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Chapter IV THANKSGIVINGS FOR MERCY

Our errand at the throne of grace is not only to seek the favour of God, but to give unto Him the glory due unto His name, and that not only by an awful adoration of His infinite perfections, but by a grateful acknowledgment of His goodness to us, which cannot indeed add any thing to His glory, but He is pleased to accept of it, and to reckon Himself glorified by it, if it come from a heart that’s humbly sensible of its own unworthiness to receive any favour from God, that values the gifts, and loves the giver of them.

UNTO thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks, for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare. Psalm 75:1.

Let our souls bless the Lord, and let all that is within us bless his holy name; yea, let our souls bless the Lord, and not forget any of his benefits. Psalm 103:1, 2.

We will praise the Lord, for it is good, it is pleasant, and praise is comely for the upright, yea it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High, to shew forth thy loving-kindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night. Psalm 147:1. Psalm 92:1, 2.

We will extol thee our God, O king, and will bless thy name for ever and ever; Every day will we bless thee, and will praise thy name for ever and ever; we will abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and sing of thy righteousness. Psalm 145:1, 2, 7.

We will sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints; O let Israel rejoice in him that made him, let the children of Zion be joyful in their King; Let the saints be joyful in glory, and let the high praises of God be in their hearts, and in their mouths. Psalm 149:1, 2, 5, 6.

While we live we will bless the Lord, and will sing praises unto our God while we have any being; and when we have no being on earth, we hope to have a being in heaven to be doing it better. Psalm 146:2.

We are here through Jesus Christ to offer the sacrifice of praise to thee, which we desire to do continually, that is the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to thy name. And thou hast said that he that offers praise glorifies thee, and that this also shall please the Lord better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. Hebrews 13:15. Psalm 50 (v. 23). Psalm 69:31.

We will mention the loving-kindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness towards the house of Israel which he hath bestowed on them, according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his loving kindnesses. Isaiah 63:7.

1. For the discoveries which He has made to us in His word of the goodness of His nature.

WE give thanks unto the God of gods, unto the Lord of lords, for his mercy endures for ever. Psalm 136:2, 3.

Thy goodness is thy glory, and it is that for which all thy works do praise thee, and thy saints do bless thee. Exodus 33:19. Psalm 145:10.

Thou art gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger, and of great mercy, and hast told us that thou dost not afflict willingly, or grieve the children of men, but though thou cause grief, yet thou wilt have compassion, according to the multitude of thy mercies. Psalm 145:8. Lamentations 3:33, 32.

Thou takest pleasure in them that fear thee, in them that hope in thy mercy. Psalm 147:11.

2. For the many instances of His goodness.

A) The goodness of His providence relating to our bodies, and the life that now is; and this,

1) First, with reference to all the creatures, and the world of mankind, in general.

Thou hast stretched out the heavens like a curtain, and in them hast thou set a tabernacle for the sun, which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. And thou causest thy sun to shine on the evil and on the good, and sendest rain on the just and on the unjust. Psalm 104:2. Psalm 19:4, 5. Matthew 5:45.

When we consider the heavens the work of thy fingers, the sun, the moon, and the stars which thou hast ordained, Lord, what is man that thou thus visitest him? For truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun: All the glory be to the Father of lights, who commandeth the morning, and causeth the dayspring to know his place. Psalm 8:3, 4. Ecclesiastes 11:7. James 1:17. Job 38:12.

Thou didst not leave thyself without witness among the heathen, in that thou didst good, and gavest them rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling their hearts with food and gladness. Acts 14:17.

Thou coverest the heavens with clouds, and preparest rain for the earth, and makest grass to grow upon the mountains: Thou givest to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry. Psalm 147:8, 9.

Thou causest it to rain on the wilderness where there is no man, to satisfy the desolate and waste ground. Job 38:26, 27.

Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it, thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water; thou preparest them corn when thou hast so provided for it: Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly, thou settlest the furrows thereof, thou makest it soft with showers, thou blessest the springing thereof; Thou crownest the year with thy goodness, and thy paths drop fatness. Psalm 65:9, 10, 11.

Thou sendest the springs into the valleys which run among the hills; and they give drink to every beast of the field; and by them the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches. Psalm 104:10, 11, 12.

Thou hast laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever, and settest bounds to the waters of the sea, that they turn not again to cover the earth; Thou hast shut up the sea with doors, and broken up for it thy decreed place, saying, Hitherto shalt thou come but no further, here shall thy proud waves be stayed. And thou hast made good what thou hast sworn, that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth. Psalm 104:5, 9. Job 38:8, 10, 11. Isaiah 54:9.

Thy covenant of the day and of the night is not broken, but still thou givest the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night; and art faithful to that covenant of providence, that while the earth remains, seed-time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease. Jeremiah 33:20. Jeremiah 31:35. Genesis 8:22.

The heaven, even the heavens are thine, but the earth thou hast given to the children of men; and thou hast put all things under their feet, and made them to have dominion over the works of thy hands; so that the fear of man and the dread of man is upon every beast of the earth, and upon the fowl of the air, and into his hand they are delivered, because thou hadst a favour to him, and thy delights were with the sons of men. Psalm 115:16. Psalm 8:6. Genesis 9:2. Proverbs 8:31.

