THE ORNAMENT of WOMEN. OR, A description of the true excellency of Women. Delivered in a Sermon at the Funeral of M. ELIZABETH MACHELL, on Easter Monday being the 15. of April 1639. By Stephen Geree, MINISTER of God's Word at Wonnersh, near Guildford in SURREY. PROV. 12.4. A virtuous woman is a Crown to her Husband. Proijciamus ornamenta terrena si caelestia optamus Tertul. de Cult. Foemin. LONDON, Printed by T. B. for L. F. and S. G. and are to be sold at the Sign of the Brazen Serpent, in Paul's Churchyard 1639. TO the Right Honourable, Gerard LORD Angier Baron of LONGFORD all true Honour and happiness both in this life, and that which is to come. Right Honour: IT was a tart and yet true censure of the Pope's Clergy, Bonifac. Episc. In Triburensi council: Quando Sacerdotes habuimus aureos, 〈◊〉 vasis ligneis utebantur, nuno eum ligneos sacerdotes habemus, aureis vasis utuntur That they had golden Chalices, but wooden Priests. The like may not unfitly be affirmed of some women, who have golden garments, and guilded bodies, but wooden, or leaden souls. Ber. Epist. 113. For as St. Bernhard said of some. Induuntur purpura & bysso, & subinde conscientia pannosa iacet. They are clad with Purple and silk, but the conscience in the mean while lies torn and tattered. Fulgent monilibus; sed sordent moribus, (saith the same Author) they shine and make a brave show with bracelets and jewels, but are base and sordid in their manners and conditions. But it was farre-otherwise with your Honour's worthy kinswoman, whose adorning was not outward in wearing of gold, or putting on of apparel, 1 Peter 3.3, 4. but the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is much set by in the sight of God. Therefore I have the rather presumed to prefix your Noble name to this discourse of mine (how mean soever) hoping of Your Honour's acceptance, in regard of the relation that it hath to that most worthy, & (in mine opinion) matchless Gentlewoman, of whose rare virtues, and singular graces Your Lordship hath often been an eyewitness, and admirer. So that I am assured you will think it no prejudice to Your High and profound studies to cast your eyes upon such an heavenly body, and sublimated soul, as she was, but rather account it as a means to refine Your deep contemplations, and make them ascend above the Stars and all inferior Orbs even into the third Heaven, 2 Cor. 12.2, 4. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. where the Apostle heard unspeakable words, which is not possible for man to utter, which all Arts and Sciences are ignorant of, save that which is called Ars artium, & Scientia scientiarum, to wit, Divinity. For this blessed Gentlewoman was the mirror of her time, considering her Age, and Parentage, and may be a Pattern to Posterity, both for admiration, and Imitation, Because she so seriously bend her best endeavours to the best things. For having once found that Pearl of greatest price, Matth. 13. ver. 45, 46. she was willing with the wise Merchant to part with all for the purchase of it, as being the only ornament of men and women, surmounting all other pearls and precious stones. She was able to discern of thing; that differ, and did approve the things that are excellent, so that she became, wiser than the ancient, because she kept GOD'S precepts, Psalm. 119.100. whereby she was ripe for heaven, before others of her age, and quality, begin so much as seriously to set themselves towards that holy place. She could not satisfy herself, as most do, with that which went for Religion in Salvians time, Genus quod 〈◊〉 sanctitatis, minus esse vitiosu. Salu. De Guber. lib. 3. pag. 88 when it was counted some kind of Sanctity to be less sinful than others. Phil. 3.13, 14. But forgetting that which was behind, and reaching out to that, which was before, she pressed toward the mark, for the high calling of GOD in Christ jesus. Therefore I had two special motives which induced me to wenter this little labour into the light in this curious, and critical age. First, To preserve the happy memory of Your Lordship's dear and well-deserving Niece, who was worthy to be had in everlasting remembrance. Secondly, Your zeal hath provoked very many, 2 Cor. 9.2. That by her zealous and Heavenly Example I might (if it were possible) waken and quicken the dead, and drowsy hearts of men and women, who in the worst things want the bridle, but in the best the spur. I know that the best men or women, want warmth and heat in this old, and cold age of the world, therefore I thought so lively, and sparkling a spirit as she had, might be of much force to make many, either blush for shame, or burn with zeal for the glory of God. Thus Noble Lord having had often experience of Your rare humility and courtesy, as also of your approved piety and charity; I was willing by these lines to let the world know, how much I honour you, and your choice learning, mixed with singular modesty, and ingenuity, which is indeed true Nobility But being persuaded that you had rather do things prais-worthy than read your own praises, Facere laudanda quam audire laudata maluisses. I. rest, and humbly take leave, with all due respect and service to your Noble self, and much honoured Lady, beseeching the Almighty to drop down his best blessing upon you both. Your Honours to be commanded in Christ jesus. STEPH: GEREE. TO The truly Noble and Pious SISTERS Mist. Elizabeth Machell, and the LADY Letice Holcrofte, Grace and Peace be multiplied. Much Honoured, etc. I Make bold to join you both in this Epistle, whom GOD hath linked with those firm bonds of Nature, Affection, and especially true Religion, which is a threefold Cord not easily broken. I know you both would be hearty glad to see her Picture, for whose sake I have set Pen to paper at this present. But I am confident, that no Limner could draw her to the life, because she was all glorious within, Psal. 45.13. and her life hid with Christ in God, Col. 3.3. Therefore seeing she must be represented rather by a Pen than a Pencil, I have endeavoured to set before your eyes such a rude draught, as my present, and urgent occasions would suffer me to make at her Funeral. And because those Pieces please the judicious best, which are rather true than rich, or gaudy, I have studied to set her forth in her own proper colours, not with garish Eloquence, and gaudy words, but in that language, which she best liked. Now that I may speak a word in season to you in several. First, for you her dear Mother, in the midst of all your mourning let this solace your soul and spirit, that you were not only the Mother of such a daughter, but had an hand in making her a daughter of Abraham, yea of Almighty God. Your good instructions, and example, in frequenting the house of God, etc. were a main motive, (no doubt) to make her in love with that good Word of GOD, which wrought so effectually, and in a manner miraculously in her, therefore you have much more cause of joy and gladness, than of grief and heaviness. If all Parents would but give such example as you have done, both at home and in God's house, o what holy and happy houses, and congregations should we have! what thronging and crowding would there be in most Churches, which now are almost empty oftentimes! But when most Parents provide rather for their children's bodies than souls, making much of the Carcase, neglecting the Conscience, no marvel that there is so little hope in most of their Posterity. Go on therefore with good success as you have begun, and still do more and more worthily in Israel. GOD hath given you an heart, not only to be a Favourer, which is easy, but a Follower, yea, and a Furtherer of those that he hath sent into his Vineyard: the same Lord multiply his mercy, grace and spirit upon you and yours, that you may still prove Noble patterns unto others. And now good Madam, to return to your Ladyship, I know you bore no small share of sorrow with your beloved Sister in this business, because you have a long time loved your deceased Kinswoman, as if she had been your own daughter: witness those affectionate words of salutation, which you usually inserted into the Letters your Ladyship sent to her