I propose therefore (with the assistance of Gods holy spirit) to examine these three particulars.
The Heads of this Discourse
First, what are the Arguments of that measure of spirituall life in Christ, which yet may stand with great spirituall weaknesses and diseases.
2ly. What is the measure of the grace of Christ Jesus, which may be called the health, and chearfull temper, and disposition of the inner man.
3dly. What are those spiritual preservatives, which may keep the Soul in an healthful temper, free from spirituall sicknesses and distempers.
In these Examinations I professe two things: First not to oppresse thy thoughts and memory, with any long discourse, intending only to send thee after thy sicknes, a little posey fit and easie for thy meditation, and refreshing.
2ly. All my Flowers shall be some choice example, or speech of some son or daughter of God, pickt out from the Garden of the holy Scriptures for our spiritually refreshing and consolation.
I begin therefore with such trialls and arguments as declare, the true life of the inner man, notwithstanding spirituall weaknes, sicknes, and distempers.
The weakest of Gods children cry unto God as to a Father.
First then when the Spirit of the Lord in 1 Job. 2. describeth the severall Ages and grouths of this inward man (to wit a child, a strong man, and an old man) it pleasath him to describe the young or little one by this difference, that [He knows the Father] to wit, that he knows the Lord so, as to look upon him (in his measure) as to a Father, that he fears him, loves him, obeys him, and calls upon him as on a Father: according to that of Gal: 4. Because you are sons, he hath sent forth the spirit of his Son crying in your Hearts Abba Father: Father pardon me, Father help me, Father give me, &c.