Thou causest the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man, that thou mayest bring forth food out of the earth; Wine that makes glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengthens man’s heart. Psalm 104:14, 15.

Thou givest to all life and breath and all things, and the earth, O Lord, is full of thy mercy. Acts 17:25. Psalm 119:64.

All the creatures wait upon thee, that thou mayest give them their meat in due season; That thou givest them they gather, thou openest thy hand, they are filled with good: Thou sendest forth thy spirit they are created, thou renewest the face of the earth. This thy glory shall endure for ever, and thou rejoicest in these works. Psalm 104:27, 28, 30, 31.

It is through thy goodness, O Lord, that as one generation of mankind passeth away, another generation comes, and that thou hast not blotted out the name of that corrupt and guilty race from under heaven. Ecclesiastes 1:4. Deuteronomy 29:20.

2) Secondly, with reference to us in particular.

(a) We must give thanks that He hath made us reasonable creatures, capable of knowing, loving, serving and enjoying Him, and that He hath not made us as the beasts that perish.

We will praise thee, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and that our souls, our nobler part, know right well; for what man knows the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? Psalm 139:14. 1 Corinthians 2:11.

Thou hast made us of that rank of beings which is little lower than the angels, and is crowned with glory and honour; For there is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. And the spirit of a man is the candle of the Lord. Psalm 8:5. Job 32:8. Proverbs 20:27.

Our bodies are capable of being the temples of the Holy Ghost, and our souls of having the Spirit of God dwell in them; we therefore glorify thee with our bodies, and with our spirits, which are thine. 1 Corinthians 6:19. 1 Corinthians 3:16. 1 Corinthians 6:20.

Thou, Lord, hast formed us for thyself, that we might shew forth thy praise. Isaiah 43:21.

(b) We must give thanks for our preservation, that our lives are prolonged, and that the use of our reason and understanding, our limbs and senses, is continued to us.

It was owing to thy good providence that we died not from the womb, and did not give up the ghost when we came out of the belly, that the knees prevented us, and the breasts that we should suck. Job 3:11, 12.

Though we were called transgressors from the womb, yet by thy power we have been borne from the belly, and carried from the womb; and thou holdest our souls in life, and sufferest not our foot to be moved. Isaiah 48:8. Isaiah 46:3. Psalm 66:9.

All our bones shall say, Lord, who is like unto thee, for thou keepest all our bones, not one of them is broken. Psalm 35:10. Psalm 34:20.

We lay us down and sleep, for thou, Lord, makest us to dwell in safety. Psalm 3:5. Psalm 4:8.

Thou hast given thine angels a charge concerning us, to keep us in all our ways, to bear us up in their hands, lest we dash our foot against a stone. And they are all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for the good of them that shall be heirs of salvation. Psalm 91:11, 12. Hebrews 1:14.

(c) For signal recoveries from danger by sickness, or otherwise.

When perhaps there has been but a step between us and death, and we have received a sentence of death within ourselves, and have been ready to say in the cutting off of our days we should go to the gates of the grave, and were deprived of the residue of our years, yet thou hast in love to our souls delivered them from the pit of corruption, and cast all our sins behind thy back. 1 Samuel 20:3. 2 Corinthians 1:9. Isaiah 38:10, 17.

When the sorrows of death have compassed us, and the pains of hell have got hold upon us, we have called upon the name of the Lord, and have found that gracious is the Lord and righteous, yea, our God is merciful; we have been brought low and he hath helped us, and hath delivered our souls from death, our eyes from tears, and our feet from falling. We will therefore walk before the Lord in the land of the living. Psalm 116:3-6, 8, 9.

(d) For the supports and comforts of this life, which have hitherto made the land of our pilgrimage easy and pleasant to us.

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with his benefits, even the God of our salvation. Psalm 68:19.

Thou makest us to lie down in green pastures, thou feedest us

beside the still waters: Thou preparest a table for us in the presence of our enemies, thou anointest our head, and our cup runs over. Psalm 23:2, 5.

It may be we were sent forth without purse or scrip, but lacked we any thing? Nothing, Lord. Luke 22:35.

The candle of God hath shined upon our head, and by his light we have walked through darkness, and the secret of God has been in our tabernacle. Job 29:3, 4.

Thou hast given us all things richly to enjoy, and into our hands hast brought plentifully. 1 Timothy 6:17. Job 12:6.

Many a time we have eaten and been filled, and have delighted ourselves in thy great goodness. Nehemiah 9:25.

When we remember all the way which the Lord our God hath led us for so many years in this wilderness, we must here set up a stone and call it Eben-ezer, for hitherto the Lord hath helped us. Deuteronomy 8:2. 1 Samuel 7:12.

(e) For success in our callings and affairs, comfort in relations, and comfortable places of abode.

It is God that girdeth us with strength, and maketh our way perfect; that hath blessed the work of our hands, and it may be so as that though our beginning was small, yet our latter end hath greatly increased. Psalm 18:32. Job 1:10. Job 8:7.

Our houses have been safe from fear, and there hath been no rod of God upon us; so that the voice of rejoicing and salvation hath been in our tabernacle from day to day. Job 21:9. Psalm 118:15.

