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of their nature in their unregeneracy, or might he too uncharitable and censorious of others; and too presumptuous of their own strength, since they were regenerate.

3. God likewise permits these buffettings and winnowings of Satan, both to prevent pride, and other sins, and to exercise and try the graces of his children; to give them experience of their own weakness, and of his grace towards them, and strength in them, even in their weakness; preserving them from being vanquished, although they fight with principalities and powers, and spiritual wickedness. For God's strength is made perfect in man's weakness, 2 Cor. xii. 9.

Remedies against evil and blasphemous thoughts.

That Christians who are troubled with blasphemous, and other abominable thoughts, may be less troubled, or at least not hurt by them, follow these directions.

(1.) Proofs of the being of God.

First, Arm yourself with evident proofs that there is a God, that there is a divine, spiritual, absolute, and independent Being, from whom, and to whom are all things, and by whom all things consist. - Next, Confirm yourself in a sure persuasion that the Bible and holy Scriptures are the pure word of this only true God. Then labour with your heart, that it so reverence and love God and his will, as to be always ready to rise against every motion to sin, especially these of the worse kind, with loathing and detestation.

First, To be assured that there is a God, consider first the creation, preservation, and order of the creatures. How could it be possible that such a world could be made and upheld, or that there should be such an order, or subordination among creatures, if there were not a God? The heavens give their influence into the air, water, and earth; these, by virtue hereof, afford means of comfort and support to all living creatures, Psa. xix. 1, civ. The creatures without sense serve for the use of the sensitive; and all serve for the use of man; who, although he be an excellent creature, yet of himself he is so impotent, that he cannot add one cubit to his stature, Luke xii. 25;