Mother, which ever had a special accent, and emphasis, when you came to her. Insomuch as I dare boldly say, you desire nothing more to your dearest daughters than such a dowry of grace and goodness as her heavenly Father had bestowed on her. For you knew her fare different from the disposition of other Gentlewomen, who make their soul's slaves to their bodies, and both soul and body, drudges to the world and the Devil, Because, whereas other women trouble themselves with many things like Martha, she set her soul upon that one thing necessary, choosing with Mary that better part, which could not be taken from her, Luk. 10. last ver. She was never more diligent than when she was to deal with GOD in his holy Ordinances, and in nothing so negligent, as in the world, and things of the world, and yet she complained on her death bed, that she had been too worldly, Alas! what cause then have we to complain of others, who dote so much upon the dross and dung of the world, and make it no better than an Idol! That precious time which other Gentlewomen wickedly waste in tricking and trimming the body, she specially spent in decking and adorning the soul, for whatsoever was to be done, the soul should not be forgotten. And whereas others are taken up with fair buildings and stately houses, etc. she mainly minded to beautify her house, not only with the Form of godliness, which many families have, 2 Tim. 3.4. but most of all with the Power of godliness, which few regard. And hence was it that she so much desired to have the special care of Families commended unto others at her Funeral. For she set up her resolution with worthy joshuah. Let others do what they would, Iosh. 24.15. follow the world, or serve their lusts, and the times. She and her house would serve the Lord. Neither was she afraid to own Christ as many are, who think it more generous; to set up sports and pastimes, and follow pleasures etc. than set up Christ and his ordinances in their houses. Moreover her charity did notably second her Piety, for not only the loins of the poor but their bellies, job 31.20. She was willing to heal their sores, and help their souls giving them good instructions as well as plasters. and backs did bless her, as Job speaks, yea, their legs and hands, their eyes and cares, did pronounce her blessed. So that we have great cause to give God thanks for her work of faith, and labour of love, as the Apostle speaks, 1 Thes. 1.3. There be some, that have Piety, but want Charity, such are but as sounding brass and tinkling Cymbals, 1 Cor. 13.1. And some again have a kind of Charity; but care not for Piety, they give much Alms, but do not give themselves to God, nor give over their sins. Such Saint Ambrose saith, Multi sunt qui faciunt eleemosynan, & tamen peccare non cessant tisti quasi sua● offerunt Deo & seipsos Diabolo. Amb. Ser. 12. give their goods to God, and themselves to the devil. But your worthy Kinswoman was none such, for first she gave herself to God as the Macedonians did, and then to God's Messengers, and to the Saints, 2 Cor. 8.1, 2, 3, 4, 5. What then though she died a distasteful death by reason of her disease? Yet she left a most sweet smell and savour behind her, even the precious ointment of a good Name, so that the day of her death was much better than the day of her birth, as Solomon saith, in the same place, Eccles. 7.1. Whereas many others, that die of fair discases leave a noisome and unsavoury sent behind them, going out like the snuff of a Candle. This was that which made her so ready to resign her will to Gods in greatest extremities, and towards her latter end, so much to long to go home (as her words were) for she made no more of death than a departing home, so that we saw her something troubled, when those that were about her laboured to preserve her life, saying, Why will you not let me go? as if they did hinder her happiness. Thus with my singular respect to you both, and those that be most near unto you, commending you, and all yours to the grace of our God, Ephes. 3.20. who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or think, I rest Your Honours much obliged Stephen Geree. THE ORNAMENT of Women. PRO. 31.29, 30. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. VER. 30. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a Woman that feareth the Lord she shall be praised. THis last Chapter of the Proverbs, contains certain singular lessons, which Lemuel, or Solomon, learned of his loving and religious mother Bathsheba, as is gathered from the first and second verses. Whereby we may justly confute the folly or rather blasphemy of those, Papists, and Atheists, that cannot endure Women should meddle with the Scriptures or Word of God. For if the words of a Woman were thought fit to be made the word of God, not only by wise Solomon; but also by the Holy Ghost, then surely Women may very well meddle with God's holy word, that following this holy and royal example of Solomon's Mother, they may instruct, at least, their child: in the old good way according to GOD'S Word. jer. 6.16. The truth is, many women do shame a great many men, that are ignorant, idle, or profane, and hence they seek to fright them from the Word of God, that they might be as bad as them, or that themselves might not seem so bad as they be. In the body of this Chap. we find two main things considerable, the 1. Concerning Man, the 2. Concerning Woman. The first, declares how a Prince or great man may, and aught to be, a good man, from the beginning of the third unto the 10th verse. The second shows the praises and properties of a great and good woman especially. Her praises are set down first and last, her properties are in the midst. Wherein we may see her behaviour. First, As she is a Wife, ver. 11.12. Secondly, The properties of a good woman. As a Mother and Mistress of a Family, verse 13.14. etc. to 28. In all which we may take notice of her singular faithfulness and helpfulness, her painfulness and providence, her prudence and watchfulness, and that which seasons all her Piety and Charity, Rare virtues in a man, much more in a woman, who is the weaker vessel. 1 Pet. 3. Her praises As for her praise (to come more punctually to that, because the Text is a part of it) we may consider. First, Her rareness, hard to be found, intimated in the interrogation. Who can find a virtuous woman? That is, they are rare birds, and even almost black Swans, not every where nor easy to be found. Secondly, Her incomparableness, her price is fare above Rubies or the most precious Stones. Ibid: not only above, but fare above Rubies. So much for her praise in the first place. In the second you shall find First, Of whom she is praised, namely those that best knew her, to wit, her husband and child: Her children arise up and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praiseth her, ver. 28. Secondly, The quality of her praise, Ver. 29. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which is set down first to be superlative, fare surmounting all other in the first verse of the Text. Many daughters have done virtuously; but thou excellest, or goest beyond, and above them all, as the Hebrew hath it. Secondly, Ver. 30. Comparative in the latter verse, Favour is deceitful and beauty is vain, or vanity itself: but a woman that feareth the Lord she shall be praised. Thirdly, take notice of that for which this good woman is chief praised, Ibid. v. 30 to wit, for her fear of God, that is for her grace, true Religion, and piety towards God. Lastly, The place where she should be praised, Ver. 31 even in the Gate, that is in the most public place of concourse and meeting, for in the Gates were there public meetings and assemblies, for rewards or punishments. And here it is to be observed, Continet encomium mulieris alphabetico ordine exaratum. jun. Ibid. that all this is set down in an extraordinary order, even Alphabetically in the Original, both according to the order and number of the Hebrew Letters, there being just so many verses as letters, to wit, twenty two concerning this great and good woman. Which is seldom used in the Scripture: and always upon special occasion, to signify the choiceness of the matter in hand, and to persuade them the rather to read, and learn those select lessons. In the Text than we have the praise of a Wife or Woman in print, (as I may say) a woman fare more worth than her weight in gold: whence the first and main point, that I will observe shall be this. Grace and godliness are the most excellent Ornaments of Women. Or thus, Obser. 