With our staff it may be we have passed over this Jordan, and now we are become two bands; and it is God that setteth the solitary in families. Genesis 32:10. Psalm 68:6.

If we have lived joyfully with our relations, and they have been to us as the loving hind and as the pleasant roe, we must give thee thanks for it; for every creature is that to us, and no more, that thou makest it to be. Ecclesiastes 9:9. Proverbs 5:19.

(f) For our share in the publick plenty, peace, and tranquillity.

When we have eaten and are full, we have reason to bless thee for the good land which thou hast given us: A land which the eyes of the Lord our God are always upon, from the beginning of the year even to the end of the year. Deuteronomy 8:10. Deuteronomy 11:12.

Thou makest peace in our borders, and fillest us with the finest of the wheat: We are delivered from the noise of archers at the places of drawing water; there therefore will we rehearse the righteous acts of the Lord, even his righteous acts towards the inhabitants of his villages. Psalm 147:14. Judges 5:11.

We thank thee that the powers that are set over us are ministers of God to us for good, that they seek the welfare of our people, speaking peace to all their seed. Romans 13:4. Esther 10:3.

B) The goodness of His grace relating to our souls, and the life that is to come.

But especially blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things in Christ. Ephesians 1:3.

1) First, we must give God thanks for His kindness to the children of men relating to their better part and their future state, and His favours to the church in general.

(a) We must give thanks for the gracious design and contrivance of man’s redemption and salvation, when he was lost and undone by sin.

O how wonderfully did the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appear, not by any works of righteousness, which he had done, but according to his mercy he saved us: We had destroyed ourselves, but in thee, and thee only was our help. Titus 3:4, 5. Hosea 13:9.

When we were cast out in the open field, and no eye pitied us, thou sawest us polluted in our own blood, and thou saidst unto us, Live; yea, thou saidst unto us, Live; and the time was a time of love. Ezekiel 16:5, 6, 8.

When the redemption of the soul was so precious, as that it must have ceased for ever, and no man could by any means redeem his brother, or give to God a ransom for him, then thou wast pleased to find a ransom, that we might be delivered from going down to the pit. Psalm 49:8, 7. Job 33:24.

When we must needs die, and were as water spilt upon the ground, which cannot be gathered up again, then didst thou devise means that the banished might not be for ever expelled from thee. 2 Samuel 14:14.

When thou sparedst not the angels that sinned, but didst cast them down to hell, thou saidest concerning the race of mankind, Destroy it not for a blessing is in it. 2 Peter 2:4. Isaiah 65:8.

Herein appears the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the world for our glory. 1 Corinthians 2:7.

(b) For the eternal purposes and counsels of God concerning man’s redemption.

We are bound to give thanks always to thee, O God, because thou hast from the beginning chosen some to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit: That there is a remnant according to the election of grace, whom God hath chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world, that they should be holy and without blame before thee in love, having predestinated them to the adoption of children, by Jesus Christ unto thyself, according to the good pleasure of thy will, to the praise of the glory of thy grace. 2 Thessalonians 2:13. Romans 11:5. Ephesians 1:4, 5, 6.

Thine they were, and thou gavest them to Christ, and this is thy will, that of all that thou hast given him he should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. John 17:6. John 6:39.

(c) For the appointing of the Redeemer, and God’s gracious condescension to deal with man upon new terms, receding from the demands of the broken covenant of innocency.

We bless thee that when sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, and in it hadst no pleasure, that then the eternal Son of God said, Lo I come to do thy will, O God, and a body hast thou prepared me: And that as in the volume of the book it was written of him, he did delight to do thy will, O God, yea, thy law was within his heart. Hebrews 10:5, 6, 7. Psalm 40:7, 8.

Thou hast laid help upon one that is mighty, one chosen out of thy people: Thou hast found David thy servant with thy holy oil, thou hast anointed him, even with the oil of gladness above his fellows, and didst promise that with him thy hand should be established, and thy arm should strengthen him, and that thou wouldest make him thy first-born, higher than the kings of the earth. Psalm 89:19, 20. Psalm 45:7. Psalm 89:21, 27.

We bless thee that the Father now judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to the Son: That as he has life in himself, so he hath given to the Son to have life in himself, and hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man: That the Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. And that the counsel of peace is between them both. John 5:22, 26, 27. John 3:35. Zechariah 6:13.

That he is thy servant whom thou dost uphold, thine elect in whom thy soul delighteth: Thy beloved Son in whom thou art well pleased: That thou hast given him for a covenant of the people, and that through him we are not under the law, but under grace. Isaiah 42:1. Matthew 17:5. Isaiah 49:8. Romans 6:14.

That God so loved the world, as to give his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16.

(d) For the early and ancient indications of this gracious design concerning fallen man.

We bless thee, that as soon as ever man had sinned, it was graciously promised that the seed of the woman should break the serpent’s head; and that in the old testament sacrifices Jesus Christ was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Genesis 3:15. Revelation 13:8.

And that by faith the elders, though they received not the promise, yet obtained a good report, for they obtained witness that they were righteous. Hebrews 11:39, 2, 4.

