Stedman and Hutchinson, comps. A Library of American Literature:
An Anthology in Eleven Volumes. 1891.
Vols. IX–XI: Literature of the Republic, Part IV., 1861–1889
A Good Mans Promises to God
By Richard Mather (15961669)In and after preaching to strive seriously against inward pride and vainglory.
Before and after preaching, to beg by prayer the Lord’s blessing on his word, for the good of souls, more carefully than in time past.
To be more careful in catechising children. And therefore to bestow some pains this way, every week once; and if by urgent occasions it be sometimes omitted, do it twice as much another week.
To be more frequent and constant in private prayer.
To practise more carefully, and seriously, and frequently the duty of self-examination; especially before the receiving of the Lord’s Supper.
To strive against carnal security, and excessive sleeping.
To strive against vain jangling, and misspending precious time.
To be ready to do offices of love and kindness, not only or principally for the praise of men, to purchase commendation for a good neighbor, but rather out of conscience to the commandment of God.