Commentary Upon Lamentations, Chapter 1

Commentary Upon Lamentations · Chapter 1

p. 1The first Chapter.

THis Prophet purposing to expresse in most patheticall maner, the marucilous change that GOD had wrought in the estate of his people, by turning their famous prosperity into most woefull calamitie, dooth vndertake the person of one astonished at a moste lamentable and suddaine spectackle. For God hauing said of Ierusalem, This is my rest for euer, here will I dwell, for I hauehave a delight therein, Psal. 132. 14. And yet notwithstanding the Citie was rased from the foundation and vtterlie destroyed, the Temple spoyled by the heathen and consumed with fire, the King caried away captiue, his children first p. 2killed before his face, the Nobles murthered and the people scattered hither and thither, being the scumme of the world, and a derision to all Nations, wherethey did become; it gaue such cause of amazednesse and astonishment, that the Prophet beginneth and proceedeth his speech in such manner as followeth.

[How] that is, in what wonderfull maner, and by what strange meanes [doth the citie] i. Ierusalem that famous place, Verse. 1.being the praise of the whole earth, and terror to all Nations, being by Gods owne commaundement begun and perfected by those famous Kings so much feared and obeyed Dauid and Salomon [remaine solitarie] that is, her walles are cast downe, her houses decayed, her streetes grow…uer with grasse, none comming thither or going thence [That was full of people] that is, heretofore euerie house was inhabited, eueryevery street replenished with commers and goers, great concourse and accesse of all kinde of people was there to be seene, from al Nations both farre & neere [she that is as a widdow] that is, she is as a woman hauing lost her husband not sought vntounto by any, but mourning in a desolate corner [she that was great among the Nations] that is, not onelyonly of mightie power and authoritie, but also of great accompt and estimation, by reason of her famous victories against her foes, and that renowned Temple so sumptuouslie builded to the praise and seruice of God [and Princes among the Prouinces] that is, hauing many Nations subiect vntounto her, and paying yearely tribute; which was especiallie in the time of Dauid and Solomon. 1. Chron. 18. 6, &c. 2. Chron. 8. 7. [is made tributarie] that is, is constrayned to become a slaue to other Nations, and to pay them tribute, in token ofsubiection to them, read 2. Kings 24 and 25. Chap. and 2. Chron. 36.

The doctrines that are to be learned out of this verse.

Doctrine. GEnerallie out of the whole verse. God often altereth the outward estate of his Church in this 1world. The truth of this doctrine appeareth, not only by the p. 3examples of the scripture, especiallie in the Israelites and the Apostles; but also the stories of latter times and euen by dailie experience. The causes moouing him thereunto are; first, that he might dailie declare himselfe the disposer and gouernour of all things: secondlie, to take from vsus (that doe naturallie settle our affections in the earth) all occasion of promising our selues any certaintie heere. The vse of this doctrine is; first, to prepare our selues to all conditions, whether prosperitie or aduersitie, sicknes or health. &c. according to the example of the Apostle Phil. 4. 11. 12. for else it is certaine that affliction cōming vponupon vsus, will be most grieuous and intolerable. Secondlie, to teach vsus to settle our affections vponupon heauen and the things that leade thereunto, which is a most certaine anchor-holde, and will neuer faile vsus, as this world will doe, euen in the most excellent things thereof.

Doctrine. [How] the maner of the speech teacheth this 2doctrine. It is our duetie to striue with our selues to bee affected with the miseries of Gods people. 2. Chron. 11. 28. 29. The reason hereof is; for that we are fellow-members of one bodie whereof Christ is the head. 1. Cor. 12. 25. 26 &c. The vse of this doctrine is; first, to reproue them that seeke onelie for their owne good, not respecting the state of their brethren. Secondlie, to teach vsus to put on tender compassion and labour (according to our callings) to profite the whole church of God and euerie member thereof: els cannot we assure our selues to bee liuelie members of that bodie.

Doctrine. [was] God giueth sometimes vntounto his church 3an outward estate that flourisheth both in wealth and peace. This appeareth in the example of this people, especiallie in the time of Solomon and other kings after him. The reasons hereof are; First, that he might giuegive his people a taste, euen of all kinde of earthly blessings. Deut. 28. 2. &c. Psal. 84. 11. Secondly, that they might hauehave all oportunitie to serue him, and eueryevery kinde of encouragement thereunto. The vse hereof is; first, to reproue the follie of Fryers and Iesuites that vndertake a continual voluntary pouerty, and afflicting of their own bodies, seeing eueryevery mēber is to be partaker of the common p. 4blessings that God bestoweth vponupon his church. Secondly, it confuteth the opinion of them that thinke the Church of God to be alwaies vnderunder the crosse outwardly. Thirdly, it techeth vsus to prayse the Lord that vseth all kinde of meanes to manifest his louelove vntounto his seruāts, which praise must be doubled by vsus if we enioie any share of this outward prosperitie.

Doctrine. [remaine solitarie that was, &c.] The outward 4flourishing estate of Gods Church lasteth not alwaies, but is often changed into affliction and aduersity. This appeareth by the whole course of the scriptures: for the reason and causes hereof see the first doctrine. The vse is; to teach vsus, to make the time of our peace most profitable vntounto vsus, to further vsus in the waies of godlinesse; else, in aduersitie wee either fall away, or at least the burthen will seeme intolerable vntounto vsus as wee see it is to such as promise to themselues continuall prosperitie.

Doctrine, [solitarie, ful, &c.] God often changeth the condition 5of his seruants in this life, from one extreame to another: examples hereof; Ioseph, from imprisonment to the estate of a Prince. Iob, from great riches and honour to extreame pouertie and reproach; the Israelites from intolerable seruitude in Aegypt, to the most renoumed amongst the Nations. The reasons of it are, First, that his mightie power might appeare to all the world, especiallie to his Church▪ Secondlie, that we may learne to ascribe all vntounto his Maiestie, and nothing to our selues or any other. The vse is, to teach vsus not to build vponupon anie thing in this life, seeing it is so subiect to change; but in all things to feare and serue him that soe wee may hauehave comfort whether in wealth or want.

Doctrine. [Was full of people] It is a great blessing of God for a Nation to bee populous Gene. 12. 2. The vse is, to reproue 6them that murmur at the multitude of people in this land; and to teach vsus to acknowledg it among the rest of Gods blessings bestowed vponupon this land at this instant.

Doctrine. [Princesse among, &c.] God often maketh his people in their prosperitie most admired of all people in the 7world; this was verefied in the Israelites often; and is seene p. 5vsuallie in experience: the reason, First, that God may shew himselfe to louelove his seruants: secondlie, that the godly may knowe that godlinesse is not without rewarde, euen in this life: thirdlie, that the wicked may hauehave all excuse taken from them, in that they are not allured to religion by such notable spectacles of Gods louelove to them that feare him. The vse is, to teach vsus whensoeuer the Lord dooth so, either for our selues or others, to breake out into the praise of his holy name, and to growe in strength and courage to performe eueryevery good duetie of our calling.

Doctrine. [is made tributarie] God often humbleth his 8seruants vnderunder all his foes and their aduersaries; this was notablie verefied by this people in Aegypt, and in this place. The reason is; their disobedience to his word. Deut. 28. 36. 37. The vse is; first, to shew vntounto vsus how great Gods anger is for sinne, that dooth punish it so seuerelie, euen in his dearest children▪ secondly, to teach vsus not to measure the fauour of God towards our selues or others by the blessings or aduersities of this life seeing the wicked doe often flourish when the godlie are in great miserie, Psal. 73. 4, &c. and on the other side, the godlie doe prosper when the wicked are in great distresse, Iosua, 5. 1. &c.

[She] that is, Ierusalem [weepeth] that is, for griefe of her Verse 2.prosperitie lost, and crosses vponupon her, she breaketh out into teares [continuallie] that is not for a moment but without intermission [in the night] that is, her griefe is so great that it constraineth her to weepe when she should sleepe and refresh her wearinesse with rest [her teares runne downe her cheekes] that is, her weeping is in such aboundance, as it causeth riuers of teares to distill from her eyes [among all her louers] that is, her neighbour Nations in league with her, the strangers that sought to her from farre, and merchants that resorted to her [she hath none to comfort her] that is, they doe vtterlie withdraw themselues from her, denying her all kinde of succour [all her friends] i. such as were most inward with her, and beholding to her [hauehave dealt treacherously with her] i. she trusting to them for helpe, they hauehave hindred her [and p. 6are her enemies] i. become her foes and doe her as much harme as they are able to doe.

Doctrine. [weepeth] according to the measure of Gods 1correcting hand vponupon vsus must our griefe be. The reason, first, because God is sure to be (at the least) so angrie as his rods are heauie. Secondly, our sinnes doe cause him to afflict vsus, which we must repent of according to the measure of Gods anger against them appearing by his smiting of vsus. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that remaine vnrepentant, when the correcting hand of God is vponupon them: secondly, to teach vsus to increase in sorrowe and lamentation, seeing the troubles of the Church in generall, and our owne crosses in particular be daily increased.

Doctrine. [weepeth] weeping for sinne and the punishments 2thereof is such a signe of true repentance, as we must labor to shew forth, especiallie in the times of our calamitie common with the rest of Gods Church. The reason, first, because the heart appeareth then to be truelie affected when it breaketh out into teares. Secondly, the godlie hauehave alwaies (especially in the dayes of their humiliation by fasting and prayer) been brought thereunto, Ioel 2. 12. The vse is, to reprooue our corruption, that can easilie be brought to weepe for a worldly losse, but hardly for our sinnes, and the punishment thereof; which hardnesse of heart we must labour against with all diligence, carefullie vsing all the meanes that God hath appointed thereunto.

Doctrine. [none to comfort her] It is a grieuous plague to lack comforts in affliction; the contrary whereof is an exceeding 3blessing. The reason, because, first, the comfortable wordes and deedes of others will mitigate the sense of the miserie. Secondly, it addeth vntounto the griefe to be left alone in it. The vse is, first, to shew vntounto vsus, that Gods people, whome he loueth, may be left destitute of all worldly friends, and yet remaine in his fauour, as this people were: secondly, to teach vsus to magnifie the name of God, and to esteeme our affliction very light vntounto vsus, seeing we hauehave so many freinds so willing and readie to do any thing for vsus.

p. 7Doctrine. [dealt treacherously] It is an intolerable griefe to hauehave freinds become soes. The reason, because, first, we put 4great trust in our freinds and promise to ourselues much assistance by them. Secondly, they hauing been most inward with vsus, may doe vsus more harme then those that we hauehave alwaies esteemed enemies. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to take heed with what men we make freindship. Secondly, not to be dismaied though our freinds become our foes, seeing it hath been often the lot of the godly, but to seeke to God the more earnestly for his assistance.

Doctrine, [none] God often leaueth his people destitute of all outward helpe and comfort. The reasons hereof see 5vers. 1. Doctr. 5. The vse is, to teach vsus to rest vponupon him alone, at whose disposition all things are, and not vponupon anie outward thing, seeme it neuer so glorious to our outward eyes.

[Iudah] i. the inhabitants of the kingdome [goeth away] Verse 3.i. willingly leaue their countrey, goods and dwelling, [because of affliction] i. extremity of troubles [and great seruitude] i. extremitie of slauerie that they are in [she dwelleth among the heathen] i. is constrained to liue among the Idolatrous and godlesse people [and findeth no rest] i. no courteous entertainment or kindnes, which naturally is shewed to straungers [all her persecutors tooke her in the straits] i. whosoeuer set themselues against her, tooke her at the most aduantage to hurt her.

Doctrine. [goeth away] the outward thinges of this life 1are the soonest lost (and those that are furthest from the minde, the soonest of all) and being enioyed, they are the most vncertaine. The reasons are, because, first, they are most subiect to all kinde of enemies. Secondly, God knoweth that we may best want them. The vse is, first, that we learne to make least accoūt of them, as things without which we may be perfectly happie: Secondly, to endeuour most of all to obtaine the true knowledge and feare of God, which is the treasure layde vp in heauen, which the thiefe cannot steale, Matth. 6. 19. 20.

p. 8Doctrine. [goeth away, &c.] It is naturall for a man to seeke to better his outward estate, and his duety to seek farre 2and neere for the freedome and rest of conscience, 2. Chro. 11. 13. to 17. The vse to teach vsus, first, that they are without naturall affection, that regard not, or will take no paines to better their outward estate, (& if they hauehave a familie) worse then Infidels if they prouide not for them, 1. Timothie 5. 8. &c. Secondly, to shew vsus, that if we cannot enioy the benefite of Gods word and sacraments in peace where we are, we ought to remoue our dwellings, and neither make our selues matter of continuall trouble, by holding our dwellings with allother inconueniences, nor contēt our selues with those corruptions or wants that vsually are at home where we dwell.

Doctrine. [among the heathen, &c.] It is better to liue 3any where then in our own countrey where our gouernours seeke to oppresse vsus. The reason is, for that their hatred being assisted with their might, will neuer let vsus liue in any tolerable peace. The vse is, to teach vsus to giuegive place vntounto violence, if by no other meanes the rulers will bee appeased with vsus.