We bless thee for the promise made to Abraham, that in his seed all the families of the earth should be blessed, and to Jacob that the Shiloh should come, and to him should the gathering of the people be: And that the patriarchs rejoiced to see Christ’s day, and they saw it and were glad. Genesis 12:3. Genesis 49:10. John 8:56.

(e) For the many glorious instances of God’s favour to the old testament church.

We adore that wisdom, power and goodness with which thou broughtest the vine out of Egypt, didst cast out the heathen and plant it; thou preparedst room before it, and didst cause it to take deep root, and it filled the land. Psalm 80:8, 9.

And they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them, but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour to them. Psalm 44:3. Psalm 136:10. & others.

We bless thee that to the Jews were committed the oracles of God; that they had the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises: And that there did not fail one word of all thy good promise, which thou promisedst by the hand of Moses thy servant. Romans 3:2. Romans 9:4. 1 Kings 8:56.

We bless thee for all that which thou didst at sundry times and in divers manners speak in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, those holy men of God, who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost, and prophesied of the grace that should come unto us, testifying beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow, and that not to themselves only, but to us they ministered those great things, things which the angels themselves desire to look into. Hebrews 1:1. 2 Peter 1:21. 1 Peter 1:10, 11, 12.

And especially we bless thee that thou hast provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. Hebrews 11:40.

(f) For the wonderful and mysterious incarnation of the Son of God, and His coming into the world.

We bless thee that when the fulness of time was come, thou didst send forth thy Son made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. Galatians 4:4, 5.

That the eternal Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and there were those who saw his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness, that God was manifested in the flesh. John 1:14. 1 Timothy 3:16.

We bless thee that to this end he was born, and for this cause he came into the world, that he might bear witness of the truth, and we believe and are sure, that he is that Christ, the Son of the living God; that it is he that should come, and we are to look for no other. John 18:37. John 6:69. Matthew 11:3.

We bless thee that the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost; that he is come that we might have life, and that we might have it more abundantly, and that for this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Luke 19:10. John 10:10. 1 John 3:8.

Lord, we receive it as a faithful saying, and well worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, even the chief. 1 Timothy 1:15.

We bless thee that forasmuch as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same: That he took not on him the nature of angels, but our nature, and was in

all things made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest, in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people; and that he is not ashamed to call them brethren. Hebrews 2:14, 16, 17, 11.

And that the first begotten was brought into the world with a charge given to all the angels of God to worship him. Hebrews 1:6.

(g) For God’s gracious owning of Him in His undertaking, and in the carrying of it on.

We bless thee that thou wast in Christ reconciling the world to thyself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and that thou hast committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:19.

That thou hast thyself given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. That he was sanctified and sealed and sent into the world, and that the Father which sent him did not leave him alone, for he always did those things that pleased him. Isaiah 55:4. John 10:36. John 6:27. John 8:29.

Glory be to God in the highest, for in and through Jesus Christ there is on earth peace, and good-will towards men. Luke 2:14.

In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 1 John 4:9.

We thank thee for the power thou hast given him over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as were given him. John 17:2.

(h) For His Holy life, His excellent doctrine, and the glorious miracles He wrought to confirm His doctrine.

We bless thee for the assurance we have that he is a teacher come from God, since no man could do those miracles which he did, except God were with him. John 3:2.

That thou hast in these last days spoken unto us by thy Son, whose doctrine was not his, but his that sent him, and he spake as one having authority, and that we are encouraged to come and learn of him, because he is meek and lowly in heart, and in learning of him we shall find rest to our souls. Hebrews 1:2. John 7:16. Matthew 7 (v. 29). Matthew 11:29.

We bless thee that he hath left us an example, that we should follow his steps, in that he did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth, and when he was reviled, he reviled not again; and his meat and drink was to do the will of his Father; in that he was holy, harm-

less, undefiled, separate from sinners. O that we may be armed with the same mind, and that as he was so we may be in this world; and that we may so walk even as he walked. 1 Peter 2:21, 22, 23. John 4:34. Hebrews 7:26. 1 Peter 4:1. 1 John 4:17. 1 John 2:6.

We bless thee that the works which he did, the same bore witness of him that the Father had sent him, that by his power the blind received their sight, the lame walked, the lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up, and the poor had the gospel preached to them; and even the winds and the sea obeyed him; for which we glorify the God of Israel. Doubtless this was the Son of God. John 5:36. Matthew 11:5. Matthew 8:27. Matthew 15:31. Matthew 27:54.

(i) For the great encouragements Christ gave to poor sinners to come to Him.

We bless thee that Jesus Christ came to call, not the righteous, but sinners (such as we are) to repentance, and had power on earth to forgive sin; that he came to save his people from their sins; and is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world, and that he is (to his honour, not to his reproach) a friend to publicans and sinners. Matthew 9:13, 6. Matthew 1:21. John 1:29. Matthew 11:19.

We thank thee for the gracious invitation he gave to those who are weary and heavy laden, to come to him for rest: And for the assurance he hath given that whosoever comes unto him he will in no wise cast out. Matthew 11:28. John 6:37.

That he made a gracious offer, that whosoever thirsts might come unto him and drink. John 7:37.

