What do you think?
Rate this book
The Vanity of Thoughts
EARLY HISTORY OF RELIGION. Imagine holding history in your hands. Now you can. Digitally preserved and previously accessible only through libraries as Early English Books Online, this rare material is now available in single print editions. Thousands of books written between 1475 and 1700 can be delivered to your doorstep in individual volumes of high quality historical reproductions. From the beginning of recorded history we have looked to the heavens for inspiration and guidance. In these early religious documents, sermons, and pamphlets, we see the spiritual impact on the lives of both royalty and the commoner. We also get insights into a clergy that was growing ever more powerful as a political force. This is one of the world's largest collections of religious works of this type, revealing much about our interpretation of the modern church and spirituality.
++++
The below data was compiled from various identification fields in the bibliographic record of this title. This data is provided as an additional tool in helping to insure edition
++++
The vanity of thoughts discovered with their danger and cure. By Goodvvin, B.D.
Goodwin, Thomas, 1600-1680.
Printer's name from STC.
The first leaf is blank.
With a final imprimatur leaf.
Identified as STC 12044a on UMI microfilm.
[8], 54, [2] p.
London : Printed by M[iles] F[lesher] for R. Dawlman, and L. Fawne, at the signe of the brazen Serpent in Pauls Church-yard, 1638.
STC (2nd ed.) / 12044.5
English
Reproduction of the original in the Union Theological Seminary (New York, N. Y.) Library
++++
This book represents an authentic reproduction of the text as printed by the original publisher. While we have attempted to accurately maintain the integrity of the original work, there are sometimes problems with the original work or the micro-film from which the books were digitized. This can result in errors in reproduction. Possible imperfections include missing and blurred pages, poor pictures, markings and other reproduction issues beyond our control. Because this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment to protecting, preserving and promoting the world's literature.
++++
The below data was compiled from various identification fields in the bibliographic record of this title. This data is provided as an additional tool in helping to insure edition
++++
The vanity of thoughts discovered with their danger and cure. By Goodvvin, B.D.
Goodwin, Thomas, 1600-1680.
Printer's name from STC.
The first leaf is blank.
With a final imprimatur leaf.
Identified as STC 12044a on UMI microfilm.
[8], 54, [2] p.
London : Printed by M[iles] F[lesher] for R. Dawlman, and L. Fawne, at the signe of the brazen Serpent in Pauls Church-yard, 1638.
STC (2nd ed.) / 12044.5
English
Reproduction of the original in the Union Theological Seminary (New York, N. Y.) Library
++++
This book represents an authentic reproduction of the text as printed by the original publisher. While we have attempted to accurately maintain the integrity of the original work, there are sometimes problems with the original work or the micro-film from which the books were digitized. This can result in errors in reproduction. Possible imperfections include missing and blurred pages, poor pictures, markings and other reproduction issues beyond our control. Because this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment to protecting, preserving and promoting the world's literature.
94 pages, Paperback
First published March 9, 2010
About the author
Thomas Goodwin
255 books53 followersThomas Goodwin known as 'the Elder', was an English Puritan theologian and preacher, and an important leader of religious Independents. He served as chaplain to Oliver Cromwell, and was imposed by Parliament as President of Magdalen College, Oxford in 1650. Christopher Hill places Goodwin in the ‘main stream of Puritan thought’.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
November 19, 2024
The Vanity of Thoughts by Thomas Goodwin
A great short read on a subject that everyone can relate to: the wandering mind. Goodwin’s exploration is both convicting and thorough, yet he finishes with practical applications grounded in grace.
“When you first open your eyes each morning, there will be many thoughts vying for your attention, like so many clients or suitors at the door. But speak with God first…”
This brief book serves as a helpful reminder to guard our minds and prioritize communion with God, even amid the distractions of daily life.
A great short read on a subject that everyone can relate to: the wandering mind. Goodwin’s exploration is both convicting and thorough, yet he finishes with practical applications grounded in grace.
“When you first open your eyes each morning, there will be many thoughts vying for your attention, like so many clients or suitors at the door. But speak with God first…”
This brief book serves as a helpful reminder to guard our minds and prioritize communion with God, even amid the distractions of daily life.
October 28, 2025
Wow. This book was so convicting and so encouraging to read. Exposed the nature of thoughts, why they need to be repented of, if indeed sinful, and how to go about raising our thoughts heavenward. 10/10 recommend.
August 16, 2025
This is a very insightful analysis on the nature of thoughts—the vain ones, the foolish ones, the sinful ones. The comforting appendix is exactly what the reader needs after going through such a painful soul-examining process.