Doctrine. Of two euils (if neither be sinfull) we may and ought to choose the lesse, to auoyd the greater. The reason 4is, because we must ease our owne burthen as much as may be. The vse is to teach vsus, to pray to God for wisdome, that we may be able to discerne of things as they are, and for power to doe accordingly.

Doctrine. [norest] It is grieuous and dangerous to dwell among the vngodlie. The reason is, because, first, they can 5administer no matter of true comfort vntounto vsus, whereas all their waies be full of offence. Secondly, they are strong to drawe vsus to euill, and we weake to shunne their ill example. The vse is to teach vsus, first, neuer to take any delight in their companie, but to mourne if we be constrained to dwell with them. Psal. 120. 5. &c. Secondly, to auoyde their companie to the vttermost of our power, and where we cannot, to suspect euen their friendship.

Doctrine. [findeth no rest] When God meaneth to punish p. 96hee stirreth vp meanes, but when he meaneth it not, the meanes shall not prosper: the reason is, because all things are at his disposition, and can bring nothing to passe further then he giueth power thereunto. The vse is, to teach vsus alwaies to seeke vntounto the Lord for any thing that wee would hauehave, or would be ryd of, and not rest vponupon the outward meanes as is the maner of naturall men.

Doctrine. [no rest] There is no place or meanes to escape 7Gods hand, when he meaneth to punish. The reason is, because he is eueryevery where, and cannot be fled from. Psal▪ 139. 7. &c. The vse is, to teach vsus to endeuour to walke vprightlie as in his presence, alwaies remembring that he seeth vsus, and we cannot flee from him.

Doctrine. [all her persequutors, &c.] There is no kinde of 8people so generallie and so euill intreated in their aduersitie, as the godlie. The reason is, because, first, the world which euer hateth them, hath then opportunitie to satisfie their raging malice vponupon them: secondly, God then meaneth to trie them throughlie. The vse is to teach vsus, to prepare our selues to beare all extremities in this life, and not to think it strange when we are euill intreated, seeing it hath euer been the Lot of the godlie; as both the examples of scriptures, and the latter times doe witnesse.

Doctrine. [tooke her] This people seemeth to be vtterly ouerthrowne for euer, and yet they returned into their land, 9and became a common wealth againe: so is it often with the Church of God, Psal. 139. 1. &c. The reason is, for that they be often brought vntounto so exceeding miserie in outward appearance. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, neuer to despayre, though our calamities be neuer so many and grieuous: secondly, that there is no assured safetie, but in the true feare of God, but if we hauehave it, we are sure to ouercome

[The waies of Sion] i. the pathes that leade to the temple Verse. 4.built vponupon mount Sion [Lament] i. looke not so beated as heretofore, but are green with grasse and out of their kindelie order; a figuratiue speech [because no man commeth] i. there is no such recourse [to the solemne feastes] i. the speciall p. 10times that were appointed for sacrifices, Psal. 42. 4. [all her gates are desolate] i. no comming in and going out at the gates, as heretofore [her priests sigh] i. the sonnes of Aaron that were appointed to the ministerie of the worde and sacrifices doe lament, for that none come to the sacrifices as in former times [her virgins are discomfited] i. those that are least subiect to sorrowe are greatly grieued [shee is in heauinesse] i the whole nation of all estates and ages are filled with sorrowe and lamentation.

Doctrine. [waies of Sion] The ouerthrowe of the common 1wealth bringeth with it the ouerthrowe of the Churches outward peace. The reason is, because, first, the peace of the Church ariseth from the peace of the common wealth. Ierem. 29. 7. &c. The members of the Church being also members of the common wealth, must needes hauehave a share in the common calamitie thereof. I he vse is, to teach vsus, first, to seeke the peace of the common wealth, that we may obtaine peace vntounto the Church, and not to rebell against or reuile the gouernours thereof. Secondly, to learne to mourne when we see iustice peruerted in the common wealth, being assured that it will tend to the ouerthrow of religion if God stay it not in time.

Doctrine [Lament because, &c.] When the things that 2God hath giuen vsus here are not applied to the appointed vse, we hauehave iust cause to mourne, seeing our sinnes hauehave caused the let thereof, Deut. 28. 15. &c. to the end, Isaiah 13. 19, &c. The vse is, first, to giuegive vsus cause of mourning that hauehave heretofore enioyed many good things, and are now shut vp from the vse of them, and they lye waste not profitable for our selues or any other. Secondly, to teach vsus, not to hoard or any waies to abuse any of Gods blessings, least they be made vtterly vnprofitable vntounto vsus or our posteritie.

Doctrine. [waies of Sion] The earth and earthly things doe often admonish men of their sinnes, either by denying that 3comfort which naturally they bring with them, Leuit. 18. 25. or bringing griefe or punishment with them. Mich. 2. 10. The reason is, because, first, God hath made all his creatures p. 11as written bookes, wherein man may reade his sinnes: secondly, that man may hauehave no shewe of excuse left him at that great day of accompt. The vse is to teach vsus, first, how odious and vgly a thing sinne is, that peruerteth the course of nature in Gods creatures; and therefore must seeme much more vile vntounto vsus, that are the committers thereof: secondly, that there is no way to escape intollerable punishment for sinne, but by vnfained repentance, seeing all Gods creatures are able to witnesse against vsus.

Doctrine. [Lament, &c.] All Gods creatures mourne 4when God is disobeyed, and reioyce when he is obeyed by his people. The reason is, because all things were created to obey him in their kinde, and for the vse of man, being also obedient, which end is peruerted by the sinne of man. The vse is to teach vsus, first, that man by sinne is made the worst of Gods creatures: secondly, that we must alwaies labour to loath and forsake sinne, that maketh vsus so detestable before God and all his workes.

Doctrine. [no man commeth] The seruice of God is not tyed 5to any place, but vponupon condition of their obedience that dwell therein. Ierem. 26. 4. &c. The reason is, because God himselfe is not tied to any people, nor respecteth any persons but such as feare him, Acts 10. 34 35. The vse is, first, to reprooue the vaine boasting of the papists in their pretensed chaire of Peter, like the wicked Priests among the Iewes, Ierem. 7. 4. which was most vaine, though that place had glorious promises, Psal. 87. 1. 2. whereas Rome hath vtterly none: Secondly, to teach vsus not to put any confidence in any earthly priuiledges to shelter vsus in our sinnes, but to turne vntounto the Lord with all our hearts.

Doctrine. [The Priests mourne] It is a great griefe to Gods 6ministers to be depriued of their ministerie, or to see it vnprofitable to the Church, Ioel. 2. 12. Ieremy 15. 10. The reason is, because, first, God is greatly dishonored thereby: secondly, it giueth occasion of interrupting all good things among the people, and matter of all kindes of sinne, as we see by experience. The vse is, first, to reproue them (as farre from p. 12this feeling) that doe so easilie displace or set themselues against Gods ministers; secondly, to teach both that minister who is thus dealt with, and that people to whome his ministerie belonged, to mourne when such a crosse is laide vponupon them; seeing it is an action that God vsuallie causeth to bee done for the sinne of contempt or abuse of his holy worde.

Doctrine. [Priests] The ministers must be guides to the 7people, to leade them to mourning (when there is cause) as also to all other dueties: the reason is, because God hath not onelie appointed them to teach the people, but also to be a patterne vntounto them of all goodnesse. Tit. 2. 7. The vse is, first, to bewaile the woefull estate of the Church, with vsus that is so pestered with ignorant, idle, and vngodly ones, in steade of Gods ministers: secondly, to stirre vp all those that God hath enabled vntounto this high calling, to growe more and more in the performance of all good dueties, to the good example of their flocks.

Doctrine. [virgins] They that seeme most exempt from it 8must mourne at the decaye of religion: the reason is, for that it concerneth Gods glorie, and eueryevery mans saluation. The vse is, first, to reproue them that lay not to heart the distresses of Gods people for the trueth, thinking it sufficient, that themselues liue in safetie. Secondly, to teach vsus to striue to bee grieued when wee heare of the decaye of the religion in any place, though it be safe where we are.

Doctrine. [in heauinesse, &c.] The greatest losse that can 9befall Gods people, is the losse of the exercise of the worde and Sacraments. The reason is, because God hath appointed them to be the meanes of begetting, and confirming faith in vsus. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that thinke they may be without the same well enough: secondly to teach vsus to care for it aboue all things; esteeming it the fielde for the buying whereof we will sell all that we hauehave Matth. 13 44,

[Her aduersaries] i. those that oppresse her, and desire her destruction [are the chiefe▪ i. hauehave rule ouer her, Deut. 28 13. Verse 5.[her enemies prosper] i. they that hate her doe easily preuaile p. 13and doe what they list [for the Lord hath afflicted her for the multitude of her trāsgressiōs] i. God being angry with her sins and purposing to punish them in her, hath giuen strength to the enemie to preuaile against her [her children] i. euen those that for their tender yeares should hauehave been spared if there had beene anie compassion in them [are gone into captiuity] are caried away into a farre cuntrey, to be made slaues [before the enemie] i. they in triumph and hatred driuing them before them as Cattell.

Doctrine. [her aduersaries] The cause apparant of all the 1miseries of Gods people is the prospering and preuailing of their enemies. This appeareth manifestly by the examples of all ages and euen by daily experience. The reason is, because, the enemy seeketh to please himself in sinne, and to suppresse all goodnes, as being a hinderance thereunto: but the godlie is of a contrarie disposition. The vse is, to teach vsus to mourne when the Lord giueth the enemies of the trueth the vpper hand against the godlie.

Doctrine. [aduersaries chiefe &c.] It oftentimes cōmeth to 2passe that the wicked prosper in all things of this life, and the godly contrarie. Psal. 73. 4. &c. Iob. 21. 7. The reason is, because, first, God wil by giuing them prosperitie make the wicked without excuse. Secondly, the godly being assured of Gods fauour and yet pinched, they may the more earnestlie bend their affections to the enheritance which is prepared for them. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, not to admire too much the successe of wordlings: secondly, to assure vsus that, that estate cannot last long, and therfore to teach vsus patience, Psal. 73. 18. 24.

Doctrine. [aduersaries enemies] the hebrew wordes signifie properly, oppressors and haters: teaching vsus, that it is the 3naturall disposition of the wicked towards the godly, to oppresse them in action and hate them in affection: this hath appeared true in all ages. The reason is, because of the vnappeaseable malice of Sathan and the wicked his instrumentes against the godly. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, how to esteeme of all that are enemies to religion, though they cary p. 14neuer so faire a shew of frendship to vsus: secondly, to be carefull that we walke wiselie towards them, neuer prouoking them, and yet neuer giuing anie aduantage to them against vsus.

Doctrine. [for the Lord &c] The wicked neuer preuaile against the godly, further then the Lord giueth strength vntounto 4them, Iob. 1. 11. 12. 1. King. 22. 22. Math. 8. 31. 32. The reason is, because, all power is of God, and euerie one of his creatures hauehave their bounds giuen them of him, which they cannot passe. The vse is to teach vsus, first, not to feare man but God, from whome his power commeth: secondly, to labour to be at one with the Lord, and then shall all creatures worke to our good. Rom. 8. 28. Psalme. 91. 1.

Doctrine. [the Lord hath &c] In all our afflictions we must 5not looke to the instruments but to the Lord that smiteth by them. The godly hauehave euer done so. Ioh 1, 21. 2. Sam. 16. 10. Acts. 4. 28. The reason is, because, they hauehave no power against vsus, except it be giuen them from aboue, Iohn. 19. 11. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to bee more patient towards the instruments, and not to be as the dogg that snatcheth at the stone cast at him, not regarding the thrower. Secondly, to seeke the cause of our afflictions in our selues; for els the iust Iudge of the world would not correct vsus.

Doctrine. [afflicted her &c] All our afflictions come from 6the Lord, who is the chiefe worker thereof. The reason is, because, all power is in his hand. The vse is to teach vsus, in sicknesse, heauinesse, &c. not to seeke vntounto the Phisitian, Musicke or such like; but first vntounto the Lord by true repentance, and then to these as second causes.

Doctrine. [for the &c] It is the sinne of the godly that causeth 7the Lord to lay all their troubles vponupon them; so hath the Church euer confessed. Dan. 9. 5. Nehem. 1. 6. Psal. 78. The vse is to teach vsus, first, how horrible sinne is in Gods sight, that causeth him to correct so seuerelie those that he loueth so dearely: & therefore we must hate it with a perfect hatred. Secondly, whensoeuer we are afflicted to examine our selues, and finding out our sinnes, repent therof and leaue them; vntill p. 15which time (if God louelove vsus) he will neuer leaue smiting of vsus.

Doctrine. [multitude] when God withdraweth his strēgth 8from his seruants they fall into many grieuous sinnes, one in the necke of another: so did Dauid, from adulterie to making of Vriah drunke, after to murther him: and Peter, first to deny his maister: then to forsweare him: after to curse himselfe if euer he knew him. The reason is, because we hauehave no custody of our selues. The vse is, to teach vsus, to labor to keep a good conscience in eueryevery thing, lest we fall from sinne to sinne, and at length make conscience of nothing.