(j) For the full satisfaction which He made to the justice of God for the sin of man by the blood of His cross, for the purchases, victories, and triumphs of the cross, and for all the precious benefits which flow to us from the dying of the Lord Jesus.

Herein indeed God commendeth his love to us, in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us, that we might be reconciled to him by the death of his Son. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world; that he tasted death for every man, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. Romans 5:8, 10. 1 John 4:10. 1 John 2:2. Hebrews 2:9, 14.

We bless thee, that by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified, that he hath finished transgression, made

an end of sin, made reconciliation for iniquity, and hath brought in an everlasting righteousness. Hebrews 10:14. Daniel 9:24.

That he hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, by being made a curse for us. Galatians 3:13.

That what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God hath done by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, who by a sacrifice for sin condemned sin in the flesh. Romans 8:3.

That he was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities, and that the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed; and that the Lord having laid upon him the iniquity of us all, it pleased the Lord to bruise him, and put him to grief. Isaiah 53:5, 6, 10.

That appearing to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself, he did by the eternal Spirit offer himself without spot unto God, and by his own blood entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. Hebrews 9:26, 14, 12.

That he hath spoiled principalities and powers, and made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in his cross, and hath blotted out the hand-writing of ordinances which was against us, which was contrary to us, taking it out of the way by nailing it to his cross. Colossians 2:15, 14.

That he is our peace, who having broken down the middle wall of partition between Jew and Gentile, hath made himself of twain one new man, hath reconciled both unto God, in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby. Ephesians 2:14, 15, 16.

That he hath loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us unto our God kings and priests. Revelation 1:5, 6.

O the height, and depth, and length, and breadth of that love of Christ which passeth knowledge; that great love wherewith he loved us. Ephesians 3:18, 19. Ephesians 2:4.

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing; for he was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by his blood. Revelation 5:12, 9.

(k) For His resurrection from the dead on the third day.

We thank thee that as he was delivered for our offences, so he rose again for our justification, and was declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Romans 4 (v. 25). Romans 1:4.

That though he was dead, yet he is alive, and lives for evermore, and hath the keys of hell and death, and being raised from the dead, he dies no more, death has no more dominion over him. Revelation 1:18. Romans 6:9.

That now is Christ risen from the dead, and is become the first fruits of them that slept, that as in Adam all died, so in Christ all might be made alive, and every one in his own order. 1 Corinthians 15:20, 22, 23.

That God suffered not his Holy One to see corruption, but loosed the pains of death, because it was impossible he should be holden of them, and so declared to all the house of Israel, that that same Jesus whom they crucified, is both Lord and Christ. Acts 2:27, 31, 24, 36.

And that for this end Christ both died and rose and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living, and that whether we wake or sleep, we might live together with him. Romans 14:9. 1 Thessalonians 5:10.

(l) For His ascension into heaven, and His sitting at God’s right hand there.

We bless thee that our Lord Jesus is ascended to his Father and our Father, to his God and our God; is ascended up on high, having led captivity captive, and hath received gifts for men, yea, even for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them. John 20:17. Psalm 68:18.

That as the fore-runner he is for us entered; entered into heaven itself now to appear in the presence of God for us, a Lamb as it had been slain standing in the midst of the throne. Hebrews 6:20. Hebrews 9:24. Revelation 5:6.

That he is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, angels, and authorities, and powers being made subject to him. Hebrews 8:1. 1 Peter 3:22.

That he is gone before to prepare a place for us in his Father’s house, where there are many mansions; and though whether he is gone we cannot follow him now, yet we hope to follow him hereafter, when he shall come again to receive us to himself, that where he is there we may be also. John 14:2. John 13:36. John 14:3.

(m) For the intercession which He ever lives to make in the virtue of His satisfaction.

We thank thee that having borne the sins of many, he makes intercession for transgressors; and prays not for those only that were given him when he was upon earth, but for all that shall believe on him through their word; That they all may be one. Isaiah 53:12. John 17:20, 21.

That we have an advocate with the Father, even JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS, who is therefore able to save to the uttermost all those that come to God as a Father by him as mediator, seeing he ever lives making intercession. 1 John 2:1. Hebrews 7:25.

That we have a high priest taken from among men, and ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifice for sin, who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way, and that he is become the author of eternal salvation to all them that obey him. Hebrews 5:1, 2, 9.

(n) For the dominion and sovereignty to which the Redeemer is exalted.

We thank thee that because our Lord Jesus humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross, therefore God hath highly exalted him, and given him a name above every name, that in the name of JESUS every knee might bow, and every tongue confess (as we do at this time) that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:8-11.

That all power is given unto him both in heaven and in earth, that thou hast set him over the works of thy hands, and hast put all things in subjection under his feet, and so hast crowned him with glory and honour. Matthew 28:18. Hebrews 2:7, 8, 9.

That he is KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS; that the Ancient of days hath given him dominion and glory and a kingdom, an everlasting dominion, and a kingdom which shall not be destroyed. Revelation 19:16. Daniel 7:13, 14.

That the government is upon his shoulders, and that his name is called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, and The Prince of Peace; And of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end. Isaiah 9:6, 7.

