12thly
Lastly, it is an Argument of spirituall health, and strength when Gods children walk in a continuall sence of their own insufficiencies, and distempers, when they discern the evill inclination of their own spirits, and the excellency, and sufficiency of Gods most holy Spirit: And therefore continually say with David, Psalme 143. Thy Spirit is good, lead me, &c. and Psal. 139. Search me O God, and try my heart, and see if thou findest any way of wickednes in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
These and many more, are the trials of spirituall strength, health, and cheerfulnes, in matters concerning God: We now come to the second Head of trialls of spirituall health, and strength, in matters concerning our selves.
Brokennes of spirit.
First, then it is an Argument of spiritual health, and strength, when (especially) after known sins committed, our hearts are in a broken frame and temper, when our spirits are as it were contrite, and pounded like spice in a Morter, then yeelding the most delightfull smell and savour unto God.
Hence (Isa. 66) a contrite, and broken heart is an House wherein God dwels, an House well ordered, swept, and garnished.
Hence a Spirit of trembling, (Isa. 66.) is an Argument and character of the most dutifull children of God: but of this formerly.
2dly.
Spirituall battels.
2ndly. It is an Argument of spirituall strength, when we make it our work to observe, watch, and kill our corruptions, and rebellions, and labour to keep under, and beat down our body to an holy fitnes, and readines for Gods service, in fasting, and prayer against temptations.