruelove. AH aids ought to be hearty. Age, with expe- 
rience, hfnd doubly ftiong. Refervc wounds true afFeC- 
'uoriy and dii^rniV kills it. A friend and a brother in one * 

i^ the chief of hnman joys. Mere bh)od conne£llon Is 
- buc St nominai tie.^ GcrtaJn natures will ran half nakisd 
. ^} ailid, whent. kindred imad take tim^ to drefs and to 
prepare. Htjhd. Prov. x\'u, j 7.^— 1 8. %j^ .Choofe frietvds 
leifurely, and cherifhtlieni. Edcntial qualities in fuch 

ought to be, judgement, uprightnefs, con(iIlence>delib,era- 

tJOhV experfence. ' 

My dear fon, be wife in behaviour^ aqd make 1 1 
TOV heart ewr glad to fee cr hear 'oftheCy that 
l^'roay alfo have an anfwer in readincfs^far him 
that reproacheth me, when it is in his power. 

Wift chiidren Much depends upon a good beginning, 

hwSd^ vfttuous aflbciates. To fecr'inftrudion pr6rj!)gf js 

*^fte he?^it of- parental Joy." Bcfeeching froni cfne in an- 

-tiiofity has great power. Cohftderittc^ot \nth tlie^'foes 

of kind parents, Pial. cxxvm 5. V* 

• A prudent man forefeeth the evil, antl, /7j '( 2 

-rmkh as poffiblcy hidcth himfelf /r<?7» it; but 

• »-■ ■ * ^ ■ ' ■ • - , 

* Or, and thoujhalt not have^ to go into thy brothei** houfe^ 
'in-$btdayofthf.caiamity.H. 

X3 



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^54 PROVERBS. Cfaiy XtVU. 

the UMil credulous fimpk ipa& fonvar4ily Oflby 
and are puniflied ^/^ /« a great depree. . . 

Tomtl^ prudence. Raflmdls is moft mcident to ear- 
ly life, from igncnrance of men and thmgs. To b^vf 
that one may err» and to adviie» are happy di^pofitioM^ 
Fear and trembling fuit the nature of our probation 
ftate. He who forefees unavoidable danger» and dares 
to look it in the face, u truly bravei chap. zzii. 3; 

13 Take his garment in pledge^ that is iMTtif 
for a ftranger, and take a Hill more '9dhilhk 
pledge of him for %uarr anting a ftrangcffli^ 
woman. 

Suret^/btp. The utmoft that law admits expidb 
ftrong obligation. A difTolote life in females argMi 
entire want of fH-inciple, chap. xz. 13. 

1 4 He that hypocritically blefleth his rick fAt^ 
with a loud voice, rifing early in tbe mooh 
iDgfor tljisend ; it ihall iVf time he counted 
vieannefi with * a heavy curfe to him. 

Flattery. FaMe barefaced compliments fixwi becwne 
odknis* They tend to miflead and bring on ixam. 
Hardly can fuch efcape. 

1 5 A continual r<>^-drppping in a very innj 
day, and a pdjjionate contentious womam ttit 
alike grievous* 

Dmafite quarrellmg. Xneeflant clamour Grem one's 
neareft relative is abfolutdy (hocking. The icora of aa> 
pitying netghbouK, Pror* xix. 15. 

1 6 Whofoever f hideth her, by any lawful means 
be can think ^, hideth what nuty be compared to 
the eluding wind, and the fgfueezed/qft oinl- 

* Compare I Sam. u. 30. f They who can concern/^ eon 
ccftceaJ a /cent ; hut the perfume m a umu's band will cKfc 
itftlf. Compare Lcv% «xv. 10. Deut. xx. 10. ^. 



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Cbap. XXVrt PROVERBS. tj^ 

ntent of his right hand, which obvisttft^ be* 
wray ctb itfdf through thejingers. 

I}ome/lk quarrMng. Both parties are heard where 
iiei€her of them are ieen« Thsj cannot htde^ Common 
pradence liiouki lead to be moderate, ver. 1 5. 

Iron Iharpeneth* iron, by rubbing; fo a man 17 
of pure Uve^ (harpeneth the very countenance 
of his friend. 

frim^lhip^ The value of choice connexions is inefti-^ 
mable, £ccl. it. 9* They awaken all the natural powers 
to free excrcife. Moft people are in part what their in- 
timates are. Emulation becomes mutual. They mot- 
l^>aagttifift. R* Where a fympathy of fentimeats pre- 
p«r9 l^e way^ (bid friendihips are foon formed. 

Whofo keepeth the fig-tree in good trainings 1 8 
flifidl eat «/*the fruit thereof ^^z^n^^iiA/y ; fo he 
tba$ waiteth clofe on his m2&.tv for fervice^ 
QiiM through lime be greatly honoured. 

Servants. Fidelity, like moft other duties, has an im- 
mediate recompence. Even thabeft of fruit>trees do 
not bear all at once- Merit is ieldom unrewarded. 
Servants who love change are not' often engagii^* 

As in water^ when nigh looked upan^ face an- 1 9 
{wer«th to face : fo the heart of I man in one 
age or country to man. 

jffumatk natyrcp . The principal lines and charaAers of 
nuinkind are much the fame. I^ike reafonings, or mo- 
tives> therefore, may be ufed. Outward ads deter- 
mine the inward ftate, Matth. vii. 15, &c. Hiftory of 
courfe mud prove beneficial, Deut. xxxii. 7, 8. i Cor. 
X. J I. We are all united to the deity. 

The grave of \it\\ and bodily dt^XMQxoti^lea^' ao 

♦ Or, hrlgbtenetb. H. \ BnghtenetL H. t Or.fo 
doth the hearty the man to the many nA%. reprefent. A man*4 
heart may be frequently known by hit look* 



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i)« PROVERBS. Chy.;CXVU; 

4f^ Ofwn U thit^ arc never fuU: fo the^*,eyf3 
of man arc pcvcr (atisficd with Jeeking i^Ur 

mvelites. - -./..v 

.. Defirei, Not a day but <teath,ba& Ks ,JoiUk^ 
Coveting, is quite infatiabk.. .JRefrres grow >35 1^4*^. 
gencc, Ecd. iv. 7> S— v, i<?, &c. ; Imaginarv wajjt is 
ever pinchmg. Man is Imtftortal on accotfnt' t^ lis 
principle. R- ' • ' . w,-v v, .. . 

i I . As the fining pot h iot the gO(ki c/ffitcfn»A 
pur^e away dr^s, and the bsatM fuTft%€e^*)r 
baitfit of choice gold, t^o^fa Rrin*;t>»/ft;^. 
rnin/wg ^his ;z//jf praile. . ' ' "^ 

- Pralfefrom men. Virtue rifes in zeulliy* ©»d^^^opp)^ 
fition. Smaller degrees become too-wecfe ^atedaand 
melt VJ^j to nothing.^ l%e beOf are;boii^-4!Onidav 
cumfpea walk. . Be not forward ^eith^dt to ;fft-a^e: or; di^. 
praife, chap, xxviii. 4.— xxix. '27. EccL'>xxvii.-6^ A':-- 

22 ThoughjthouftiQuldeft bray afcKDlg/'^^<,td^ 
mortar among wheat with a peftk; yet will ^'t 
his weak wicked fcjoliflinefs depart froffi him* 
• j^tf^i//. No power lefs than fupematural can amcmi 
thofe who negka and defpife correftion itfeif, Ifa. i. 5. 
Jer. vi. 23, &c. Young minds ought to be very docilt. 
Wife parents and governors inftru^ with patience. 

ai Be thou diligent to know, as by their jatti^ 
the real ftate of thy flocks ; and look both well 

24 and often to thy different kind ^herds. For 
thejirength offuch riches are not en/ured to ibee 
forever; and doth the crdwn i^^*end4re 

15 to eVei-y/^^^r^v^ generation? The crop far 

of the perfon who praifeth him. H. MaftL vii^' ijr.,©'^* 
t Oty chq/life him, as in the grindi^ghufey PrpVfJ. 17. 

itxii, 24. 2 Sam, .^vii. 19. Cat. xRv, i^, £x. mt* 29. 

Judg. Hvi. 21. Hm 



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Chap. XXVIIL PROVERBS. tj^ 

hay appeafeth only in itsfeafon^ and the tender 
grafs Ihewcth itfelf, in forerunning ftgn of this 
agreeable harvefi ; and the herbs of the moun- 
tains too^ for nice delicates and medicine^ are ga- 
thered in their appointed times. Thtf of t fleecy 26 
lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats by 
their produce are to defray the price of the field. 
And thus watchful of trulls ^ with opportunities^ 27 
thou (halt have goats' milk enough for thy 
food, for the food of thy whole houfehold, 
and for the cheering maintenance for thy nume' 
rous young maidens. 

Cart and (Mgence. The bed of all wealth, are flocks 
and herds. In proportion to hazaids of lofs ought our 
concern and raduftry to be. A mafter's own eye is his 
bell iervant. Quantity and kinds of pafturage are to be 
con/idered. The fird purchafe doth not eftabliih pofTef^ 
fioii; but prudent after care. Want of economy will 
ruin the mod opulent eflates. Provide for uncertaia- 
ties. Seek the fitted times. Sweet is the fimple date 
ofxiature. 



.«-4««4<4~4>*44'^^>*'^^ ►-►•»- 



CHAP. XXVIIL 

^ ■ ^riE confcious wicked flee when no man 
X purfuethf hut xhtfincere fervent righ- 
teous are bold in times of great basuird^s a lion. 

Fortitude, \^ce has no day in danger, no fuj^ort in 
trouble, and lead of all in death. Criminal levities may 
{Hence for a time, but exafperate afterwards. Lev. xxvi. 
36. Good intentions, with upright condud, are the fum 
of all virtue. God will ever befriend fuch. How re* 



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ijg PROVERBS^ Qhlp; XXVltt 

rpe<5tabk a thing is true Chriftian gooiJncrs ! Prudence 
and courage furmount all obftacles. R. 

. For * the abounding tranfgrcflion of a land, 
jnany are the divided ruling princes thereofi 
but by ^ Jingle man of undcrftanding at timesy 
and well applied knowledge, the ilate thereof 
(hall be prolonged. 

Natwnal fafttf. The greateft confufion muft enfoe 
vhere the bulk of a nation feck their own things oni/. 
Various and powerful headed faftions portend the worft 
cffe<5ts. Like wife in (lability of counfel and execuuon» 
Jer. rviii, 7, S. In the word of times one of eminence 
will often be attended to and fucceed. 

A' poor man vejied with authority f that op- 
preffeth the poor is. like 2l {weeping Jhod after 
rain which leaveth no harve/i food uffon the 
ground. 

Opprejpon. Bafe minds elated conceive the chief ho- 
nour of power to lie in deprefling their inferiors, EecL 
X. $^6^ 7. Want of fenfc to judge, and pity to feeJ, is an 
extreme curfe to a country. 

They that forfake the law, as a rule oflife^ 
praife the wicked by their example andfuppori 
in order to conceal themfelves ; but fuch as o6e- 
diently keep the law, contend with them ax 
enemies y for their amendment ot!' overthrow. 

EuampUi good and had* However wicked men arc, 
they love the appearance of coniiftency and fel£>vivdtca« 
tion. Tlie very fight of goodnefs reproaches finners 
'and provokes them« Gditf/ glory and the good of maa- 

. * Or, hy releUion in a landf tyrants fiall hecome its.mlirt; 
hut where, a people are wijif am able pHnceJhaU reign kng* 
Compare Frov* xxvl, 10. 2 Kings axv. 8. Efth. i. 8. 
2 Kings iiu 7. Deut. vi, 2. H. f Compare PJaL clil 1 1. 
Ifa. teh'u 13. 



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Chap. XXVni. PROVERBS. i jj 

kind require that vice fliould be oppofed. Win hj 
# mildnefs if poflible, if not correal. 

Qualify us, thou father of the fpirits of all flejhy by a 
vigorous exercife of our faculties, a;id by the conftancy 
OTOur adions agreeable tb divine virtue^ and our holy 
relw^ion, to return to the due order of nat are ; the efta-* 
blimment of holinefs and gooduefs, which is our conna-. 
tural fubjedion to thy all-perfed government. 

Evil men underft^nd not the excellence and < 
neceffitj efjuji yiA^mtnt : but they that ^i^w/?/ 
fcek the -Lord underttand //, with all other 
needfui x\i\tigs. 

True wifJom. A habit of wickednefs blinds the in- ■ 
telled and hardens. Upright fouls will not be allowed 
finally and fatally to err, ftal. Ixxxiv. ii. — xxv. 9, &c. 
John vii. 17. A model too perfed is hated by the vi- 
cious. R. Godh the caufc and four^ of truth. Hit 
precepts are the tranfcripts of his own moral attributes. 
We can be valuable upon nothing fo much as refembling 
thcfe. 

Better is the poor, as to outward condition^ that i 
walkcth through life in his uprightnefs(?/"^^A^- 
ijioury than he that is dejignedly perverfe in his 
ways of condu£li though he be externally rich. 

Vprightnefs and peace* Perfeverance is eflential to well- 
doing. Riches acquired by undue means do not refle<5t 
upon with cafe. Few attain the length of clear ample 
reftituUon. 

Caufe us, O goedGod^lo live up to the peculiar excel- 
lence of our nature in the right ufe of our faculties and 
govenunent of ourielves by our fupreme powers ; and 
fuffcr us not to live below, and contrary to our nature, 
through gro{s negleft, and fhameful abufe of our facul- 
tics; enflaving our fouls to our bodies, and becoming 
like the beafts that have no rational underftanding 1 

Whofo keepcth the written law of heaven 
is a wife ion to his parents^ Jiate and church; 



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t40 FItOVERBS. Chap. XXVIIL 

but he who is zftatUring companion of riot- 
ous men (hamcth his father, who had the 
trujl of educating him. 

