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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Seventeen

09 Thursday Apr 2020

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Paul Baynes

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1 Peter 1:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:19, 1 Timothy 5:10, 1. Thessalonians 5:16, 2 Corinthians 1:12, 2 Samuel 15:26, 2 Thessalonians 3:5, 2 Timothy 4:5, 4:2; Hebrews 3:14, Acts 24:16, Acts 24:16 & 24:7, Acts 26:7 2 Corinthians 1:13., Acts 2:38, Acts 2:46, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Deuteronomy 5:29, Ephesians 4:26; Job 1:5, Galatians 6:16, Hebrews 3:12, Hebrews 3:13, Hosea 14:2-3, James 1:5; 2 Chronicles 20:34; Lamentations 3:27, James 2:23. In afflictions, James 5:13, Joshua 1:8, Lamentations 3:23, Luke 1:75, Luke 9:23, Matthew 26:41, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Philippians 4:4, Proverbs 10:9, Proverbs 21:14, Proverbs 28:13, Proverbs 4:26, Proverbs 4:8., Proverbs 6:22, Proverbs 8:33, Psalm 103:3, Psalm 118:7, Psalm 119:164, Psalm 119:9, Psalm 119:97, Psalm 145:2, Psalm 32:6, Psalm 55:16, Psalm 5:3, Psalm 91:15

The previous post in this series may be found here: http://wp.me/p1S7fR-24t

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: DIRECTIONS FOR THE WEAK CHRISTIAN

Now that a believer is defined, the godly life described, and the helps thereto adjoined, it remains in the next place to direct the weak Christian in the right use of means. For those duties of godliness are not left to men sometimes to be practiced and at other times neglected; nor are means to be only used generally but not particularly; means must be used daily and throughout each day.  This does not mean that one must do the same things every day, but rather that all evil should be avoided every day; and such good done every day as in our calling and life shall be occasioned.

Daily Intake of God’s Word

First, therefore, the believer must have direction for his life every day out of God’s Word. 1 Peter 1:17, 4:2; Hebrews 3:14, Luke 1:75.

a. The Scripture commends us to a certain course of walk in with God and a particular direction of our lives. Psalm 119:9, Proverbs 10:9, Galatians 6:16.  This must be kept and daily followed by us. Proverbs 21:14, 1 Timothy 5:10, Psalm 119:97, Psalm 91:15, Acts 24:16 & 24:7, Psalm 145:2. Therefore, Christians must be guided by some daily directions in the leading of their lives.

b.  Furthermore, many parts of a daily direction as will sufficiently direct a man are found enjoined in the Word of God; these instructions are be used daily. In prosperity, James 5:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:19, James 2:23. In afflictions, James 1:5; 2 Chronicles 20:34; Lamentations 3:27, Psalm 32:6, 2 Samuel 15:26, Luke 9:23, Deuteronomy 33:12, Matthew 26:41. Among the helps for prayer, Psalm 55:16, Psalm 119:164, Proverbs 6:22. For watchfulness, Psalm 119:97. For reading, Joshua 1:8. And as for public hearing, Proverbs 8:33, Acts 2:46.

c. Besides, if we consider the danger that follows the neglecting of this direction, by taking unlawful liberty, that there will be reason to stir us up to embrace this truth; for, first we are caught presently with the deceitfulness of sin some way or other. Matthew 26:41, Hebrews 3:13, 2 Timothy 4:5, Proverbs 28:13.

God Corrects

Secondly, God himself though he keeps his children from many evils while they desire it, yet if they be secure, he leaves them to themselves does punish their sin as he does other men’s. 2 Samuel 7:1,; 2 Chronicles 16:9, Proverbs 10:9, Psalm 89:3. And we all know that Satan watches for any opportunity to hurt us. Matthew 13:44, Matthew12:44.

Rise When You Fall

That this daily direction is the best means to keep us well – while we are well—and to raise us up when we fall.

Daily Care

That the very Ten Commandments teach us daily exercise. Three commandments make mention of particular days; and the commandments are generally applicable on all days.

No Time to be Careless

God has forbidden us to consider any day’s time for which we may be careless. Galatians 4:10, Colossians 2:16, Hebrews 5:8.

Our Citizenship is in Heaven

And lastly, that our whole daily conversation must be in heaven Philippians 1:27 & 3:20.

Take Care

Therefore, as a man that has a long journey to travel will not count it sufficient to merely notice whether he is going east or west, but rather will take particular note of the way; so ought we to learn wisdom since we have a long pilgrimage. We must not content ourselves with generalities, but rather we must pay attention to the particular means – which may help us forward in the kingdom of heaven.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: THE CHRISTIAN LIFE MUST BE LIVED EVERY DAY

Now it follows to show what is daily direction is. It is to gather together certain rules are God’s Word, that which we may be enabled every day according to the will of God with sound peace.

There are the following of such direction as they will and constant effort to please God in all things every day as long as we are to the peace of our own conscience and glorifying of God. And the description is to be observed:

That it is called an endeavor only, because perfection is neither required of God nor to be looked for in the best Christians. Thus such places as, Psalm 119:1, Luke 11:28, which to require perfection are to be expounded by those that speak of endeavor, such as, Chronicles 28:7, Hosea 6:3, acts 24:16. But this is an inseparable fear of the fear of God, and must be in our hearts continually.

That this endeavor must be hearty, not constrained or hollow, but constant, that we faint not, but hold out therein.

