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  I HATE VAIN THOUGHTS
  by Thomas Brooks
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Summary: Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of recognizing and
detesting vain thoughts and secret sins in the life of a holy man.

Topics: "Humility", "Secret Sins"
Scripture References: 2 Chronicles 32:26, Psalm 19:12-13, Psalm 119:113, Proverbs 21:2, Jeremiah 17:10, Matthew 5:28, Galatians 6:7, Hebrews 4:13, James 4:6, 1 John 1:8-9

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DESCRIPTION
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Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of recognizing and detesting
vain thoughts, which are often hidden from others but significant in the
eyes of God. He illustrates that a holy man is aware of the dangers of
secret sins, understanding that they require repentance just as openly
visible sins do. Brooks points out that these hidden sins can be more
perilous and that they grieve the Holy Spirit, urging believers to
confront and humble themselves regarding their inner struggles. He draws
on the example of Hezekiah, who humbled himself for the pride of his
heart, highlighting the need for self-examination and accountability in
one's spiritual life.

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CONTENT
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"I hate vain thoughts." Psalm 119:113

The heart of a holy man rises against secret sins,

against such as lie furthest off from the eye of man.

What is more secret than vain thoughts? And yet

against these, the heart of a holy man rises.

Hezekiah humbled himself for "the pride of his heart."

Heart-sins lie most hidden and secret; and yet for

these, a holy man humbles himself.

A holy man knows that secret sins are sins--as well as

those which are open. He knows that secret sins must

be repented of--as well as others. He knows that God

takes notice of secret sins--as well as of open sins. He

knows that secret sins--like secret diseases and secret

wounds--do oftentimes prove most dangerous and

pernicious. He knows that secret sins are the price of

Christ's blood--as well as open sinnings. He knows that

secret sins are a grief to the Spirit--as well as those

which are manifest. Upon all which accounts--a holy

heart rises in a detestation of secret sins.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/thomas-brooks/i-hate-vain-thoughts/
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