Children good and had. Knowledge and praftice ought 
to keep pace with each other. Withdraw from places 
and companies where there is greateft temptations. 
What objcd fo fweet to look upon, or to hear about, as a 
well-doing child ? Moderate animal living gives time 
and heart to noble fpiritual employments ; whereas riot- 
ous living riiins name, fortune and happinefs. ^o grief 
or confufion can equal that of a difappointed parent, 
from a bad fon. Education obliges children togtarti^ 
tude ; and thefe arc the original bonds of fodety. R. 
The country is nothing elfe than many famih'es united. A 

He that by extravagant ufury and nnjuft 

Sain of any *iW increafeth his fubftancc, he 
lall, unknown to himfelf, gather it for him that 
will pity and aid the poor. 

Rides. For peculiar wife reafons under the law, tak- 
ing intereft for loan from a brother Ifraelite was prohi- 
bited, Ex. xxiv. 25. Deut. xxiii. 19, 20. It is there- 
fore fitly ranked withinjuftice. To borrow for coItvi^ 
nience may pay lawful intereft. Lending in many cafes 
is a preferable charity to giving, as what faves fliaine 
and obliges to work. Sordid avarice is a fevcre cm^ 
upon mankind. Pure communicative love is rartSy 
permitted to want, Eccl. xi. i, &c. Lev. xxv. 3j[, ^c. 

He that turneth away his ear froQi bear- 
ing the law of God read, explained^ andincuitat^ 
ed^ even his prayer in time of troubte ftill be 
held dsJoaihfome abomination. 

Hearing God*s word^ and prayer. The purcft and the 
moft acceptable of all devout excrcifes is to imitate di- 
vine love. The worft extreme of vice is abandoned liH- 
lefsnefs ; foon followed with contempt. Prayers of the 
wicked are cries of terror, without efteem of loVe, Prov. 
i. 24, &c. Some only rq»d and hear the law of God as 



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CbBp. XXVIII. PROVERB& 44^ 

an endt without applying it pra^ieally. Numbers of 
high profe(£on hate to be admoniihed, John ix. 31. 
I John iii. 24. Pfal. 1. i6» &c. Such give a fatal 
wound to devotion, i Tim. ii. 8. i John i. 5, 6. 

Teach thou us, Lerd^ to value it as our privilege^ 
that iettmg afide from time to time, all worldly employ, 
ments and concernments, we can join together in fuch 
exerciies, and receive fuch irapremons from thence, as 
cafts our thoughts into a frame which is purely heaven- 
ly and divine ! 

Whofo by fubtle arts* caufeth the righte- 10 
ous to go aftray in an unforefeen evil way, he 
fhall fall miferably himfelf into the defied mif- 
^/^ ^his own pit ; hut the prudent and ^ead^ 
fsUi^ uptight (hall have good things in long 
po&ffion. 

* Ufrigbtnefs und feduSion. The fincere may not in 
many cafes have a large degree of underilanding* 
Their very fimplicity and goodnefs of heart, at times, 
(huts their eyes from difcemment of artful meafures. A 
feducer feldom fails of being caught in his own fnare, 
PlaL vii. 14, &c. By the natural tendency of things, 
the good fucceed, and God is with them. Their ftores 
arc unftained by guilty purchafes. Their defires are 
moderate. They enjoy much in little. That which ap- 
pears to be virtue is fometimes nothing, but a deceitful 
mafk. R. 

Alienate our minds, great God^ upon rational convic- 
tion, from the finful cuftoms and principles of this mad, 
degenerate* and apoftate world; that we may never be 
led away by the error of the wicked and forfake thee 
and oar own mercies ! 

The rich man is often wife in his own con- 1 1 
ceit,yi as to overbear^ to dilate / but the poor 
that hath underftanding fearcheth him out, 
fo thoroughly as to be able t6 expofe hinu 

♦ Or, entketL H. 
Y 



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t4t PROVERBS. Chap. XXVIIT. 

Iti^ and poor. Money afonc gircs cotrfidcnce to pm, 
Oumbers. Their fonvatdtic^ is felcioin blamed ia coa^ 
pany, which renders them ft ill more a Homing. Nam* 
ral good fcnfc fees foHy in difguif^ and fecks to become 
intimate with the judicious, i King$ iii. 9, 9x. To 
court mere external grandeur is a mark oi* per v ert e d 
tafte however commoa» Ecchvii. 11, 12. 

13 . When rigbteov$ rsx^n do proffer fo as (a 
rejoice, there is great glory given to wcriii 
but when the wicked rife fnta high pUeebj 
wealthy a nun offinfe retires^ and is bidden* 

• fromaiqti. Principlet fbuad jiudgeiaefU> and ab^il^ 
to cxecutCi art efleaiial qualities for |[averuiag. It k 
pure lafting iatisfa^ion to fee people tre^ited accoT^|| 
te merit, PfaL xii. S. Prov. xxix. 2. 

We blefs thee, great and goo J God, who haft inade ttt 
one for another ; and that by the p^^i^ of s^ go<|d- 
nefs, righteoufnefs and inithk the wisdom and ftre«|^ 
of the vdiolc b increa&d : fo that the i9<n^ v^uaUe 
men there are in the world| fo much the battel? it i»for 
all that live ia it ; becau& from thoiie nothiqtg is to be 
feared which they can hinder, and every thk^ fiaay b« 
expeded which they can do. 

13 He that covereth his (ix», as much m mOf 
be even from his own viewy and does potJmmblj 
ow/f them to his Maker^ (hall not reli^fftm 
profper ; but whofcx cbik£efleth and foriake^ 

14 them ihaH h^ve/tire^ eternal mercy. Hs^py 
is the man that truking tofuch clear promijesy 
feareth alway afterwards to offend again/i them; 
but he that hardeneth his heart hy criminal 
pr^dicesy fhall fallintoyir^ irretrievable mif- 
chief. 

Confejjion offin^ and fubfequent fear. They deliberately 
cover 1ms who wifli not to know and become penitent 
What is neceffary to reparation muA not be hid. Godly 
forrow and acknowledgii^, lead to amendment. Di* 



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etiay. JLXVUh PROVERBS. a4| 

vifif icwe hatb left ncy room for defpair. Solid iigns of 
rcforniation are diffidence, watchfulnefs and circuinfpecr 
tion. They -who are carelefs and d^ilinate fhut out 
grace. 

We coufeis with flame, Lordy that we have violat- 
ed thy lavcs, which are no other than the laws of our na- 
ture ; and that rule of everlafting righteoufnefs, which 
is the life of the uuiverfe. In thus fbrfaking thee, we 
Have forfakcn our own mercies, and muft be naiferable, 
until we undo hy repentance, what we have ill done by 
fm i and be reconciled in our temper to that righteoufc 
Uefsj .which is the nature, mind and will oiGocL Enable 
tis, Aoufountdtn ofUfey to believe the remiflion of /5ns, 
"#Wi comfort and fteidfiifhieft ; to trnft in thee, through 
fifer^j? yefus^ for all that mercy, wWch, as pen?tettt fmners, 
#6 naf^ iti n'eedt)f ! Grant us tiow, without delay, to 
i^b; a right life of t>tilr fecultlts, jnilly tx) valu* our 
fruc and jgffcateft intereft ; and, as v*e can remember 
^ikoLt is ^ail> and (br^e *what it CO co^ie, ^o to diarge 
eoa^lveis with the neceffary care of our falvation, and 
C^Fd^ally to provide for that eternity, in which we muft 
be unavoidably moft happy, or mod mifcrabfe. 

As a dreadful ro2Lrmg lion, and 'Sijierc^ r^ng- 15 
iog bear, fo is a wicked opprejfi've ruler over 
tbc poor impoiint people. 

' Off r ^fi d n, Fidelity in power, and cheerftd fubmiflSon, 
determine public luappinfefs. Abufe of office provokes 
alni ifliies tn rmmoos mifctuef. Bofom foes a^e th« 
yffotii ^ ^1 others. It is a terrible ftate to Hve by the 
^leadof tnidty, rather than by affedion. The word o£ 
ralers have the moft corrupted courts for joint devour- 
ing Law is iibi^rior to m^jcfty. Petty deputed ty- 
iBJits f«ck bkkod as tlley are able, i Pet. iiL 7. 

The prince that wanteth underftandiiif; is i5 
alfo, with Ufs criminal dejigriy a great oppreffor; 
but he that hateth exa^ing covetoufneis, fliall 
prolong his qukt^ happy days. 
• C^vetoujhrfs and ofpreffmi. They are ignorant of the 

T 2 



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3H PROVERBS. Cha^ XiVRL 

real value of tbmgs, who are fend of amaffing* Op> 
prcflion finke the fpirits and unfits for common necd^ 
€xrj defence. The benefit of wealth lies in its ap|ilica- 
tion. Strenethy freedom and property, intimidate pub-, 
lie foes. TtTie length or (hortnefs of living depends 
upon the meafure of enjoyment, Heb. xiii 5. 

17 A • man that purpofely doeth violence to 
the blood of any innocent pcrfon, fhall flee to 
the pit of his own overthrow^ let no man fta/ 
him from thence^ after fo foul a deed. 

Xurdcr. Premeditated murder is the funmut of 
cruelty, Pfal. v. 7. Revenge and covetoufiiefs m^ce. 
quick hade to ruin. That man's life is ill fpared iKhft 
wilfully flays another^ Gen. ix. 5, 6. £x. xxi. 14. fil 
Iv. 23. It is madnefs and not valour to fight againft 6^^ 
Falfe honour is no Juftifiable principle for killings 

18 Whofo walketh uprightly through life ib^ 
be faved from great and numerous mijhhieftj' 
but he that is perverfe and fraudulent in. his 
ways of dealing fliall, ufon difcovery, iiMtadi^ 

JiruBion at once. 

Uprightnefs and curmtng. To ad with clear fteacftdl- 
truth, is honomable and commendatory. "Wlien d^^ 
rader is broken what becomes of fuccefs ? The tSbiti 
that honeft people are known, the more they are vii!be£ 
They who tread unbeaten ways will often wander* aiid 
lofe themfelves. The wicked fall fafter than they tAu 
What violences do unequitable traders do to their own* 
eafe, in contriving, executing, hiding ? 

Although thine agency, God^ tranfcends not onljr 
our power, but alfb our underftanding ; and we cannot 
comprehend how the Supreme Being ads in the produdion^ 
confervation and reftitution of his creatures i yet wc arc 
certain of our dependence upon thee, and of thy all- 
fufficiency for us ! 

* Or, be vtho u tortured in bisfpiriifir bavingfbed bloody 
Jleeth to tbe grave^ lefi men Ihould fei%e bim. Compare Demt^ 
xxviii^ 29. J/a. Kxxviii, 14. ' 



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Qmf. TLXVnU PROVERBS. tj^f 

. H« that tilleth his laad in due/ea/on &aUL (9 
bav^e picivty of needfut bread ; but he thatf 
vuffhen caHtd ^ uftpA 'a>ork, folteweth oi a€9mfa^ 
riion ifter vain diffblute perfotis^ flxall hafVt? 
harajftng poverty enough. ; 

' Jttduflry and iJlenefs. HufbancJry is th^ chief of hu- 
man eWpbyments ; and vHfelj- put for every other.. 
To >arait qh bufitiefs rs die ^(^7 to «e fubfiftcd. To de-* 
fraud and ftarve a poor innoceAt family \& cottfummate 
viUany, i Tim. v. 8. 

A faithful a^in^ m^n {ball abound with 20 
bhrffings for both worlds ; but he that n)aketh 
hade lo be rich, dy iawlefs methods^ (hall not 
bs innocent of mantjoid grof$ crimes^ but Jink. un^ 
der ih^m, 

t"a$thfukifs. Tlie duties of our ftate, profeffion aikl 
office^ are much to be fhidied. Difgrace and ruin bring 
tod manr wicked arts to remembrance. Fair trading 
ito much aurt by the unfaithful. Confider engagements 
Wote diey are made and fcrupuloufly perform theiti* 
Peace of mind is more than all out>yard wages of inU 
quitj. Credit and competence reward the faithful. 

We prbfefs, Lord^ to abandon and abhor all hia* 
fice, envy and uncharitablene/^, and to 2 
taX^ atid the mod comprchenfive good 
compaffion, if not complacency) with; 
and enemies ; in gratitude for what the 
clone and fuffered for us : who, through 
worthy of the leaft good, but throiigh h 
of thcgi-eatfeft. 

To have refpcft of peribaa in JHi^ermnti is 2 c 
not good } for, for a piece oifbrtyLddddifimai^ 
ie be ev€rfo rich^ that naan in iinij^y^Vil be Jure 
ta tranfgre£s# . , , ''I . \. ^. , 

pMrtkdity^ Faithfolnefs regards prOmife, wiih duties 
of ftation and office. To pervert a d^^irte ^dittance for 
iufticc is mod maligntot vice, Ifa* x« t^ &c. l^t^ 

• y 3-.. • 



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f 44 ^ PROVERBS. Chap. XXVBi; ^ 

flighted appearances thereof fliould make one trelnble. 
Delay of doing right is in itfelf unrigfateouihe&. Ixt 
generous diAnterefted motives ever prevaiL For 
teachers of religion to fuppreis truth is dreadfolt Ezdc 
xiii. 19, 5cc. Matth. v. i8» 19* 

22 He that hafteth to be rich hath an evil 
coveting eycy and confidcreth not that by feme 
bidden cur/e ^ beaverij the poverty he Jo much 

fcar^ {hall come upon him. 

Covetoufnefs. A niggardly envying foul ins^p&lfefi» 
"^ but can never enjoy, chap, xxiii. 6, 3cc. Unjuft methods 
of gain bring on, Uirough time, both divine and human 
vengeance, Luke xii. 20. Pfal. xlix. Jer. rrii. 1 1. 

23 • He that feafmably and mildly rebuketh a 
man ofgoodfenfe in the main, afterwards ihaft 
fifid more favour than he that flatcereth bis 

errors of practice with the tongue. 

Flattery and rebuke. Men are apt to grow proud as 
they increafe their fubftance, ver. 1 1. The fmcere friend 
cannot fiifFcr fin upon one he loves. Some choofe to 
flatter, whilft they affe<5l to hate it. R. 