My favorite passage occurs near the end where Goodwin is encouraging the reader not "to judge himself merely by the multitude and noise" of vain, evil and foolish thoughts that harass and distract us this side of heaven. Instead, the Christian must ask him or herself, are you hospitable to these thoughts, do you welcome and feed them, do you delight in them, or do you see them for what they are and seek to drive them away?
And then, this beautiful simile:
"... the heart of the regenerate man still follows God, returns to him, and keeps on his way. He is like a spaniel that follows his master on a journey and runs after every bird and every flock of sheep he sees. The spaniel may expend more energy and run over ten or twenty times more ground compared to the way his master goes. Yet for all this, he is still sure to have an eye to his master, returns to him again, and follows him to the journey's end" (75-76).
My favorite passage occurs near the end where Goodwin is encouraging the reader not "to judge himself merely by the multitude and noise" of vain, evil and foolish thoughts that harass and distract us this side of heaven. Instead, the Christian must ask him or herself, are you hospitable to these thoughts, do you welcome and feed them, do you delight in them, or do you see them for what they are and seek to drive them away?
And then, this beautiful simile:
"... the heart of the regenerate man still follows God, returns to him, and keeps on his way. He is like a spaniel that follows his master on a journey and runs after every bird and every flock of sheep he sees. The spaniel may expend more energy and run over ten or twenty times more ground compared to the way his master goes. Yet for all this, he is still sure to have an eye to his master, returns to him again, and follows him to the journey's end" (75-76).
June 3, 2026
Superb. Goodwin is clear-eyed and minces no words when discussing the depth of depravity that pervades human thought life, but he balances this perfectly with deep, vibrant gospel hope. Highest possible recommendation.
August 25, 2026
I would recommend this book to believers who want encouragement in renewing their mind. Although, I disagreed with some application points, overall the book was helpful. Goodwin breaks down different biblical categories of vain thoughts, why they’re sinful, and gives very practical steps on how to fight vain thoughts.
July 1, 2025
This is an exceptional and convicting book! Small, concise, worth every minute spent on it.
April 12, 2026
I’m always hesitant to read a book that has been edited from the original so when I first picked up this version of The Vanity of Thoughts by Thomas Goodwin I was skeptical. You see, this version is part of the Puritan Treasures for Today published by Reformation Heritage and they have edited them into modern language and even shortened some volumes from the original. One thing I will say for this series is they are all of a uniform design which is more than you can say for the Puritan Paperbacks from Banner of Truth…..shame…..SHAME!
This book is part of an exposition of Jeremiah 4:14: “How long shall your evil thoughts lodge within you?” Goodwin sets out to “show the wickedness and the vanity of the heart by nature, particularly the vanity of thoughts” and posits that “it is not what thoughts pass through your hearts but those which lodge or dwell in your hearts that show your true repentance.” (3) He is endeavoring where most pastors refuse or fail to go…into the secret workings of the mind of the believer. It is Goodwin’s position that the way in which we choose to use our minds can be sinful and we have to fight against our very nature to avoid this. We have a natural tendency to shy away from good thoughts and to focus and dwell on evil thoughts. If we are not diligent to avoid this, we naturally slip into this tendency. In chapter four, Goodwin focuses on evil thoughts. First he defined foolish thoughts as those which are disjointed and allow our minds to toss to and fro or, worse yet, to focus on nothing at all. It is in the times that our enemy takes advantage and fills the gap. He also says that, while we have to fight our reluctance to focus on good, we have no such problem focusing on evil thoughts. In fact, we are experts at this. The imagination is so important that Goodwin devotes an entire chapter to it. He argues that we can use our imaginations to focus on the comforts of the present, to relive sin of the past, to look forward to indulgences we may enjoy in the future, or to just make up an alternative reality. Any of these are a misuse of our minds. In terms of practicality, he says we should have two primary responses to the discovery of the vanity of our thoughts. First, we respond in humility. Second, we are mindful to keep guard over our thoughts. In my opinion, chapter seven is the most beneficial where Goodwin lays out remedies against vain thoughts. His first remedy is to store up heavenly truth. In other words, fill your mind with God’s word and the spiritual knowledge of things above. If we do so, when we find ourselves alone (the time our minds are most prone to wander) these thoughts of God and His word will fill our minds and push out evil thoughts. Another area he mentions is to start your day with the Lord. This fills your mind with godly affections before the world fills it with busyness and evil.
I must say, this book surprised me. I had low expectations but found it to be a joy to read and overwhelmingly applicable to my own daily life. I’m sure other believers will experience the same. On another note, I will certainly read more from this series in the future. I believe they have struck a solid balance that will serve as a gateway to believers reading the Puritans and what could be wrong with that?
