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I. THE PECULIAR KIND OF THOUGHTS ALLUDED TO IN THE TEXT.

1. All thoughts, the indulgence of which is positively sinful.

(1) Some have reference to God. Fretful, discontented, and distrustful thoughts.

(2) Others refer to our fellow-creatures. Suspicious, slanderous, and calumnious thoughts.

(3) Others have reference to ourselves. Proud, ambitious, impure and lascivious thoughts.

2. All thoughts, the cultivation of which is likely to lead to no practical benefit.

3. All thoughts inappropriate to the seasons on which they are cherished.

II. THE EFFORT WHICH SHOULD BE MADE FOR SUPPRESSING VAIN THOUGHTS.

1. Such thoughts are the natural and spontaneous choice of the human mind.

2. The powerful influence of the thoughts in regulating the dispositions and conduct.

3. Our responsibility to God for the right exercise of thought.

III. SOME MEANS WHICH MAY TEND TO COUNTERACT VAIN THOUGHTS.

1. Seek the attainment of a renewed and sanctified heart.

2. Cultivate an habitual remembrance of the divine inspection of the thoughts.

3. Let the mind be occupied as fully as possible with thoughts of an appropriate and useful character.

4. Earnestly implore the assistance of the Holy Spirit to guide and control the thoughts.

(Essex Remembrancer.)

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KJV: SAMECH. I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.

WEB: I hate double-minded men, but I love your law.