Doctrine. [her children] when God meaneth to punish 9man, he will not spare to depriue him of that which is most deare vntounto him. The reason is, because, the Lord meaneth to humble him sufficiently. The vse is, to teach vsus, that whensoeuer the Lord dealeth so with vsus, it is because of the hardnes of our harts that otherwise wil not be thorowly softned; and therefore to take it patiently.

Doctrine. [are gone &c] The wicked beare such malice 10vntounto the truth, that when they get aduantage, they spare neither age, nor sex, thinking to roote out the godly from vnderunder heauen. The reason is, as Doctr. 3. The vse is, not to thinke our selues forsaken of God, though we should fall into the hands of such spoilers, seeing it hath been the lot of his dearest children heretofore.

[And from the daughter of Sion] i. the people of Ierusalem Verse 6.[all her beautie is departed] i. she hath lost al her glorie as the temple and the seruice of God in it [her princes] i. her rulers. [are become like hartes] i. pyned away and hauing lost al courage [that find no pasture] i. being vtterly impouerished [and they are gone without strength before the pur suer] i. caried into captiuitie without power or courage to make any resistance.

Doctrine. [her beautie] The Church of God doth esteeme 1the exercises of religion the most excellent and glorious thing that can be had in this life. The reason is, because, first, they are notable signes of Gods fauor and presence. Secondly, p. 16there is more true comfort in them, then in the whole worlde besides. The vse is, to teach vsus to esteeme them accordingly (if we wil prooue our selues liuely members of the Church of God) and to be more grieued with the losse thereof (if they be taken from vsus) then of all worldly blessings whatsoeuer.

Doctrine. [her Princes] the weakning of the Rulers is the 2height of miserie vponupon the rest of the members of that body. The reason is, for that without the strength and authority of the gouernours, the rest are exposed to the violence of all their enemies, and contrary. The vse is to teach vsus, to pray heartely for them, and to maintaine their strength and countenance to the vttermost, that vnderunder their winges we may finde shelter against the iniuries of our enemies, that otherwise wil spoyle vsus.

Doctrine. That people hath a heauie iudgement vponupon 3them, whose guides are destitute, and depriued of necessary courage. The reason is, because their authoritie and example lead the rest (as we see in Magistrates and ministers) which otherwise are easily quailed in any good thing. The vse is, to teach vsus to pray vntounto God that our magistrates and ministers may neuer want courage to do as they should, and to bewayle the want of it wheresoeuer it appeareth.

Doctrine. [are become, &c.] They that hauehave the greatest outward priuiledge doe often come the soonest into 4distresse when God punisheth for sinne, Amos 6. 7. The reason is, because, first, they hauehave taken more liberty to sinne as not being subiect to controlment. Secondly, they should hauehave been guides and examples of all goodnesse to their inferiours, but prooue (often) cleane contrary. The vse is to teach vsus, first, how vaine a thing it is for a man of authoritie or wealth, to promise to himselfe any immunity of punishment because thereof. Secondly, that the more we are adorned with outward priuiledges, the more carefully wee ought to take heede to our wayes, lest our iudgement proue heauier then it should hauehave been if we had been of meaner condition.

p. 17[Ierusalem] i. the people dwelling in Ierusalem [remembred] i. carefully called to minde [in the dayes of her affliction and mourning] i. when distresses and great sorrowe was vponupon her [all her pleasant things that shee had in times past] i. those blessings which in great aboundance she had enioyed [when her people fell into the hand of the enemie] i. their aduersaries had rule ouer them [and none did helpe her] i. all being against her, and none succouring her [the aduersarie sawe her] i. gazed vponupon her as at a monster [did mocke at her Sabbaoths] derided the exercises of religion, that shee had vsed.

Doctrine. [in the dayes] In the time of affliction wee doe better consider of the blessings that our prosperity yeelded 1vntounto vsus, then when wee enioyed them The reason is; because prosperity maketh vsus secure, but aduersity maketh vsus to knowe our selues, and what we hauehave lost. The vse is, to shewe vsus our naturall corruption in abusing prosperitie, which wee must striue against in the time of our peace or it will bee the more intolerable vntounto vsus when God affliceth vsus.

Doctrine. [remembred] the time of aduersity is fit, wherein we may best recount the prosperity that in former times 2we hauehave enioyed. The reason is; because, first, our iudgements are the more sound: secondly, we shall the better be affected with our present crosse, and the losse of former blessings, which is our duety. The vse is to teach vsus, that affliction is necessary for vsus, which we must striue to take patiently and to learne to profit by it.

Doctrine. [none did, &c.] God often maketh all men aduersaries to his children. The reason is, that they may learne 3to rest on God alone; and not in the helpe of any man. The vse is to teach vsus, so to vse the meanes that may be found lawfull to further vsus, as yet we seeke to God alone for his blessing vponupon them, and to rest vponupon him though they be against vsus.

Doctrine. [sawe her and did mocke her] The enemies of religion 4doe enquire into the decay of Gods Church, and reioyce p. 18at it. The reason is; because, they hate the trueth and desire the destruction of the professors of it. The vse is, to teach vsus to mourne whensoeuer it falleth so out, seeing our sinnes doe procure the same.

Doctrine. [did mocke] It is a certaine note of an enemie to religion, to mocke and deride the exercises of the same: the 5reason is, because, their inward disposition is manifested by their outward behauiour. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to measure our louelove to the trueth, by our reuerence that we yeeld to the exercises thereof: secondly, to knowe them for enemies to the trueth, that scorne the same, and to shun them: thirdly, to learne to mourne when we see the mouth of the enemy opened to reproach the trueth and professors thereof. Nehem. 1. 2. &c.

[Ierusalem] i. the people dwelling in Ierusalem [hath grieuously sinned] i. multiplied their sinnes in greatnes and Verse 8.number [therefore she is driuen away] hebr. in commotion. i. remooued from certaine to vncertaine condition [all that honored her] i. did reuerently esteeme of her, when her waies pleased the Lord [despise her] i. doe contemne and disdaine her [because they hauehave seene her filthinesse] i. her nakednesse, being spoyled of her ornaments, and made filthy by her sinnes [yea she sigheth] i. vttereth the griefe of her heart by sighing [and is turned backward] i. driuen from her priuiledges, and so from the signes of being neere vntounto God.

Doctrine. [hath sinned] their sinnes the cause of their afflictions, being againe mentioned vntounto them, teacheth this 1doctrine. It is necessary whensoeuer we are afflicted to recount often, our sinnes to hauehave procured the same to fall vponupon vsus: the reason is, because, first, we are naturally vnwilling to blame our selues for any thing, and ready to impute the cause of any euill to others. Examples, Adam and Heuah, Gen. 3. 12. 13. &c. Secondly, if we rightlie charge our selues and our sinnes, we shall be the better prepared thereby to true repentance, and right humiliation. The vse, first, to reprooue them that being afflicted are hardened, or rage against the instrumentes that God vseth to correct them: secondly, p. 19to teach vsus to vse all good meanes to drawe vsus to be rightly humbled when we feele any of Gods rods vponupon vsus.

Doctrine. [therefore] it is peculiar to the godlie to impute the cause of all their miseries vntounto their owne sinnes; whereas 2the wicked doe either lay the cause vponupon other things, or extenuate their fault, blaming God of rigour; or else breake out into raging impatience or blasphemie. The reason is, because, the godlie hauehave Gods spirit to teach them to iudge rightlie of themselues; the wicked are led by Sathans direction, and iudge according to their owne sensuall and brutish conceites. The vse is, to teach vsus, earnestly to pray vntounto the Lord alwaies to guide vsus by the light of his spirit, else shall we be sure to mistake euerie thing to our owne destruction.

Doctrine. [driuen away] it is our sinne that depriueth vsus of 3anie good thing that we hauehave heretofore enioyed. The reason is, because, first, God created vsus (as al other his creatures) exceeding good, and placed vsus in a certen and happie estate in all things; which we first lost by sinne and so doe continuallie: secondlie, anie kind of griefe is the peculiar fruite of sin. The vse is, to teach vsus, to acknowledg this in euerie particular; as when we are depriued of inward comfort, outward peace, health, wealth, libertie, or any other good thing appertaining either to the soule or the bodie.

Doctrine. [honored her] when we truelie feare and serue the Lord, he honoreth vsus in the sight of men. 1. Sa. 2. 30. Examples, 4Abraham, Ioseph, Dauid &c. we see the same also in often experience. The reason, first, that it may appeare, that godlinesse is not without her reward euen in this life: secondly, to giuegive a tast vntounto the godly heere, of that honor which they shall once enioy without measure or end. The vse is, to teach vsus, to praise GOD highlie when such a blessing is bestowed vponupon our selues or anie of our brethren, and not to be proud of it, as the wicked are of those good things that they doe enioy.

Doctrine. [despise her] it is our sinne that maketh vsus odious and contemptible amongst men. Examples, Israell often, 5Iudges. 2. 13. 14. 15. Manass. 2. Chron. 33. 11. &c. The vse is, p. 20to teach vsus, to be so carefull to leaue our sinnes and walke in the waies of the Lord, as we are desirous of estimation, and to auoid contempt among men.

Doctrine. [honored her, despise her] the estimation that 6the godlie hauehave among wordlings, is onelyonly whilest they are in outward prosperitie. The reason is, because they doo not esteeme them for those spirituall graces that are in them, (which they hauehave no tast of) but that outward applause that goeth withthem, which being gone, the cause why they liked them is gone also. The vse is to teach vsus, not to make any accompt of the fauour or friendship of earthlie minded men, seeing there is no certeintie in it.

Doctrine. [they hauehave seene &c.] the wicked that hauehave no 7knowledge or conscience of their own faultes, can see the offences of the godlie, and vpbraid them with them. The reason is, because, Sathan blindeth them in their owne estate, lest they should see it and repent: and imployeth their mindes wholie in prying into, and carping at the faultes of others. The vse is, first, to teach vsus, that it is not possible to hide our sinnes from the Lord, seeing that not onelie our owne consciences, but Sathan and wicked men can find them out, and accuse vsus of them. Secondly, to make vsus verie warie how we walke in the sight of the vngodlie, seeing they are so cunning in finding out our faultes, and so wide-mouthed in blazing of them to the dishonor of our holy profession.

Drctrine. [filthinesse] heb: nakednesse. There is nothing that maketh man so filthilie naked as sinne. The reason, because, 8first, it depriueth him of all those graces that did adorne him in the sight of God and men: secondly, it maketh him as if he wallowed in the most stinking and filthie mire that may be found out. The vse is to teach vsus, to hate it in all men, but especiallie in our selues with a perfect hatred, euen more then the Deuill of hell himselfe.

Doctrine. [sigheth] the godly doo take to hart with earnest affection the crosses that the Lord laieth vponupon them. The 9reason is, because, first, they esteeme them to come from the Lords hand, and therefore may not regard them lightlie. Secondly, p. 21they iudge their sinnes to hauehave angred his maiestie and procured him to smite them, which must needes greatlie grieue them. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that in the hardnesse of their hartes, passe ouer their afflictions lighlie. Secondly, to teach vsus, to labour to be seriouslie affected with our afflictions, els shall we neuer profite by them.

Doctrine. [backward] the godlie are sometimes brought 10into so hard estate, as that they are in mans iudgment vtterly depriued of all the signes of Gods fauour. The reason is, because, first of their sinnes against the Lord that hauehave deserued the same: secondly, that they may learne to know their misery, if they be left to themselues: thirdly, to trie their faith, constancy, and patience, &c. The vse is; to teach vsus, first, to looke for many great and grieuous extremities, and not to wonder at them as vnwoonted things, seeing the godly hauehave felt them before vsus: secondly, not to dispaire, though in reason al hope of recouery be past, seeing God vseth to bring light out of darkenesse, and to helpe his when they seeme to be vtterly forlorne.

[Her filthinesse] i. her vncleannesse by her sinnes [is in Verse 9.her skirtes] i. manifestly to bee seene [she remembred not her last end] i. went on carelesly not considering that shee must be called to account [therefore she came downe wonderfullie] i. therefore she growing worse and worse was punished with plagues eueryevery one more grieuous then other, and that in a sodaine and strange manner [shee had no comforter] i. not so much as one of her former friendes did any way assist her [O Lord beholde mine affliction] I beseech thee looke fauourably vponupon my most grieuous estate [for the enemie aduanceth himselfe] i. those that persecute and doe insolentlie boast, because they preuayle agaynst me.

Doctrine. [her filthinesse, &c.] In that a confession of sinnes is set before petition of fauour, we learne this doctrine; 1whensoeuer wee beg release from sinne or the punishments thereof at the hands of God, it is necessary to begin with confession of our sinnes. So did the godly vsually, Psalme 32. 5. p. 22Nehem. 1. 7. Dan. 9. 5. &c. The reason is; first, that by recounting our sinnes, our hearts may be the better stirred vp to pray feruently. Secondly, that our owne confession may iustifie the Lord in punishing vsus: Thirdly, that it may appeare that we are rightly humbled and truely penitent; which if we be not, we will be more ashamed to confesse our sinnes then to commit them. The vse is; first, to reprooue them, that either Pharisaically stand vponupon their owne righteousnesse, or hide their sinnes, thinking the confession thereof needlesse: secondly, it sheweth that those that be ignorant of Gods worde (which onelyonly teacheth the right confession of sinnes) cannot pray aright. Thirdly, it teacheth vsus alwaies before we pray (if we looke to be heard) to enter into a serious consideration of our sinnes, that wee may the more thoughly acknowledge them.