1 The fear of God and true Religion make most excellent women and wives. There is as much difference between a gracious Woman and one that wants grace and true Religion, Ye were sometime darkness but now light in the Lord. Eph. 5.8. Vide. 1 Thes. 5.5. as between the light of the Sun and the light of the Moon and lesser Stars. While the Sun is out of sight, the Moon makes a fair show, and the lesser stars do shine, also till the Sun begin to show himself in the Horizon, than the Moon doth as it were lose all her light, looking wan and pale, and the less stars vanish, and appear not at all: Rotten wood will shine in the night in the dark. So a woman that wants grace may make great show in the night amongst the lesser stars, and seem glorious, she may exceed others and shine much in wealth, and beauty, and comeliness, yea and in moral virtues, as discretion and diligence, etc. which make a fair show in the world, 1 joh. 5.19. that lies in wickedness, and so in darkness; but when a true religious woman comes in place, that is adorned with the fear of God and the graces of God's Spirit, than the other is quite obscured and darkened, in the eyes of those that can discern of things that differ. And that which is here spoken of women, you may likewise all along apply unto men. For grace and GOD'S fear make as great a difference among men as amongst women. Hence David calls the Saints the excellent of the earth, in whom was all his delight, Psalm. 16.3. And wise Solomon his son saith. The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour Prov. 12.26. for he found by experience, (who tried more than any man) that all was vanity, yea vanity of vanities, that is superlatively vain without the fear of God, The main thing that makes a man. and keeping his Commandments; which, he said, was Col haadam; the whole man, or the whole duty of man, Eccles. 12.13. This will easily appear to a spiritual eye, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Omnis homo. Aria's Mont. Totum Homints Jun. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Sep. that grace and the fear of God makes the most excellent women and wives, because such as be truly gracious excel all others in all those things that are most commended in a woman. As first to begin with their Birth. It is greatly esteemed in man or woman to be nobly borne, The gracious Woman doth excel in Birth. and honourably descended, and many make a great show, and carry themselves high, because of their great birth, and it breeds estimation in others. But now every gracious woman exceeds in her birth, joh. 3.3. & 1. and 13. because borne from above, even borne anew of God, and therefore most nobly borne, yea most royally descended: It is a great matter to be man's first borne, and therefore the first borne was called the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power, See Exod. 4.22. Jsrael is my son even my first borne. Gen 49.3. Now all those that fear God aright, and have true grace, are Gods first borne, both men and women, Heb. 12.23. And therefore are the excellency of God's dignity, and the excellency of his power, who is omnipotent, even Elshaddai all-sufficient, Gen. 17.1. Next to birth that which commends a woman is Beauty, 2. Beauty. wherewith men are much taken, and even bewitched as it were, sometimes to the loss of their wits and lives also, if they cannot obtain. Now there is no beauty to the beauty of holiness, which is the blessed Image of God, Ephes. 4.24. and makes us like our Lord and Saviour, who is altogether lovely, Cant. 5.16. All other beauty is but blackness to this, which is the true beauty of every gracious woman fearing God, and which she most of all prizeth, and seeks after. The next thing that commends a woman is favour, 3. Favour. to be well favoured is amiable in the eyes of men, yet the text here will tell you, that as Beauty is vain, so favour is deceitful, being compared with the fear of God. For the fear of the Lord makes us well favoured in the sight of God: this is that therefore which makes men or women excel all others who are foully deformed, by reason of sin and wickedness. These are chief things that make a woman praiseworthy in regard of the body. Wherein you see Religion and the fear of God hath gotten the pre-eminence. Now for the things that commend the soul, The godly woman excels in the inward qualities, as first in her judgement and understanding. we shall see the same difference. As first for judgement and understanding, A woman wanting grace may have a nimble wit, and quick apprehension in earthly things, so that she may be able to discourse discreetly on such matters, but as for the best things, she must come far short of the gracious woman, as not being able to discern of heavenly things aright, or approve the things that are excellent, as the Apostle hath it, Philippians 1.10. Because she hath but a naiurall wit, or moral at the most, whereas the women that hath grace hath a sapernaturall understanding, Mat. 13.11. given her of God, as all his children have. He reveals unto all such that which he hides and conceals from the wise and prudent of the world. Mat. 11.25. A second thing that inwardly commends a woman 2. In Love. is her love. But if she be without grace, her love is little better than lust, because not set upon the right object, not upon God, nor the things of God, but on the base things below, therefore is base in comparison of that love of excellent things, which is exceedingly sweetened and seasoned by the sanctified objects. Herein therefore, the gracious woman goes far beyond such as want grace, because her affections are right set, Mat. 6.33. seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, preferring the Image of God before all outward beauty, esteeming it dung in comparison. A third inward quality that commends man or woman is their mind and spirit, 3. In spirit. Saint Paul doth make a great difference between the spirit of God, and the spirit of the world. 1 Cor. 2.12. herein she that hath grace and Gods fear, doth fare exceed all other, as Daniel did all the Precedents and Princes, because an excellent spirit was in him. So in every one truly Religious there is a more excellent spirit: even the spirit of GOD. For if any one hath not the spirit of CHRIST, he is none of his, Rom. 8. ver. 9 You see then how grace makes men and women excel, because it makes them, though never so mean, of a more excellent mind and spirit: And the wiser Heathen could say, Mens cujusque is est quisque. Cicere. The mind or spirit of a man is the main man, and they did not reckon of a man according to his riches or honours, or any outward ornament, but according to his mind or spirit. He that was base minded was counted a base man, though nobly borne and greatly advanced otherways with wealth, etc. And he that was brave spirited was counted a brave man, though meanly descended, Great difference in regard of their actions. 1. In general. Even as a sick man must first be made whole yer he can do the deeds of a whole man, and as the blind must first have fight given him, yet he can see. Mr. Tindals' Parable of the wicked Mammon p. 63. Col. 2. and of low estate in the world. Thus much for their persons, wherein those that have grace every way exceed. Now come we to consider their actions, and we shall find no less difference. For first in general, All the actions of the unregenerate are polluted with sin, Matth. 7.18. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Till we be good we cannot do good, as the tree must be good before it can bring forth good fruit. And 'tis grace and grace only, and the fear of God that makes us good before God, All the pruning, dressing, digging, dunging, in the world, will not make a swore Crabtree stock bring forth good Apples, unless it be grafted with a graft of a good tree, you cannot gather grapes of thorns nor figs of thistles, Matth. 