[Footnote 387] Hebrews x, 34. [Footnote 388] Esther ix, 22. [Footnote 389] Matthew ii, 10. [Footnote 390] Revelation, xxii, 16. [Footnote 391] Matthew xxviii, 7, 8. [Footnote 392] Isaiah lxi, 3. lx, 15. § 19. Let me here observe, that there is no necessity to exercise these affections, either exactly in this order, or all at one time. Sometimes one of thy affections may need more exciting, or may be more lively than the rest; or, if thy time be short, one may be exercised one day, and another upon the next; all which must be left to thy prudence to determine. Thou hast also an opportunity, if inclined to make use of it, to exercise opposite and more mixed affections; such as—hatred of sin, which would deprive thy soul of these immortal joys;—godly fear, lest thou shouldst abuse thy mercy;—godly shame and grief, for having abused it;—unfeigned repentance;—self-indignation;—jealousy over thy heart;—and pity for those who are in danger of losing these immortal joys. § 20. (III.) We are also to take notice, how heavenly contemplation is promoted by soliloquy and prayer. Though consideration be the chief instrument in this work, yet, by itself, it is not so likely to affect the heart. In this respect contemplation is like preaching, where the mere explaining of truths and duties is seldom attended with such success, as the lively application of them to the conscience; and especially when a Divine blessing is earnestly sought to accompany such application. § 21. (1.) By soliloquy, or a pleading the case with thyself, thou must in thy meditation quicken thy own heart. Enter into a serious debate with it. Plead with it in the most moving and affecting language, and urge it with the most powerful and weighty arguments. It is what holy men of God have practised in all ages. Thus David, _Why art thou cast down, O my soul! And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God, for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God._[393] And again, _Bless the Lord, O my soul! and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul! and forget not all his benefits_,[394] &c. This soliloquy is to be made use of according to the several affections of the soul, and according to its several necessities. It is a preaching to one's self: For as every good master or father of a family is a good preacher to his own family; so every good Christian is a good preacher to his own soul. Therefore the very same method which a minister should use in his preaching to others, every Christian, should endeavor after in speaking to himself. Observe the matter and manner of the most heart-affecting minister; let him be as a pattern for your imitation; and the same way that he takes with the hearts of his people, do thou also take with thy own heart. Do this in thy heavenly contemplation; explain to thyself the things on which thou dost meditate; confirm thy faith in them from Scripture; and then apply