Doctrine. [skirtes] this being their estate, and yet they remaining 2the true visible Church of God, teacheth vsus this doctrine: foule spots and grosse sinnes may be in the face of a true visible Church. The reason is, because, first, the foundation may remaine though much corruption, both in doctrine and life be builded thereupon; as was in the Churches of the Iewes, Corinth, and Gallatia: and secondly, because the life and being of a Church is the faith in the couenant of grace through Christ Iesus, which may remaine entire though there be many wants and corruptions; euen as a man may, and ought to be esteemed a man so long as he hath life in him, though he be both lame, deformed, and want a leg or an arme, &c. The vse is, first, to confute their opinion which be called Brownists, who iudge the Churches of England no churches of God, because they wāt some things they should hauehave, and hauehave diuers corruptions still retayned in them. Secondly, to teach vsus, that it is not sufficient to be of the visible Church, except we labour to be partakers of the graces of God bestowed therupon, lest we be found such rotten members as (when the day of tryall commeth) shall be cut off and cast into the fire.

Doctrine. [filthinesse. She remembred not &c.] In that they p. 233were thus wicked, & yet were a true visible Church and had the dayly vse of the outward exercises of religion; we learne this doctrine: To be within the visible Church of God, and to be partakers of all the outward exercises of religion, is not surficient to lead vsus to a godly dispositiō, without the inward grace of gods spirit, nor to proue vsus true Christians without fayth and sanctification. The reason is, because, first, these outward meanes are but the instruments which God blesseth to whome he will; else are they of no force, 1. Cor. 3. 5. &c. Secondly, many are in the Church as chaffe in the barne floore, and Cockle in the field, that are not of the Church: and therefore shall be gathered out, bound in a bundle, and throwne into the fire. The vse is, to teach vsus that it is a vaine thing for vsus to say, I am a professor, wee hauehave a famous Church, &c. and in the meane while liue a prophane and wicked life. Secondly, to make vsus carefull to heare, learne and professe the trueth with an earnest care, and hearty prayer to God that wee may beleeue it and liue according to it.

Doctrine. [in her skirts] They that beleeue not Gods ministers, exhorting them to repentance (which was the 4case of these Iewes, 2. Chron. 36.) grow into the most shamelesnesse of sinne of all others. The reason is; because, first, the word is either the sauour of life to amend, or of death to make worse all that heare it, 2. Corinth. 2. 15. &c. Secondly, God in his righteous iudgement giueth ouer those that regarde not the trueth into a reprobate minde, and to commit all wickednesse with greedinesse, Rom. 1. 28. 2. Thessalo. 2. 10. The vse is, first, to shew vntounto vsus that the horrible prophanenesse that is in many that professe the trueth, is not because of the profession (as wicked ones doe blaspheme) but because they neglect the profession, sauing to make it a cloake for their wickednesse. Secondly, to teach vsus with trembling and feare to labour to walke worthy our calling, else shall it be easier for Sodome and Gomorrha in the day of account, then for vsus.

Doctrine, [remembred not her last end] They that be hardened in sinne by despising instruction, doe grow to forget p. 245those things which continuall experience, and the light of reason doe dayly call to remembrance. The reason is, because, first, the dayly custome of things without grace to esteeme them aright, breedeth contempt of them in our corrupt nature. Secondly, Sathan blindeth the children of disobedience, lest they should rightly regard good things and profite by them. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, in what fearfull estate they be, that growe full with, and are wearie of good things, such as are the hearing of the word of GOD, prayer to God, dayly meditation in the law of the Lord &c. Secondly, to labour with our selues to hauehave these and all other Gods ordinances and worke, eueryevery day in more high reuerence then other, and not to neglect the due consideration of them if they be ordinarie.

Doctrine. [remembred not] The forgetfulnesse of the reward of sinne throweth men headlong into iniquitie, but 6the remembrance of it stayeth vsus from many euils, Amos 6. 3. Psalm. 16. 8. The reason is, because, the affections hauehave no whoe, when nothing is respected but the satisfying of them, whereas the waying of the desire by the euent of it, maketh vpright iudgement the ruler of the action. The vse is, to teach vsus in al things that we purpose to take in hand, euer to remember that we must be called to account for it, before that most righteous Iudge, which will iudge of vsus by the rules of his most holy word.

Doctrine. [therefore she came downe] It is our sinne that 7procureth all those euils to fall vponupon vsus, which we can anie way bee partakers of: for the reasons and vses of this, see vers. 5. Doctr. 7.

Doctrine. [wonderfully] according to the maner and measure 8of sinne, so is the punishment from the Lord for the same, when he visiteth the committers thereof for it. The reason is, that Gods anger against sinne, and his Iustice in punishing it, might the better appeare. The vse is, to teach vsus to looke for Gods heauie hand vponupon vsus (except we repent) whensoeuer we giuegive our selues to delight in sinne, or to waxe colde in goodnesse.

p. 25Doctrine. [none to comfort her] see verse 2. doct. 3. and verse 8. doct. 7.

Doctrine. [O Lord behold mine affliction] the only refuge in 9distresse, is to flie to the Lord by faythfull & feruent prayer: the reason is, because, first, he it is that smiteth, and none else can heale. Iob 5. 18. &c. Secondly, he hath promised to heare and deliuer vsus, calling vponupon him in the day of our troubles, Psal. 50. 15. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that repyne against God, waxe impatient, or vse vnlawfull meanes to winde themselues out of their troubles. Secondly, to teache vsus, in all our distresses to labour our owne hearts, that we may pray vntounto the Lord for his grace to deliuer vsus, and in the meane while for strength to support vsus.

Doctrine. This prayer being made by the Prophet in the 10.name of the people, teacheth vsus this doctrine. It is a great blessing of God to that people that hath a minister, who is both able and willing, not onelyonly to teach them the truth, but also to be their mouth in praier to direct them. The reason is, because, first, very few of the people (though otherwise well affected) are able to conceiue prayer, and vtter the same rightly: secondly, the ministerie is Gods ordinance, not onelyonly to teach his will to vsus, but also to offer our supplications vntounto him; which he hath promised to regarde in speciall maner. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that make no account of the ministerie, or in the pride of their heart, thinke themselues as able to these duties as the minister is. Secondly, to teach vsus to praise God for it, as for an exceeding treasure, if we hauehave such a minister set ouer vsus; if he be remooued to vse all good meanes to hauehave him restored, or if that cannot be, to seeke out such another, by whose labours wee may bee builded vp in those good things that the former hath begun in vsus.

Doctrine. [beholde mine affliction] God so pittieth his people, that the view of their miseries moueth him to help them, 11euen when all men are against them; the reason is, because, first, he loueth them with an euerlasting louelove: secondly, he will not suffer them to be troden downe of their enemies for p. 26euer. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to magnifie the great and vnspeakeable mercies of the Lord our God. Secondly, neuer to dispayre though our estate be most miserable, but alwaies to be assured that his mercy shal preuaile against al our afflictions, to ad an end vntounto them, & to giuegive vsus euerlasting peace.

Doctrine. [enemie is proude] Prosperitie causeth the wicked to forget God, and to insult against his people, the reason 12is; because, first, they iudge onelyonly by the things present; and therefore thinke that themselues shall neuer be moued, nor the estate of the godly bettered. Secondly, Sathan maketh them to abuse all Gods blessings to their greater damnation. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to be carefull if riches increase, not to set our hearts vponupon them, Psal. 62. 11. Secondly, to be contented with aduersity, if God lay it vponupon vsus, seeing (thorough our corruption) there is lesse danger in it, then in prosperity.

Doctrine. [the enemie is proude] the enemies pride alleaged 13as a reason to moue the Lord to heare his people in distresse, teacheth this doctrine; The pride of the wicked, is a forcible reason to moue the Lord to cast them downe, and to deliuer the oppressed out of their hands, Isay 10. 12. The reason is; because, first, the Lord vseth the wicked as a rodde to scourge his people, and not as a tormenter to tyrannize ouer them. Secondly, God doth euer resist the proude, 1. Peter 5. 5. Luke 1. 51. Psalm. 18. 27. The vse is to teach vsus, first, in all our prayers against the enemies of the trueth, to alleage their pride vntounto the Lord, as a reason to moue him to heare vsus; for so did the godly euer vse to doe. Isay 37. 17. &c. Secondly, to assure our selues, that when the enemy groweth to the height of pride his fall cannot be farre off. Prouerbs 16. 15. and therefore with patience to waite vponupon the Lord.

[The enemie] i. those that hate the trueth & the professors thereof [hath stretched out his hand] i. expressed his greatest Verse. 10.force and violence [vponupon all her pleasant things] i. those blessings of God which she tooke moste pleasure in, that were consecrated vntounto the seruice of God in the temple [for shee hath seene the heathen] i. with her eies, she beheld the vncircumcised p. 27nations [enter into her Sanctuarie] i. violently breake into the temple that thou hadst dedicated to thy holy seruice in the midst of her [whom thou didst command] i. concerning whom thou didst giuegive commandement vntounto thy people [that they should not enter into thy Church] i. should not be receiued into reckoning among thy people.

Doctrine. [stretched out] the wicked are vsuallie mercilesse 1towards the godly, spoyling them and theirs in most cruell maner, if the Lord restreine them not. Psal. 53. 4. and 137. 7. The reason is, because of their vnmeasurable malice against them, and their exceeding desire to extinguish their memorie from being a people, Psal. 83. 4. The vse is to teach vsus, first, not to trust the wicked, nor be familiar with them though they speake neuer so kindlie to vsus. Secondly, to bee carefull to walke warily before them, left the get aduantage against vsus: thirdly, to pray dailie and earnestly to the Lord to deliuer vsus from them.

Doctrine. [vponupon all her &c.] the outward things of this world are vncertaine and made subject to the violence of the wicked (yea euen appearing members of the Church, Mich. 2. 8. 9.) the reason is, because, first, earthly things are giuen by the Lord indifferently to the godly and the wicked; which maketh them vncertaine vntounto any Secondly, outward things are not within the compasse of those blessings that God hath assured his people to enioy. Thirdly, God hath giuē to Sathan great power in this world; who setteth his seruants on worke, to spoyle all that are not of his Kingdome. The vse is, first, not to desire the things of this lise too much. So did Christ teach vsus, Matth. 6. 33. 34. Luke. 12. 33. &c. Secondly, to learne when God giueth them vntounto vsus, to employ them aright, so shall we hauehave comfort with them and without them.

Doctrine. [p̄leasant things] the outward things and means of Gods seruice are often made a pray to the enemie; especially 3vponupon our abusing of them. Ier. 7. 13. Luk. 19. 44. The reason is, because, first, God will shew himselfe the punisher of man euen in the things that he abuseth: secondly, that it may appeare that God regardeth more the punishment of euill, p. 28then the preseruation of his word, blessings, and ordinances. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that holinesse standeth not in any outward thing that man can take away, for true godlinesse cannot be shaken by men nor angels. Secondly, that GOD can saue his people without meanes when it pleaseth him to deny them the meanes.

Doctrine. [she hath seene] the iniuries that the wicked do 4vntounto the godlie in their sight, are more grieuous vntounto them then those that they do only heare of. The reason is, because, that which the sight (being the quickest of the sences) bringeth to the minde, hath deepest impressiō therein of al others. The vse is, to teach vsus (seeing it was the case of this people) to take patientlie whatsoeuer outward extremitie, the Lord giueth the wicked power to lay vponupon vsus; yea though it bee death it selfe.

Doctrine. [enter &c.] the wicked make hauocke of, and 5doe scorne all the exercises of religion. Psal. 79. 1. &c. 1. Cor. 1. 18. &c. hence it is, that silencing and imprisoning of preachers, yea vtter ouerthrow of the profession of religion, is made a matter of nothing. The reason is; because, first, they are set on worke by Sathan, that with greatest violence seeketh the ouerthrow of all good things: secondly, they be carnallie minded and cannot fauour any spirituall things. 1. Cor. 2. 14. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to discerne in those that take such courses, the wickednes of mans nature and the horrible prophanation that Sathan bringeth the children of disobedience into. Secondly, to learne to esteeme and handle all holy things most reuerently; else shall we not differ from these wicked ones.

Doctrine. [her Sanctuarie] the outward ordinances of God are of reuerent account to them that feare his name, 6Psal. 27. 4. and 84. 1. &c. Nehem. 1. 4. The reason is, because, first, they proceed from him whose actions in all things they esteeme most holie: secondly, they are the meanes that the Lord vouchsafeth to make most comfortable to his seruants. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to know them to be of no religion, that do not holilie vse these meanes. Secondly, to trie our p. 29selues what measure of Gods feare and his true religion is in vsus, by examining our selues what measure of louelove and obedience we yeeld to his ordinances appointed to that vse.