7.16. So all the pruning or dressing of man or woman by art and education will not make them bring forth acceptable fruit unto God, unless they be grafted with grace from above. Those other things may make them civil and sober, wise and well reputed of in the world, but they cannot make them holy, and pleasing in God's sight. And their best and most glorious works of piety and charity, which in some sort they may, and do perform, are but glistering sins. Splendida peccata, as Saint Austin hath long since truly termed them. For such offer to God a body without a soul, because grace is that which gives spirit, and life to all our actions, without which all we do must needs be, Heb. 6.1. and 9.14. but dead works, as the Scripture calls them, Heb. 6.1. Thus much for their actions in general, 2 In regard of particulars, as 1 Prayer. the same may be said of particulars; we shall see the excellency of the one above the other to be notable. As for example, first in prayer. Both those that have grace, and they that want grace and the fear of God, may set upon this holy duty; but not with the same success. The Prayers of faithful women, as well as men pierce the clouds, and pull down God's blessings, upon themselves and others. As we may see in Hannah, 1 Sam. 1.12, 13, and 15. See Genesis 30. ver. 1. and 20. who by her prayers became of barren fruitful, and as barrenness was then accounted a great curse, so fruitfulness was esteemed a great blessing. And before and above the rest she obtained a Samuel, one that had the print of his mother's prayers set upon his Name, for Samuel signifies as much as one asked or begged of God. See 1 Sam. 1.20. This Samuel, this son of prayer, proved a worthy servant of the Lord, a judge in Israel, 1 Sam. 3. and a Prophet of the Lord, to whom God revealed Himself betimes. She poured out her soul before the Lord, 1 Sam. 1.15. and he poured down this great blessing upon her, which was the joy and rejoicing of herself, and her husband, and the staff and stay of all Israel, as appears at large in the first book of Samuel. And how came Solomon to be so famous, and to be preferred before his elder brethren to the kingdom of Israel? It is more than probable, that it came to pass by his holy mother's prayers, and instructions, and therefore she calls him the son of her vows, Pou. 31.2. vows and prayers being sometimes taken for the very same. Thus good women are wonderful helpful to their husbands by their prayers, and also to their children: And indeed the whole family fares the better for them. But those that want grace, God's fear, and faith, cannot pray so as to prevail with God. They may say their prayers, (as we use to say) but pray properly they cannot. For how shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? Rom. 10.14. If we ask not in faith we cannot receive any thing of GOD, jam. 1.6, 7. we may receive something by God's ordinary providence, that is extended to man and beast, but we receive nothing by our prayers, that proceed not from grace. The prayer of faith is that which heals both soul and body, jam. 5.15, 16. Therefore those men and women that want faith and the fear of God, their praying is mere prating or babbling, as our Saviour saith of the prayers of the heathen, Mat. 6.7. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. mere battology, and bare repetition of words. Hence when Saul (that became Paul) was newly converted, who had made havoc of the Church before, Christ signified the same to Ananias in these words. Behold he prayeth, Acts 9.11. Saul we read, was a strict Pharisee, Acts 26.5. And the Pharisees used to pray standing in the Synagogues, and in the corners of the streets, just as the Papists and other hypocrites, to be seen of men, Mat. 6.5. And for a pretence made long prayers, Matth. 23.14. yet behold, now he prayeth, saith the Lord, he never prayed till now, till he was brought home humble to Christ, & had his heart changed by grace from heaven, Behold now he prayeth indeed, now his prayers are to purpose. Likewise as her prayers are most excellent that hath grace and the fear of God, 2. All other speeches. so are her other speeches. A woman that hath grace speaks so, as to minister grace unto the hearers, Ephes. 4.29. She openeth her mouth with wisdom: and in her tongue is the law of kindness, Prov. 31.26. But it is fare otherwise with those that want grace, they speak so as to minister rather sin to the hearers. Witness the fond, frivolous, unsavoury, and malicious discourses of most women, when they meet together. Not a word of grace comes out of their lips in a long season, they savour no such discourse. Likewise, Great difference in the end of their actions. 1 Cor. 10.31. they differ as much in the end of their actions, gracious women aim at God's glory in all their actions: which is little regarded of those that want grace, and therefore GOD regards not their actions in any measure, as he doth theirs that seek his honour. For those that honour me I will honour, saith the Lord, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed, 1 Sam. 2.30. Come we a little further and consider these 2. Differences in regard of some special relations. sorts of women in regard of some relations, and other adjuncts, and we shall find a vast difference that grace makes between them. First, 1 In their heads. a godly and gracious woman is a lively member of Christ, whereas without grace women are no members at all, or else unsound, rotten, and corrupt members, yea in 〈◊〉 limbs of Satan. And 〈◊〉 the members partake of the honour or dishonour of the head, so it is here. The lively members of Christ participate of his honours and dignities. For in him they are more than conquerors, Rom. 8.37. And to him that overcommeth saith Christ, I will give power over Nations, and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, etc. even as I received of my Father, Revel. 2.26, 27. And he hath made us all Kings, Revel. 1.6. See also, The one sort shall sit upon the bench and the other stand at the bar. Revel. 3.21. To him that overcommeth will I grant to sit with me in my Throne, etc. This honour have all his Saints, men and women. Know ye not that the Saints shall judge the world, 1 Cor. 6.2. whereas all others shall be judged by them, and sentenced with the Devil and his Angels, Matth. 25.41. The Saints shall sit on the Bench, the other shall stand at the Bar. Secondly, 2. In their Husband. The excellency of a gracious woman appears, in her husband, for every Christian soul is espoused unto the son of God, even matched unto Christ. Hence the Apostle said that he had espoused the Corinthians unto one husband, Virgins in a spiritual not Popish sense. that he might present them chaste Virgins unto CHRIST, 2 Cor. 11.2. And you know that the wife partakes of her husband's honours and excellencies. Viri radijs coruscant mulieres, as the Lawyers speak. Women shine with their husband's beams, as the Moon with the light of the Sun. If he be a Lord, she is a Lady; if he be a King, she is a Queen, etc. Therefore in like manner every woman that hath true grace, whereby she is matched to the most excellent husband must needs be most excellent; whereas those that want grace, and the fear of God, are matched and linked by sin unto Satan, and so shall partake of his shameful miseries, according to the sentence, Mat. 25.41. Depart into everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his angels. Thirdly, 3 In their portion. Portion is an adjunct that makes a woman much set by and sought after. And even in this the gracious woman hath got fare the better, more than Benjamins mess exceeded his brethren's, though the other hath many thousands. For she hath God for her portion, as David had Psalm. 16.5. and others, Psalm. 