^4 . Whofo robbeth his father or his mother, 
and f;iith it is no tranfgreflion, the fame is 
the fit familiar companion of a vile iniquitous * 
deftroy^r. 

Unnatural children. Thieving from friends is fhocking. 
Why fpend above what may be owned to a Either or 
mother ? Why endanger their credit and eafe ? Why 
fcem to wiih them out of the way before their time l| 
Why bring on a fufpicion of others ? . Why draw dows' 
gray hairs with forrow to the grave ? 

25 He .that is of a proud, coveting^ revet^tfu 
heart ftirreth up ftrife to his own undoing ; bui 
he that patiently doing good putteth his truft id 
the Lord fliall be made f fat in comforts. 

* Or, murderer • H. \ Or^ enjoy abundance. H* 



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GW^ XXVUL ' FKOVERBS: 14^ 

Pa^mce and refxttge. ,Bc not of a peeviAiy anxiousi 
deljpoading fpirtt. Reft thy injured caufe in an i^n- 
erring ommfotait God. Ezpoftulate without revcngcw 
Ambitious pride is full of fchemes and endeavours to 
rife at any one's expence» Pfal. xxxiv. 9. Courage in ' 
danger is adive, calm and prefent to itfelf. R. 

We magnify thee, Lord and King of the world, who ' 
Kaft ^Rired us by the manifeftations and communica« 
tions of thyfelf, diat the fupremacy of the univerfe is in 
conjundion with the perfection of goodnefs ; and that' 
there is no malignity poffible whFch is not fubjea to the 
controul of thee» who doft effentially abhor it. 

He chat trufteth in his own heart is a vain 26 
erring fool ; but whofo walketh wifely under 
direSiom of friendjhipy he (hall be delivered 
from manifold fevere evils. i 

D^Uence cmd fdf<once'a. It is dangerous to reft in our 
own. fkill. Haile is prefumptive blundering. Forefeet 
/ear» avoid hazards* 

. BleiFed be thou, God^ who, in thy wifdom, applied 
thyfelf to the faculties of our nature, who art, notwith« 
(landing our fole fuflGiciency. Therefore we work out 
our falvation with fear and trembling, becaufe thou 
worked in us both to will and to do, according to thy 
good i^afure. 

He that giveth largely u nto the poor, agreeable 27 
to his circumjiances^ ftiall not lack by this means^ 
hM he that hideth his eyes to tj0e utmoji from 
human calamities^ (hall have many a dreadful 
curfe. 

Mercy. Difcreet alm%iving is an eflcntial branch of 
true charity. The covetous are afraid of being moved 
to companion, Pfal. xli. 1, &c. It is a part of our bufi. 
nefs to inquire after the troubles and wants of others ; 
to do them good and to pray for them, Ifa. xxxii. 3a.— 
Ivxii. 9. 

When the wicked rife into places of influence^ 28 
men of the befi difpojttiom hide thcmfdves j 



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but when they pa^tfli frm ihtfr^ the ejmitAle 
ami ufiful rightetms inewafe, and tpm^f&rtk. ' 

' Promotton. Be not concerned in managing tritb tkofc ' 
ot* corrupt TelfiHi principles. By enadmcnt and execft-' 
tfon of good lawsy people of merit are brou^t foi^ard. 
Underlbmding, with (Irtd virtue, grace the teats of judi* 
cature» i Tim. ii. i» &c. He who has been taught to- 
pradi^e obedience^ will a&erwards know how to cc^- 
mand. R* 



CHAP. xxrx. 

1 TJE that being often reproved hsirdeo-^ 
X X ^(h his neck, like a fiiAb^n nfytkt^ 
bvMocky^^X fuddenly be deftroyed bj Sii a^jm 
crimes^ and that without remedy. 

O^inaU vice* No perfon all at once becometh one oC 
the woriU Watch the firft nuitions towards evil, an«l 
ftand in awe of heart-remonftrances. Jam. i. I3« $uu 
Heb, iiu 13. This makes religion eafy, joyous, tia-^ 
bit becomes a kind of fecond nature. To be unafieded 
with friendly admonition argues ungrateful obfttoacyt 
Ifotth. vii. 6. Lev. xix. 17. Amos ir. 6. lia. i. 4, 5. 

Convince thoic of their (ki, Lgrd^ who do diat 
^vnrong to themfekoSy by groik negkd and profane ecm* 
tempt of the obligations of religion, and the means for 
becoming religious ; and who Tpehd that time urhicli 
is confecrated to Go^^ in the pradice of vice and folly f 
Awttkos their cOftibieiices bf ibiAe aftoftiftilig e?«st, or 
happy coufdel^ or ferioiis confideratioa ; tlut lb d»ey 
may in tiftiei bcfMre they diie^ be prepared fin- ill 

2 When the righteous are in high authority, 
tTie people under them rejoice : but when the 
wicked beareth chief ruk, the barqffed peo- 
ple bitUrly mourn. 



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Chtfp. XXIX. proverbs: S4^ 

Rtderi, Love and seal for virtue arc cxtenftvely pro- . 
fitable. The promotion of vice is cruel to thouivids. 
Indolence itfelf difgrai^es great office, and is moft inju- 
rious. An enlarged fphere of doing good is the moft 
honourable of all diftindlions. R, 

Whofo loveth thefober rules of "miAom re- 3 
joiceth his intruding father ; but he that 
keepeth company with abandoned harlots^ 
fyendcth foon his mo/i necejfary fubftance. 

Children^ A fenfual life is adverfe to every kind of 
Spiritual improvement, i Pet. ii- n. Hof. iv. 11. Mo- 
deH, ingenuous youth will be advifed, Pfal. cxix. 9. 
"To grieve folicitous parents is the aggravation of all 
untendemefs. What a contrail to meetmg one another 
in heav^, to live for ever ! Prov. iv. 5, &c. 

The king by equal judgement eftabliflieth 4 
the land, both inwardly and outwardly ; but he 
that * receiveth gifts, to fuccour a bad caufe^ 
overthroweth it. 

PubBcgood. Truth ought ever to be the rule of judg- i 
ing ; for eafe to the good, and to keep the bad at under. 
I>iikfedion to the chief power mud prove fatal. Peo- 
ple loft to private and public viitue are an eafy prey. 

A man that flattercth his neighbour in er- 5 
ror and vice^ fpreadcth in effe6l^ a net for the 
entanglement of his feet. 

Flattery. To delude a poor brother is fatal cruelty. 
Few temptations are fo difficult to get the better of. 
Honeft freedoms become wife virtuous fnendfliips. 
W^hen offence has brought on mifery, adviiement comes 
too late, Prov. xxviii. 23. 

JLord God of Hofts^ we acknowledge that we are eter- 
nally updone without thy pardon, and that we cannot 
without fpecial affurance pretend to it ; for thou art un- 
der no fuch obligations to offenders againft thee as to 

* Or^ deffifeth the laws. H. 



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gtve dteitt » tnne ani iifcerty to rtpent* Nev«rt!Mefs 
iw« ib not despair of dij SKtcy, O g99d Gody fince thsa 
deft permit as to live after our fo, hi a ftace of prc^* 
tkm ; and fihce t>iere can be tto tnteidl of thee ferved bf 
the perdition of a fmner, wUch ifi not better ienrcd bf 
hU repentaiKe and falvation. 

6 In the tranfgr^ffion of an' evil m^i, there 
is a i^naakd fnare /^ ^/rj^ ^iV im/^ peac^ ; but 
the fincert inteihgeni righteoiis dotb fing un^ 
der epfferienced advantages and exceeding re- 
juice. 

Fitfueandnnce. No cr^e 4ate^ tt> be fttn In its owft' 
piroper o<^o«ir8» Jimi. t. 13, Y4. Bkndifted fharetaW 
the moft fetal. VkfTf tMj the aflVn-aftce of Gintt \m 
enrapture the upright? Hk. kxkn. 17. Roift. *!▼. f 7»'lik 

Bl^ed be thy aame, <M, who, althbugh ikon dkift 
make uf no more than finite and fallible^ ^em thot 
madft us men ; yet haft always fuperintended over Qt 
Vyd)^ good fphit, whreh is infmite and in&Uiblc: wctt 
as in every other created nature, thou teaft plaeed H 
ftronjT principle of ielfprefervatioa and reftkutioOt ^ 
thiDu naft made our nature, which i« intelligent aad vo* 
luntary, no lefs fu^icient in fuhordiaajtioa to thflev iof t&e 
prefervation and reftoration of itiUf ( 

7 The charitable righteous ct>n(i<Jereth wtb 
much kifure and fairn^s the caufe of the tm} 
poor; but the niggardly wicked regardetjii 
not hy any metms whatever ^ toknow it thorougl^ 

. The U$tcd^ andUtAtral Kind ofiices, at t6 diehr >«&• 
lue* depend Rmch apon their priiici]die and xnamHR^ 
ck^ xxvui. 7. Men c£ fkiil ots^ht to adr^Krate aoA 
judge for the poor, Pfal. Ixxii 4. Job xxix. i,i) Ice. M(»» 
ghd or carrieisoefs is next to taldng a bfd>e» 

8 Profligate fcornffU men, by their contagems 
manners ^ brin^ a whole city into a faai^e $f 
troubles ; but wife pioujly difpojed men turn 
away forefeen cwa^s vf wrath. 



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ObafL XXJXa rKCr?S1lB& tjt 

MU^tufi md p^^foK. Tike laft Oi^ of tmfeedaefc is 
to icba at tkia^ of Jughsft impOTtaoce, chx^ ui. 3^ 
h is Ihe refak of prkdc aaad felf «OBBd«!nce. l^mfiottt 
tffiffloe of ikiicde aboT^ laaoli tthin^ el>fe, }ikKi. m <^, aiCr 
To think befoie cfoft Ipeiiks axgues si ibund iii«&l ju^e^ 
inent. It is true patrietlfm u> iuppovt r^ligioiv 

If a nzoifl* wife man contendetb with a g 
(oolifli maa, whether he rage 'wuh anger ^ or 
ki&gh infcom^ there is no reft. 

^^iz/i5 and fcorwng. WlieFe a foundatien of cahn 
Ceafe is, dwrc gnly may be liop^ of ad^QWiiW^ mth 
iffi^ds. The ear difpemeth iM)t lik^ait,, tb^ li^^at dk 
i^oethfiot words* ib neitit^r doe$ ^ fool u^^r^hind tte 
4iji2igs pf a wife man. Pu^e Eeal v£^^ various mta^t 
i^ amiexiding. The eafy progreik of vice ougbl to a^arei^ 
BaL L u 

, Iht^fovage Wood-thirfty hate the opprftTt^ lo 
upright; but the mild equitable \m^ ftck the 
efkim and coitf^rt af his foul. 

Uprightnefi. it is hard when die generoidly employed 
teivv no fiicoeis, bttt lo be haled on that account is 
dreadful. What fome impute to rigidity is theeffe^ of 
pure love. The friendfliip of the juft is high honour. 

A weakpaffionafe foal uttcreth aU his mind, 1 1 
» the prefent irriPaUd moment \ but a wife r^- 
Jktting man kccpcth it in tiWfome proper fea- 
fqnfor utterance afterwards. 

Hq/le. Judgements of confequence ought ever to be 
pi^ceded by caun deliberation, Jam. i. 1 9. Self conceit 
ii rafli and provokmg. Be cautious in giving charac- 
ters* chap. xiv. 33— xvii. 27. They talk too much 
who do not hearken to others, and decide with an air of 
fbfficiency. R, 

li^from wani of judgement ^ a ruler ofthepeoplt i^ 
hearken to wbifpered lies, all his fervants/r(?»i 
tl^nce aarc Mndber great temptation to keco?n& 
wicked. 



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I5t PROVERBS. Chap. XXIX. 

Rufirs mid^rwmU. Examples in high life do power- 
fully operate, P(al. xiL 8. J^oiify is fond of uncha^ 
able impreffionsy and in common never wants fools who 
batch falfehoods for (hewing their value. An hcmeft 
courtier has little or no chance among fuch. Few princes 
heartruth, i Tim, ii. i, &c. 

13 The Upright poor and the deceitful man 
efien meet together in the fame awful outward 
trials; the Lor d, for wife ends, lighteneth under 

fufferingj both their mental eyes. 

Poverty anddecek. Sincere weaknefs is infinitely pre- 
finable to abufed great gifts of the mind. The native 
fruits of i^orance and cruel fraud are far too late, from 
their not leeking and taking advice. Neither overbear 
Bor be tamely fubmiilive. Our chief happinefs or mt* 
fery muft be determined by the final iffues of diings» 
Ezra ix. 8. To enjoy one*s felf is more than to enjoy 
the world. 

14 The king that faithfully judgeth the cafe of 
the poor, his throne fliall be eftablifhed in 
the proteilion of heaven^ and in the cordial love 
of his fubjeSts for ever. 

King. Invariable faithfulnefs conftitutes (buiid policy, 

, Ex. xxiii. 2, 3. Violence under fhew of law is eartrcjnc 

falfehood. To know and a<5V according tb truth is to 

govern well ; like God^ and in his ftead. AjSci^n is a 

more powerful fupport than law. 

1 5 The rod when applied with judgement^ and 
milder xt^xoof in its feafon^givt good prmitical 
wildom ; but a child left to him felf, without 
any fuch controul^ bringeth his too indulgent mo- 
ther to miferable (hame. 

ChqftifemenL Infant reafon is weak and demands aid; 
a charge that requires both prudence and fortitude. 
Maintain love with due authority. Seek gradual im- 
provements. Teach children to bear with opposition, 
xiumour not a peeviih whining temper. Lead them 



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CSntp. XXIX. PROVERBS. ijyj 

carfy to religious tafte, by example^ inftruftion, and wel 
thned reproof. How fcandalous to read one's ibame 
in their fecond felves ? 

When the wicked are multiplied tranfgref- \6 
fion of cour/e increafeth : but the righteous 
few fliall fee their fall in the end. 

