The Personal Life of the Clergy (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1916 Excerpt: ...offices, he can possibly shew them. He is so far now from wanting agreeable company, that he thinks there is no better conversation in the world, than to be talking with poor and mean people about the kingdom of heaven. All these noble thoughts and divine sentiments are the effects of his great devotion; he presents every one so often before God in his prayers, that he never thinks he can esteem, reverence, or serve those enough, for whom he implores so many mercies from God. Ouranius is mightily affected with this passage of holy Scripture: The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. This makes him practise all the arts of holy living, and aspire after every instance of piety and righteousness, that his prayers for his flock may have their full force, and avail much with God. For this reason he has sold a small estate that he had, and has erected a charitable retirement for ancient, poor people to live in prayer and piety, that his prayers being assisted by such good works, may pierce the clouds, and bring down blessings upon these souls committed to his care. Ouranius reads how God himself said unto Abimelech concerning Abraham, He is a prophet; he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live. And again, how he said of Job, And my servant Job shall pray for you; for him will I accept. From these passages Ouranius justly concludes, that the prayers of men eminent for holiness of life, have an extraordinary power with God; that He grants to other people such pardons, reliefs and blessings, through their prayers, as would not be granted to men of less piety and perfection. This makes Ouranius exceeding studious of Christian perfection, searching after every grace and holy temper, purifying his heart all manner of ways, fearful of every error a...