73.26. Lam. 3.24. And accordingly she hath the most excellent jointure, she is joint heirewith Christ jesus, Rom. 8.17. So that she hath many jewels, even those exceeding great and precious promises, 2 Pet. 1.4. To such the Apostle saith, All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollo, or Cephas or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are yours (he saith it twice to make us the more sure) and ye are Christ's, and Christ is Gods, 1 Cor. 3.21, 22, 23. The same difference is here as was among Abraham's Children, Genesis 25.5, 6. as between Isaac and the sons of the Concubine. Abraham gave all that he had unto Isaac (saith the text,) but unto the sons of the Concubine he gave gifts, and sent them away. Even so it is in this case: the wicked who are but sons and daughters of the Concubine, bastards indeed and not legitimate Children, have only portions, to wit, the poor things of this life, more or less, which are mean pittances, with which they are sent packing; when as they that fear God, being lawful children, have the whole inheritance, for they are Children of the promise as Isaac was. Lastly, 4 Apparel. Apparel is an adjunct that sets out a woman, and makes her seem excellent. And herein the gracious woman doth far outstrip her that wants grace, because she hath put off the rags of corruption which the other still retains and hugs. And she hath put on the armour of light, and consequently hath put on the Lord jesus Christ, Rom. 13.12, 13, 14. which is royal apparel indeed, more rich than all the world. Such women as have this apparel, are like the King's daughter, Psalm. 45. who was all glorious within, and her clothing of wrought gold, ver. 13. Every gracious woman is daughter to the great King, her clothing of wrought gold, even of that gold, which was tried by fire, which our Saviour commanded the Laodiceans to buy of him, Revel. 3.18. which can no where else be had. All the Gold in Ophir or the Indies is but dross to this. In a word every gracious woman is arrayed like that woman, Revel. 12.1. Who was clothed with the sun, Mal 4.2. and the Moon under her feet. So she that fear God is clothed with the Sun of righteousness, and tramples all sublunary and earthly things under her feet, as too base and mear to be advanced in her judgement and affections. And if Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these Lillies of the field, Cant. 2.2. how surpassing then is the glory of these Lillies among thorns, that are clothed with him, who was fare greater than Solomon? Mat. 12. By all this than it is as clear as the sun, that Grace and true Religion are the most excellent ornaments of women, and the fear of God makes the most excellent wives in every respect. Now let us see what use and application may be made of this. It may first of all serve to condemn the corrupt judgement of the blear-eyed world, Use 1 that is so contrary to the judgement of God and good men. The world mainly commends outward beauty, and bravery, portion, proportion and the like, in women; but as for grace, and the fear of God, Religion and true holiness, so much approved by God, and extolled by the Holy Ghost, these are scarcely named, the world looks asquint at them, and cannot endure them, especially in women, yea they be cried down and condemned as folly and madness. joh. 7.48, 49. and 10.20. What may be the reason of this? but because the world wants eyes to discern the worth and excellency of the best things; for these things are spiritually discerned, 1 Corinth. 2.14. The King's daughter is all glorious within, the world wants the spectacles of faith, to look within the veil, and to see things aright, and looks thorough the false glass of the Devil, whereby they are deluded: and hence it comes to pass, that that which is highly esteemed of men is abomination in the sight of God, Luk. 16.15. and on the contrary, that which is highly esteemed of God is abomination in the sight of men. Secondly, Use 2 if grace and Gods fear make most excellent wives, than this condemns the carnal choice of most men, that rather match for money or beauty, etc. that for grace that is the only beauty, and brings the greatest portion, yea which brings a true title to all the promises and kingdom of heaven itself, which are rare and rich jewels. A man will not be so mad as to buy an horse merely for his shape and colour, but he will have a special eye to his pace and strength and mettle, that he may be serviceable, and yet in this main matter of seeking Wives many are so senseless, as to be carried away with the painted sheath, like children, more than the blade, which is especially for use. 3. Use 3 Learn hence what you ought principally to prize in men or women; not earthly, but spiritual things, not beauty and bravery, and riches and the like, but true grace and Religion, godliness and the fear of God, which will make both men and women far more precious than Rubies, or the richest stones, and which make men and women as much differ from others as Stars do in glory. When the wiser Heathen were demanded the difference between Philosophers and those that were unlearned, they concluded the difference, as much as was between a man and a beast: and Solomon saith, that wisdom excelleth folly as fare as light excelleth darkness, Eccles. 2.13. But Grace makes a fare greater difference, even as much as is between heaven and earth, yea as between heaven and hell, as plentifully appears in the former proofs. Again, Use 4 is it so, that grace and Gods fear make most excellent men and women? then learn we hence to become truly excellent, by labouring most earnestly and zeaously for grace and the true fear of God. If we could as clearly show you how to excel in woe ldly wealth, or strength, or beauty, etc. I doubt not, but we should have followers flock after us, as fast as they go to fairs and skilful Physicians. Why should you not much more hearken unto us in that which will make you fare more excellent, both in soul and body, even excellent in the eyes of God, and amiable in the sight of his dear Son. Covet earnestly (saith the Apostle) the best gifts, Vide D. Sclat. in locum. and yet I show you a more excellent way, 1 Cor. 12.31. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 it is the superlative in the Original the most excellent way They were ambitious and covetous of praise in the Church of Corinth, therefore he shows them the only way to be ambitious and covetous without crime or sin, namely by coveting most earnestly the best gifts, which he calls the most excellent way. Wherefore let other be more wealthy, so you be more worthy; and let others be more eminent and glorious in the world, and things of the world, so you be most excellent and glorious in the best things, in spiritual and heavenly gifts. But, may some say, Object. if we take this course to be more truly religious, and forward in grace, and the fear of God, we shall not be accounted excellent; but rather pestilent to the places where we live, as we find by experience, we shall be esteemed the very troublers of the land, etc. Answ. This need not trouble us, so long as it hath been the lot of the most excellent servants of God. For even Elias the restorer of religion in Israel, was so faluted by wicked Ahab, who sold himself to work wickedness, Art thou he that troubleth Israel? 1 King. 18.17. when it was Ahab himself and his father's house, that were the troublers of the land, in that they had forsaken the commandments of God, and followed Baalim, as the Prophet replied, vers. 18. And S. Paul a singular Apostle, that excelled all the rest in zeal, unwearied watchfulness and diligence, was not he also accused to his face, and that before the Governor Felix, for a pestilent fellow, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Acts 24.5. indeed a very plague, a mover of sedition among all the jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarens, for even so they miscalled the true Christians in those days, Acts 24.5. who shall never want one nickname or other to make them odious, though they be the excellent of the earth, of whom the world is not worthy. Therefore our blessed Saviour bids us rejoice and be exceeding glad, Hab. 11.38. when men revile us and persecute us, and say all manner of evil for his name's sake falsely, because even so persecuted they the Prophets that were before us, and great is our reward in heaven, Matth. 