Whereto it tends, viz, to please God in all things. Luke 16:13, Colossians 1, Hebrews 13:18.

Lastly, that this must be daily and continued to the end. Acts 24:16, Proverbs 4:26, Acts 26:7 2 Corinthians 1:13.

The Ncessary Parts of Daily Directions are These Eight.

1. First every day we should be humbled for our sins, as through due examination of our lives by the law of God we shall see them. Psalm 5:3, Ephesians 4:26; Job 1:5.

2. Every day we ought to be raised up in assured hope of forgiveness: of them by the promises of God in Christ; this is never separated from the former, Acts 2:38, Hosea 14:2-3. The words “this day” in the Lord’s Prayer teach us at least this much.

3. Every day we ought to prepare our hearts to seek the Lord still and keep them fit ndnd willing thereto. Hebrews 3:12, Deuteronomy 5:29, Proverbs 4:8.

4. Every day we must strongly and resolutely arm ourselves against all evil and sin, fearing most of all to is offend God.

5. Every day we must nourish our fear and love of God and joy in him more than in anything and endeavor to please him in all duties as occasion shall be offered. 2 Thessalonians 3:5.

6. Every day our thanks be for benefits received and still certainly hoped for. Lamentations 3:23, Psalm 118:7, Psalm 103:3, 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

7. Every day we ought to watch and pray for steadfastness and constancy in all these Ephesians 1:17.

8. Every day hold and keep our peace with God, and so lie down with it. 2 Corinthians 1:12, Philippians 4:4, 1. Thessalonians 5:16.

These are all necessary, as without which we can never be safe, we could never taste of true joy. But here are two extremes to be avoided in conceiving [thinking about] of them.

First, that we think it not sufficient to regard these duties, some one time in the day; for we must have this present with us, and our hearts seasoned with them throughout the day. Second, that we do not take occasions from hence to shake off our callings, or to neglect any part of them. For in our ordinary and meanest [least important] works, we may and must serve God by doing them in faith, not for carnal respect only: and avoiding the common sins that profane ones join with them.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter 22

11 Wednesday Jun 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Discipleship, Paul Baynes, Puritan

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1 Corinthians 11:13, Affliction, Biblical Counseling, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Circumstances, Daily Responsibilities, Discipleship, Hebrews 12:11, Hebrews 12:7, James 1:2, Moving, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Preparation, Prevention, Prosperity, Psalm 119:71, Puritan, Ungodliness

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/27/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-twenty-one/

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO: CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH HINDER GODLINESS
There is a third kind of difficulty, whereby many believers are hindered from going on in a godly course: all kinds of outward things which themselves are not evil but are made by Satan occasions to hurt to hurt and wound our souls.

Afflictions: though sent of God for our great good, as it is to be seen in Hebrews 12:7 & 11, Psalm 119:71, 1 Corinthians 11:13, James 1:2. Yet afflictions when used by Satan and joined to own corruption make occasions for impatience, fretting, pensiveness, and many other evils. Again which we must arm ourselves before they come, that then our unruly passions may not break out so impatiently[fn.1].

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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Twenty-One

27 Tuesday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Discipleship, Paul Baynes

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1 Corinthians 3:18 and 4:1, 1 Corinthians 4:8, 1 Samuel 24:7, 2 Corinthians 4:17, 2 Corinthians 9:10, anger, Biblical Counseling, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Ephesians 3:19, Faith, Hebrews 12:1, ignorance, James 1:3, Job 16:33, Joshua 1:9, Matthew 10:28, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Philippians 1:28, Pride, Proverbs 18:12, Psalm 119:12, Psalm 30:5, Puritan, Revelation 3:17, Romans 3:17, Sloth, worldliness

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/22/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-twenty/

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: UNMORTIFIED AFFECTIONS HINDER GODLINESS

The second kind of general hinderances are the unmortified affections wherewith believers are oppressed. Concerning which in general, it will be profitable for everyone to mark what he is most encumbered and most easily overcome by, and by what occasions he is readiest  drawn to them; that he may the more diligently and wisely labor to prevail against them.

Harmful Affections

Fear and Its Remedy

In particular, one kind is fear and doubt of preserving by means of affliction. This does easily take all the weak ones; therefore the Scripture forewarns of it.  Matthew 10:28, Philippians 1:28, Job 16:33. This, if it does prevail, cannot but enfeeble utterly the powers of their minds; and so withhold the instruments of the body practicing well any kind of duty.

The remedy of it must be sought for in Scripture. Psalm 30:5, 2 Corinthians 4:17, Hebrews 12:1, 2 Corinthians 9:10, James 1:3.