Puntjbment delayed. Numbers of great people in fault 
iBacken the reins of authority, ver. 2. Early difcipline 
is a needful balance. Even from charity the righteous 
muil contribute to overthrow the wicked. One evil 
companion infeds another^ PfaL xxxviL 4. 

Correct thy fon in time^ and he (hall give 17 
thee reft from painful ftUure rejkdicns ; yea, he 
iha^l by emnence of viriue^ credit and ufefulnefr-^ 
give raptures <?/" delight unto thy foul. 

Corre&ion. Wifely to educate has every chance for 
ibccefs, ver. 15. chap. xxii. 6. Give mild methods rf 
difcipline the preference. Paflionate hade troubles both 
fibild and parents. No joy of life equals that of- good 
xeQ)edable children. Judicious parental love is a fource 
of great advantages to the ftate. R. 

Where there is no regular communicated vi- 18 
fion 0/ truth to human minds ^ the people are es;- 
.pqfed io periDb in grqfs ignorance ; but he that, 
iy remning fentimem^ of virtuey keepeth the 
Jaw, ha^ppy is he. 

Education and knmvledge. Wife affiduous teachers are 
as Hghts to the world, Matth. v. 15, &c. It comes 
•much to tTie fame purpofe whether people want means 
'fiu will .not regularly attemd them. Wiat is nece/fary 
Ihould be ofteneft inculcated. Vices not fpoken to fear 
an evil confcience, Ezek. iii. 26. Ifa. xxxix. 9, &c. Amos 
viii. 1 1 , &c. To love and thirft after pradtical know- 
ledge is fure to ifiue in good works and happinefs. Ill 
treatment of honeft freedoms leads to future negled. 

Have compaffion, Lcrd, upon that part of matikind , 
friio are ftra»gers to the go^el. Hare compaflkm-upoft 



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f54 PROVERBS, CSiap. XXIX* 

their ruinated and fallen ftate. Open their eyes an^ 
turn ihem from darknefs unto light, and from the power 
of fatan unto God, that they may receive forgivenefs of 
fins, and inheritance among them which are fandified by 
faith that is in Chrift, Succour and relieve thofe who 
have the key of knowledge withheld, even by them who 
fhould make wife unto falvation* Grant that they who 
labour in holy thiiigsi by giving themfelves entirely up 
to the ftudy of divine wifdom, may teach thy fervants 
with all poffible advantage, for their education to eter- 
nal life. 

19 K fallen malicious fervant liCill not allow bim*^ 
/elf to be corrcfted; by the mo/i clear /ea/omble 
words: for though he undcrftand, he wiH 
not anfwer agreeable to the convi^lion of his om 
mind. 

Servants. The moft criminal of all perverfity h to 
withftand the force of undeniable evidence mildly pr(v> 
pofed. To good equal mafters it is heinous ingratitude 

SO Seeft thou a man that is hafty in bis ni^' 
fers and even in his words ; there is more 
hope of reclaiming zfimple fool, than of hitn. 

Hqfie. To obferve proper meafures and time in fyccch 
argues fuperior knowledge. Jam. iii. 2. Thoi^Atlefi- 
nefs and pride hazard opinions ralhly, and prevent bcn«» 
fit from others. What they once affirm or deny they 
perfift in, Jam. i. 27. Bittemefs and hafte makes the 
lovers of peace to tremble, Jam. iii. I5,&c. Prov.xxvi.12. 
— xxvii. 22. ^ 

2 1 He that too delicately bringeth up his fer- 
vant from a child, fhall have him become 
free and familiar as his fon at the length. 

Servants. Some bafe natures cannot brook a repeti- 
tion of kindnefles, but grow infolent. A mafter ought 
neither to be over fevere nor over indulgent. Flatter 
not weak inferiors nor bribe them ; elfe unrfeafonable 
demands may be looked for. Overbearing airs and an- 



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CSiap. XXfX. PROVERBS. 155 

^crs from fervants are infufferabk. Let advancements 
be gradual, Eccl. x, &c. i Kings xvi. 9, &c. 

A quick angry man ftirreth up means of 2% 
ftrife, and a furious man in his wrath TLhownd^ 
cth in dreadful tranfgreffion. 

Hq/ie and rage. The virtue of felf-government obferves 
a rule with all the pafCons. They ought neither to be 
inadive nor to reign. Proportion warmth and feverity 
to degrees of oflFence. Generous difpleafure feels grief 
for xhs. offender. Be flow to take offence and a<5l with 
caution. Pride, the fm of hell, is parent to wrath. 

A -man's pride of heart (hall bring him low 23 
hy provoking great numbers ; but Jure lajiing 
lionour fliall uphold the conciliating humble 
in fpirit. 

Hu)mUty andfride. They who are full of conceit are 
tiot to be fatisfied with lefpecft. They deprefs others 
€0- rife upon them, and ftir up revenge. God is their 
e^emyt Obad. i. 4. Efte^n and love wait on the 
humble. 

. Whofo is partner with a thief hateth in 24 

f?£l the quiet of his own foul ; he hcarethya- 
ial* curfing/^r difcovery^ and bcwrayeth 
it not. 

Thieving and perjury. Not to prevent or difcover frau- 
'dulcnt evil is to fupport the tranfgreffor. Above all, 
receiving and concesiling ftolen goods, Pfal. 1. 16, &c. 
When judicially fworn, or adjured to fpeak the truth* 
wc cannot vary without perjuring ourfelves, Lev. xv. i. 
Zech. V. 3, 4. Mai. iii. 5. To the beft an oath is 
avrful, Jer. iv. 2. 

The fear of difpleaftng man bringeth ofien 25 
into 2ijlnful fnare, with punifhment ; but whofo 

♦ Perjury^ not theft p w(U punt/bed by law of Mefit* 



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9sS PHOVtRlS. Chap. XX«j 

m the face ^danger doth good, and puttcth ktt 
truft in the Lord, fhall be fafe. 

Pear rf man^ and trufi in Gad, Dreading to oflfend 
others is the temptation of a delicate mind. Men of 
confcience aie iecretlyt venerated God iupports and ia 
time will clear them. Heaven is a balance to eveiy 
private lofs. 

We truft in thee, the Almighty and ever living Gody that 
the goodnefs for w hich thou art glorified pf all will un- 
doubtably aflift, fo as to accomplifh the work of own t- 
flitution, in dependence on thee, and iubferviency to \JtAt* 
We do not expe^ fuccefs in this undertaking, ^idwnt 
itij ^^^PV ^^ wkhouC our own endea^v^ors ; but tlieeon* 
juBdion of bothy we arc fure» is fufficient tot all the need! 
of men» and for all thy gracicus defignsr coj^cemicgu^ 
in this ftate of probation and recovery. 

26 ^ Many feek the ruler's favour, while ihej 
firupU mt often bad means ;, but every m^Dj 
judgement wiih the rejult ^ ii cometli ffTQlB 
the 9vewrtiiifig LcMnd. ^ 

Promotion. To be advanced and enriched iir air evil 
-I ' way are dreadful purchafeS; and often afoorcc cfthc 
.inoft pskinful laf^ing uneafinefs. 

, Conv ince us, moft great and hlefed Lord Gody xhaX ibon 
knoweft much better what is fit for us, than we can knov 
what is fit for ourfelves 5 that under the power 0? \W» 
-tonvi^on, we may ni all onr requefts refign our vffi to 
<tky vnW ; defiring that diott wonldft give us tbcfethot^ 
•ii4iicK are good for us, though we aik them aot at aS, 
< and! that thou vrouldft not give us thofe tkiafis whidi 
are not good for us, though we aik them never To often. 

ay An unjutt man is an abomination to the 
fcrupuhujly juft: and he that is thus upright 

^ in the way of his behaviour, is afindlar^ though 
caufelefs, abomination to the incorrigih/e wiC* 

Uprightnefs Mnd injujlke. A good man is a perpetual 



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Chap. XXX. WlOVERBSt tjy 

tipbrai^ag to the fitmer* Their aims and courfes «r» 
diredly oppofite, John xru i8» 19. Gen. iii. 15, 



I •4i^»'>->«'^ 1 1 f i 



CHAP. XXX. 

THE words of Agur the fon of Jakeh, 
even the words of ufeful • prophecy, 
t\i^ fame rn/pired-f man fpake untolthiel, even 
unto Ithiel and Ucal. 

Teachers. They prophecy or fpeak hefore people 
who teach facred things. The weight of matters may 
fitpply, in certain cafes, our ignorance of a fpeaker. We 
ftould then depend upon the teftimonles of thoie who 
lived nigh to their times. 

KeiTed be thou, GoJy who by the dignity of our 
beiaj;» haft exalted us to the condition and ftate of thofe 
who arc made to know and ferve, to refcmble and en* 
joy thee. 

Surely, after fo many advantages^ it would be^ 
come me tofay^ i am more| brutifli than aU 
mofi^Lny man, and 7 have not even the under- 
fiandiog of a common man« I neither learned 
wifdom equal to the § hopes of others j nor have 
/ the knowledge of the [| holy. 

Diffidence. The firft point of wiidom \s a deep feilfc 
of ignorance. They who have been moft improved 
knew little, and have faid fo.' To be ftyled a lover of 
wifdom is more modefl and enduring than to be ftykd 
wife. Divine principles are the mofl beneficial. 

* Load^ or burden, f Or^Jqge. H. % Or^ leq/l learn^ 
4d. li. i Noryttof^^c. H. ^ || Or, bolj ihin^s. H. 

Z3 



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^ FI(OV£&B& Ckw^ XKr 

^^'NetwiAftamling the Tsious maeSUIkxhitk^ q£ AyUi 
to us, mq/i hyjfod God^ -who w«r« created ^ thp% «» 
have lived as without thee, in the world ; and not taken 
fuch notice of thy providence and government, as be- 
came natures intelligent and rational. Through l^ 
flianieful abufe of cmri^2e«lties, riiey have been rendered 
defediver bowed down to the earth, and alienated from 
that divine contemplation and communion, for wli^ 
they were fitted anddefigned. 

4 Who hath yet afcended up into heaven, 

J Jar bringing perfeil difianjeries /rem tbaict^ or 

dcCcendkd H tJbi deefi^Jor knowing what k tbenf 

Wtvo hath gathered the winds as in his fifts, 

to return and let them out at his pleafure ? Wim 
tiatb bound the ocjean waters wiiih its (wuning 

/uppli4s^ in Jheres Hki a garment? Who halE 
cttabli&ed all the ends of thecarih^ySriwtfiid 

fajt? What it* his rjanfie, anid what is his fo»^ 
Dame, if th^u capft tell ? U admit one whe Iwgs 

prfucb difcQveries iojbare in thofs deUghtsi* . . 
-: KmmfhK^e ^ God atd hu wmrk. If inch iaaXk poMi 
cf the creation exceed our comprehenfion, how >raiA 
. STore the whole with its infinite original ? Job iuh& ^, 
^c. Picus curious refearches are very becomic^ and 
lead to humble thoughts. Cod is eflentially picfent 
every 'rhere, Pfi^ cxxxix. t, &c. Poetical liceaccs w% 
fometimes very beautiful^ PfeK cir. 3* Job xxxvni; ^ 
Ife. xl. 12. Amos ix. 6. Myfteries of natwe grov 
upon the inquifitive mind. All the vifible wondeis 
cf nature are faint images of divine greatneft. R. 
Kb one can know God^ but he who fecks to refemble 
him R. 

Moft hkjjird cmdgkrious Lord C^4 whO"d»»ve&ft in dat 
light into which no mertzl eye can a^jproach ; n^en 
no man hath feen nor can fee : "^^ thy creatures, "wbB 
live fax remote from the throne of thy glory^ adore and 
Celebrate thee, who art vifible only to our faith, and who 
madiffefts thyfelf unto us by the works of thy h«ids; ydm 



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Chap. XXX;. PKOVERBSL g^^ 

haft made the airtfeb7 *y poiwer, and eftabllOcd d» 
wof Id by th^ wiiaoin» amd haft ftretched out the ke». 
-vcBs by thy ondcribmdmg. Wc praife and magnify thy 
goodne6» who haft ia no age of the world left thy^ 
■mthout witads and denaoni&ation of thy being anwmg 
tlie chtMrci^ o€mai. Pterent, Lord^ by thefe cfifco. 
'^^eries*. oar hecosamg' rain atid erroneous, ia our appr^ 
ben&ons of thee; that we may not change the truth of 
God into a he; 

One thing for certain Iknowy that every word 
of God is i^\xvtfrmfalfelmd ; he is^ andjh^uid 
bs^dffpendad upon om ^profe^img (hida unto them 
that, agr^eabii tO' order ^ dofy to put their truft 
in him. 

Trti/t In God. Things adapted to pr»fKcc have much 
cleamefo in them. The laws <?f fbvereign dvrine wilHom 
lead to true pcrfedHon and happiijefs, Pisil. xii. (.-^Izj^jdv* 
IX, 12. I Kings, viiu 24. 

We praife and magnify thy name, Lord^ who haft 
maJe us to be hiippy, by communion with thee, and by 
the enjoyment of thee ; and who haft given us all pro- 
per means, and fpecial advantages for fuck biowiedge 
iiadl refemblanccs of thy perfedion, as arc neceflary and 
wfeful for aecorophfhing thy moft gracious defign in the 
creation of us I 

Add thou not unto his. written rewaled 
words, left he reprove thee by fore judicial 
Jtripesy^ and thou be found out a notorious Han 

IVord of God. Impofition and evil defign are fcldom 
feparated from adding to God^s ^ord. Such an im- 
piety is a charge upon divine wifdom and love, Deut. 
xiii. I. Matth. vii. 15, &c. Effentiat ftripture aiticfcs 
are brought to a level with the meancft capacities; We 
camiot be too fufpicious oF refinements derogatory to a 
good life, Matth. v. 17, &c* Rev. xxii. 18, 19. 