5.11, 12. The Apostles that were the most excellent, yet were esteemed as the filth of the world, and offscouring of all things, 1 Cor. 4.13. The excellency of those that have true grace is out of the reach of humane reason, and this makes many despise that which they cannot discern. And who would not rather be excellent, and yet esteemed vile, as Christ himself and his Apostles were, than being base and vile, by reason of sin, to be highly esteemed and extolled in the world? Wherefore I say again, covet earnestly these best gifts, to wit, of grace and the true fear of GOD, which is the most excellent way, notwithstanding all the ignominy & reproach, all the derision and disdain, that the wicked world can cast upon it. And know this withal, that nothing is excellent, but it is also difficult. You must not look to excel, and yet live as you list, as the most, especially great men and women use to do. The kingdom of heaven (which is the most excellent kingdom) suffereth violence (saith our Saviour) and the violent take it by force, Mat. 11.12. You must therefore be violent for grace and God's kingdom, if you mean to be excellent. See therefore that with diligence you set upon the most excellent and difficult duties, as self-denial, serious examination of your own hearts and ways, frequent praying, reading, hearing, and meditating in the good word of God, Acts 20.32. the word of his grace, Conferring and keeping company with such especially as fear the Lord, Psalm. 119.63. and excel in virtue, Psalm. 16.3. Ephe. 5.15, 16. Walking circumspectly, or exactly, redeeming the time because the days are evil; perfecting holiness in the fear of God, 2 Cor. 7.1. For God hath commanded to keep his precepts diligently, or very much Psal. 119.4. And cursed is the deceiver, that in his flock hath a male, and sacrificeth unto the LORD a corrupt thing, for I am a great King saith the Lord of Hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen, Mal. 1.14. Lastly, Use 5 let not any think that these things will not stand with their state, and place or birth and the like. For this in the Text was spoken by a worthy Queen written by a famous King, to wit, wise Solomon, and that concerning the commendations of a great woman especially, as interpreters observe, And owned by the Holy Ghost, for part of God's pure word, given by inspiration from GOD. Yea let them know, that Grace and true Religion sincerely followed, is the Crown of greatness, and the fairest flower in their garden, or Garland that sit upon the highest thrones. As it was fare greater honour for David to be styled a man after Gods own heart for devotion, and zeal, than when the women sang Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousand, 1 Sam. 18.7. And so I come in a word to the last words of my Text. But a woman that feareth the Lord she shall be praised. Hence we may observe. Obser. 2 It is our bounden duty to praise those that be praiseworthy, especially such as excel in virtue. The reason is ready, Reas. 1 that others may be encouraged to labour for the like notable and eminent virtues and graces. As also to confirm such as take the same courses, that they may never be weary of well doing, nor faint in the ways of grace and godliness, wherein they shall be sure to meet with discouragements more than a few in this present evil world. It may serve also to quicken others in the ways of God's Commandments, praise being a special spur to that purpose, as we find by experience. And so I come briefly to the application of the point. Use 1 If praise be such a due debt to those that do virtuously, and especially to them that excel in grace, and in the fear of God, then let none be so cross and opposite unto God as to condemn those, whom the Lord commends, let none be so base minded as to cry out upon such as follow fastest after grace and true Religion. For he that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are an abomination to the Lord, Pro. 17 15. Secondly, Use 2 Let none be offended to hear the due and deserved praises of those that excel in grace and Gods holy fear. For some are more desirous to have wicked men and women flattered, and soothed in their sinful, and graceless courses, than to hear the praises of such as be holy and heavenly minded, because they are like to the former, and most unwilling to tread in strait steps of the latter. But woe be to them that call evil good, and good evil, Isa. 5.20. He that thus blesseth his friend, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him, Pro. 27.14. To bless and praise men or women without desert, is no blessing, but a curse, and on the contrary, to bless and praise where there is just ground, will be a means to bring a blessing. And thus much shall suffice for the Text. Now may we seasonably proceed to the occasion. Concerning this most worthy Gentlewoman, The occasion. for whose sake we are here assembled; I may safely say without straining, as my Text leads me, Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. I speak it without dispraise to any, take her every way, and she goes beyond all, that ever I knew, in my apprehension, and that especially in these three respects. 1. If you consider her age, 2. The time of her standing, and 3. Her rank and parentage. For her age, For her age. She was but full three and twenty the last month, and yet so grown in grace, that she might seem rather threescore and three, for gravity sobriety and modesty, matching the eldest matrons. She had but a short time to run her race, and God gave her an heart to make haste, for she ran so fast, that she not only overtook, but overranne all her fellows. For her time of standing, it was about 7. years, Her time of standing she served an Apprenticeship, and was therein so true to her heavenly maker, that he thought her fully fit to be made free, not only in the kingdom of grace but of glory. She was so good a scholar in CHRIST'S School, that she was called to take her highest degree, to wit, in heaven, long before the usual time, as some do in the University propter excellentiam, for their excellency above their fellows. For in seven years she learned more, than many, (and those true Christians too) in 7. times 7. years. And for her rank and parentage, Her rank and parentage. She was descended of no mean family, she came of some very honourable ancestors, yet so humble, and lowly was she, and denied herself so much for her Saviour's sake, that she would be familiar with the meanest that made conscience of their ways, and had the fear of God before their eyes, preferring such as were rich in faith, Jam. 2.5. far before any other, though never so gay, and glorious in the world. Yea in all these three respects she was one of a thousand, nay one of ten thousand, and therefore the fit to be fully matched with him, that is chiefest of ten thousand, Cant. 5.10. So that I may very well apply all those former excellencies unto her, wherein women truly fearing God fare exceed all other women. And first for Birth, hers was of the best, Her birth of the best. she was most nobly borne most royally descended, being partaker of the new birth, borne from above, and begotten of God, who of his own will begat her by the word of truth, jam. 1.18. which she most evidently expressed, by that great respect and reverence which she ever after bare to that blessed instrument of her heavenly birth, God's holy word, making it her delight and counsellor, as the Prophet did, Psal. 119.24. Secondly, As she had the best birth, Her beauty so she obtained the most excellent beauty, even the beauty of holiness, the blessed image of God, which made her most amiable in the eyes of all those that were well acquainted with her, and could discern the things that be excellent, and even dazzled the eyes of others. So beautiful was she in this best kind, that she did much grace and adorn the Gospel, and beautified her profession, whereas some are a blot and blemish unto it. And therefore in the third place she must needs be well favoured, Her favour for her parts were well proportioned. She was a true Elizabeth, walking in all the Commandments and Ordinances of the Lord blameless, like that Elizabeth, Luk. 1.6. And was not like those women that have many good parts, but withal some such foul infirmities, that they stain and spoil all that is good in them, so that they cause the name of God, and his word to be blasphemed. Fourthly, For her understanding: Her understanding. she was able to discern those mysteries which are hid from the wise and prudent, for she perceived an excellency in things above, which made her so ready to run the ways of God's Commandments, when others scarce go in them. She was able by an heavenly instinct, to distinguish the voice of Christ from the voice of a stranger, joh. 10.4, 5. which made her esteem all other things dung in comparison of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ jesus, Philip. 