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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Nineteen

21 Wednesday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Discipleship, Obedience, Paul Baynes

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1 Corinthians 10:24, 1 Corinthians 11:31, 1 Corinthians 7:20, 1 Peter 1:6, 1 Peter 4:12, 1 Thessalonians 3:6, 1 Timothy 3:15, 1 Timothy 6:9, 10; Proverbs 13:4, 2 Thessalonians 3:6., 2 Timothy 3:12, Acts 10:2, Biblical Counseling, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Daniel 6:10, Ephesians 4:18, Genesis 18:16, Genesis 3:19, Hebrews 12:11, James 1:2, Job 11:8, Job 1:6, Joshua 1:8, Joshua 24:15, Lamentations 2:27, Lamentations 3:33, Matthew 6:6, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Philippians 3:14, Preaching, Proverbs 6:22, Puritan, Romans 5:5, Romans 8:29

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/18/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-eighteen/

CHAPTER NINETEEN: GENERAL RULES FOR DAILY LIFE

Concerning outward actions, no certain rules can be given in particular, because they are variable and diverse. Yet some outward duties there are, although not necessary to be done daily, yet commonly to be observed; very profitable and helpful to live well and happily, by settling us in the practice of a daily direction. Such are these that follow:

How to Go About our Daily Business

1. That we walk with God, that is, that as soon as we have broken off our sleep, we set God before our eyes and our hearts upon him, resolving to walk with him that day. Proverbs 6:22. This accustoming ourselves to thoughts at the first awakening, by setting our hearts upon some holy and heavenly things, would be a good entrance to the well spending of the day, and a preventing of various evils.

2. That in some manner, if it may be, before we enter upon other affairs, we offer up our morning prayer to God, confessing our especial sins, remembering his particular favors; requesting both pardon for things passed and assisting us with blessings for time to come, especially for that day. Daniel 6:10. For the helping forward of this duty, it is fit that some holy meditation be joined with it. This being joined a hearty renewing of our covenant will so season us in the morning, that we shall retain the flavor, and hold the strength of such gracious beginning all the day after.

3. That event (it shall be expedient) we with our minds still kept well-ordered, betake ourselves to our calling and vocation. Wherein we must not so much mind our profit, that we cool any grace thereby or quench holy affections in us. That we must have a calling, see Genesis 3:19,  Ephesians 4:18; 2 Thessalonians 3:6. But that we must labor diligently therein, 1 Corinthians 7:20, 1 Thessalonians 3:6, 10; Proverbs  13:4, 11 & 18:9, & 24:30.

But that the walking and are calling may diligently please God, we must so use earthly dealings that we neglect not spiritual duties; we must avoid worldly mindedness on the one part as idleness on the other: both which we shall be encouraged on to, if we consider that it is the Lord who sets us in our callings, and has promised to be us, and to give us good success, and to help us to bear all tediousness therein; and further, that he wills us to do all such duties for his sake, in such manner, as if we did that to him; and from him to look for reward. Joshua 1:8.

4. That in all company we behave ourselves as we are taught of God and as it becomes us, especially so as [to] leave no ill favor behind us. We must not therefore rush unadvisedly into it, as most but do, but determined before to do good onto others, as we be able, or to take good of others[1] as occasion is offered. Colossians 4:6; Joshua 1:8; one Timothy 4:12. We must take heed of the danger which will come from fruitless and hurtful talking and behavior, which in most company we shall meet with.

Occasions of good speech must not be only taken, but sought and waited for. Acts 26:28.

If  the company be so desperate that there is no place for God, yet we must keep ourselves from their unfruitful works of darkness, by giving of apparent tokens of our dislike, leaving them also as soon as we can, attending them afterwards as much as we may conveniently [do].

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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Fifteen, Reading

15 Thursday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Paul Baynes, Reading

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Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Reading, Spiritual Disciplines

The previous post in this series may be found here: http://wp.me/p1S7fR-24n

CHAPTER FIFTEENTH, THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE OF READING

The next great help is reading; the general rules for it are these:

First, that the books of God must not be not laid aside and neglected. Rather, they must read as often as possible; otherwise, much unfavorableness, unquietness, unfruitfulness, and uncheerfulness will follow even in the best.

That all filthy, lewd and wanton books, yea, needless and unprofitable books be avoided.

When reading the Scriptures, read through an entire book – not a chapter here and there. When reading other books, read well and deeply – not merely many things with slight attention.

How to Read

Now as concerning the manner of reading:

It must be with hearty good will to learn and profit by it, desiring God to prepare us with reverence.

We must settle ourselves for the time to be attention, and so to abandon the wandering of the heart as much as may be.

We must be careful to apply that which we read wisely to ourselves; persuading ourselves that all duties are commanded us and all sins forbidden us all and all promises to be believed by us. Likewise, we must look that all exhortations and admonitions quicken us; all reprehensions check us; and all threats cause us to fear.

If reading be thus used, it will in many ways appease the conscience, enlighten the judgment, enlarge the heart, relieve the memory, move the affections, and in a word, draw the whole man unto God. And therefore, along with the other helps, reading will be a particularly useful means to further a godly and Christian life.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly life, Chapter Fourteen, Prayer

14 Wednesday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Confession, Ministry, Paul Baynes, Praise, Prayer, Richard Sibbes

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Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Confession, Daniel 9, James 4:8, James 6:1, John 15:26, John 16:24, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Petition, Praise, Prayer, Psalm 111, Psalm 116:5, Psalm 126:1-2, Psalm 51, Request, Revelation 3:10

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/13/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-thirteen-spiritual-armor/

CHAPTER FOURTEEN: THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE OF PRAYER

Now to comes to those helps either by ourselves alone or other also (for the other kind shall have another place) there are prayer and reading.

Prayer is calling upon God according to his will. It has two parts, thanksgiving amd request. Whereunto is added to be confession of sins.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is that part of prayer in which we be comforted by some benefit, which in favor God bestows upon us, [and] are drawn to love and praise and show forth fruits thereof. In this direction there to be observed three things, and three motives onto them.