Mertvfal Father^ who haft made us to diftinguHh by 
our higher faculties between moral good and evil, may we 
always perceive the great rcaibn and aecefiity there is 



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200 FROVEftBS. OiapXXX. 

br fuch as hk sure, to choofe the goody.and refbfe' 
the evil. We sidore thee in particular^ Mo/i holy LordGodt 
for that thou who didft^at fondrytimesyand in divers inaii« 
ners fpeak unto the fsithers hy the prophets, and unto 
them by angels, haft in the laft period of time, fpoken im- 
to OS, by thy Ton Jefut Chrtft^ziid that Godis nowmanifi^ft* 
cd in the fleih. Make us thoroughly fendble of the di- 
Yine glory that there is in holinefs, and righteoufnefs, 
the rdigion of men, by the difcovery made in the life of 
Chtjftf that God himfelf lives by thofe meafures ; and 
owns the law, and accounts holinefs to be his ghrj* 
Refcue thy divine religion from thofe corruptions whidi 
have been any where introduced upon it, by length o( 
time, and by decay of piety, and by the deiigns of vncked 
and unreafonable men ! 

7 • Two things have I earneflly required of 
thee, my God^ deny me them not before I 

8 die. Remove far from me the pnde of vzmty 
and the artifice of lies ; give me neither tm 
the one hand an extreme poverty, nor yet on the 
other fuper abundant riches, but feed me with 
an allowance of food * convenient for me. 

9 Left I be full by means of wealthy and deny thcc 
in my pra^ice^ and fay, to the convi^ion of all 
around^ Who is the Lord, whom I ou^ht to 
worjhip? or left I be poor, and tempted to ftca^, 
and, for efcaping the pumjhments of human jufiice^ 
take the name of my great God in vaiB,yi as 
horribly ioforfwear. 

Pride^ lyings extreme wealth and po%erty. Prayer doth 
naturally arife out of a fenfe of need. Spiritual concerns 
fhould have our principal regard, Matth. vi. 9, &c« 
What leads with greatefl eafe and advantage to endleis 
life, infinite wifdom alone can judge of. Men of refledion 
and ferioufnefs are moi^ jealous of their own infirmities. 

* Compare Le%^ v, I. Ea xx* 7 



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Ok^ XXX. PROVERBS. %^ 

Fly from ckoger> aiuf- pray for grace to avoid it Lp 
ing even to men is deteftably mean. Mouth, face and 
heart onght ever to accord. A ibber humble reafoning 
with Gody m prayer, is ufefully impreffive. Negle<5l of ' 
devout acknowledgements is pra«5lical deniaL A quiet 
ordinary way of life is th€ fafeft. How naan^ in hsig^h 
life are chargeable with denying Go4 in pradice ? Sore 
smdlong continued ftraits often lead to bad meafures for 
relief. An oath is the great bond of fociety ; and to tam- 
per with it is to feal our own damnation, Zeeh. v. 3, Sec. 
We would confide and acquieice, Lardf m thy wt£r 
(]om and geodnefs, who ordered aU the ev^ents of tkinfft 
s^dft^tese of men ; and wer aeknon^edge that it i& the 
|»iiuk||e; of tjtui whole wof Id, that tbciu art dta gov«mof 
^ityfuice nothing but wh»t is good can fBOceed from 
^e, and wlmtev^F evil can proceed from* others, is i^b^ 
jea to the check and controui ei thee,, mho aort dbe. b^ 
and greatoft being. 

Accufe not wanionly a fervan t unto his mat i o 
tcr, left he cur fe ihet/or/^ gnat an injury ^ and 
thou fa/l under vengeaucg^ as (me tuba will be 
faimd • guilty rf cruel lying. 

Sirvants. Slight &ults, or &rimp evidence, flieuU 
ftop an officious accufer's mouth. It is murder without 
provocation to meddle between near relatives. Sonie 
people's credst is their living. A falfe accufer when 
found out is juftly hated. Itfelf a fad curfe, Pial. xir. 
^ 7. Jam. u. 13. — V. J. Eccl. iv. a. 

There is a f generation cf mankind that 1 1 
curfeth in effed their father, and doth not 
btefs by good behaviour their tender anxious mo- 
ther. Ihere is a generation of mankind that la 
arc ipiurefrom %v^tev€r is culpable^ in their own 
eyes, and yet is not at all wafhed from their 
hatejul polluting filthinefs. There is a genera- 13 
tion af mankind^ O how lofty /r«w pride 2iTt 

* Compare chap. v. I0| l r. E%ek. vu d. f Or, race. H. 



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t6% I^ROVERBS. Chap. XXX. 

their bodily eyes ! and their eye-lids as iki 
walk are lifted up, with contempt upon oth&ru 

14 There is a generation of mankind^ whofe tecti 
are as fwords to tear and defiroy^ and their jaw- 
teeth as flyarp'cuittnx knives, to devour the 
unable poor from off the earth, and the! tin^ 
needy from among their fellow-mtn. 

Companions. It is of the utmoft confequencc to be 
dire^ed in choice of familiars. The word of all wicW 
people are the ungrateful to near and dear bcnefitos. 
Self deceit cannot endure to be fet right, aoifA 
perilh* Devout affeftation leads to this* htj^ 
is a fure fymptom of pride, Ifa. Ixv. 5. Luke xviil^b^ 
Specious impofers do moft hurt. To add mifal ^ 
wretchednefs is truly dreadftd, Jude li. 

15 The horfe-leach* hath two /«/izri^*/?c{ai^^- 
ters, crying with qffiduous whemence^ Give, 
give. There are three things that arc never 
to be fatisfied in time, yea, four things fay not, 

16 It is enough. The grave; and the barren f 
womb; the parched earth that is not filled 
with r^/«-water; and the unquenchabk ire 
that faith not more than the former y Itisf* 
enough. 

The grave and harrennefs. Inftruaions taken fr«J^ 
fcnable objeds ftrike ftrong, and are well rtrotm^^ 
ShortncG adds to power and beauty. Covetoufoelsa^^ 
prodigality have a fimilar thirft and voracioufnefs. ^'T 
having only one object they are able to outwit IjJPf* 
tience to rife in rank is a third infatiable appetite, £1 
V. 1 1, Sec. Inclinations for children fometimes fncrea^^ 
with the improbability of being gratified, Gen. xxx* ^' 
Prov. xvi. 3» 

* Or, as the progeny of, &fr. H. f Some, fhciur-^i^ 
Lev. it. iS. Deut. ^iv. 17. Or, vulture. H. 



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Chap. XXX. PROVERBS. 26$ 

The eye * that mocketh at his advifing fa- 17 
ther, and defpifeth to obey the gentle orders of 
his mother, the ravens of the valley, rather 
than leave ^ him unpunijhed^ ihall be fe fit forth to 
pick it o^t, and the young | eagles fhall be 
allowed to eat it wholly up. 

CbtUren. How varied are the reprefentations of hor- 
rid unnatural crimes, in this facred book, and how full 
of argument ? Movements of the heart do inftantly a£Fe6t 
the eye. What is out of the reach of human law is the 
more obnoxious to divine difpleafurc. Sooner or later 
difobedient children may expeft revenge. Stoning was 
that of the Mofaic Law ; and bodies imburied might be 
picked and eat literally. 

There be three things which are too | won- 1 8 
derful for me to comprehend^ yea, four things 
which I know not clearly. The way of an 19 
czglc foaring high in the air, the way of a fer- 
pent which glides upon § a rock, the way of 
a (hip in the oiidd of the tempefiuous fea, and 
the way of a man who propagates with a maid* 
%}xc\i too i^ tht fecreted way of an adulterous 29 
woman ; Ihc eateth,yi tofpeak what is forbid" 
den^ and wipeth her moxxxh for conceabnent^ and 
faith, as though modefi^ I have done no wicked- 
nefs you can blame me for. 

Natural myfteries. See lafl notes. Thofe /killed in the 
^rts of diffimulation leave as few truces as may be, for 
finding out guilt. 

* ji tqftefor the fublime in compqfition muft dersght In the 
hold eqftem manner. \ Or^ fons of the eagle. J Wonderful 
it the eaglets dtfiant rapid fight by apparent weak means ; the 
quick ferpenfs windings and turnings upon hard Jlippery 
rock ; the command of a large loaded veffel^ in the heart of 
tfuge ivaveSf by a fmall helm ; the endearments between the 
fexeSf and how thefe produce. § Or rather ^ up a rock. H. 



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s^ MdVEABS. Cfaap. ^LXX. 

tti For three things the earth is pecuHnrlj dif- 
quicted, and for four which it cannot well 

22 bear. For a bafe fcrvant, when by artifice^ he 
reigncth over great numbers ^ and a raging fod 

aj when he is filled with delicate meat. For an 

odious feevifh woman when fhe is married to 

one who loves peace^ and an hand-makl that by 

fupplanting is made unexpected heir to \itxJiolifi 

miftrefs. 

Promotions hurifuL Abufe of truft to vndueiitedains, 
in mailers, gives command in the end, to vile affmnVng 
inferiors, chap. xix. jo. Weak, hat-iieaded people v& 
infufferable companions. Guard againfl wh^ inflame 
blood and paffion. The lefs retrained in freedoms that 
married people are, the more they become hateful. The 
fuddenly elevated are the moft extravagant. A vife 
choice among equals, and at a proper feafon oflife, is one 
of the mod probable means of happineis. 

24 There be fcmr things, of the anim&l kird^ 
which arc if Uttlc fixe upon the earth, but 

25 they are nevertbelefs exceeding wife. Tic 
ants are a people not ftrong, y^t ifccy jg^ 
4mttjly prepare their meat * in the fait ^m- 

a6 wntrfeafon. Thef conies aifoWitz tetit a feirife 
iolk, yet, as confcioiis ofthis^ «nake they tkicar 

27 houfes in the holes under rocks« I'he4t)cwil6 
have no difiernable king, yet go th^ fc>rth» all 

28 of tbcm, as for iiattk. by bands* l^e ^ider 
taketh hold wiili her feeble han^, a©d is, 

from tfjefintmfs of what fhe weaves ^io he ftmnd 
fomeitmes even in king's j>aJaces. 

hJiinS. Brute hiftruSars^ Prudence, by fit means, 
«doth execute what is both fafe and honourable, chap. vi5. 

^ Or, lay up their fiod. \ Or, mouutatn'mice. 



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Chap. XXX. PRO^^RBS. t6f 

12. The lead and meanneft of the bmte-creatqlis may 
teach good ftudents. Their inftindls are regular, fafe ' ' 
and comfortable ; yet do too often efcape us. When 
means of fupport are plentiful, then is the time to provide. 
To be idle is to be unnaturally cruel, i Tim. v. 8. Cau- 
tion makes up for want of ftreneth. What is iihpotenty 
being alone, becometh powerml in bands, Ex. x. 4. 
"Eccl. iv. 9, &c. Confiderations of a doubtful kind can- 
not vindicate dividing, Pfal. cxxxiii. i, &c. Watchful- 
nefs and induftry will get the better of great difficulties. 
Application fupplies the want of genius. The beauties 
of the univerfe prepare the mind for the dodlrines of reli- 
gion. R. 

JLord, teach us to to number our days, as to apply our 
hearts to wifdom and religion, by which alone we can be- 
come capable of that mercy which is neceffary to eternal 
falvation ; and fuflFer us not to lofe one day, or one hour 
more. But grant that we may redeem our remaining 
time, becaufe our pad have been evil 5 and by the ut- 
moft diligence, and the moft prudent conduct in this 
greateft atTair of eternity, lay up a good foundation of 
religious improvement of ourfelves againft time fhall be 
no more. 

There be three things which go well in dig' ig 
nityy yea, four are comely in ibeir majejlic m$^ 
i hod of gomg. A lion, which is ftrongeft^i;^^ 30 
among wild beads, and turneth not away in 
his anger ^ for any. A grey-hound * at full 31 
Jp^ed^ an f he-goat alfo, as he fets out with his 
herd ; and a /^<f/(?i;f^king, againft whom there 
is no rifing up withfuccefs. 

beauties natural. Certain appearances denote fortitude 
and gcnerofity. The horfe, as well as the grey-hound 
is iwamp, Job xxxix. 19, &c. Leaders who claim 
pre-eminence fhould be above timidity. An aiFedlionate 
prince will ever be fupported ; being bold as a lion, ready 
to redrefs the injured, wife and a^ive. 

. * Tht cocifjlrong in loins. H. f Or, ram, 

4» 



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i66 PROVERBS. Chap. XXXI. 

32 If thou haft done foolilhly jn lifting iro 
thyfclf, wbiU in anger y to molefi^ or if thou haU 

fo much as thought to perpetrate evil, lay thiD^ 
hand without a moments hejitation upon thy 

33 mouth for folemn inward worjhip. ^tand in 
awe of offending ; for furcly as the churning 
of vmXk'Cream bringeth forth butter, *ana 
the wringing of the nofe bringeth forth blood; 
fo the forcing of wrath, by execution of wicked 
dejigns^ bringeth forth ruinous ftrife. 

Ofinci and rtftim'um. Think of confequences m cv^ry 
caie, efpecially rebellious ones. Thoughts of vice 
fiiould be inftantly repreflcd. Vent them not tp others. 
Revere Altmghty God^ Eccl. viii. 3 -— x. 2 p. Malke'm- 
creafeth with fpeaidng of lies. 

We truft in thee, who art the origkiaJ of our Uittg^ ^nd 
the Savipur of fmners, that nothing which is neceffary 
to that falvation, and the bringing us to a blefled im* 
mortality, (haU be wanting in thee, who art good uitto 
^all, beyond the defires and acknowledgements of tbf 
creatures. 



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CHAP. XXXI. 

I npHE important words of King f Lemue), 
X the rich comprehenfive \ prophecy that 
his excellent mother taught him. 

Ittflruaion, Divine fayings fhould have great autho- 
rity, I Cor. ii. II. 2 Pet. i. 20. 

* Sotnffy/o he that aggrmmteth wrath ^mcau/e bloodfitei; 
and he ivho provoketh paffton^ mifchief H* f Ofy or for 
God, Compare l Kings </• 15, 22. X Or^ lurden. 