3.8. Fifthly, For her Love, Her Love. it was truly excellent and of the best stamp, for it was set upon the right object, upon God and the things of God, in the first place, so that she could say with the Psalmist, whom have I in heaven but thee, and I desire none in earth besides thee, Psal. 73.25. And with the Martyrs. None but Christ, St. Peter and john Lambert. Mart. Nothing but Christ. Her charity also was towards all, even her utter enemies, for she could do good against evil, but her special love was to the Saints, in whom was her delight. She well understood and made much use of that Article of the Creed, which few conceive, (The Communion of Saints) being very open-hearted and openhanded to such as she thought true members of that blessed society. And if she seemed sparing at any time, it was to spend the more liberally upon the lively members of Christ, in which regard she did match the Macedonians, whose grace Saint Paul much commended, because to their power (he bare record) yea and beyond their power, they were willing of themselves. Herein where most Christians come short she exceeded. Their love is less than their means, hers above her abilities. And so was she, as many can bear record, and this because she had first given herself to the Lord, and then to others by the will of God, as they did, 2 Cor. 8.1, 2, 3, 4, 5. In a word her love to her dear and familiar friends was like the love of jonathan unto David, wonderful, passing the love of women, 2 Sam. 1.26. She was indeed a true jonathan being jah-nathan a special gift of God. Sixthly, Her spirit. Ruach jattira, Dan. 6. and 3. for Her spirit she might well be called the Daughter of Daniel, because Ruach jattira as the Chaldee hath it, an excellent spirit was in her: Though the weaker vessel, yet had she a masculine, heroic, and invincible spirit, to resist Satan and his instruments, whensoever she was set upon to be hindered from God's service. O how courageously would she break through all impediments, that might any way hinder her from holy duties, even as Samson snapped asunder the cords and withes! judg. 16. With what an holy indignation did she scorn the wealth and pleasures of this present world, as dross and scum in comparison of the true treasure! And how undaunted in defending the truth and those that stood for the same! She was not ashamed of Christian any company, as many cowardly Christians are. Thus much for those things that were applied to the person of woman in the proof of the point. Next for her Actions, first in general. Now come we to her actions, which were like herself, sanctified and singular. For Religion was her masterpiece, 1 King. 18.12. as this worthy woman's in the text, she was one that feared God from her youth and therefore her actions proceeded from a right root, and clear spring ●he was no hypocrite, I dare boldly say, for she was not so much in show as in substance, not more in words than in deeds but as God had given he● 2. hands to one tongue, so her deeds doubled her words, and though thus double handed in all her doings, contrary to the course of the world yet most single hearted. In particular for her prayers, In particular for her prayers. Hos. 12.3, 4. they were not cold, lazy, and lukewarm, but such as pierced the skies, like those of Cornelius, Act. 10.4. O how would she wrestle with God in prayer! how would she fly to the throne of grace as it were upon the wings of faith! And how often hath she been observed to rise from prayer, with tears in her eyes, on her cheeks, and dropped down before her! and that without any ostentation, which she was as free from, as any that ever I observed. I speak by experience. As much may be said for her diligent and dutiful hearing (to add an instance or two more.) And hearing God's Word. For she delighted not in houses of play, and pleasure, as most young Gentlewomen do, but the houses of praying and preaching were her chief joy. Psalm. 137.5, 6. So that whatsoever pains she was able to take she was willing to undergo, to come to those places where she might hear God most lively speaking unto her, and she again most powerfully like Hannah, pour out her soul unto the Lord. Mourning for nothing more in time of her sickness, than the want of God's house and ordinances, for nothing but Necessity could keep her from them, which is far otherwise, with a great many especially of her rank, who are but too easily entreated to keep from the Church, even when God himself, their own, and the Church's necessities call upon them. And while she was hearing, how marvellous attentive! even as was said of the people, that heard our Saviour, Luk. 19.48. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 they were attentive to him, or rather hanged upon him as the margin hath it in the last translation; So she hanged upon the mouth of his messengers, as Chickens hang upon the mouth of the Hen, (as some open the phrase) that are ready to catch whatsoever she shall break for them, or let fall unto them. Even so her coming to the Sacrament was admirable. And receiving the holy Sacrament. How solemn and serious would she be in preparing for that holy Supper, setting apart sometimes days of fasting and humiliation (which were days of jubilee to her sanctified spirit) that she might come the more hungry and thirsty, and so be more fully satisfied with the fat and sweet of this most heavenly Table. Seldom did she receive this bless. Sacrament with dry eyes, as I have been often an eye witness (though she carried it covertly, and yet how often did she frequent this holy Feast! never missing the monthly Communions, if she were able to come to the Church, and that I think for 7. years together, after once it had pleased the Lord to let the light of his countenance shine upon her, wherein she followed a good pattern given her at home. These are strange things, you will think, but I can assure you, not so strange as true, for I do not speak, as we must do many times by hear-say, but I speak, what I have seen and known. And now for her words and speeches she had learned the language of Canaan, Her words. Jsa. 19.8. Neh. 13.24. and did not mingle it with the speech of Ashdod, she was not double-tongued but spoke the words of soberness and truth. She loved that pure language, Zeph. 3.9. and hated lying, and swearing, yea she abhorred all rotten speech and corrupt communication, as filthy vomit, labouring to have her speeches always with grace, Col. 4.6. seasoned with salt as the Apostle commands. And for the end of her Actions, The end of her actions She exceedingly aimed at God's glory, preferring that before all, so that she would often say. If she could but glorify God she cared not. For she had learned by heart that hard lesson of Self deny all for God's sake. Now in the last place to come to those relations, and adjuncts of excellency. First, She was a most lively member of Christ's mystical body, Honourable in her Head. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. She had conquest upon conquest, one victory after another. and therefore most honourable in Her head. Witness those worthy works before related. She was in Christ her head more than a Conqueror, Rom. 8.37. she did over-overcome, as one well renders the words. For she conquered the corruptions of youth, of her place, of the times and places wherein she lived, and therefore now no doubt is gone to wear the crown of righteousness, having fought so good a fight of faith, 2 Tim. 4.7, 8. 