The first motivation is knowledge and due consideration of some particular benefit received or promised us. 1 Samuel 25:32, Genesis 24:27, Luke 17:15. Without these three can be no true and hearty thanks giving, howsoever and words there be a protestation for fashion’s sake.

The second is joy and gladness of heart, for the benefit which we think up or call to mind. Psalm 126:1-2. Except we find sweetness in the mercies, no duty of thanks can include sort be performed by them.

The third is a persuasion that the benefit for which we give thanks comes to us from God’s fatherly love. This is a far greater cause of gladness the benefit itself. Psalm 116:5

The Duty of Thanksgiving

The first duty is the continuance of our love to God. Psalm 126:1.

The second is a desire to set forth his glory and in words to profess and confess his goodness. For if we love the Lord, we cannot but be carried with this fervent desire to advance and magnify. Psalm 116:12, Psalm 111.

The third is a further preceding in obedience and walk worthy of his kindness. This is one if it be lacking from the rest, makes them all lame and main goodness odious to God as the mortlings which were offered to him and sacrifices. Deuteronomy 6:10 — 11, Psalm 50:16.

If in this manner we should frame ourselves to thankfulness, it must needs be a mighty and forcible means to mollify the hard heart and to hold under the sturdy corruptions of it[1]. So they may be subject to God, yea even went strong provocations to draw up to the contrary.
Confession

Thus much for Thanksgiving. Now for confession. Confession is an acknowledgment of ourselves to be guilty and worthily to deserve God’s wrath for our grievous offenses; together with a free and humble bewailing of them before God. [As for sins which are unknown, we confess them generally.] But those which we do know (according to the nature of them) particularly.

To the right practice of this, there are four things required:

The first, that we feel our sins odious and burdensome to us.

Secondly, that we accuse ourselves of them to God.

Thirdly, that we stand at his mercy, having deserved condemnation.

Fourthly, that we abase ourselves thereby, and so are weakened and our pride abated.

All these are in the confession of David, Psalm 51; of Daniel in Daniel 9; of the prodigal son in Luke 15:7.

Now this confession being from time to time often made onto God, will not suffer us to go far and live long in any sin. [Instead] hunt it out, before it be warm and nestled in us[2]. And therefore it must needs be of great force to strengthen us in a godly life.

Request

The last part of prayer is request. It is that part of prayer wherein we earnestly pour out our suits onto God, in contrition of heart, according to his will, with comfortable hope that through Christ we shall be heard, and therefore forsaking the sin which might hinder our suit.

The Duty of Requesting

In this duty also there are four things to be observed.

First, that we show this contrition of heart, by being pressed with feeling of our wants [that is what we lack, our], unworthiness, miserable estate, and manifold miseries, earnestly desiring to be pardoned and eased. 1 Samuel 1:15. Luke 18:3.

If this be so (as will soon follow upon right confession), we shall neither pray in lip labor which God abhors[3]; nor think ourselves too good to wait upon God’s leisure, if at first he grant not a request, but continue them as he commands.

But we ask only those things which we have a word for, and in such sort as he has promised them[4]. 1 John 5:14.

That we quicken ourselves[5] to come in faith and confidence in ofttimes to come cheerfully to this duty. James 6:1. John 16:24.

The Fruits of Requesting

Now to the end that we may come with cheerful the light onto this duty, let us consider the fruits which are especially three.

First, that by prayer we are made in a sort acquainted and familiar with God, and know his mind and will, and how he is affected to us, being admitted to speak to him. James 4:8, John 15:26, Revelation 3:10.

Secondly, that ot gives life to God’s graces in us, which before lay half dead. As we may see an example of Esther.

Thirdly, it reaches out to us in our greatest need, the good things and gifts of God which our-selves desire. Matthew 7:7.

A Final Note
The fourth and last property of prayer is that we bring not with us the sins which will turn away the ears of God from hearing us. Such are any sins not repented of, but laid in, secretly at the least, and not renounced. Proverbs 28:19, Psalm 7:4.

These are the parts of prayer which if they be reverently and humbly at joined together, as they ought, accompanied with the aforementioned properties; if we be fallen, they will raise us up; if we be heavy, they will comfort us; if we be dull, they will quicken us; they are a present remedy to the oppressed heart, preserver of the godly life, a giver of strength to the weak, a special means to make a man live in every estate wherein God has set him. Therefore prayer must needs be a strong and mighty help to the godly life for if we pray well, and keep ourselves in case fit to perform this duty, we shall not need fear in our life teeny great annoyance.

 

 

[1] To mollify a hard heart would be to make a hard heart soft. To hold under corruptions would be resist and force out corruptions.

[2] Discover and expose your own sins before you become comfortable with your sins.

[3] Bare outward formality, conduct without a true corresponding frame of heart, is condemned by God. Isaiah 1:12-14. The Puritans repeatedly condemned such formality. They rather commended “heart religion” (to use the phrase of John Wesley from the next century). “God requires the heart; and religion is most in managing and tuning the affections, for they are the wind that carries the soul to every duty. A man is like the dead sea without affections.” “The Spiritual Favorite”, by Richard Sibbes in vol. 6 of the collected works, page 97.

[4] Our prayers must be such as accord with the revelation of God in Scripture.

