But how froward, how hasty, how peevish, and self-resolved are the generality of professors at this day! Alas! how little considering the poor, unless it be to say, Be thou warmed and filled! But to give, is a seldom work! also especially to give to any poor. I tell you all these things are cross to flesh and blood; and that man that hath a watchful eye over the flesh, and also some considerable measure of strength against it, shall find his heart in these things like unto a starting horse, that is rid without a curbing bridle, ready to start at every thing that is offensive to him; yea, and ready to run away too, do what the rider can. It is the cross which keepeth back those that are kept from heaven. I am persuaded, were it not for the cross, where we have one professor we should have twenty; but this cross!--that is it which spoileth all. Some men, as I said before, when they come at the cross can go no farther; but back again to their sins they must go. Others stumble at it, and break their necks. Others again when they see the cross is approaching, turn aside to the left hand, or to the right hand, and so think to get to heaven another way. But they will be deceived. "For all that will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall," mark it, "_shall_ suffer persecution." There are but few when they come at the cross, cry, 'Welcome cross!' as some of the martyrs did to the stake they were burned at. Therefore, if thou meet with the cross in thy journey, in what manner soever it be, be not daunted and say, Alas! what shall I do now? But rather take courage, knowing that by the cross is the way to the kingdom. Can a man believe in Christ, and not be hated by the devil? Can he make a profession of this Christ, and that sweetly, and convincingly, and the children of Satan hold their tongue? Can darkness agree with light? Or the devil endure that Christ Jesus should be honored both by faith and a heavenly conversation, and let that soul alone at quiet? Did you never read that the Dragon persecuted the woman? and that Christ saith, "In the world ye shall have tribulation." THE NINTH DIRECTION.--_Beg of God that he would do these two things for thee_: First, enlighten thine understanding: and secondly, inflame thy will. If these two be but effectually done, there is no fear but what thou wilt go safe to heaven.