2. She was no less excellent in her Husband than in her head, In her husband. which are the same, for she was espoused unto Christ, her heavenly husband, with whose beams of grace she did shine brightly while she was here, and therefore now she glisters gloriously as the Sun, with his most orient beams of bliss and happiness. 3. For her Portion, that was no corruptible thing, In her Portion. as silver or gold, but even the Lord of heaven, whose mercy endures for ever, in comparison of whom she esteemed all earthly treasure but dross and dung. And therefore now she is gone to take possession of that goodly jointure, the kingdom of glory, being joynt-heire with Christ jesus. Rom. 8.17. For on earth women do not enjoy their jointure, but the time of life after their Husband's death, but 'tis otherwise in heaven, for they go to take a fuller possession of their spiritual jointure by death, which is the door of eternal life to them that die in the Lord. Lastly, for her Apparel, it was of the choicest and best, In her Apparel. even the Royal Robes of Christ's righteousness, which she had put on by faith, Phil. 3 9 renouncing her own righteousness, as rotten rags in comparison, often complaining of her own unrighteousness. And yet whereas other Gentlewomen are much taken up with providing for the body, tricking and trimming that painted sheath, for it is no better oftentimes, See Dan. 7.15. in the Chaldee. Vestite vos serico probitatis. byssino sanctitatis purpura pudicitia. Taliter pigmentatae Deum habebitu amatorem, Ter. de cull. foeminarum. she mainly minded the trimming and decking of her soul, by her daily devotion, wherein she excelled, hating the fond and flaring, fantastical and new fangled fashions of the world, as fit for none but idle brains, vain and wanton women, that want eyes to look into their precious soul, and see how needy and naked, tattered & deformed they are within. She therefore now (no doubt) is arrayed like those in the Revelation, that had long white Robes, and Palms in their hands, in sign of victory, Rev. 7.9. For she came out of great tribulation, and had washed her Robe, and made it white in the blood of the Lamb v. Ver. 16.17. 14. So that now she shall hunger no more, nor thirst any more, all tears being wiped from her eyes, See Isaiah 57.1, 2. though not from ours. For we have great cause to weep and mourn, not for her, but for ourselves. The greater her gain is, the greater is our loss, and not ours only, but the whole Church of God. Thus much for her life. Of Her death. Now concerning her death, I must say something, because she gave me as it were a charge, entreating me to speak that which I shall briefly declare unto you. The first day that she fell ill, I went unexpectedly to see her, wherein she acknowledged Gods special providence. I found her indeed something sad, yea more than ordinary, not for fear of Death, but because that her disease was likely to be such as would deprive her of her friends, hence those tears. To wit, the small Pox I told her she was in the hands of a wise and tender Father, who knew best what was fit for us, and therefore she needed not so much to be troubled at that. After we had commended her case unto God in Prayer, She desired to be buried before the Sermon because of the disease. she entreated me that after her burial (for she made full account to die) I would make a Sermon, and therein persuade the hearers to these two things. The first was, Her first desire. that you would hearken to the Word of God better than she had done. To which I presently replied (as well as I could for tears being much affected with her words) I would they would hear but so well as she did. Yet, beloved, my desire is as hers was, that you would hearken better than she did, which if I could persuade you all unto, I should think myself the happiest man in the world. For herein she did excel, as I said before, howsoever in her humility and zeal to God's word she thus spoke. Therefore let me entreat you to grant this her holy desire. If it be possble, harken to God's holy Word better than she did. But if this be impossble, as almost it is, yet harken so as she did, and you shall undoubtedly be blessed. For as she had a very good memory, for good things especially, so had she a most artentive ear and heart, even like Mary that chose that good, part which should not be taken from her, Luk. 10.42. And like those Noble Bereans, Acts 17.11, 12. Who were said to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 more generous than those of Thessalonica, first in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind, and secondly, in that they searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so, therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women, and of men not a few. Yea so hungry was she after God's holy Word, that she feared no famine, but that threatened by the Prophet Amos. Not a famine of bread, but of hearing the Word of the Lord, Amos 8.11. Oh therefore that you could but equal, if not exceed her in this! Then might you find that most ravishing comfort in hearing, The last Lord's day save one as she told us at that time. The second request. which she confessed she found a little before she fell sick. The other thing she desired to be commended unto you was this. That you would have a special care to look to your Families, She meant in regard of religious orders, which are so much neglected in most places, men living athome more like heathens and Infidels than true Christians. For though she did more than most in this kind, yet was it a great grief unto her, that she could not do better. Oh that you would let her have her desire in this also! you would find the blessing above measure, if you did but once set up the power of godliness in your families, that you might be said to fear God, with all your house as Cornelius did, Acts 10.2. For by this means this good Gentlewoman was truly said to be a prop, or pillar in the house. So that her Husband, and Children, (if they were of years) might join in her praises, as they before the Text. Her Children might arise and call her blessed, Some refer these words of the Text to the Husband. her Husband also might praise her, saying; Many daughters have done virtuously, or valiantly; but thou excellest, and goest above them all, etc. Indeed her ways so pleased Pro. 16.7. the Lord, that her enemies were at peace with her, as Solomon saith, And what I speak a cloud of witnesses will testify. Therefore I need the less fear to be accused either of False hood or Flattery, which I have always abhorred in every place, especially in the Pulpit, and so did she, which made her sometime say, that she would desire nothing might be said of her at her death, because she had with sorrow heard, some sainted at their death, who were little better than devils in their life. Let none therefore take that with the left hand which I have reached out with the right, as Saul did the due and deserved commendations given to David, For I speak that truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness, Rom. 9.1. Nay, if I should reckon all the rarities of this right religious Gentlewoman, that I have been an eye, and earwitness of, from her first to her last, Dies me desiceret, The day would fail me, my spirits would be spent, and I should tyre your patience, and it might make most of us blush and be ashamed to see how fare we come short, and all of us admire and stand amazed, and astonished at the goodness and grace of GOD so plentifully poured upon her. Therefore to conclude, Happy was (yea, and still is) the Mother of such a Daughter. Happy the Husband in such a Wife, and happy children of such a Mother, who hath laid up many prayers, better than portions for them. And happy were all her acquaintance in such a friend, And yet more happy they and we in following her heavenly steps. But most happy she, that led so holy and heavenly a life. Because blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, even so saith the spirit, that they may rest from their labours, and their works follow them, Rev. 14 13. FINIS. Imprimatur. Thomas Weeks.