Doctrine. [whom thou &c.] those that bee open wicked 7ones are not (without their open repentance) to be admitted to the holy exercises of religion: but if they be without the Church they are so to remaine; and if they be in the Church, they are to be cast out. The reason, because, first, it is Gods ordinance so to doe, Math. 7. 6. and 1. Cor. 5. 3. &c. 11. 13. &c. Secondly, it maketh much for the preseruation of the Church in sound doctrine and innocencie of conuersation; both which will decay if this be neglected. The vse is, first, to reproue them that thinke there should be no separation, but that all indifferentlie should be receiued into the communion of the faithfull. Secondly, to declare vntounto vsus how farre the professed wicked ones are from hauing (without repentance) any portion of that heauenlie Ierusalem that may not be retained within the Church in earth, wherein yet manie remaine that shall neuer be saued Math. 20. 16. &c. Thirdly, to teach vsus, so carefull as we are, to hauehave Gods Church in general, and the members thereof in particular preserued in good estate, to be so diligent (yet keeping within the compasse of our callings) to labour the amendment, or the casting out of all heretiques and irreligious persons.

[All her people] i. the people of Iudah and Ierusalem of all Verse 11.estates and degrees [sigh and seeke their bread] i. are heauie harted, and seeke here and there for necessarie sustenance. [they hauehave giuen their pleasant things for meat to refresh their soule] i. willingly parted with that which was dearest vntounto them, to get food to preserue their liues [heare O Lord and consider] i. O Lord hearken to my petitions, and regarde my miserable estate [for I am become vile] i. I am esteemed the basest and most contemptible of all Nations that liue vnderunder heauen.

Doctrine. [sigh and seeke, &c.] It is lawfull for the godly to be grieued with, and to take to heart their worldly losses. 1The reason is, because, first, the things of this life are Gods p. 30blessings: secondly, they are necessary to support vsus heere, and (being well vsed) to make vsus the fitter to serue him. The vse is, first, to reproue the Stoicklike opinion of them, that thinke we should not be moued with the losse of outward things. Secondly, to teach vsus, as in the aboundance of earthly things, to acknowledge Gods large mercies, so in the losse or want of them to confesse our sinnes and Gods displeasure vponupon vsus for the same, and therefore to lament.

Doctrine. [giuen her pleasant things] for the preseruation 2of the life, we must be willing to forgoe the dearest of these outward blessings. The reason is, because, first, it is the most precious of all earthly things, they being giuen for the vse of it, and not it for them. Secondly, God hath giuen greater charge to preserue it then them. The vse is to teach vsus, to vse all lawfull meanes for the preseruation of our life, that wee may imploy it to Gods glory and the good of his Church.

Doctrine. [see O Lord and, &c.] Their example teacheth 3vsus, that in all our miseries we must seeke reliefe only at Gods hands. The reason is, because, first, he hath so commaunded, Psal 50. 15. &c. Secondly, all power to helpe is in his hands alone. 2. Chron. 20. 6. without whose blessing all meanes doe vtterly fayle. The vse is, first, to reproue them that seeke to be relieued by Saints, Angels, or any other in Heauen then God alone. Also them that seeming to seeke onelyonly to the true God, doe vse vnlawfull meanes to hauehave his help, as by Coniurers, Witches, or such like. Secondly, to teach vsus in all our distresses to seeke onelyonly to the Lord, and that alone by such lawfull meanes, as he hath warranted in his word.

Doctrine. [see for, &c,] they were in miserable estate, yet 4pray they to God; whose example teacheth vsus this doctrine. No extremity can driue the godly from trusting in God, Iob. 13. 15. and praying vntounto him, Psalm. 44. 17. The reason is, because, first, that faith which they hauehave in him, is that which ouercommeth the world, 1. Iohn 5. 4. &c. Secondly, they are assured that there can be no help but in him. The vse is, first, to shew, that those who fall from God because of afflictions, had neuer any sound foundation in him, Matth. 13. 20. 21. p. 31Iohn 13. 1. &c. Secondly, to teach vsus not onelyonly to trust vntounto the Lorde, and flie vntounto him in time of peace; but especially when wee are in greatest trouble, for then hauehave wee most neede of helpe.

Doctrine. [I am become vile] the contempt that the people 5of God be of in the eyes of the wicked, being alleaged in prayer vntounto the Lorde, is a forcible reason to moue him to heare and relieue them. The reason is, because, first, the Lord pittieth the miseries of his seruants. Secondly, the wicked reproach them commonly for their professions sake, which the Lord wil hauehave to be preserued from ignominie & contempt. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to alleage it in our prayers when we desire to be freed from such miseries: Secondly, with patience to waite the Lords leasure, being assured that he will rescue his seruants in his good time, from all the wrongs that they suffer at the hands of wicked men for well dooing.

[Not vntounto you] (for so is the hebrew, word for word) [O all yee that passe by the way] i. it was not by the power of any Verse 12.of you that I am in this misery, seeing you are but as passers by, that neither had power to hurt mee, nor compassion to mone my case, but onelyonly were the roddes of Gods wrath to scourge me [beholde and see] i. Looke well vponupon it and consider [if there be any sorrowe like vntounto my sorrowe] i. whether any man or all men be able to inflict so grieuous paines vponupon any [which is done vntounto me] i. which I doe sustaine [wherewith the Lord hath afflicted me] i. which hath come in wonderfull and terrible maner from the hand of the highest [in the day of his fierce wrath] i. when he was so highly displeased with me for my sinnes that he declared his anger by punishing me.

Doctrine. The godly in all their afflictions must looke vntounto 1the Lord the striker, and not respect the rodde wherewith he smiteth. The reasons, and vses hereof, are set downe, verse 5. Doct. 5.

Doctrine. [beholde and see] corrections laide vponupon others 2ought not to be neglected, but duely considered of, as the rest of Gods workes. The reason is, because, first, God often p. 32smiteth some to instruct others thereby: secondly, we being of one moulde should take to heart the condition one of another. The vse is, first, that we may learne to knowe and consider of Gods exceeding iustice and mercy in generall: secondly, to be induced thereby to feare and louelove him the more, who maketh vsus onelyonly the beholders of his punishments laide vponupon others, which our sinnes deserued to hauehave been laide vponupon our selues.

Doctrine. [not vntounto you] Man is not to be proude though 3God doe many things by him, and for him, that seeme both strange and commendable. The reason is; because he is but the instrument, or matter wrought vponupon, and God onelyonly the worker, Isay 10. 15. Rom. 11. 18. &c. 1. Cor. 47. Iob. 31. 27. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to giuegive all glory to God for all things done in this world, whosoeuer be the instruments. Secondly, the more that God doth by vsus, to labour to bee the more humble, least we proue the instruments of his glory to our owne destruction.

Doctrine. [not vntounto you] The wicked hauehave no cause to reioyce when they preuaile against the godly, though they 4doe it vsually. The reason is, because, they are but the Lords rods, who (without repentance) shall be cast into the fire, Isay. 10. 5. and 14. 25. &c. Secondly, they doe not as they imagine, ouerthrow the godly & establish themselues, but cleane contrarie. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to acknowledge our sinnes alwayes to be the cause that they at any time preuaile against vsus. Secondly, to call to God for grace to repent, that so their power may be weakned. Thirdly, to beare with patience those rods that God layeth vponupon vsus by the wicked, being assured that God in his good time will release vsus and punish them.

Doctrine. [if there be any sorrow like, &c.] The godly endure more trouble in this world, both inwardly and outwardly, 5then any other: Examples hereof, Iob, Dauid, Ioseph, Ieremie, Christ, his Apostles, &c. it is also manifest in dayly experience. The reason is, because, first, God loueth vsus, and would weane vsus from delighting in this world, to long after p. 33heauen and heauenly things: secondly, our nature is so peruerse as it will not be framed to any spirituall things, without many and grieuous corrections. Thirdly, Sathan and the worlde doe hate vsus, and labour continually to seeke our destruction. The vse is to teach vsus, first, not to be offended at the great afflictions that we heare of, or see to befall such as feare God: secondly, neuer to promise our selues worldlie peace and prosperity, but to prepare our selues to looke for one rodde to succeed another whilest we liue here.

Doctrine. [any sorrow like, &c.] It is a vsuall thing with vsus, 6to thinke our owne troubles more heauie and intolerable then any others doe suffer. The reason is, because, first, wee feele all the smart of our owne, and doe onelyonly a farre off behold that which others doe beare. Secondly, we are more discontented with our owne crosses then we should, which maketh vsus beare them the more impatiently, and thinke them the more intolerable. The vse is to teach vsus, first, by the due suruey of our manifold sinnes, to acknowledge wee hauehave deserued the most grieuous punishments that can be. Secondly, in the consideration of our afflictions, to call to mind rather how many and grieuous rods we are freed of, that wee might by Gods iust iudgement susteine, then to thinke of the grieuousnesse of that we beare, which others feele not.

Doctrine. [sorrow] The afflictions that God layeth vponupon 7his seruants, are, and ought to be grieuous vntounto them for the present time, Heb. 12. 11. The reason is, because, first, wee iustly hauehave deserued them through our sinnes. Secondly, we must be lead by them to repentance, or we abuse them. The vse is, first, to reproue the stoicall blockishnesse of those that are not affected with afflictions. Secondly, it teacheth vsus to sorrow when we are afflicted, but so as we be not swallowed vp in it.

Doctrine. [the Lord hath, &c.] Though our sinnes doe alwayes deserue it and our foes doe dailie desire, yet can no 8punishment befall the godly till God see it meete to lay it vponupon them Iob. 1. 12. &c. for the reasons hereof see vers. 5. p. 38Doctr. 5. The vse is, first, to teach vsus to take all corrections patiently, seeing we cannot shun them, and seeing God layeth them vponupon vsus in louelove for our good. Secondly, to learne to seeke vntounto the Lord especially, for release from our troubles, and not to be wholly employed about worldly means, as they doe that be worldly minded.

Doctrine. [wrath] The anger of God is hot against sin, 9euen in his dearest seruants. The reason is, because, first, he is most righteous, and cannot beare with any euill. Secondly, it tendeth to his great dishonour. The vse is to teach vsus, first, if he cannot beare it in those whome he loueth, howe much lesse will he suffer it vnpunished in the wicked? Secondly, to make vsus abhorre sinne in all men, but especially in our selues, euen as much as we desire to hauehave the Lord to louelove vsus and be pleased with vsus.

Doctrine. [day] God doth not alwaies afflict his seruants, 10but at such special times as he seeth it meetest for them, Psal. 103. 9. The reason is, first, that by punishing sometimes he might declare his displeasure against sinne. Secondly, by sparing them often, he might shew his great louelove vntounto them. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to acknowledge his wisedome, iustice, and merciemercy in dealing so with vsus. Secondly, to take afflictions patiently when he layeth them vponupon vsus, seeing we hauehave them not alwayes, but many good things in stead of them: this vse did Iob make of this doctrine, 2. 10.

[From aboue] i. from heauen [hath hee sent fire into my Verse 13.bones] i. the Lord hath sent most painfull and destroying griefe (for that is meant by fire) into my inward and strongest parts, this is meant by bones, Psal. 6. 3. 4. Isai. 38. 13. [which he ruleth] thus are the hebrew words to be translated, the meaning is; which the Lord, and not any power of man directeth, that it may torment and ouerthrow me, as it seemeth good to him [he hath spread a net for my feet] i. hath so taken me in his snare, that I cannot escape from him [and turned me backe] i. quite ouerthrowne me and all my purposes [he hath made me desolate] i. he hath depriued me of all helpe and meanes of rescue [and daily in heauinesse] i. my p. 39griefe is continuall without intermission, because Gods hand is vponupon me without ceasing.

Doctrine. [from aboue hath he sent] this often mentioning 1of Gods hand, teacheth this doctrine. When God punisheth vsus by the hands of the wicked, we are hardly brought to ascribe it to him alone; and they from thinking that their own haed and power hath done it. The reason is, because, first, our vnderstanding taketh deeper impression of that which we see with our eyes, then that which our spirituall knowledge teacheth. Secondly, the wicked can see no further then their owne hand reacheth. The vse is to teach vsus, first, not to maruell though the vngodly offend in that which we are hardly reformed in: Secondly, in all our afflictions to looke vntounto the Lord whose hand hath done it; and not be like the dog, that snarleth at the stone which is throwne at him, neuer regarding him that did cast it: see vers. 5. Doct. 5.

Doctrine. [bones] when God layeth afflictions vponupon vsus, 2they ransack the most secret partes that are in vsus The reason is, because, God hath ordained afflictions to be the meanes to trie vsus. The vse is to teach vsus, first, that afflictions are necessary for vsus, seeing we should else thinke stil better of our selues then (in deed) we are: secondly, not to bee amazed though the soule and body bee fraught with miseries, seeing it hath been euer the meanes that God hath put in practize, to humble his seruants withall vnderunder his hands.

Doctrine. [fire into my bones] God often bringeth his seruants 3to the greatest misery that can be sustained by man, see verse 12. Doctr. 5.

