he doctrines and precepts of the Scriptures,
as far as the natural mind can conceive, by pious parents and a
faithful pastor; with milk provided for my spiritual infancy, and
richer food set before me for my growth; the leaves of the new
covenant were opened to my view, and the fulness treasured in Christ
for my supply, to be asked, to be delighted in; and delighted I was,
and satisfied. But Oh, I forsook the fountain of living waters, and
hewed out broken cisterns, that could hold no water. Where can
language be found to depict my ingratitude, my madness, my folly; and
where to describe the long-suffering, the compassionate remonstrances,
the kindly, fatherly chastisements, the repeated pardons and
restorations of my gracious God in days of youth--aggravating my
renewed backslidings, bringing upon my sinful soul vengeance for my
inventions? What were the sins of Israel and Judah to mine? Mine were
committed after the great atonement was made; the adorable
High-priest, Jesus, had with his own blood entered within the veil,
and was set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty of the
heavens: the minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle,
which the Lord pitched, and not man. The new covenant was exhibited,
established on better promises, himself the Mediator. The new and
living way was consecrated to the holiest of all by the blood of
Jesus; a throne of grace was established, Jesus himself our Advocate
and Intercessor. We are now privileged to come boldly to a throne of
grace, that we may find grace to help in the time of need. O how
aggravated my sin above theirs, having such great and precious
privileges and promises, and a High-priest who can be touched with the
feeling of our infirmities, who was in all points tempted as we are;
who owns us as his brethren and sisters, yea, the very _members of
his body_, and his Spirit dwelleth in us.

"I set apart the day for fasting and deep humiliation; took
another survey of my past sinful life; confessed particulars on my
knees, and made a fresh application to the blood of sprinkling which
cleanseth from all sin; took a fresh hold of his new covenant of
promise. 'This is the covenant that I will make with them after those
days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws in their hearts, and in their
minds will I write them, and their sins and their iniquities will I
remember no more.' Lord, do as thou hast said. I rest my immortal soul
on thy promise."