That thou hast set him as king upon thy holy hill of Zion, and that he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever, shall reign till he has put down all opposing rule, principality and power, till all his enemies are made his footstool, and then he shall deliver up the kingdom to God, even the Father, that God may be all in all. Psalm 2:6. Luke 1:33. 1 Corinthians 15:24, 25. Ephesians 6:12. Hebrews 10:13. 1 Corinthians 15:24, 28.

(o) For the assurance we have of His second coming to judge the world.

We bless thee that thou hast appointed a day in which thou wilt judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom thou hast ordained, whereof thou hast given assurance unto all men, in that thou hast raised him from the dead. Acts 17:31.

That in that day the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: And shall come to be glorified in his saints, and admired in all them that believe; for them that sleep in Jesus he will bring with him. 2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8, 10. 1 Thessalonians 4:14.

That he shall then send forth his angels to gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity, and to gather together his elect from the four winds, and then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Matthew 13:41. Matthew 24:31. Matthew 13:43.

And we then, according to thy promise, look for new heavens, and a new earth, wherein dwells righteousness: Lord, grant that seeing we look for such things, we may give diligence to be found of him in peace without spot and blameless: And then come, Lord Jesus, come quickly. 2 Peter 3:13, 14. Revelation 22:20.

(p) For the sending of the Holy Spirit to supply the want of Christ’s bodily presence, to carry on His undertaking, and to prepare things for His second coming.

We bless thee that when our Lord Jesus went away he sent us another Comforter to abide with us for ever, even the Spirit of truth, who shall glorify the Son, for he shall take of his, and shall shew it unto us. John 14:16, 17. John 16:14.

That being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he poured it forth as rivers of living water. Acts 2:33. John 7:38.

Blessed be God for the signs and wonders, and divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, with which God bare witness to the great salvation. Hebrews 2:4, 3.

And blessed be God for the promise, that as earthly parents, though evil, know how to give good gifts to their children, so our heavenly Father will give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him, that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession. Luke 11:13. Ephesians 1:13, 14.

(q) For the covenant of grace made with us in Jesus Christ, and all the exceeding great and precious privileges of that covenant, and for the seals of it.

We thank thee that in Jesus Christ thou hast made an everlasting covenant with us, even the sure mercies of David, and that though the mountains may depart, and the hills be removed, yet this covenant of thy peace shall never be removed. Isaiah 55:3. Isaiah 54:10.

That thou hast given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these we might be partakers of a divine nature: and that Jesus Christ is the mediator of this better covenant, which is established upon better promises. 2 Peter 1:4. Hebrews 8:6.

That though thou chasten our transgression with the rod, and our iniquity with stripes, yet thy loving kindness thou wilt not utterly take away, nor cause thy faithfulness to fail, thy covenant thou wilt not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of thy lips. Psalm 89:32, 33, 34.

That being willing more abundantly to shew to the heirs of promise the immutability of thy counsel, thou hast confirmed it by an oath, That by two immutable things in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold on the hope set before us. Hebrews 6:17, 18.

That baptism is appointed to be a seal of the righteousness which is by faith, as circumcision was: That it assures us of the remission of sins and the gift of the Holy Ghost; and that this promise is to us and our children. And that the cup in the Lord’s supper is the blood of the new testament, which was shed for many for the remission of sins. Romans 4:11. Acts 2:38, 39. Matthew 26:28.

(r) For the writing of the scriptures, and the preserving of them pure and entire to our day.

We thank thee that we have the scriptures to search, and that in them we have eternal life, and that they testify of Christ, and that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness. John 5:39. 2 Timothy 3:16.

That whatsoever things were written aforetime, were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scripture might have hope: And that we have this most sure word of prophecy as a light shining in a dark place. Romans 15:4. 2 Peter 1:19.

That the vision is not become to us as the words of a book that

is sealed, but that we hear in our own tongue the wonderful works of God. Isaiah 29:11. Acts 2:11.

We thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that the things which were hid from the wise and prudent, and which many prophets and kings desired to see and might not, are revealed unto us babes; Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight. Luke 10:21, 24.

(s) For the institution of ordinances, and particularly that of the ministry.

We thank thee that thou hast not only shewed thy word unto Jacob, but thy statutes and judgments unto Israel, unto us: Thou hast not dealt so with other nations, and as for thy judgments, they have not known them. Psalm 147:19, 20.

That the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and that he hath set his sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore, and there will meet with the children of Israel. Revelation 21:3. Ezekiel 37:26. Exodus 29:43.

We thank thee that thou hast made known unto us thy holy sabbaths; and that still there remains the keeping of a sabbath to the people of God. Nehemiah 9:14. Hebrews 4:9.

And that when the Lord Jesus ascended up on high, he gave gifts unto men, not only prophets, apostles, evangelists, but pastors and teachers, for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ! And that while they teach us to observe all things which Christ hath commanded, he hath promised to be with them always even unto the end of the world. Ephesians 4:8, 11, 12, 13. Matthew 28:20.

(t) For the planting of the Christian religion in the world, and the setting up of the gospel church, in despite of all the oppositions of the powers of darkness.