[5] Strengthen and make ourselves more alive.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Thirteen, Spiritual Armor

13 Tuesday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Ephesians, Paul Baynes

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1 Corinthians 3:18, 1 Samuel 17:34, 1Corinthians 6:4, 2 Corinthians 10:4, 2 Peter 1:4, armor of God, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Ephesians 6, Ephesians 6:14, Isaiah 13:7, John 16:33, Luke 22:33 & 57, Matthew 5:8, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Philippians 4:7, Proverbs 30:6., Proverbs 3:6, Psalm 119:5, Psalm 120:1, Psalm 32:2, Psalm 37:37, Psalm 77:10, Romans 5:1, Spiritual Armor

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/12/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-12-meditation/

CHAPTER THIRTEEN: PRIVATE DISCIPLINES, RELIANCE UPON SPIRITUAL ARMOR

The third private help is the armor of a Christian: concerning which four points are fit to be known.

The Pieces of Armor

First what it is, and which be the chief is parts of it. It is that spiritual furniture of the gifts and graces of the Holy Ghost, by which God does deliver his people from all adversarial power, and bring them to the obedience of his will. 2 Corinthians 10:4. The parts are set down, Ephesians 6:14.

A. Whereof the first is sincerity, which is the general grace whereby a Christian is made simple and without fraud or hypocrisy bearing sway in him, both towards God in his neighbor. Psalm 32:2. Matthew 5:8. Proverbs 30:6.

B. The second is righteousness; which is that gift of the Spirit whereby our hearts are bent to all manner of goodness and righteous dealing; approving of it as most excellent, desiring fervently and delighting in it, and that because it is good and delighting, and hating all naughtiness and evil. Proverbs 28:1. Psalm 1:7.

C. The third is the shoes peace, which is, that having received the gospel, and found the sweetness of it, we are now thereby as they who are ready to take a journey Chardon prepared, ready to deny ourselves, and to take up our cross and follow Christ, through this our pilgrimage. Romans 5:1, Luke 22:33, 57; Philippians 4:7; John 16:33.

D. Forth as the shield of faith, which is to build our persuasion on God’s faithful promises, but Christ Jesus is ours. And that God has given him to us to obtain forgiveness of our sins and salvation by him, yea, and all other good things also fit for this present life. Colossians 1:33.

E. The fifth is hope, which is a joyful longing and steadfast desire in looking for the performing accomplishing of all those mercies, temporal and eternal, which God has promised, and we by faith are assured of. Luke 2:30, Peter 1:13.

F. The sixth is sort of the Spirit, which is to be well instructed in the sound and living knowledge of the Scriptures, and to digest the same, also to season our understanding within us. In such wise [in this way] that we may know the will of God and have the same and remembrance in the things which most concern us (as we can) that thereby we may at all times in all cases be readily led by it. Psalm 119:5. Where it is to be remembered, that he which has most knowledge, if it be not guided by what he understands, he knows nothing as they ought. 1 Corinthians 3:18, Proverbs 3:6, Isaiah 13:7.

The Necessity of the Armor

The second general point is the necessity of this armor, that is, we should clothe and furnish our souls with every part of it: which is so great [a necessity], but the right Christian life cannot stand without it. For to venture upon the manifold tribulations of this life without the shoes of preparation is as much as to go barefoot among thorns or to run naked through the pikes.

To be destitute of the shield of faith is the undoubted way either to despair utterly or else in deadly presumption and security to drown ourselves in perdition.

To leave off the breast plate of righteousness is to expose oneself into the danger of every temptation. For he that does not from time to time afresh indent with his heart against all unrighteousness, he may look to be carried into those unlawful actions which shall bring disgrace to himself, and his holy profession also. 1Corinthians 6:4-5.

He that has not the sword of God’s Spirit, so that he be able to say in temptations it is written to the contrary, shall never be able to cut asunder those bonds of sin wherewith he shall be compassed.

He that has not all these gird up to him with sincerity and truth, shall but deceive himself and others also.

He that has not true hope of salvation, to keep life in his soul, how can he be void of fainting[1], irksomeness , heaviness, destruction, dump it is common sundry such discouragements? Or how can he have any cheerfulness in his life or contentedness, but has not this hope of passing his afflicting days[2] under the wing of God’s protection.

So that we may well affirm without this complete armor of God, that the Christian life cannot be conducted.

Put on the Armor

The third point is, how this armor should be put on. For the answer whereof we are to know, that it is not wholly lacking in any true Christian. For every true believer at his first conversion is made partakers (though in week measure) of all things appertaining to life and godliness, 2 Peter 1:4.

What then means the apostle when he bids us to put on this armor? His meaning is that we should not have it as men in the time of peace have their bodily armor hanging by them, unfit for use. But as soldiers have theirs in battle, we must be sure that in all places and upon all occasions we have it with us so far as we are able. We must lie down and rise up with it. Because our battle lasts all our life long, and are enemies be deadly, and all our strength is in our armor.

Now to put on and also to keep on, and to have the feeling of every part of this armor (faith against distrust, hope against fainting, uprightness against hypocrisy; knowledge against the deceitfulness of sin; righteousness against all kinds of iniquity; and the preparation of the gospel of peace against all crosses) to have, I say, this armor in readiness, we must use continue watching, hearty prayer, and frequent meditation about them. Matthew 26:4.

Here is to be observed that the sword of the Spirit has two branches, that is, that knowledge which we get out of the letter of the Scripture only, and so have at but by rule. [Second,] the knowledge which we learn by proof and trial for the bettering of us.