Doctrine. [which he ruleth] God dooth gouerne, and that 4in speciall maner, the particular course of all those afflictions which he layeth vponupon his people. This appeareth, not only in the wonderfull beginnings, processe, & ending of the afflctions of Ioseph, Dauid, Iob, Christ &c. but also in the daily experience of the godly, that liue vnderunder the crosse. The reason is, first, that the Lord might in special maner declare himselfe to prouide for his seruants in al extremities, as the euent doth alwaies make manifest: secondly, that Sathan and the world p. 36might daily see, how they cannot goe beyond their tedder that God hath measured vntounto them. The vse is, first, to confute them that thinke all things to be guided by fortune, or at the least, that God ruleth not the particulars but onelyonly the generall course of the world: secondly, to teach vsus to obserue Gods wonderfull power, and mercifull prouidence, in all our seuerall troubles, whereby we cannot but be constrained at the length to say, it is good for me that I hauehave bin in trouble, Psal. 1 19. 71. Seeing it hath fallen out for the best, Rom. 8. 28.

Doctrine. [weake] we can no more winde our selues out 5of those afflictions that God laieth vponupon vsus, then the entangled foule can escape the net that compasseth him. The reason is, because, first, wee hauehave no strength against him that dealeth with vsus: secondly, all our deuises (in such a case) make against vsus, euē as the fluttering of the snared byrde holdeth her faster than before. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to take patiently whatsoeuer the Lord doth lay vponupon vsus: secondly, to seeke vntounto him alone for release, who onelyonly can deliuer vsus.

Doctrine. [turned me backe] Nothing can goe forward or 6come to any good issue, but that onelyonly which the Lord furthereth. The reason is, because, all power is in his hand, so as whatsoeuer man purposeth, yet it is he alone that disposeth. The vse is, first, to reproue them that take any thing in hand as grounded vponupon their owne strength: secondly, to teach vsus neuer to attempt any vnlawfull things, seeing Gods hand can neuer help vsus in them, except it be in his anger to punish vsus: thirdly, to teach vsus in all things that we take in hand according to Gods will, to seeke his assistance and help, by harty and faithfull prayer.

Doctrine. [desolate] It is God that giueth friends, wealth, 7&c. and taketh all away at his pleasure, Iob. 1. 21. The reason is, because, all things moe or lesse, are disposed by his prouidence. The vse is, first, to reproue them that say mine owne hand and power hath done this or that: secondly, in generall to acknowledge all things to bee done of the Lord, in particular for our sinnes if hee afflict vsus, by taking our wealth, friends, liberty, or any good thing else from vsus, and from his p. 37mere mercy, if any of these, or any such be continued, or restored vntounto vsus.

Doctrine. [daily in heauinesse] according to the measure 8and continuance of Gods afflicting hand vponupon vsus, so must the measure and continuance of our sorrowes be. The reason is, because, first, heauie and long troubles are a signe of Gods heauie and sore displeasure against vsus: secondly, the continuance of afflictions argue that we are not sufficiently humbled, doe not vnfainedly repent for our sinnes, nor call vponupon the Lord so effectually as we should. The vse is, first, to reproue them that by continuance vnderunder the crosse doe growe hard harted, which condition is a fearefull signe of Gods reiecting of them. Secondly, to teach vsus the heauier and longer that troubles are vponupon vsus, the more earnestly to labour with our selues to growe in repentance, zeale, and feruencie of prayer.

Doctrine. These parcicular calamities comming one in 9the necke of another doe teach vsus this doctrine. When God meaneth to punish his seruantes, he will encrease the meanes that may further the same, and vtterly disappoint al contrarie endeuours. The reason is; because, first, nothing can stand against him to hinder the execution of his will. Secondly, all things in heauen and in earth are at his appointment, to accomplish his pleasure. The vse is to teach vsus, first, that there is no counsel or strength against the Lord: secondly, to take patiently whatsoeuer it shall please his maiestie to lay vponupon vsus.

[The yoke of my transgressions] i. the heauie burthen of my Verse 14.manifold sinns, [is bound vponupon his hand] i. the Lord carieth them in his continuall remembrance [they are wrapped] i. all knitt vp in one bundell [and come vp vponupon my necke] i. laid all vponupon mee at once [he hath made my strength to fall] i. he hath caused my power to stumble (for so the word signifieth) and to fal without recouery [the Lord hath deliuered me into their handes] i. God hath giuen me to be subiect to the power and will of the enemies [neither am I able to rise] i. all power and hope (in the iudgment of flesh and blood) is vtterly taken from mee.

p. 42Doctrine. [yoke] the sinnes of Gods people are the heauiest 1burthen that they can possiblie beare in this life. The reason is; because, first, they (without his great merciemercy) make a separation betweene God and them. Secondly, they giuegive Sathan matter to tirannize ouer them. Thirdly, they (being thorowlie taken to hart) doe after a sort, possesse the soule with the verie torments of hell. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to suffer any torments in this life, rather then be drawne to commit sinne against God: secondly, to labour aboue all things to be reconciled vntounto God, through Christ, and so endeuouring the keeping of a good conscience, no trouble or torment of bodie shall be grieuous, but verie tolerable, yea ioyfull vntounto vsus.

Doctrine. [vponupon his hand] when God meaneth to punish 2vsus for our sinnes, he calleth them all to remembrance. The reason is, first, that his iustice might find iust matter why to smite vsus. Secondly, that he may lay his corrections vponupon vsus according as he shall see meet, by viewing the qualitie of our sinnes, and obstinacie therein, or pronenesse to repentance. The vse is to teach vsus, first, not to commit any thing that is euill, and so thinke that it shall be forgotten in time; for God seeth all things past, as though they were present: secondly, not to continew in sinne or put off repentance from day to day, for in so doing we multiply and heape vp matter against our selues for the day of our punishment.

Doctrine. [wrapped and come vp] when God meaneth to 3correct, he will so doo it as it cannot be escaped. The reasons, and vse here of are set downe vers. 13. doct. 5.

Doctrine. [he hath made my strength to fall] God giueth strength and courage to men, and taketh it away at his pleasure. 4Deut. 28. 7. 25. The reason is; because, all power is his owne; and is to be bestowed as shall seeme good vntounto him. The vse is; first, to reproue their vanitie that ascribe strength or courage to one Nation more then another: secondly, to teach vsus, not to stand vponupon any power that is in our selues, but to seeke to bee reconciled to GOD, and rest vppon his strength alone.

p. 43Doctrine. [deliuered me] the issue of battell is in the hand 5of God alone. Psal. 44. 3. &c. The reasons, and vse thereof are, vers. 13. doct. 7.

Doctrine. [into their hands] God often deliuereth his seruantes 6into the hands of the vngodly. Examples, Iob, Sampson, Ieremie. The reason is, first, to exercise them, and bring them to repentance; or to perfect his power in their weaknes. Secondly, to giuegive the wicked occasion to shew forth their cruel disposition. The vse is, first, to reproue them that iustifie or condemne a man according to his preuailing or being ouercome in this world: secondly, to teach vsus, to take it patientlie when it falleth to our share; seeing it is the lot of the godly in this life.

Doctrine [neither am I able to rise vp] God sometimes afflicteth 7his people so grieuously, that their state seemeth desperate and irrecouerable in the iudgment of flesh and bloud: Examples, Ioseph, Dauid, Iob, yea Christ himselfe. The reason is, first, that he might shew his mightie power in restoring them. Secondly, that all meanes being taken away, they might learne to looke vp to heauen and rest vponupon him onelyonly. The vse is, first, to reproue them that iudge the case of Gods people desperate when all worldlie meanes be against them. Secondly, to teach vsus, neuer to despaire whatsoeuer extremitie doe befall vsus in this life.

[The Lord hath troden vnderunder foot all my valiant men] i. he hath brought downe to the greatest contempt those that Verse 15.were strongest, in whome I put my greatest confidence [in the middest of me] i. not so much in the face of the enemie as euen in the streets of Ierusalem [he hath called an assemblie against me to destroy my yong men] i. he hath stirred vp many enemies to ouerthrow the floure of my people [the Lord hath troden the wine presse] i. he hath crushed and broken in pieces as the grapes are in the presse [vponupon the virgin the daughter of Iudah] i. those tender and daintie ones that seemed vnfit to beare any affliction.

Doctrine. [valiant men] when God meaneth to afflict vsus, 1he will spoile vsus of all our helpes, wherein we may hauehave any p. 40confidence. Isay. 3. 1. 2. &c. The reason is; because, he would hauehave vsus see how little helpe we can hauehave of any thing without him. The vse is to teach vsus, whensoeuer he dealeth so with vsus, to humble our selues vnderunder his hand, and flie to him alone for succor and helpe.

Doctrine. [midst] GOD can as easilie destroy in a fensed Citie, as in a battell. The reason is, because, first, his power is 2present euerie where. Secondly, there is no Counsell nor strength against the Lord. The vse is to teach vsus, neuer to repose our affiance, or thinke our selues safe in any thing whatsoeuer, but onelyonly in dwelling vnderunder the protection of the almighty, Plalme. 91. 1.

Doctrine. [he hath called an assemblie] it is God that ruleth 3euen the wicked, and setteth them on worke against his seruantes; else can they neuer preuaile against them. The reason is, because, all power to doe any thing is from him alone. The vse is to teach vsus, in all our distresses to rest vponupon God, and seeke to him aboue for helpe and deliuerance.

Doctrine. [troden] man can no more escape Gods hand 4in punishing them, then the grapes can flie from the treader of the wine presse. The reason is, because, there is no place to flie from his presence, Psal. 139. 7. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to take patiently whatsoeuer hee laieth vponupon vsus: Secondly, to labour aboue all things to obtaine his fauour and to abide in it, so shall we be safe from the feare of euill.

Doctrine. [virgins] the nicenesse of those that hauehave liued 5daintely, is no reason to free them, but rather a prouocation to bring afflictions vponupon them. The reason is, because, first, the pampering of our selues is none of the ends, for which God bestoweth his blessings vponupon vsus. Secondly, such coy nicenesse as many be of, is seldome without speciall sinnes that are incident to that condition; which God will not let passe vnpunished. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to take heede that we bestow not Gods blessings giuen vsus (to further vsus in his seruice) to make vsus the vnfitter to beare his roddes. Secondly, neuer to promise our selues freedome from punishment, what priuiledges soeuer we can alleage, especially p. 41if we walke not most vrightly, and bestowe not his blessings most faithfully.

Doctrine. [daughter of Iudah] except the children for sake 6their sinnes, they shall not be spared for the godlinesse of their parents. The reason is, because, first, God dealeth with eueryevery one according to that which is in himselfe: Secondly, the promise [I will be thy God and the God of thy seede] is only profitable to such children, as walke in the faithfull steps of their godly parents. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that rest vponupon their forefathers faithfulnesse, they themselues being vnfaithful: secondly, to teach vsus to seeke that in our selues and not in others, which may be an argument to proue vsus in the fauour of the Lord.

[For these things I weepe] i. I mourne and lament, because Verse. 16.of these my grieuous sinnes that I hauehave brought vponupon me, so many, and so heauie punishments [from mine eye (euen) from mine eye, descendeth water] i. the teares doe come out of mine eyes, in such aboundance, as they flowe downe my cheekes [because the comforter that should refresh my soule is farre from mee] i. I am depriued not onelyonly of the helpe of friends that should relieue my misery, but euen the Lord hath withdrawne the brightnes of his countenance from me [my children are desolate] i. all my people are in a forelorne case [because the enemy preuailed] i. because all things are at the disposition of those that hate me.

Doctrine. [for these things] note (besides the same with vers. 2. Doctr. 1.) this doctrine. It is not onelyonly lawful, but also 1necessary for the godly to be so greatly grieued when God punisheth them for their sinnes, as may drawe them into extreame weeping. The reason is, because, first, Gods heauie hand is as the roaring of a lyon, whereat all the beasts of the forrest doe tremble, Amos 3. 8. &. 2. Sinne against God, and the punishment thereof, ought to grieue vsus aboue all things that can be fall vsus in this world. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that thinke it a fault to be passionate in such cases: Secondly, to teach vsus to labour our hard hearts, that wee may be most liuely affected with sorrowe, and mourne in exceeding p. 42maner when the Lord doth lay his grieuous crosses vponupon vsus.

Doctrine. [mine eye descendeth] no aduersity hath warrant 2to grieue vsus so much as the punishment of God vponupon vsus for our sinnes, Luke 23. 28. &c. The reason is, because, first, they declare vntounto vsus that God is displeased, whose anger who can endure? Secondly, nothing must be more odious vntounto vsus, then sinne, which (we hauing committed) must cause vsus to lament exceedingly. The vse is, first, to reprooue them, as being farre out of frame, that can easily weepe at the losse of goods, friends, children, &c. being taken from them by the ordinary hand of God; but can hardly be mooued with those spirituall losses that do more neerely concerne the saluation or damnation of the soule and body eternally: secondly, to teach vsus aboue all things to be humbled with the consideration of our sinnes, and Gods displeasure for them, and not so much for the losse whatsoeuer it be.