We thank thee that the preaching of Jesus Christ according to the commandment of the everlasting God, and the gospel which was made known to all nations for the obedience of faith, was mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds. That the Lord wrought with it, and confirmed the word by signs following; so that Satan fell as lightning from heaven. Romans 16:25, 26. 2 Corinthians 10:4. Mark 16:20. Luke 10:18.

That though the gospel was preached in much contention, yet it grew and prevailed mightily, and multitudes turned to God from idols, to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven. 1 Thessalonians 2:2. Acts 19:20. 1 Thessalonians 1:9, 10.

Now came salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: And the exalted Redeemer rode forth with his bow, and with his crown conquering, and to conquer; and nations were born at once. Revelation 12:10. Revelation 6:2. Isaiah 66:8.

(u) For the preservation of Christianity in the world unto this day.

We bless thee that though the enemies of Israel have afflicted them from their youth up, have many a time afflicted them, yet they have not prevailed against them, though the plowers have plowed on their back, yet the righteous Lord has cut asunder the cords of the wicked. Psalm 129:1-4.

That Jesus Christ hath built his church upon a rock, which the gates of hell cannot prevail against, but his seed shall endure for ever, and his throne as the days of heaven. Matthew 16:18. Psalm 89:29.

(v) For the martyrs and confessors, the lights of the church, and the good examples of those that are gone before us to heaven.

We bless thee for all those who have been enabled to approve themselves to God in much patience in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, who when they have been brought before governors and kings for Christ’s sake, it has turned to them for a testimony, and God has given them a mouth and wisdom, which all their adversaries were not able to gainsay or resist. 2 Corinthians 6:4. Luke 21:12, 13, 15.

That those who for Christ’s sake were killed all the day long, and accounted as sheep for the slaughter, yet in all these things were more than conquerors through him that loved us. Romans 8:36, 37.

That they overcame the accuser of the brethren by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and by not loving their lives unto the death. Revelation 12:10, 11.

We bless thee for the cloud of witnesses with which we are compassed about, for the footsteps of the flock, for the elders that have obtained a good report, and are now through faith and patience inheriting the promises. Lord, give us to follow them as they followed Christ. Hebrews 12:1. Canticle (Song of Solomon) 1:8. Hebrews 11:2. Hebrews 6:12. 1 Corinthians 11:1.

(w) For the communion of saints, that spiritual communion which we have in faith and hope and holy love, and in prayers and praises with all good Christians.

We bless thee that if we walk in the light, we have fellowship one with another, even with all that in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours. 1 John 1:7. 1 Corinthians 1:2.

That we being many are one bread and one body, and that though there are diversities of gifts and administrations, and operations, yet there is the same Spirit, the same Lord, and the same God, which worketh all in all. 1 Corinthians 10:17. 1 Corinthians 12:4, 5, 6.

We thank thee that all the children of God, which were scattered abroad, are united in him, who is the head of the body the church; so that they are all our brethren and companions in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ. John 11:52. Colossians 1:18. Revelation 1:9.

(x) For the prospect and hope of eternal life, when time and days shall be no more.

We thank thee for the crown of life which the Lord hath promised to them that love him; the inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for us. James 1:12. 1 Peter 1:4.

That having here no continuing city, we are encouraged to seek the better country, that is, the heavenly, the city that hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Hebrews 13:14. Hebrews 11:16, 10.

That we are in hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie hath promised; And that all true believers through grace have eternal life abiding in them. Titus 1:2. Acts 18:27. 1 John 5:13.

2) Secondly, we must give God thanks for the spiritual mercies bestowed upon us in particular, especially if we are called with an effectual call, and have a good work of grace begun in us.

(a) We must bless God for the strivings of His spirit with us, and the admonitions and checks of our own consciences.

We bless thee that thou hast not given us over to a reprobate mind, that our consciences are not seared, that thou hast not said concerning us, They are joined to idols, let them alone, but that thy spirit is yet striving with us. Romans 1:28. 1 Timothy 4:2. Hosea 4:17. Genesis 6:3.

We thank thee for the work of the law written in our hearts, our own consciences also bearing witness, and our own thoughts between themselves accusing or excusing one another. Romans 2:15.

(b) We must bless God if there be a saving change wrought in us by His blessed Spirit.

And hath God by his grace translated us out of the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of his dear Son? Hath he called us into the fellowship of Jesus Christ, and made us nigh by his blood, who by nature were afar off. Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory. Colossians 1:13. 1 Corinthians 1:9. Ephesians 2:13. Psalm 115:1.

We give thanks to God always for those to whom the gospel is come, not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance. 1 Thessalonians 1:2, 5.

Thou hast loved us with an everlasting love, and therefore with loving kindness thou hast drawn us, drawn us with the cords of a man, and the bands of love. Jeremiah 31:3. Hosea 11:4.

When the strong man armed kept his palace in our hearts, and his goods were in peace, it was a stronger than he that came upon him, and took from him all his armour, wherein he trusted, and divided the spoil. Luke 11:21, 22.

(c) We must give thanks for the remission of our sins, and the peace of our consciences.

We bless thee for the redemption we have through Christ’s blood, even the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of thy grace, wherein thou hast abounded towards us. Ephesians 1:7, 8.

That thou hast forgiven all our iniquities, and healed all our diseases; and hast in love to our souls delivered them from the pit of corruption; for thou hast cast all our sins behind thy back. Psalm 103:3. Isaiah 38:17.