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Oiap. XXXI. PROVERBS. t^ 

What, my dear (on, Jhall I urge to enfure vlr^ 
itie and happinefs ? And what, the fon of my * 
womb? And what, the fon of my ardent 
prayer y with vows ? 

Eameji addrefi. Children are bred and carried about 
wn<ier many fiifferings. What we receive by prayer 
fhould be returned with thankfgiTing, and vows of obe- 
dience to heaven- 
Give not thy ftrength and Jubilance in youths 
unto l^d women, nor thy ways of irregular 
attachment^ to that which deftroyeth kings of 
opulence themfelves. 

Impure living. Nothing hurts health, credit and for- 
XMTIC9 fo much as a fenfual courfe. It is the death of 
fine beneficial affedlion, Hof. iv. 11. Prorv. v. 7, 3cc. 

It is not for kings, wbofe employments are va^ 
rious^ delicate and extenjive^ O Lemuel, it is not 
for kings to drink wine greedily^ nor for 
princes but a little beneath them, ftrong drink 
of any kind. Left they drink to intoxication, 
and forget the fupport of hw, agreeable to office, 
and pervert the judgement of right to any of 
the affiiAed. 

Hulirs andfobfitty. To doic away life, or to be given 
to riot, are peculiarly inimical to great trufts ; and dan« 
gerous exsimple to inferiors. Omiilion of duty is bad ; 
a^id oppofing it ftill worfe. One vice is no apology for 
another, or even alleviation. A habit of drunkennefs 
Icacisto Qumberlefs cruel ills, £ccl. x. 16, 17. 

Give ftrong drink, as a medicine, unto him 
tbat is ready to perifti, and wine, infuitabte 
me^fure^ unto thofe that be of heavy hearts. 
X#«t him drink to the length of cheering, and 

* *To difttnguifh from adoption •r kf^ 
A a 2 



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iCi PROVERBS. Cliap. XXXI. 

forget his poverty, and fhrotdgb time, with 
continued regimen^ remember his mifery no 
more. 

Dr'wl how to ufe. The guilt of drinking lies in the 
excefs, or unfeafonablenefs thereof; both unnaturaL 
Keep reafon awake and clofe enthroned, for what is pious, 
juft and charitable. Paffions and appetites have their 
ufe but muft be .governed. Cordials are for weak- 
nefs, difeafe and age, which loathe at common food. 
Medicines fhould be dropped as fbon as poilible, left tbej 
come to demand too much. 

8 Open thy mouth for defence of tht dumb, 
and likewife in defending the caufe of all fiicfa 
as are iniquitovjfy appointed to deftruftion. 

9 Open thy mouth cheerfully and wide, judge 
righteoufly in favour of each, and plead with 

* earnennefs the caufe of the poor and needy. 

Compqffionate beneficence^ Vices prejudicial to truft 
ought anxioufly to be guarded againft. Generous zeal is 
yet more becoming. Want of refolution at times h 
want of juftice. The more calamitous any ftatc b, tt 
requires the more hade and diligence to relieve, £xod 
xxii. 21, &c. Job xxix. 1 1, &c. 

10 Who can find a * diligent virtuom wo- 
man ? f For her price is far above exqutfiXt 
folifhed rubies. 

yf good wife. Choice of friends is a delicate point. 
Fortune, wit and beauty ))ring no adequate relief to do- 
meftic wants. A mairied ftate, under wife direftion, 
has many advantages An irregular life is mcr^ afic- 
ted freedom. Be cool and advifeable by exp^-ienced 
^ge. Nature and cuftom give to one fex the privilege 

* This praife of a good nvife^ to the end of the Chapter, is 
" written agreeable to the order of the H^rew Alphabet j Rk 
Pfalms cxix, cxh. f There may be much poetical Kcenfe both 
as to expr^on and order. 



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Ctxsp. XXXL PROVERBS* tSf 

of firft addrefs. Moderate expeaation and mutoal for* 
bearing, tead to conjugal happinefs. Virtue decliae< 
not with beauty, wealth and form. Pure love is a great 
prefefvative to this H. Modefty heightens charms of 
wit and beauty. R. Purely to lore diffuies a fecret 
joy through every adlion. /?* 

The heirt 6f her htilblnd doth fafely tfuft' 1 1 
ift her manage ment^ fo that he IhaU have no 

deed oi unlawful fpoil for fubftjience. 

Damejlic economy. Truth and regtdar affeAion enfure 
fidelity. To make light of perjuf y aftd injuftice is the 
confummation of guilt* Secrecy and domeftic prudence 
are great qualities for mutual eafe and freedom. Un- 
forieen lofTes fhould be expe<5^ed, prepared for. Modera* 
tion of tafte and wife economy enrich with content- 
ment. Live agreeable to reafbn ; and not whim, cuf- 
fom or paffion. 

She will do him miub plea/ant profitable 12 
good in return^ * and not wilful evil of any 
kind^ all the days of her life. 

Marriage happinefs. Female foothing meafures fliould 
ibften fevere labours without doors. Alleviate misfor- 
tune by kind looks and gentle words. Marriage friend- 
fhip fhould increafe with yearst The very weakeft, if 
not worft, are capable of good by fits. Reafon aiid 
$eri|ftvlre are (till the fame« 

She feeketh to purchafe wool and flax, with cj 
the overplus of houfehold maintenance^ and work- 
cth willingly up both materials with her hands. 

FemaU Induflry. Some kinds of labour fuit all condi- 
ditions, if it were only by way of example. This makes 
leifure a real enjoyment. Houfehold clothing and fur- 
niture are fit objeds of a good wife's regard, chap^ xxi. 
35. There is an order in every bufinefs requifite to fuc- 
ceed and fave time. What is moft needed ought ever 

* See Deut. xxxtL 6. H 
A a 3 



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ijt PROVfiRBS. Chap. XXXI. 

to have the place of mere (how. Idlenefs is peculiarlf 
blameahlcy among thofe of middle or low rank. 

14 She \% for profitaklenefsy like the merchant's 
{hips, (he bringetb, ^ tneans of home^nduftrj^ 
her more delicate food froiiv afar. 

Female mdufiry» Forcien trade admits of kw delays. 
No furmountable difficulties ought to difcourage. What 
IS rare (limulates diligence. To give is the privily of 
wealth. 

15 She rifcth alfo, Sipon occafions^ while it is 
yet night, and giveth out meat to her houfc- 
hold fervants^ who mull work abroad at day* 
break, and a portion * in like manner^ to her 
maidens within doors. 

Female induflry* A good wife's prefence is neceffary 
to afljgn tafks with cleamefs, and proportion to ability. 
The njoft upright fhould neither be tempted with too 
much power nor ftraitened, Col. iv. i. 1 Tim. v. 8. 
Order, fpced and feafon tend to enrich. 

16 She attentively confidereth the value oft 
field, and buyeth it; with the fruit of her 
indujirious hands fhe planteth a vineyard after- 
%oards. 

Female mdufiry. Prudent managing feldom (aWs o( 
great fuccefs. Application Ihould keep pace with the 
widening of our fphere. Means of ufefulnefs and health 
often go together. 

J 7 She girdcth the upper loofe flowing garment 
to her loins with new exertions 2/*ftrength,and 
ftrengtheneth her arms likewife for diligent 

18 work. She perceiveth that htr former mer- 
chandife is good to numbers more needful than 
her own : her candle therefore goeth not out 

* Ortajk, Ex.v. 14. H. 



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Chap. XXXI. PROVERBS. rjt 

for any length of time by night. She laycth 19 
even then her examplarj hands to the fpindle, 
and her hands hold the diftaff to which it is 
appended. 

Female induftry, T<J be ready for fervice renders exe- 
cution cafy, John xiii. 4. So do watchfiilnefs and dili- 
gence. A clear proof of fuccefs animates. What may 
be well fpared from fleep is good gam ; and a lengthen- 
• mg of natural life. 

She • ftrctcheth out her hand to the relief ao 
0f "poor people ; yea, flie reacheth forth her wide 
difiended hands ^ofupply^ as much as pojjible^ the 
tittdiy from want of healthy meat and cordials. 

Economy and beneficence^ Generous alms fandify fub- 
ftance. As open to fuccefsful work, they fhould never 
be (hut to a«5^s of liberal love, Eph. iv. 28. Mere 
■worldly prudence is mean, covetous, abominable. A 
pitying heart enlarges charitable communications, Deut. 
XV. 7, &c It takes noble relieving thought even about 
diftant calamities. Frugality, diligence and almfgiving 
are the heft of all houfe-eftablilhments. To be hoipita* 
1>le confirms authority and gains good will. R^ 

She is not afraid of the winter \ fnow, for 21 
all her moji immediate houfehold : for all her 
boufehold are not only clothed to the full^ hut 
with rich warming \ fcarlet itfelf 

Female indufiry. Confult ability for giving and wifely 
proportion, Pfal. cxii. 5. Forget not in the heat of 
fummer that winter comcth on. Each feafon of the 
year has important advantages. Forecaft requires judge- 
ment as well as inclination to work. 

She niaketh herfelf,/<?r^/7/^;w^»/, coverings 22 

* S^ilments varloufly fet forth ^ touch different inclinations^ 
paeons and iutereJU, f Or, cold, H. % Or, are clothed 
tsjuith doulle ^armentSf Ex. yxii. 4. H. See ver, ij. 



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i7». PROVERBS. Chap. XXXI. 

oi beautified tapcftry, her 0wn perfmal cloth* 
ingis of fine "^ filk :aLnd purple, fuitable to her 
high rapik* 

Domeflic conveniences. What confumes not too muek 
thought and time may be laid out for ornament, to ^' 
ttnguifh and put in mind ofduties. Only remember in- 
come and charitable claims. ln({ru<^ive hiftCrical drav^- 
ings are valuable iiu'niture. Clothing is providentially 
fluted to climate. 

aj Her hufband 13 eaJHy known from hii drefs, 
and refpciled f in the gates, when he fitteta \ 
among the numerous wealthy elders of the 
land. 

Domejiic conveniences, Marks of female induftry arc 
highly creditable to a beloved hu/band. Inferiors there- 
by are much affcifted. 

24 She maketh line linen, more than afanuli 
can ufe^ and fcUeth it out to others^ and dch* 
vereth curious netted girdles unto the exporting 
merchant. 

Female mduflry. Appetite become dolly by fickneis oT 
age, needs a whet from the importation of things that 
are rare. 

25 What contributes to ftrength and honour 
are htf prefent clothing, and with all the ex^ 
pences which thefe require^ (he ihall continue to 
rejoice, by an eafy affluent Jiate in time to 
come. 

Economy and AHgence. Domeftic love and liberal ct- 
tenfive kindnefe are ccrtairt means of povrerfol cr€diC 
They defend and ornament like fiueft bodily habits, 
I Tim. ii. 15. Titus ii. 4, 5. 

* Or, linen. H. f Prov. isf. 13. -ff. % ^^* 

XXV. 7. Courf ofJMdkaturey or place of public rejort^ Frov. 
i. 21. 



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Chap. XXXI. PROVERBS. 173 

She openeth her mouth with inJiruStlve 26 
'wifdom, and in her tongue, /rc?;w a benevolent 
hearty is the law of incejfant kindnefs.' 

FemaU cfoilUy. When beauty fades, new and ever- 
blooming charms ought to be found. R. Polite and 
ufeful converfation is highly captivating. What relaxes 
mod fhould have fomething edifying in view. The 
more one purely loves, the more their company will be 
defired. Slander, defamation and calumny are un- 
known to fuch. Their reproofs are fecret, mild, feafon- 
able. To treat men always with the utmoft rigour they 
defcrve, is brutality, and not juftice. R, 

She looketh well, injhori^ to the whole ways 27 
of her houfehold, both children and fervants^ 
and eateth not the bread of dangerous idle- 
nefi. 

ji good wijh. The flothful muft cither eat what others 
have laboured for, without their own confcnt ; or elfe 
bp more injurious. An idler is intolerable to a good 
mafter or miftrefs, i Tim. v. 13, 14. 2 Theff. iii 11, &c. 
Yet do they mildly reprove. 

Her grateful children arife up, under fo flrik-^ a8 
ing an example^ and call her eminently bleffed ; 
her hufband alfo, and he praifeth her in jujl 
ivarm terms. Many daughters y^r encouraging 29 
the honourable date ^ are his words ^ have done 
virtuoufly no doubt ^ but in the poffeffion of what 
is moji valuable^ thou, my long, dear^ wedded 
companion^ excelled them all. Remember ye 30 
the experience of advanced life, and let what fol- 
lows dwell in your hearts. Favour obtained by W- 
iher gracefulntfs of perfon, rank or wealth, is 
deceitful, and beauty ^/^c>^i is equally vain, as to 
true lading enjoyment ^ but a woman that feareth 
the Lord at hearty and ever ails as before him. 



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274 PROVERBS- Cha^ XXXI. 

3 1 (he {hall be praifed to the laji. Give her only 

of the ju/i charitable fruit oi her indujiriom 
hands, andyi let her own «/^/«/ works praife 
her in the gates, where nobles^ judges andmagif 
traits oftineji meet. 

Praife of female excellence. Tendcf Idvc 'mth prudent 
authority e.ttcwt commendation. Honeft fervour is 
hnrdly to be kept M^thin bounds. The fimplicity of 
praiie is much preferable to panegyric ftrains. To be 
fatisfied upon a general review is the utmoft trc ooght 
to feck. Senfaalignorancc ought n6t to judge. Fmeft 
flowers fade quicfcefl. PrincipJe is untform. Virtoottf 
luftrc bf ightcns with years, and Kves aifter death. To 
deny commendation to faithful, pious, chariuble deeds 
is horrible ingratitude* Pleafures ought not to loCe 
their relifli, when th^y become lawful. R. Marriage- 
union, diminifhes the pains of life, and augments id 
pbafurest by iharing them. J?. Here fouls become ac^ 
qoainted ; but abovet in tbe element of lore, then: union 
it confummafed. Pure love is immortal. R^ Taftc« 
pleafure, reaibn and duty, all combine, to augmeat a 
virtuous paffion« 



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INDEX 



OF 



Pious, moral, politkal df^d economical Suhjeds, 
in the Book of Proverbs ; refernrig io Chap" 
iers and V^rfe, in the preceding Work. 