Doctrine. [descendeth water] they were naturally a hard harted people as the scripture testifieth often; yet are they 3now constrained to weepe, whereby we learne this doctrine; There is none so stoute, or hard harted, but afflictions will bring him down. The reason is, because, first, God is stronger then any, and will preuaile in all that which he purposeth: secondly, God will constraine man at one time or other, to giuegive glory vntounto him, by acknowledging his power. The vse is to teach vsus, that we neuer set our selues against Gods hand in punishing vsus, but willingly submit our selues vntounto him in all things.

Doctrine. [comfort] It is a grieuous plague to be depriued of comforters in afflictions, the contrary whereof is an exceeding 4blessing: for the reasons and vse hereof see verse 2. Doctrine 3.

Doctrine. [should refresh] It is the duety of eueryevery one, to comfort and relieue others that be in distresse. The reason is, 5because, first, God hath so commanded, Galat. 6. 2. &c. Secondly, we are members one of another, 1. Cor. 12. 27. &c. Thirdly, we may hauehave the like need our selues another time. p. 43The vse is, first, to reprooue them, as being no feeling members, that regarde no further then their owne good, not caring to relieue those that neede with such blessings as they hauehave: secondly, to teach vsus to labour more and more with our selues, that we may be affected with the condition of others, mourning with them that are afflicted, and helping them to the vttermost of our power.

Doctrine. [my children] the church, as also the commonwealth, 6is to declare her selfe a kinde mother vntounto eueryevery one that is trained vp therein; and to hauehave compassion of their miseries, helping them to the vttermost. This duety is especially to be performed by the ministers in the one, and the magistrates in the other. The reason is, because, first, they are especially honoured by the whole body, that eueryevery member might receiue especiall good by them: secondly, they are, or should be, of greatest knowledge and conscience, and therefore should declare the same by the most excellent fruites, whereof this is not the least. The vse is, first, to declare vntounto vsus in what miserable case that Church or common wealth is, whose ministers or magistrates be persecutors and tormentors of the best members thereof: secondly, to teach vsus to praise God when our gouernours are good, and to pray for their preseruation and continuance, or if they be euill to pray for their amendment, and in the meane while mourne for the miseries that are vponupon vsus by their vngodly demeanors.

Doctrine. [are desolate because the enemy &c.] It is the property 7of carnall friends, to be friendly onelyonly whilest prosperitie is vponupon vsus; but if our aduersaries preuayle against vsus, and bring vsus to aduersity, they are gone. The reason and vse hereof is the same with that in vers. 8. Doctr. 6.

[Sion stretcheth out her hands, and there is none to comfort her] i. Ierusalem earnestly desireth and laboreth for help, but Verse. 17.none yeeldeth her any reliefe [the Lord hath commanded the enemies of Iaacob round about him] i. God hath giuen power vntounto them that hate the Israelites, to compasse them in on eueryevery side [Ierusalem is as a menstruous woman in the middest of them] i. she is reiected of all her aduersaries, and esteemed p. 44most vile and filthy, not worthy to bee approached vntounto by any.

Doctrine. [stretoheth] It is a necessary duety in Gods 1people, to seeke out all good meanes of their release from troubles. The reason is, because, first, they know that God ordinarily worketh eueryevery thing by meanes: secondly, they know not by what meanes, nor when God will deliuer them, therefore must they vse al, and continue therein, committing the successe vntounto the Lord. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that are slothfull in vsing the meanes, wickedly saying, God will bring to passe his owne purpose and no more, though wee doe nothing: secondly, to teach vsus alwaies to put all good meanes in practize, and yet neuer to rest vponupon them, but to depend vponupon the Lord alone, in whose hands the issues of all things are.

Doctrine. [there is none] God often frustrateth the lawfull endeuours of his Children of that good issue which is expected, 2and yet liketh well that they should vse meanes to bring the same to passe: examples here of is, Abrahams praying for Sodome, Gen. 18. The reason is, because hee would hauehave vsus follow the meanes that be before our eyes, and yet is not himselfe tyed thereunto, but prospereth them as he will, and when he will. The vse is to teach vsus, first, not to despayre, though the meanes that we hauehave vsed preuaile not: secondly, to continue still in vsing good meanes, though they hauehave not that successe which wee looke for, seeing we knowe not when God hath appointed to blesse our meanes.

Doctrine. [commaunded] the wicked hauehave no power against Gods people, but that which is giuen them from the 3Lord, Iohn 19. 1. The reasons and vse hereof are set downe vers. 5. Doct. 5. and vers. 13. Doct. 1.

Doctrine. [as a menstruous] Gods people are more grieuously afflicted, and reproached in the world, then any else, 4and the godliest the most of all. The reason is, because Sathan and the wicked hauehave greatest malice against them. The vse is to teach vsus, not to promise our selues the applause of men in this life, but to knowe that to bee euill intreated p. 45and esteemed most vile, is our share, if we will liue godly in Christ Iesus.

[The Lord is righteous] i. in all these things GOD hath Verse 18.dealt most iustlie with me [for I hauehave rebelled against his commandementes] i. I hauehave most heynously sinned and wilfullie transgressed the wordes that came out of the Lords owne mouth by the ministerie of his Prophets [heare, I pray you all people and behold my sorrow] i. I desire that all men would marke Gods fearefull iudgments vponupon me. Obiection how agreeth this with that 2. Sam. 1. 20. Tell it not in Gathe. Answere. The meaning of Dauids speech there is, that it should not be reported as the hand of the Philistines but of GOD. [my virgins and my yong men] i. the most tender of all my people and hope of the age that is to come [are gone into captiuitie] i. are caried out of this land, the signe of his fauour, and of heauen it selfe.

Doctrine. [is righteous] Gods people doe acknowledge 1his iustice in all his workes, yea euen in his punishments laid vponupon them. Examples hereof are, Iob, Dauid, Daniel, &c. The reason is; because, first, his word and spirit hath reformed their iudgmentes, teaching them how to thinke of his holie maiestie in all thinges. Secondly, the conscience of their owne sinnes causeth them to iustifie the Lorde, and to accuse themselues. The vse is, first, to reprooue in our selues, or others, all repyning against God, and accusing of him, as things farre differing from the disposition of the godly, rightlie reformed. Secondlie, to teach vsus to grow in the feare, and worship of GOD, praying alwaies for his grace to assist vsus, who is so righteous in all his workes. Thirdly, to teach vsus patience to beare, and contentednes to vndergoe, what condition soeuer the Lord, that is so righteous, doth lay vponupon vsus.

Doctrine. [for I &c.] it is the duetie of Gods children to seeke the cause of all their euils in themselues. The reason is, 2because, first, GOD is righteous, and layeth nothing vponupon them but that which they iustly deserue. Secondly, they know their owne manifold sinnes, and their exceeding weaknesse in weldoing, which they cannot so see in any others. This p. 46doctrine is hardly learned, because of our naturall blind selfeloue, & pronenesse to accuse others. The vse is, first, to iustifie God, when he is iudged. Secondly, to teach vsus, to betruelie humbled vnderunder the Lords hand, when he layeth his roddes vponupon vsus. Thirdly, to giuegive vsus direction how to seeke the right way of release from those crosses that are vponupon vsus.

Doctrine. [rebelled] though God punish vsus often for other 3causes, yet the matter that he worketh vponupon is our sinnes. The reason is, because the righteous GOD cannot punish without desert. The vse is to teach vsus, to labour to find out and forsake our sinnes so often as we are punished.

Doctrine. [rebellion] being an high degree of transgression teacheth vsus this doctrine. We must not lessen our sinnes, but 4account them most heynous in our owne eies. The reason is, because, first, they are so in the sight of God. Secondly, they keepe so many good things from vsus, and bring so many miseries vponupon vsus. Thirdly, it is a special note of a reformed hart; and the lessening or hyding of our sinnes, is a marke of the contrarie. The vse is, first, to teach vsus thereby the better to be prepared vntounto true repentance: secondly, to comfort vsus with assurance that we are out of louelove with our sinnes.

Doctrine. [his commandement] [heb. his mouth] it is our duetie (especiallie in religion) neither to goe further, nor to 5come shorter, then Gods reuealed will; but to attend vntounto it, as the seruantes eye doth vntounto his maisters hand: Psal 123. 2. The reason is, because, first, we are so commanded, Deut. 4. 2. & 12. 32. Prouerbs. 30. 6. Reuel. 22. 18. &c. Secondly, we can doe nothing well▪ but by the direction thereof, seeing we are naturallie blind in iudgment, and corrupt in affection. The vse is, first, to reproue thē that think it vnperfect, & therfore ad traditions vntounto it, as the Papists. Secondly, to teach vsus, that the written word of God is the persect rule of all righteousnesse. Thirdly, we must carefully learne to know this rule, or else how can we be directed by it.

Doctrine. [rebelled] it is rebellion against the Lord himselfe, 6to be disobedient vntounto the voice of his ministers, teaching his trueth. Luke. 10. 16. The reason is, because first, they p. 47speake nothing in their owne names, but from the Lord. Secondly, the disobedience is not to the minister, but to that he vttereth which is the Lords. The vse is, first, to reprooue their error that thinke they may hate the instructions of the minister and yet louelove God. Secondly, to teach all ministers to take heed what they teach in the name of the Lord, lest they prophane his blessed maiestie, abuse his holie ordinance of the ministerie, and seduce his people.

Doctrine. [his commandement] now their acknowledging 7that to be Gods mouth, which in their prosperitie they contemned, teacheth vsus this doctrine. We are constrained in our aduersitie to acknowledg Gods hand in those things, which in our prosperitie we neglected. The reason, because, first, aduersitie reformeth the iudgment, and causeth a more serious consideration of matters then before. Secondly, GOD will hauehave his iudgments iustified by those whome he punisheth; this is verified euen in the wicked, as in Pharaoh Exod 9. 27. Nabuchadnezzar Dan. 4 31. Achab. 1. Kin. 21. 27. & c The vse is to teach vsus, to acknowledg the voice and hand of God in all things, when the first occasion is offered vsus: so shall we hauehave profit and comfort by it, els shall we be constrained to acknowledge it in the end, to the doubling of our sorrow.

Doctrine. [heare &c. all people] when Gods people are punished, 8they are not ashamed, but willing to tell all men of it, and to declare their sinnes to be the cause of it. The reason is, because, first, aboue all things they desire to hauehave the Lord iustified in all mens iudgmentes. Secondly, they desire that their owne example might teach others to scrue God better. The vse is, first, to reproue them, as being farre from a godlie disposition, who either accuse God when they are punished; or labour to hide from the eies of all men the affliction that is vponupon them: secondly, to teach vsus, that it is a right signe of vnfained repentance, to be free in consessing our sinnes, and Gods iust hand on vsus for them, and that without shame or blushing sauing for the sinnes onelie.

Doctrine. [all people] the manifesting of our punishments 9vntounto the world as from Gods hand because of our sinnes, can p. 48neither dishonor the Lord, nor harden others in their wickednesse, but is a iust occasiō of the cōtrarie. The reason is, because, first, it is matter of great honor to God, to let no sinnes escape without punishment, when he offendeth: secondly, it giueth others iust cause to thinke, that except they repent, they shall all likewise bee punished. The vse is, first, to reprooue them that would not hauehave it knowne to the world how seuerely the Lord afflicteth his seruants in this life: secondly, to teach vsus to desire to let others know how little the Lorde liketh of sinne, seeing hee punisheth it in his dearest children.

Doctrine. [my virgins, &c.] in that they were in such wofull condition eueryevery way, we learne this doctrine. It may fall 10out to be the lot of the Church of God, to be depriued for a time of all worldly comfort, and of the ministerie of the word and sacraments also. The reason is, because it was the condition of this people, who yet were the only true visible Church, that was then vnderunder the sunne. The vse is, first, to reprooue the vanity of the Papists, who esteem the Church to be alwaies a famous visible Monarchie, and of worldlings, who thinke it should be free from all molestations and troubles: secondly, to teach vsus not to be dismaied nor to forsake the trueth, notwithstanding the innumerable troubles that doe befall the Church that professeth the same.

[I called for my louers] i. I desired to be relieued by those Verse 19.that loued me dearely [but they deceiued me] i. mine expectation was vtterly frustrated in them. [my Priests and mine Elders] i. the gouernours of the Church and of the common wealth [perished] i. were so farre from helping me, that they were in misery themselues [in the Citie] i. they dyed within the walles of the Citie, without the sworde of the enemies, [while they sought their meate] i. euen in their carefull trauaile to finde out some foode [to refresh their soules] i. to cheare their liues and strengthen their hearts withall.

Doctrine. [I called vntounto, &c.] It is an increase of sorrowe, to 1be disappointed of their help, by whome we looked to be deliuered out of our troubles. The reason is, because the hope p. 49of help by those meanes doth often promise speedie deliuerance, and in the meane while administreth patience; which being frustrated, the heart is sodainely fraught with many griefes that it looked not for. The vse is, first, to reproue them as guilty of a great sinne, who giuegive the distressed any hope of succour, and yet disappoynte them when they might hauehave helped them. Secondly, to teach vsus, especially to rest vponupon God in our troubles, and not to relie vppon the outward meanes, least they deceiue vsus, and so our sorrow be increased thereby.