For as in all trades and sciences there is a great difference between the experimental knowledge[3] of them and the bare naked skill of them; so is there great distance between one that has only attained so much knowledge as will enable them to give account of his faith; and him who has had the proof of this knowledge, how it has been effectual in him. He considers, observes, and applies the things which he hears and sees, and does, to his own use. And by these things past thus duly recorded, he learns and gives wisdom to at eyes to guide him for the present, and for a time to come.

This is experience, which makes us wise in all things that are profitable for godliness and eternal life.

The observation of the reward[4] of evil make us avoid it. And experience of the fruit of a godly life is the best means to continue it. Our own trial [teaches us] how afflictions may be easiest borne and come to [the] best end is our best rule for ever after. The example we have in David, Psalm 120:1, 1 Samuel 17:34, Psalm 77:10, Psalm 37:37.

In sum, as in all trades the beginning is hardest and experience brings facility, so it is in the practice of Christianity. Woeful therefore it is that in this, of all other, men will not labor for experience.[5]

The Benefit of the Armor

The fourth general fruit is the benefit of this armor, which is not small, for he that puts it on, goes clothed with it through the day; though the Devil and his instruments to assault by craft and deceit, or by force and might, he shall mightily prevail against them, and preserve himself. He shall be able to live with comfort in all estates [circumstances] that God shall set him in, and in all places which he show bring him to, and change by no occasions, but hold out until an end be made of all difficulties  these and uncertainties.

Objection: We may serve God well enough without putting on this armor after so strict a manner.

Answer: It is true indeed that a Christian serving God may be ignorant of this armor. But he cannot then say, he serves God well enough. Because that kind of life must needs be wandering, unsettled, and not to be rested in.

Objection: At least it is not expedient to impose so heavy a burden upon weak Christians.

Answer: The child of God is no sooner born but he desires to continue in that life and salvation and to please God in all things, and to maintain peace and joy within himself; all which is effected by the use of this armor.

 

[1] If one does not have the true hope of salvation, he will not be able to avoid fainting – that is, giving up; et cetera.

[2] Those times when he will be afflicted, that is, days in which he suffers.

[3] This is a phrase which is used commonly up through the 19th century. It means to have an actual experience of the thing at issue, not merely a secondhand knowledge. An “experimental” religion is one which the human experiences the truth, as opposed to merely hearing about the matter.

[4] A “reward” would be the natural consequence, which could be good or bad. Reward, at this time, did not have a solely positive connotation.

[5] It is sad and unfortunate that people will make great effort to learn a job or play a sport, but when it comes to the exercise of godliness people will make no efforts at all.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter 12, Meditation

12 Monday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Meditation, Paul Baynes, Spiritual Disciplines

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2 Chronicles 5:16, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Godly Disciplines, Jeremiah 17:9, John 13:23, Joshua 1:8, Meditation, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Prayer, Preaching, Psalm 110:57, Psalm 119:97, Psalm 15:4, Psalm 55:17, Psalms, Public Prayer, Public Worship, Puritan, Singing, Spiritual Disciplines

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/09/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-eleven/

CHAPTER TWELVE: PRIVATE DISCIPLINES, MEDITATION

Meditation

The second private help is meditation; and that is when we do of purpose separate ourselves from all other things, and consider as we are able and think of some points of instruction necessary to lead us forward to the kingdom of heaven, and the better strengthening us against the Devil and this present evil world, and to the well-ordering of our lives. This heavenly communion with God and ourselves is that which the Fathers called soliloquies: which must be distinguished from ordinary thinking of good things and pondering of words and actions, which yet in Scriptures is called meditation: Joshua 1:8, Psalm 119:97. For that [careful consideration of things] ought never to be wanting [lacking], beinga part of watchfulness, and is exercised together with prayer; but this is more solemn: when a man of set purpose does separate himself from other business to solace himself in these holy and heavenly thoughts.

The matter of this meditation may be on any part of God’s Word, of God himself and his works of mercy and judgment, or our own estate, the vanity and misery of this world and of the manifold privileges which we with the rest of God’s children and joy (but [it should be] especially of those things which we have most special need of).

The great and necessary use of this duty may well appear even in the hearts of good Christians, in which there is much naughtiness;[1] so many rebellions and [such] loathsome filthiness that [it] makes some despair of reforming; and therefore they cease to endeavor it. Yet if such noisome poisons be suffered to lurk and remain in them, they will not only as sour weeds choke the plants of grace within us, but also grow up themselves, and bring forth most noisome and dangerous fruit, as by woeful experience men feel and try.

The Great Benefit of Meditation

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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Eleven

09 Friday May 2014

Posted by memoirandremains in Biblical Counseling, Paul Baynes, Watching

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Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life, Godly Disciplines, Paul Bayne, Paul Baynes, Prayer, Preaching, Psalms, Public Prayer, Public Worship, Puritan, Singing, Spiritual Disciplines, Watching

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2013/12/24/paul-baynes-brief-directions-onto-a-godly-life-chapter-ten/

CHAPTER ELEVEN: PRIVATE DISCIPLINES: WATCHING

The first private help is watchfulness: which is a careful observing of our hearts (Proverbs 4:25); diligent looking to our ways (Psalm 39:1) that they may be pleasing and acceptable to God.

The necessity of this help may appear many ways, for without this, sobriety is lost (first Peter 5:7) and the force of our prayers abated (Matthew 26:1). And for want of this (as experience shows) many Christians are not acquainted with a well ordered and settled course, but out and in, off and on, never stayed; because of the contrary carelessness and security, many, not evil men or plunged into the various noisome temptations, and find many wounds in their souls, and lack many comforts in their lives. So that some are as untrusty [untrustworthy] as Gehazi (1 Kings 5:15-27); some as hasty, furious, and unsociable as Nabal (1 Samuel 25:10-12).