HAPPINESS. 

In approving ourfelves to God. 
Whence life, chap. xii. 24. : xi. 19. 
Blcfling of favour, x. 6. : xu. z. 
Jojr, xxix. 26. : xviii. 9. 

Prefervation, x. 25, 29, 30. : xi. 4, 8. : xii. 13. : xiii. 6i 
Profperity, xv. 6. : xiv. 11. 
L.ong life, X. 27.: xii. 7.: xxix. iS. 

In the eftate of wickednefs. 
Wealth is accurfed, chap. k. 2, 3. : xiii. 25. : xxi. 1 8. : 

XV. 6. 
I-.ikewife life, x. 25, 27. : xii. 7. : ii. 22. : xiv. 11. 
Fame, x. 7. 

Devotion, xv. 29. : xxviii. 9. : xv. 8, 9. : xxi. 27. 
£vil of kfs is infli^ed, xii. 2^. : x. 28. 
Pain, chap. x. 28.: xiii. 9.: xi. 18.: xxvi. 10.: xii. 26.: 

x. 6. : xiii. 2i. : v. 22. : xxix. 6. : xi. 5, 31. : xiii. 6 : 

»"• 33- 
r>ea!th, X. 24. : v. 23. : xi. 19. 

Damnation, xiv* 32. : xv. 11. : xii. 2. : x. 29. : xix. 29. 

PRUDENCE. 

Wherein it confifteth, iv. 26, 27. 

Whereby it is ruled, directed, vi. 23.: xxx. 5.: iv. 20, 21, 

22. : vii. 2, &c. 
Comprehends wifdom, viii. 12.: xiv. 8. : ix. 12. 
Of great excellence, iii. 1 3, &c. : xvi. 1 6. 
Procures knowledge, xv. 14. : xviii. 15.^ xix. 2. : x. 14. : 

xiii. 16, : xiv. 18. 
Safety, iL 10, 11, 12, 13. : xv. 24. 



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276 INDEX. 

Good dire^ion of anions, viii. 2a 

Of wordsy xvi. 23. : x. 12 : xix. 25. 

Pi ocures wealthy viii. 21. 

Honour, iii. 25. 

Life, xvi. 22. : viii. 34. : iv. 5, &c. 

Forefees and provides, xx. 24. : xxiL 3. : zxv. 

Is difcreet in adions, xiv. 15. : xxiv. 5. : xiv. 24 

In fpeeches, xv. 2. : x. 12, 3.: xv. 23. : xx. 15.: xiv. 

3.: xii. 18. : xvi. 24. 
Not ovcrwiie, xxi. 16.: xvii. 16.: xxiv. 7.: xxix. 11, 

20. : xix. 2. 
Not fooliih, or rafh, xiv. 24 : xvii. 1 6 : xxiv. 7. 
Nor wicked, i. 7.: xiv. 9.: xiii. 19.: xv. 21.: I 3U 

xi. 6. 
Nor obftinate, x. 23. : xiii. 16. : xxvii. 22. : xxvi. tu: 

xxiii. 9. : i. 22, &c. 
Nor wretched, xiv. 13. : x. 13. : xxvi. 3. : x. 8, 10.: 

xiii. 20. : xxi. 16 : x. 14. : i. 32 

, JUSTICE. 
Gives to all their due, xv. 21. : xx. 7. : xvi. 17. : xiL22. 
To God fear, iii. 6. : xiv. 2. : i. 7. : ii. 3, 4, 5. 
Whence contentment, xv; i5. 
Hope of future blifs, xxiiL 18. : xiv. 26. : iii. 7, 8. : xix. 

23. : xiv. 27. : xxviii. 14. : xxx. 9. 
Honour in the beft things, chap. iii. 9, 10. 
Bed times, viii. 1 7. 
Obedience in attending to his will, i. 33. : iv. 20, li«« 

X. 17. : viii. 29. 
In, executing it, xxviii. 7,4. : xix. 16. 
Fidelity in perforipance to God, xx. 5. 
Toman, xii. 22.: xxviii. 10, 20.: xxv. 19.: xvii. 13. 
In reproof, xxvii. 5, 6. : xv. 12. : xxv. 12. 
Tiuth in words, xii. 17. : xiv. 25. 
Of great importance, xviii, 21. : xv. 4. : xii. 19. 
Oppofed to this is the liar, xiv. 5.: vi. 16, 17, 19.: 

xix 28. : xxvi. 28. : xii. 19. 
Soon known and puniihed, xix. 5. : xii. 22. : xxi. 28, 

29: xxviii. 18.: xxiv. 28.: xxv. 18. : xxx. 7, 8.; 

xix. 22. 
The llanderer, xvi. 27, 30. 



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INDEX. 277 

Who inventeth ill rumours, ziiL 5. 

Or unfeaibnably meddles, xx. 3. : xi. 13. : xxvi. 20. : 

xviii. 8. : xxv. 23. 
The diffembler, x. 18. 
Who is malicious, xxvi. 24, &c. 
Vain glorious, xiii. 7, 
Covetous, xiii. 7. : xx. 14. : xxiii. 6, 7. 
Impenitent, xrviii. 13. 

The flatterer, xxrii. 14.: xxix. 5. : xxvi. 28. : xx. 19^ 
Truth in dealings, xi. ^i 5' : xv. 19.: xxi. 8, 3, 15. « 

X. i^: xxix. 7«: iii. 29.: xvi 11.: i^v. 9.: xii. 

36. : xxviii, 6. : x. 7. 
Contrary to which is deceitf xxvL 18, 19. : xi). ^o. : xx. 

10. : xxix. 24. : i. 19 : xit 27. : ¥.17. 
Lore to Gady viii. 17, 21. 

To men in forgiving, x. 1 2. : xii. 1 6. : xvii. 9, : xxv^ 2 1. 
Oppofed to whom are the contentious, vi. 1 8. : xviii. 

19. : xvi. 29, : xviii. 6. : xxvi. 21 : xvi. 28. : xxx. 

33. : xxix. ?• . . 

Tb^ envious, xxi. 10. : xxiv. 17. : xiv. 30. : xxvii, 4, : 

xxiv. 20.: iii. 31.: xxiii. 17.: xxiv. i, «, 26.: 

iii. 32. 

JUSTICE TO MAN ONLY. 
Firft, in mercy, iii. 3. : xxi. 13. : xii. 10.: xvi. 6.: iii. 

4.; xiv. 31.: xix. 17. J xi. 17.: juti. 21.: xiv. 2l» 
Contrary to which are unmercifi?lnefs, xxii. 7. : xiv. ?o. : 

xix. 7. 
Oppreflion, xx^. 14. : xxii. 16, 22. : xxy. 20. : xi. 17 ; 

xxii. 23. : xxi. 13. 
Bjoodthirilinefs, xxix. lo. : xxiv. 15.: xxviii. 17.: i. 

II, &c. : xii. 10. : xxvi. 2, 27. : xxiv. i6. : 

xxviii, 17. 
Second in liberality, xxii. 9. : iii. 27, 28. : xi. 25. : 

xxviii. 27. : xi. 24. 
Contrary to which are covctoufnefs, i. 19. : xxiii. 6. : 

xxi. 26. : xxiii. 4, 5. : xxvii. 20 : xi. 24, 28. ; xxviii. 

8. : xxx. 15, 8, 9. : xviii. 11. : vi. 8. 
Prodigality, xii. 9. : xxi. 17. : xxviii. 7, 19. : vi. 12, 

14, 15. : xiii. II. : xxii. 6. 
Third, in diligence, xvi. 26. : xx. 1 3. : x. 4. : xiii. 4. : 

xiv. 23. : xii. 27, 24. : xxii. 29. 
B b 



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2^$ INDEX. 

Oppofed to which is flothfulnefs, xix. 24. : xrvi. 24. : 
vi. 10: XT. 19. : xxiL 13. : xxvL 13, i6.: xiL ii: 
ziii. I4» 15.: XX. 49 13.: xxir. 30, 31932.: x. 
4. : yi. 6f &c. : xxiv. 33. 

TEMPERANCE. 

Indict, XXV. 28.: xxiii. i, 2, 31.: xxv. 16.: xxvii. 7.^ 

XXX. 21, 22. : xxiii. 29. : xx. i. 
Modeftj in words, xvii. 27. : x. 19. : xriii. 4. 
Seafbnable and to purpofe, x. 21, 31. : xii. 14. : xiii. 2 : 

xvtiL 20. : xii. 27. xi. 12, 28.: x. 19.: xvii. 28.: 

xxi. 23. : xiii. 33. : xv. 2, 14, 32. : xviii. 2.: xu, 

23,6. : xiv. 3. : xvii. 20. : x. 31. : xv. 4. : x?iiL7. 
In actions, xi. 16. 
Humility, xxix. 23. : xxx. 2, 3 : xi. 2. : xiii. 31. : xxvi. 

19.: XV. 33.: xviii. 12.: xxviii. 13.: xxix. 23.; 

xxii. 14. 
Contrary whereunto is pride, xxx. 13, 22.: xvi. 2.1 

zxi. a. : xxv. 6, 27. : xxviL 2. : xxviii. 11.: xviiL 

I. : xvi. 12, 18. : xiv. 3. : xxj. 4. : xxx. 32. : vi. 

17.^ xvi. 5. 1 XV. 25. : xiii. 22. : xi. 2. : xviii. 3. : 

ix. 7. : xix. 29. : xxix. 8. : xxi. 4, 11. 
Continency of luft, v. 15, 20.; vi. 25. : ii. 17 : xiiiL 

27, 28. 
Of anger, xvi. 32 : xiv. 29. : xix. 11. : xxix. 8.: xvi 

23. : XX. 3. : xiv. 17, 29. : xxvii. 4. : xxix« 22. : 

xxii. 24, 25. 
FORTITUDF, xviii. 14.: xxviii. i. : xxiv. io.:m.5» 

6. : xvi. 3. : xiv. 32. : xiii. 12. 
Whence confidence in Godf patience, fafety, xxx. 5. : 

xxi. 31 : xviii. 12. : xvi. 20. : xxviii. 26. : xxvii i. : 

iii. II, 12.: X. 28.: xix. 3.: xxix. i. : xx. 22. 

POLITICS. 

Degrees fubordinate, chap. xxii. 2.: viiit 15, 16.: xxx. 
27. : xxviii. 2. 

KING. 
Not low, fervile, xix. !•. : xxx. 21, 22. 
Not lafcivious, xxxi. 23, 4, 5. : xxiii. 2, 3* 



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INDEX. 279 

Not hollow, diflembling, xvii, 7. 

Not childifh, imprudent, xzvili. 16. 

But temperate, ju ft, xi. 1 1. : xvi. 12. : xiv. 34. : xxix. 2. 

Merciful, ix. 18. 

Wife, viii. 16. : xv. 26* 

Bountiful, xxviii. 16. 

Slow to anger, xvi. 32. : xix. 12. : xxx. 29, 31, 

Secret, xxv. 3. : xxi. i. 

His aflions good, xvi. 12, 17. : xx. 8. : xxix. 4, 14, 12. : 

xvi. 10. : xxxi. 8, 9. : xvii. 26. : xxv. !• 
COUNSELLOR, xi. 14. : xxiv. 26 : xv. 22. : xxix. 

18. : xi. 30. : xvi. 21. : xiii. 3. 
Requires wifdom, xxiv. 5. : xiv. 33. : xvii. 24. t xv. 2. : 

xxiv. 7.: xxvi. I, 8.: xviii. 17.! xx. 5, 
Providence, xxiii. 3.: xiii. 16.: xxi. 22.: xiv. 16.: 

xxi. 30. : xii. 3. 
Rety, xxviii. 18. : xxix. 2. : xxviii. 28. : xxv. 6. 
Juftice, xxviii. 21.: xxiv 23.: xviii. 5.: xxiv. 24.: 

xvii. 15^23. : xviii. 16. : xxi. 7. : xv. 27. : xxi. 15,: 

xix. 25. : xxi. 11, 2. : xiv. 5. : xii. 17. : xviii. 17. : 

xix. 5, 9. : xiv. 31. : xxii. 22« : xxiv. 26. 

COURTIER. 
Muft be difcreett xvi. 15. : xix. 12. t xiv. 3;. 
Religious, xxii. 11.: xi. 27.: xii. 26.: xxti. 4.: xr. 

33. : xxv. 6. 
Humble, fee the laft, chap. xxv. 15. : xvii. 9. s xxii. 29. 

xiii. II.: xvii. 8. : xix. 6. : xxii. 6. 

SUBJECT. 

To revere his prince^ xiv. 28. : six. 6. : xxix. 26. : xxiv. 

22.: xvii. II. 
To obey, fee the laft. 
RefpeA iuperiors, xxii. 7. : xxvii. i. 
Oblige inferiors, xi. 12. : xiv. 21. : iii. 30.: xvii. 14. : 

xxv. 8, 9. : xxvi. 17. . vi. 16, 19. : xxviii. 19. : xiv. 

4. f xi. 26. : xxiv. 30. : xxxi. 14. : xxii. 28. : xxiii. 

10, II.: xxviii. 20, 22. : xx. 21. 
To obferve truth in friendfhip, xviii. 24. : xxvii» io» 69 

9,17.: xix. 4. : xvii. 17.: xxviiv 19.: xxv. 17': 

xvii. l8 : vL i^ &c. : xi. i ^ 



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»8o I N D E X. 

ECONOMICS. 

Hujbands to be wife, ixiv. J, 27. : xL 1^. : iv. 6, 16. 
^/itf^A/ tfW thrifiy^ kivii. 26, 27.: Xvlii. air.: ii. i).: 

xii. 4. 
Chafte, V. 6, &c. xv. &c. : vi. 25, &c. ; tx. 17, 18.: ii. 