When thou broughtest us into the wilderness, yet there thou spakest comfortably to us, and gavest us our vineyards from thence; and the valley of Achor for a door of hope. Hosea 2:14, 15.

(d) For the powerful influences of the divine grace, to sanctify and preserve us, to prevent our falling into sin, and to strengthen us in doing our duty.

Thou hast not quenched the smoking flax, nor broke the bruised reed, nor despised the day of small things, but having obtained help of God, we continue hitherto. Matthew 12:20. Zechariah 4:10. Acts 26:22.

In the day when we cried, thou hast answered us, and hast strengthened us with strength in our souls. Psalm 138:3.

We have been continually with thee, thou hast holden us by thy right hand, when our feet were almost gone, and our steps had well nigh slipped. Psalm 73:23, 2.

We have reason never to forget thy precepts; for by them thou hast quickened us; And unless thy law had been our delight, we should many a time have perished in our affliction; for thy statutes have been our songs in the house of our pilgrimage. Psalm 119:93, 92, 54.

Unless the Lord had been our help, our souls had almost dwelt in silence: But when we said, Our foot slippeth, thy mercy, O Lord, held us up: And in the multitude of our thoughts within us, thy comforts have been the delight of our souls. Psalm 94:17, 18, 19.

(e) For sweet communion with God in holy ordinances, and the communications of His favour.

We have been abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house, and thou hast made us drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life, in thy light shall we see light. Psalm 36:8, 9.

Thou hast brought us to thy holy mountain, and made us joyful in thy house of prayer, and we have found it good for us to draw near to God. Isaiah 56:7. Psalm 73:28.

We have had reason to say, That a day in thy courts is better than a thousand, and that it is better to be door-keepers in the house of our God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness; For the Lord God is a sun and shield, he will give grace and glory, and no good thing will he with-hold from them that walk uprightly: O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee. Psalm 84:10, 11, 12.

We have sitten down under thy shadow with delight, and thy fruit hath been sweet unto our taste; Thou hast brought us into the banqueting house, and thy banner over us has been love. Canticle (Song of Solomon) 2:3, 4.

(f) For gracious answers to our prayers.

We have reason to love thee, O Lord, because thou hast heard the voice of our supplications, and because thou hast inclined thine ear unto us, we will therefore call upon thee as long as we live. Psalm 116:1, 2.

Out of the depths have we cried unto thee, O Lord, and thou hast heard our vows, and given us the heritage of those that fear thy name. Psalm 130:1. Psalm 61:5.

Nay, before we have called thou hast answered, and while we have been yet speaking thou hast heard, and hast said, Here I am, and hast been nigh unto us in all that which we call upon thee for. Isaiah 65:24. Isaiah 58:9. Deuteronomy 4:7.

Lord, thou hast heard the desire of the humble, thou wilt prepare their heart, and cause thine ear to hear. Psalm 10:17.

Blessed be God, who hath not turned away our prayer, or his mercy from us, for we have prayed, and have gone away, and our countenance has been no more sad. Psalm 66:20. 1 Samuel 1:18.

(g) For support under our afflictions and spiritual benefit and advantage by them.

Thou hast comforted us in all our tribulation, hast considered our trouble, and known our souls in adversity, and shewed us thy marvellous kindness as in a strong city. 2 Corinthians 1:4. Psalm 31:7, 21.

When afflictions have abounded, consolations have much more abounded. 2 Corinthians 1:5.

Though no affliction for the present hath been joyous, but grievous, nevertheless afterward it hath yielded the peaceable fruit of righteousness; and hath proved to be for our profit, that we might be partakers of thy holiness. Hebrews 12:11, 10.

We have had reason to say that it was good for us we were afflicted, that we might learn thy commandments; for before we were afflicted we went astray, but afterwards have kept thy word. Psalm 119:71, 67.

It has been but for a season, and when there was need that we were in heaviness, through manifold temptations: And we beg that all the trials of our faith may be found unto praise, and honour, and glory, at the appearing of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen we love, in whom though now we see him not, yet believing we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory; are longing to receive the end of our faith, even the salvation of our souls. 1 Peter 1:6-9.

(h) For the performance of God’s promises.

Thou hast dealt well with thy servants, O Lord, according to thy word, and thou hast been ever mindful of thy covenant, the word which thou hast commanded to a thousand generations. Psalm 119:65. Psalm 105:8.

There hath not failed one word of all the good promise which thou hast promised, to David thy servant, and Israel thy people. 1 Kings 8:56, 66.

And now what shall we render unto the Lord for all his benefits towards us. Let our souls return to him, and repose in him as their rest, because he hath dealt bountifully with us, we will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord; For the Lord is good, his mercy is everlasting, and his truth endureth to all generations. Psalm 116:12, 7, 13. Psalm 100:5.

We will bless the Lord at all times, yea his praise shall continually be in our mouths; we will sing unto the Lord as long as we live; and we hope to be shortly with those blessed ones, who dwell in his house above, and are still praising him, and who rest not day or night from saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty. Psalm 34:1. Psalm 104:33. Revelation 4:8.