CHRISTIAN PARADOXES. 25 



20. He believes that God will never damn him, 

 and yet fears God for being able to cast him into 

 hell. He knoweth he shall not be saved by nor 

 for his good works, yet he doth all the good works 

 he can. 



21. He knoweth God s providence is in all things, 

 yet is so diligent in his calling and business, as if he 

 were to cut out the thread of his happiness. He 

 believes before-hand that God hath purposed what 

 he shall be, and that nothing can make him to alter 

 his purpose ; yet prays and endeavours, as if he 

 would force God to save him for ever. 



22. He prays and labours for that which he is 

 confident God means to give ; and the more assured 

 he is, the more earnest he prays for that he knows 

 he shall never obtain, and yet gives not over. He 

 prays and labours for that which he knows he shall 

 be no less happy without ; he prays with all his 

 heart not to be led into temptation, yet rejoiceth 

 when he is fallen into it ; he believes his prayers are 

 heard, even when they are denied, and gives thanks 

 for that which he prays against. 



23. He hath within him both flesh and spirit, 

 yet he is not a double-minded man ; he is often led 

 captive by the law of sin, yet it never gets dominion 

 over him ; he cannot sin, yet can do nothing with 

 out sin. He doth nothing against his will, yet main 

 tains he doth what he would not. He wavers and 

 doubteth, yet obtains. 



24. He is often tossed and shaken, yet is as 

 mount Sion ; he is a serpent and a dove ; a lamb 