18, 19. : V. 4, 5. : xxiii. 27. 
Quiet and loving, x«ii. 14. : ivii. i, 9. : xit. 11. 
Wtfe to be faithful, xii. 4. : xxxi. 10, 11,17.: ?ii. 6,&c. 

xi. 16. : xxiii. 28. : 9exx. 20. 
Dutiful and obedient, kv. i. : xxx. 2^, 21.: lit 13: 

txVii. t);. ; XXV. 24. : xxvii. I9, 16. 
Prudent in all her adlions, xiv. i. : xi. 41. : Xui. t])&c. 
Speeches, ixxi. 26. 
ParenU^ oWe to their childi^cii proVilidn^ X^i. 6. : A 

22. : i. 8. : xVii. 2t. 
Education, fee the lail, chap, xxii^ 6. : xkiii. 
Correction, xiii. 24. : xsii. 2j^. : lExir. 15 : xit. i^ !$« 

XXV. 14 : ir. 3 : xxix. 17. 
CMJren to obey parental inftrtltftioA, xv. 20: x. i- 

txiiL 24. i xit. 13.: xxik* 3. : xxiii. 25>: itii. !•: 

i. 8.t xxiii. 22. s ^i^ 20. t xtx. li.i n^ 20.1 

xxz. 17. 
To fubmit to correction-, t\u f. 1 xv. 5. : vL 23. : xv. ift 
To care for their eilate, xxvtii. 14. ( xix. 26. t ik« il»« 

xxiii. i6. 
Mqfters to provide for fervants, xii. 9.: xxvii* i/"* 

xxix. 21, 19. : xviii 2 
Sn-vanU to be feithfuli axk. 1.3.: xui* 17. t xxtiiji 

x8. : z. 26. 



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POEMS, 



H A P P I N E S & 



r* TJ'ORSAKE my foul the tents of fin, 
X^ How falfe her joys appear ! 
Noife and confufion dwell within ; 
Peace Is a ftranger there. 

% Peace never fix'^d her facrcd tfirone ' 
So near the ^ates of hell ; 
She reigns in pious hreafls alone^ 
Where Heavenly virtues dwell. 

3 The men who Keep the laws of God^ 

His choiceft bleflings (hare ; 
Or, if he lifts his chaft'ning rod^ 
*Tis vtth a father's care* 

4 His mighty pow^r fliaH guard the juffy 

His wifdom point their way ; 
His eye fhall watch their deeping duft^ 
His hand revive their clay^ 

5 Bc^HTye faints, the joyful talt,. 

His praife employ your tongue j 
And foon eternity will afk 
A more exalted fong. 



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lU K)EM& 



The beatitudes. 

JTi Their emptinds and poverty ;^ 
Treafures of grace to them are given. 
And crowns of joy laid up in heaven. 

2 Blefs'd are tfat nen of broken hnart, 
Who mourn for fin with inward 0nart ^ 
From heaven the dreams of mercy flow,, 
A healing balm for all their wo. 

^ Blefs'd are the meek who ftand afar 
From rage and pafllon, noife and war ;. 
God will fecure their happy ftate. 
And plead their cauie againft the great* 

4 BlefsM arc the fouls that ihirft for grace> 
Hunger and long for ri^tfcoUfnefs j 
They (hall be wea fupplied and fed 
With living ftreams and living bread, 

5 Bleis'd are the meti whofe bowels moV6 
And melt with fympaihetic love f 
From Chrt/i the Lord ihall they obtain 
Juike fympathy a^ love again* 

6 Blefs*d are the purfe, tfrhbfebfearts are cle«k 
From the defiling powers of fin ; 

With eniMefs pleaiiire they ihall fee 
A GW of fpodefs purity* 

7 Bkfs^d arc tie men «>f peatcTuHife, 
Who quench the coal^ ot growing to ife j 
They (hall be call'dthe heirs of blifs^ 
The fons of Goi/, dk God of peace. 

S Blefs'd arethe fuffcrers, wli^partaloe 
Of pain and fhame for J5^' iikla j 



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to^ms: ^i 



Their fouls fliall triun^ m dit im/. 
Glory and joy are their re^^mrd* 



PRU!>ENGE. 

1 /^ *Tis alorely thing to fee 
V^ A man of prudent heart, 
Whofe thoughts, and lips, and life agree 

To ad a mefid part. 

2 When envy, ftrife and wars b^^ 

In little angry fouls ; 
Mark how the fons of peace co»e i% 
And quench the Idndling ooals. 

3 Their minds are kufiibk;, mild and lneei:», 

Nor let their fury rife : 
Nor paflion moves dieir lips to fpeak. 
Nor pride exalts their eyes, 

4 Their lives are prudent mix'd with love t 

Good works employ their day ; 
They join the ferpent with tl>e dovt?^ 
But cafl the fting away. 

5 Such was the San^ioar of mankinds 

Such pleafures he purfu'd ; 
His manners gentle and tefin'dy 
His foul divinely good 

JUSTICE. 

1 ly^ Y foul al^ore th" unfaaf^ throi^ 
XVX Whofe pro^'Ting wealth tnoreafe&CA 
By fraud, ^r vtckace and wron^ 
Still thriving for the tkaflEi4®'&^>^^ 



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ai4 POEMSi 

2 If high or low my ftation be. 
Of noble, or ignoble name. 
By uncorrupted honefty 

Thy blefling, Lord^ Pd humbly clsunu 

3 Enrich'd with that, no want 1*11 fcar» 
Thy providence ftiall be my truft^ 
Thou wit provide my portion here. 
Thou friend and guvdian of the ju(b 

4 O may I with fincerc delight 
To all the tafk of duty pay ; 
Tender of every focial right. 
Obedient to thy righteous fwayk 

J Such virtue thou wilt not forget 
In worlds where every virtue ihares 
A fit reward, though not of debt. 
But wbit thy boundlefs grace preparesr 



«4M<4'4i^-4«<^W'»-»» »<^»< »» 



EQUITY. 

1 pOME^ let us fearch our ways and try^* 
^ Have they been juft and right j 
Is the great rule of equity. 
Our pra^ice and delight ? 

% What we would have our neighbour do^ 
Have we ftill done the fame ? 
Atid ne'er delayed to pay his due^ 
Nor injured his good name I 

3 Do we rdieve the poor diftrefs'd ? 
Nor give our tongues a looie, 
To make dieir names our /corn and jefl^ 
Nor treat them with abufe i 



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K)EMB. ^ 



4 Have we not found onr envy grow. 

To hear another's praife ? 
Nor robb'd him of his honour due. 
By fly malicious ways ? 

5 In all we fell, and all we buy. 

Is juftice our defign ? 
Do we remember Go^is nigh^ 
And fear the wrath divine ? 

6 In vain we talk of Jefiii* blood. 

And boafl his name in vain. 
If we can flight the laws of God^ 
And prove unjuft to men. 



m^^^-A-^ •4- < 4» " »' >-► ► >*>- 



FIDELITY. 

X T ET thofe who bear the Oatftian «««»^ 
t ^ Their holy vows fulfil ; 
The faints, the followers of thckiAb, 
Are men of honour ftiU» 

2 True to the folemn oaths t^ey take^ 

Though to their hurt they fwear ; 
Conftant and jufl to all they {peak, 
For God and angels hear* 

3 Still with theh" lips, their hearts agree. 

Nor flattering words devife : 
They know the (?(?t/of tnith can fee 
Through every falfe difguifc. 

4 They hate the appearance of a Ke, ^ 

In all die fliapes it wears ; 
Firm to the truth : and when they die 
Eternal life is theirs* 



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286 POEMS. 



CHARITY. 

1 T> LESS'D IS the man, whofe foftcnmg heart 
J3 Feels all another's pain ; 
To whom the fupplicating eye 
Wa« never rais'd m vain. 

1 Whofe bread expands with generous warmth 
A ftranger's woes to feel ; 
And bleeds in pity o'er the wound 
He wants the power to heal. 

3 He fpreads his kind fupporting arms 

To every child of grief ; 
His fecret bounty largely flows^. 
And brings unafk'd relief* 

4 To gentle offices of love >^ 

Hi? feet arc never flow ;^ 
He views thro' mercy's melting eye 
A brother in a foe. 

5 Peace from the bofom of his God, 

My peace to him I give j 
And when he kneels before the throne^ 
H s trembling, foul fhall live. 



PIETY. 



r A S ^* S^^^ Aepherd gently leads 

jiM. His wand'ring flocks to verdant 2nead% 
Where peaceful rivers, foft and flow, 
Amidft the floVty landfcapes flow. 



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POEMS/ 2«7 



2 So Gody the guardian of my foul. 
Does all my erring fteps controul ; 
When loft in fin's perplexing mazef 
He leads me back to virtue's ways* 

3 Though I fhould journey thro' the plains. 
Where death in all its horror reigns ; 
My fteadfaft heart no ill fkall fear, 

For thou, Lordi art with me there. 

4 By thee with peace and plenty blefs'd» 
My life is one continued feaft ; 

Thy ever watchful providence 
Is my fupport and my defence* 

5 O bounteous God! My future days 
Shall he devoted to thy praife ; 
And in thy houfe thy facred name 

And wondrous grace (hall be my theme. 



-4 •4«4-4"4-4 •4^>' ^ >"►">•.> •» 



TEMPERANCE. 

X TTTHEN in the light 6f faith divine, 
V V We look on things below. 
Honour and gold, and fenfual joy. 
How vain, and dangerous too] 

2 Honour's a puflf of noify breath; 

Yet men expofe their blood. 
And venture everlafting death. 
To gain that airy food. 

3 Whilft others ftarve the nobler mind. 

And feed on fhining duft : 
Celeftial treafures they refign, 
T' indulge a fordid luft. 



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2U F0XM8. 

4 The pleafures that alhirt the fecit 

Are dangerous fiiaret to ibuls ; 
There's but a drop of flatt*rui6;*fw«et, 
And.dafh'd with bitter bowk. 

5 GoJ is mine all fufficient good. 

My portion and my choice ; 

In him my vaft dcfires are filled, 

And all my pow'rs rejoice. 

6 In vain the world accofts my ear. 

And tempts my heart anew ; 
I cannot buy your bliis fo dear. 
Nor part with heay«n for you. 



«<^ « 4^^ 4^»>»-»- h^P-'P-P' 



The CHRISTIAN RACE. 

1 JfFjfKEf my foul, ftrctch ev'ry nerve, 

And prefs with vigour on ; 
A heavenly race demands thy %eal. 
And an immortal crown. 

2 A cloud of witneiTes around 

Hold thee in full furvey : 
Forget the fteps already trode, 
And onward urge Ay way. 

3 'Tis GocTi all-animating voice 

Which calls thee from on high ; 
*Tis his own hand preibnts the priee 
To tliine afpiring eye : 

4 That prize, with peerlefs elories bright. 

Which (hall new luftre boaft. 
When victors' wreatlis, and motiarchs' gems, 
Shall blend n common diift. 



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POEMS^. ^9 



My foul, vith facred ardour fir'd, 
The glorious prize purfue ; 

And meet with joy the high command^ 
To bid this earth adieu. 



•4^..4-4-<><-*<«|h>* >> k->'P>'>¥- 



FORTITUDE FROM PIETY^ 



I. 

I /^ GODy by whofe all bounteous hand 
\J Thy people ftill are fed. 
Who thro' the changing fcenes of life 
Ha(i all our fathers led. 

3 To thee our humble vows we raife. 
To thee addrefs our prayer. 
And in thy kind and faithful hand. 
We leave each earthly care. 

3 If thou thro' each* perplexing pad> 

Wilt be our conftant guide ; 

If thou wilt daily bread fupply^ 

And raiment wilt provide ; 

^ If thou wilt fpread thy fhidd around^ 
Till all our dangers ceafei 
And grant that in thy lov'd abode 
Our fouls fhall refl in peace : 

5 To thee, our father, and our GcJ, 
We'll our whole felves refign. 
And count that not our life aloxie^ 
Axt all we have is thine. 



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POEMS. 



n. 

1 T^HILE fome in folly's plcafurc roll, 

And feck the joys which hurt the foid ; 
Be mine, that fOent calm repaft, 
A peaceful confcience to the laft. 

2 That uee which bears immortal fruity 
Without a canker at the root ; 

That friend, who never fails the juft» 
When other friends defert their truft. 

5 With tliis companion in the fhade, 
My foul^no more Aall be difmay'd % 
I will not fear the midnieht gloom» 
Nor the pale monarch of the tomb. 

4 Tho* heav'n affli6l 111 not repine ; 
llie noblefl con^fbrts (UU are mine ^ 
Comforts which ihaU o'er death, prevail^ 
And journey with mc thro' the vale. 

5 Amidft the various fceneofills^ 
Each ftroke fome kind defign fulfils ; 
And fhall I murmur at my God^ 
When fovVeign love direds t^e rod I 

6 His hand ihall fmooth my rugged way. 
And lead me ;o the realm;^ ofday ; 
To milder fkies, and brighter plains^ 
Where everlaftiii^g.pltafure reign& 



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POEMS. 291 



«4 >4'4>4-<^>«»»>«»«>» 



III. 

1 2^"^ ^^y^^ before thy maker bow ; 

His wondrous works admire. 
Till rev'rence and religious awe 
Thine inmoft thoughts infpire, 

2 With humble truft difmifs thy cares,. 

And on his love depend ; 
Leave him to manage thine afiairs. 
To him thyfelf commend. 

3 Let high efteem affe^ion raife^ 

Devotion warm thy breaft ; 
Let thankful love excite thy praife ; 
In him alone be bleft. 

4 To him thy folemn homage pay ; 

His conftant aid implore ; 
Give thanks for mercies ev'ry day> 
And thus prepare for more* 

jr Without referve to him fubmit; 
All his commands fulfil j 
Acknowledge all his aftions fit> 
Nor ere oppofehiswilL 



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Full text of "Solomon's ethics, or the book of Proverbs made easy; a school book, ... By William Dalrymple, .."

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