What Watching Entails

The manner of this watchfulness is set down by the apostle (2 Timothy 4:5) to be in all things at all times and by all occasions in all places with all persons, and that constantly, so long as we are in danger of temptation (Mark 13:33).

All of us therefore that desire to walk with God in peace, may go about this duty to purpose and set our minds and delight upon it; our evil lust wherewith we be full fraught, to carry us headlong into sundry [various] iniquities, and so much that we can go about nothing but we may feel (if we can discern) but some one or other of them is in our way to hurt us, and at hand to molest and disquiet.

If we be occupied in spiritual duties, we have shame and hypocrisy on the one side to hinder us; dullness, weariness, untowardness, etc., on the other side to break us off. In things lawful, we are secure and careless no matter what the manner or end may be. In evil, we have eyes open to see the seeming pleasure or profit they promise, and reason to extenuate the danger; but we have no ears to receive the strongest dissuasions that can be brought.

We Must Watch

We therefore must be skillful to know these disordered lust, diligent to espy [spy them out], prevent and avoid them. We must abstain and wean ourselves from that which our hearts would desire most (1 Peter 2:10). We must not dally with the baits of sin. We must not be so bold as to venture upon all companies, to fall into any talk, or to take liberty in any desires without respect [due consideration of what it may entail]. And onto this care we must add prayer, is that which does quicken and put life to it, so that it may be continued with much cheerfulness and little tediousness.

It is further also to be marked, that because the servants of God have some special infirmities wherewith they find themselves more troubled than with any other, they must be most suspicious of and vigilant against them. And where they see Satan and most likely to wind in himself, there they must carry a more narrow and strait eye, avoiding the least occasion that tends that way, and bestowing more time and labor in the rooting out of these corruptions, from the which most danger may be feared.

As in troubles we must watch against impatience; in prosperity, against wantonness; because these are most likely to ensue. And when we have broken out of our constant course a little, and that our conscience begins to check us, then we must tremble to think of it, return speedily again, and we must fear after, lest we should offend.

Watching is a Means to Liberty

This may seem onto many to be too strict, that our hearts may not range where they list [desire], nor delights be fastened [obtained] where we please; but that all powers of our minds and members of our bodies must be held within a compass. But onto those who are acquainted with it, and see what safe peace, what sweet joy it brings to their life, it is no tedious bondage, but a spiritual and heavenly liberty. On the other side, those that will not be persuaded to entertain it, they must look to live destitute of a chief part of godliness; or if it be but now and then in some special actions and parts of our lives recorded looked onto, it will make the godly life in great part to be bereaved of her gain and beauty.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life: Chapter Ten

24 Tuesday Dec 2013

Posted by memoirandremains in Assemblying, Ministry, Music, Paul Baynes, Praise, Preaching, Reading, Worship

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The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2013/12/06/paul-baynes-brief-directions-onto-a-godly-life-chapter-nine/

PART TWO: THE MEANS AND HELPS TO A GODLY LIFE

The Christian’s life being thus described, now because it is upheld by means, it is fit to know what these means are, and how they may be used aright:

These means are such religious exercises, whereby Christians may be made fit to practice a godly life. They are partly ordinary, and partly extraordinary; and both of these either public or private. The public are such as be used in our open assemblies. Ordinarily these are three. First, the ministry of the Word. We will second, the administration of the sacraments. Third, the exercise of prayer, with thanksgiving and singing of psalms.

CHAPTER TEN: PUBLIC DISCIPLINES

Of private, some are to be used alone by ourselves, as watchfulness, meditation, and the armor of a Christian. Some are to be used with others, as society of conference and family exercises. Some are common to both, as prayer and reading.

The Word of God

The first and principal is the Word of God read, preached, and heard, as the Lord prescribes. That this is a singular help, we may see if we consider the truth, authority, sufficiency, and plainness (through the ministry [of preaching and teaching] and translations) which is in the Scripture.

To speak therefore nothing of the benefit which brings on to the unregenerate, under whom it is of might to convert them [the Word of God has the power to convert an unbeliever]. The uses are many and daily which the regenerate people of God have by it.

First, by it they are cleared from error and darkness about religion [Christianity] and manners [how to conduct oneself], and are made more sound in the knowledge of the truth, and see more particularly the into way the whole course of Christianity.

Second, they grow settled and established in their knowledge from day to day.

Third, they are by this quickened [enlivened] in their drowsiness, cheered in their heaviness, called back from their wanderings, raised up when they are fallen down, and counseled in their doubtful cases of advice.

Fourth, they are by it settled in a godly course, and taught to keep well when they are well, rather than to be fickle and inconstant in good carriage of themselves, as many are. For by it, as by a sun that gives light in all places, they see their weakness, and how they are held back when they fall, which is the right way of proceeding. By it, as by rule, they are taught to frame all their actions.

Fifth, they are brought to bestow some time in profitable reading.