Doctrine. [louers deceiued] God often maketh our friends 2that louelove vsus vnfeinedly, vtterly vnable to doe vsus any good in our distresse. The reason is, to shew vsus that it is a vaine thing to trust in man. The vse is to teach vsus, to put our whole affiance in the Lord alone.

Doctrine. [my Priests and mine Elders perished] the misery of that people must needes be great, whose rulers can neither 3help themselues nor others. The reason is, because, the gouernours are the staffe of the peoples strength, which being broken, there is no help left. The vse is, first, to shew vsus in what excellent steed our rulers doe stand vsus, and therefore to teach vsus to obey them, honour them, and pray for them: secondly, to teach vsus not to despayre, though they be made vtterly vnable to help vsus, seeing it was so with this people, and yet God found out a meanes to deliuer them.

Doctrine. [perished] Gods plagues doe often ouertake the great ones, aswell as others. The reason is, because, first, they 4vsually sinne as greatly as others, if not aboue the measure of others: secondly, be they neuer so great amongst men, yet are they nothing when God taketh them in hand. The vse is to teach vsus, not to sinne by vertue of any priuiledge that we hauehave in this life, seeing it cannot free vsus from those punishments which our sinnes doe deserue.

Doctrine. [while they sought] Gods people may come to 5the extreamest beggery that can be in this life (though it falleth out very seldome.) The reason is, because, first, outward things are no part of their felicitie, which is purchased for p. 50them by Christ Iesus: secondly, God will now and then, shew himselfe the preseruer of his people, when all meanes doe faile. The vse is, to teach vsus, not to rest vponupon any thing in this life, for that were to build vponupon the sand which will fayle in the tempest. Matth. 7. 26. 27.

[Behold O Lord, for trouble is vponupon me] i. O Lord regarde Verse 20.me with thy mercies, for I am in great straightnesse, and extremities doe presse me, and oppresse me, [my bowels are bemudded] i. all my intrals are disordered and mingled together as the troubled water is with the mudde (for the hebrew worde is borrowed from the waters that are in such a case after or in a tempest) [mine heart turneth it selfe within me] i. for very griefe and anguish, my heart doth (as it were) remoue and roule within me [because I hauehave greatly rebelled] i. the cause of all this misery is, my grieuous transgressions against the Lord my God [the sword spoyleth abroad] i. wheresoeuer my people are employed in warres for my defence, there the enemies sword doth kill and destroy them [as death at home] i. The famine is so great at home, that nothing but death appeareth in eueryevery streete and house, where our profite and our pleasure hath been vntounto vsus in great measure.

Doctrine. [behold O Lord] in that they prayed vers. 9. and vers 11. and in this place, and often after, we learne this doctrine. 1We must not giuegive ouer, but cōtinue in prayer, though we be not heard in that we intreate for. The reason is, God hath commaunded to pray without ceasing, and set no time when we shall be heard. The vse is, to teach vsus, that God by deferring to heare vsus, first trieth our faith and patience: secondly, sheweth his exceeding anger against our sinnes: thirdly, giueth vsus occasion to increase in repentance and feruencie of praier: Examples hereof are the Israelites in Egypt, and in the Captiuitie. Iob, Dauid, &c.

Doctrine. [behold, &c.] God seeth all things: but their example in laying open their miseries before the Lord, teacheth 2this doctrine. We must with lamentation, lay open our miseries before the Lord, if wee looke to bee relieued. The reason is, because, first, merciemercy is denyed to them that hide p. 51their sinnes, Prouerbs 28. 13. secondly, forgiuenes is granted vponupon a free confession, Psal▪ 32. 5. The vse is, first, to reproue them, as hauing no sparke of right repentance, that coldly, or not at all, doe acknowledge their particular sinnes vntounto the Lord: secondly, to teach vsus to ransack our owne waies, that in the daies of our repentance wee may bee able throughly to lay open our transgressions vntounto the Lord.

Doctrine [for trouble is vponupon me] we then pray most earnestly, 3when we feele most sensiblie the burthen of that wee would be rid of, and the want of that we would hauehave. The reason is, because, first, els we are continually secure: secondly, we earnestly desire the contentment of our owne hearts: which cannot bee whilest wee hauehave that we would not, and want that we would hauehave. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, the necessitie of affliction, seeing it is euident we are then (only) touched effectually: secondly, to striue that we be not cold, but more and more affected with the sense of our sinnes, to loath them, and with a longing after righteousnesse, to walk therein.

Doctrine. [be mudded: heart turned] There is no rest nor 4quietnesse within vsus, when God presseth vsus with the weight of our owne sinnes. The reason is, because, first, they are so many and so grieuous. Secondly, he can, and doth vrge them more forciblie, then that we can sustaine his heauie hand. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to pitie those that are afflicted in conscience for sinne, aboue all others that are any waies distressed. Secondly, to esteeme of, and bee thankfull for the peace of conscience, as the greatest treasure that we can enioy in this life. Thirdly, to auoyd sinne alwaies, as that which will procure vsus the greatest hurt both in this life, and in the life to come.

Doctrine. [greatly rebelled] The godly doe alwaies in the 5due consideration of their sinnes, aggrauate them against themselues in greatest measure. The reason is, because, first, they see best into their owne offences. Secondly, they measure them by the heauie anger of God deserued by the same, as did the Publican, Luk. 18. 13. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to p. 52trie our selues how we stand affected this way, seeing it is a speciall note of true repentance, and the contrarietie of impenitencie. Secondly, to labour more and more to aggrauate our sinnes in our owne eyes, that wee may bee humbled the more effectually thereby.

Doctrine. […, death, &c.] The things that are ordained 6for our greatest good in this life, do turne to our greatest harme when our sinnes prouoke Gods anger to breake forth against vsus. The reason is, because, first, all creatures are at his commandement to execute his will. Secondly, they are no further vntounto vsus as blessings, then so farre as he giueth them in his louelove and fauour. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, in the rebellion of any of Gods creatures against vsus to acknowledge our sinnes against God to be the cause. Secondly, to labour first of all to bee reconciled to GOD in Christ Iesus, and to walke in obedience vntounto his lawes: so shall all his creatures serue to our good, els doe they encrease our condemnation.

[They hauehave heard] i. it hath come to the eares and knowledge Verse 21.of the enemies [that I doe mourne] i. that I am in great heauinesse and lamentation [and there is none to comfort me] i. neither one nor other shewed any pitie vponupon me [all mine enemies hauehave heard of my trouble] i. the knowledge of my miserie is come to the eares of mine enemies of all estates and conditions [and are glad that thou hast done it] i. they reioyce that thou hast laid so heauie things vponupon me [those hast brought the day that thou hast pronounced] i. the destruction which thou hast prophecied by the mouth of the Prophets against the Nations will as surely come vponupon them, as if it were alreadie come to passe: for the hebrew verbe, being in the time past, is ment of that which is to come, according to the manner of the speeches of the Prophets, for the more assurance of the accomplishment thereof [and they shall be like vntounto me] i. their miserie in this world shall be as grieuous to see to, as mine is now: for otherwise their estate shall be most contrarie, when all teares are wiped from the eyes of the godly, and all calamities powred vponupon the heads of the wicked.

p. 53Doctrine. see verse. 2. doct. 3. and vers, 8, doct. 7.1

Doctrine. [none to comfort me &c.] it is the duetie of all 2men to comfort the afflicted, & not to add to their miseries, Math. 25. 40. Iames. 1. 27. 1. Cor. 12. 26. Heb. 13. 3. The reason is, because, first, we owe this dutie (among others) one to another. Secondly, no miserie can befall another, but when God will, it may light vponupon our selues, seeing wee daily deserue the same. The vse is, first, to reproue them that doe not take any mans miserie to heart but their owne. Secondly, to teach vsus, to labour our harts to be like affected with others; euen to mourne with them that weepe &c. seeing it is a signe of a liuely member: as the want therof argueth, either that we are cut off, or were neuer ingrafted into that bodie whereof Christ Iesus is the head.

Doctrine. [are glad] it is the propertie of the wicked to reioyce 3at the miseries of the godly, with whome they should mourne. Psal. 69. 12. and 137. 3. Iudges. 16. 25. The reason is, because, first, they are affected as their father the Deuill, who reioyceth in nothing but the calamitie of mankind. Secondly, their hatred that they beare to the righteous, maketh them be glad when any euill lighteth on them. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to be farre from that wicked disposition, but rather to mourne when our enemies are in distresse. Psal. 35. 13. 14. &c. Secondly not to be dismaied though the world triumph ouer vsus in our miseries, seeing it hath been the condition of Gods people in all ages.

Doctrine [thou hast done it] in that they could not in prosperitie 4rightly vnderstand the word of God which concerned themselues but now can both applie it rightlie to themselues, and others also; wee learne this doctrine. Wee are the fitte schollers to learne Gods worde, and make right vse of it, when afflictions are vppon vsus. The reason is, because, first, in prosperitie we forget God and our selues also. Secondly; we are in our corrupt nature, as naughty children, that will not learne except they be well whipt. Thirdly, in afflictions we can more easilie consider of our estate both present, past, and to come. The vse is, to teach vsus, how necessary p. 54afflictions are, to frame vsus to be of a right disposition: secondly, to humble vsus, seeing we are of so vntoward a disposition. Thirdly, to prouoke vsus as at all times, so especiallie in afflictions, to pray that we may be directed by Gods spirit to lead our liues according to his will, seeing wee are of nature so peruerse.

Doctrine. [bring &c. that thou hast pronounced] euerie title 6of Gods word shall be accomplished in due season. Mat. 5. 18. The reason is, because, it came from him that is truth it selfe, and cannotlye. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, of what singular excellencie Gods word is, seeing there is no fault or vntrueth at all in it. Secondly, to renounce our owne reason, and to relie vponupon the word, assuring our selues that it shall be performed, though it be against the iudgment of flesh and bloud. Thirdly, to raise vsus from all securitie of sinning, seeing all his iudgmentes denounced against our offences shall (without our true repentance) assuredly fall vponupon vsus.

Doctrine. [shall be like] though the troubles of the righteous 7be many; yet are not the elect to be discerned from the reprobate by affliction. The reason is, because, they are both partakers thereof in this life, and that often in most heauie maner. The vse is, to teach vsus, not to measure the louelove or displeasure of God vntounto any by their outward estate in this life, seeing no man can know his own estate thereby. Eccle. 3. 21.

Doctrine. [thou wilt &c.] it greatly easeth the godly in their afflictions, to consider that their foes shall be destroied. 8Reuel. 18. 20. The reason is, because, that alwaies the ouerthrow of the wicked, is the deliuerance of the godlie. The vse is, to teach vsus, with patience to beare the afflictions that are laid vponupon vsus by the handes of the vngodlie; seeing we shall not bee alwaies vnderunder their handes, but they shall one day beare a farre more grieuous punishment.

Doctrine. [they shall be &c.] the punishmentes that Gods people sustaine in this life, are sure tokens that the wicked 9shall be plagued, howsoeuer they escape for a time. The reason is, because. God in iustice cannot spare the wicked, seeing his iudgments begin at his owne house. 1. Peter. 4. 17. &c. p. 55Rom. 11. 21. The vse is to teach vsus, by our owne afflictions to gather assurance that God will one day more thoroughlie visit the sinnes of those that continue in their wickednesse.

[Let all their wickednesse come before thee] i. call thou to Verse 22.thy remembrance all their sinnes, that their iudgment may be accordinglie [doe vntounto them as thou hast done vntounto me for all my transgressions] i. be thou (O Lord) a tighteous Iudge, and let not them escape vnpunished, seeing thou hast plagued me for my sinnes, [for my sighes are many and my heart is heauie] I am exeedingly affected with griefe, and wonderfullie cast downe, and humbled.

Doctrine. [let all their &c.] it is lawfull for the godly to 1pray for the ouerthrow of the wicked. Psal. 83. 9, &c. The reason is, because, by their destruction God is glorified, and the Church preserued. Obiection. we are commanded to louelove our enemies. Answ. it is true, when their enimitie concerneth our selues in priuate; but when it is against the trueth and professors thereof, the louelove of Gods glorie, and his trueth compelleth vsus to pray for their ouerthrow. The vse is, to teach vsus, that the glorie of God, and preseruation of his Church, ought to be dearer vntounto vsus, then our nearest friends, Mat. 10. 37. yea then our owne liues.

Doctrine. [for my sighes] the sufficient humiliation and deepe mourning of Gods children are forcible meanes to 2moue the Lord to pitie them, and to relieue them, Isay. 66. 2. and 2. Cor. 7. 10. The reason is, because, first, God is full of compassion, and is much moued with the miseries of his seruantes. Secondly, he smiteth vsus, that we may be humbled thereby: which being wrought in vsus, hee will withdraw his hand. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to be humbled by our afflictions which we beare from time to time. Secōdly, to alleadge it vntounto the Lord as a reason to heare vsus, which he will not reiect but much regard if we be humbled aright.