Sixth, they are framed so as they become lights and examples to others. So that we may boldly conclude that the ordinary preaching of the Word is a singular means provided for the perfecting of God’s elect, and further growing in a Christian life. And whosoever lives where there is a good order of teaching with diligence, skill, love, and plainness; if he find not this fruit by it, is because he is not attentive  reverent in hearing, or else not prepared to hear, or else does not apply unto himself, nor willingly digest that which he has heard; but it is surfeited in some dangerous qualities in his life, or corruptions in his heart. Among which, this is a special one among the people that they think of the person that teaches, so they do with of his doctrine, and not otherwise.

The Sacraments

            As for the sacraments, they are helps necessarily added joined onto the former. For they do visibly confirm and ratify that which the Word does teach, and the covenant between God and the believer made, is most surely sealed up and effectually on both parties by them.

            First, the Lord for his part has granted to every faithful person that he will never call his sins to a reckoning, but will be his God, and love him to the end through Christ. For the ratifying whereof he has put to his seal, so that the sacrament must needs remain effectual to the faithful, both for the strengthening of his faith in the promise, but also for the removing of all contrary doubts which through weakness might arise. Some on the other part, every believer for his own part has covenant, to trust in God always, to endeavor to walk before him conscionably, in righteousness of the heart and innocency of hands.

            Now for the truth of his heart, the sacrament is a sign, which he having received has openly professed thereby he has given and consecrated himself on to the Lord and is now no more his own to live as his carnal will would desire. So that either the present preceding or the fresh remembrance of this does spur him forward to keep his covenant, and encourage them against temptations, wearisomeness, and all hindrances; especially by believing that strength in measure shall be given to him from God to perform that which he has promised and sealed. By all which we may see (that howsoever the sacraments be unto unbelievers, even as a mystery and a hidden thing) that the believer having been soundly instruct therein beholds much, both for the strengthening of his faith, and his encouragement and a godly life.

The Two Sacraments

            First, this may be seen particularly in the two sacraments. For the faithful Christian which has been baptized as he by his in-grafting into Christ is one with him, and therefore while Christ lives [the believer] must live also. So he having thereby prepared union and fellowship with them, as drawing strength and grace from him, even as the branch from the vine. By this we mean that the power of his death for the mortifying of sin and virtue of his resurrection and raising them up to newness of life. So that baptism throughout his life must needs be a forcible means to help him forward in a Christian course, as often as he does duly consider it.

The Lord’s Supper

            Second, likewise but the Lord’s Supper is an excellent help, we may see in three particulars:

A. In preparation to it.

B. In the present use of it.

C. In the time which follows after.

Preparing for the Lord’s Supper

The first consists in the trial that every man ought to take of himself, concerning his knowledge both in general and particular; his faith in God’s promises; his diligent endeavor for the removing and subduing of all sin; and for readiness in any duty, his love toward all men; and lastly, concerning his hungering after the sacrament, and the benefit which God offers by it.

These properties if he finds to be in himself, he is a fit and welcome guest to the Lord’s Table. But if through sloth, forgetfulness, darkness, corruption and weakness, these graces be weakened, dimmed and decayed,  he may not rashly put forth himself in that case, but speedily seek to recover himself again, by searching the ground in serious renewing of his faith and repentance. Which things being so, it cannot be but that this kind of preparation must be a singular help to those that enjoy it.

Receiving the Lord’s Supper

So likewise at the supper itself, where he may, and ought to meditate on the dainties of the banquet, and the love of him that ordained it; on the communion which he has with Christ and his graces; and on the outward signs what they assure him of; and on the Word preached, which shows him all this. When as by the applying of these things he comes to be comforted and make glade, or rather to be relieved quickened in his soul with the spiritual dainties which by true faith he feeds upon; how can he but praise and bless the author of this banquet? How can he but be much heartened and set toward Christ and a Christian course?

 After the Lord’s Supper

It is also the same force after the receiving of it (where right use is made of it according to God’s appointment) to the remembrance in due consideration of the kindness of God therein offered and reaped, easily to carry on the servant of God and a fervent desire of all well doing, be heartened and strengthen thereunto, even as a man well refreshed with his meat is made strong to labor: so that he which is not made more able to conquer his lusts and weaken the strength of sin, and is not more hardened to the life of godliness by these sacraments, does abuse them, and sees not God’s purpose in ordaining them.

Public Prayer

            The public prayers solemnly offered to God and the congregation and praising of him with  Psalms is another of these public helps. For when beside our own private supplication and thanksgiving, we have by the Lord himself appointed these also in public, and that in so solemn [serious, not glum]  a manner, the whole assembly consenting with us in the same, and God present among us to assist us, as he will, because the very ordinance of God does promise a special blessing thereto, as often as we are partakers of them, so that if we come with reverence, feeling our desires, earnestly desiring and trusting to obtain the things we pray for, together with true repentance, we shall receive fruit of them accordingly, even that good refreshing, whereby in private we shall be more cheerfully bent to serve him.

            So that neither any prejudicate opinion concerning the minister’s person (though he be dumb [unspeaking], or otherwise offensive) nor yet any rash judgment of reading a set form of prayer, or anything of this like kind, ought to hinder us from these public duties[1]; neither ought the private helps to be neglected of us upon any pretense, without which the public are but cold.[2]

 

 


[1]  At this time, many people had serious differences of opinion concerning the proper conduct and content of public worship, such as whether it was appropriate to use a written prayer in public worship. Baynes sees public worship as so very important that one should not avoid it on the ground that one disagrees with some matter of the form of worship.

[2] If one is not in good spiritual health prior to coming to public service, the public service will not have its full weight and good for us.

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