This book is part of an exposition of Jeremiah 4:14: “How long shall your evil thoughts lodge within you?” Goodwin sets out to “show the wickedness and the vanity of the heart by nature, particularly the vanity of thoughts” and posits that “it is not what thoughts pass through your hearts but those which lodge or dwell in your hearts that show your true repentance.” (3) He is endeavoring where most pastors refuse or fail to go…into the secret workings of the mind of the believer. It is Goodwin’s position that the way in which we choose to use our minds can be sinful and we have to fight against our very nature to avoid this. We have a natural tendency to shy away from good thoughts and to focus and dwell on evil thoughts. If we are not diligent to avoid this, we naturally slip into this tendency. In chapter four, Goodwin focuses on evil thoughts. First he defined foolish thoughts as those which are disjointed and allow our minds to toss to and fro or, worse yet, to focus on nothing at all. It is in the times that our enemy takes advantage and fills the gap. He also says that, while we have to fight our reluctance to focus on good, we have no such problem focusing on evil thoughts. In fact, we are experts at this. The imagination is so important that Goodwin devotes an entire chapter to it. He argues that we can use our imaginations to focus on the comforts of the present, to relive sin of the past, to look forward to indulgences we may enjoy in the future, or to just make up an alternative reality. Any of these are a misuse of our minds. In terms of practicality, he says we should have two primary responses to the discovery of the vanity of our thoughts. First, we respond in humility. Second, we are mindful to keep guard over our thoughts. In my opinion, chapter seven is the most beneficial where Goodwin lays out remedies against vain thoughts. His first remedy is to store up heavenly truth. In other words, fill your mind with God’s word and the spiritual knowledge of things above. If we do so, when we find ourselves alone (the time our minds are most prone to wander) these thoughts of God and His word will fill our minds and push out evil thoughts. Another area he mentions is to start your day with the Lord. This fills your mind with godly affections before the world fills it with busyness and evil.
I must say, this book surprised me. I had low expectations but found it to be a joy to read and overwhelmingly applicable to my own daily life. I’m sure other believers will experience the same. On another note, I will certainly read more from this series in the future. I believe they have struck a solid balance that will serve as a gateway to believers reading the Puritans and what could be wrong with that?
February 15, 2025
Brilliant. Convicting.
Thoughts trouble individuals like Belshazzar and Nebuchadnezzar in the world, as described in Daniel 4:19. Similarly, Proverbs 4:16 states, "They cannot sleep unless they have done wrong." If their desires remain unsatisfied, they disturb their thoughts, just as unruly children disturb with their cries. Thus, what many consider to be free, namely thoughts, can become the greatest bondage and torment on earth. They hinder sleep, which nurtures our well-being, consuming the heart that birthed them, wearing down the spirits. Even when a person seeks comfort in bed, attempting to put thoughts and sad reflections aside, they continue to haunt and terrify. Thoughts cannot be discarded like a cloak. And when people die, these thoughts will follow them to hell and torment them even more there. Thoughts are among the greatest executioners in hell, the "worm that does not die."
Thoughts trouble individuals like Belshazzar and Nebuchadnezzar in the world, as described in Daniel 4:19. Similarly, Proverbs 4:16 states, "They cannot sleep unless they have done wrong." If their desires remain unsatisfied, they disturb their thoughts, just as unruly children disturb with their cries. Thus, what many consider to be free, namely thoughts, can become the greatest bondage and torment on earth. They hinder sleep, which nurtures our well-being, consuming the heart that birthed them, wearing down the spirits. Even when a person seeks comfort in bed, attempting to put thoughts and sad reflections aside, they continue to haunt and terrify. Thoughts cannot be discarded like a cloak. And when people die, these thoughts will follow them to hell and torment them even more there. Thoughts are among the greatest executioners in hell, the "worm that does not die."
January 25, 2026
In typically Puritan fashion, Thomas Goodwin explores the depths of the Christian’s thought life. For though there are many heinous sins, it was for evil thoughts that God destroyed the world in the flood. Goodwin lays out not only the sinful tendencies of our mind but also the struggles that we have to think good thoughts. Why is that every time we want to pray we suddenly are distracted and forget the things we ought to pray for? And though some may object that sinful thoughts are minor compared to other sins, Goodwin reminds us that the sheer number of our thoughts make them just as heinous. What is our only remedy for vain thoughts? Our only hope is that “God has more thoughts of mercy than you have of rebellion…You began but as yesterday to think rebellious thoughts against Him, but His thoughts of mercy have been from everlasting and reach to everlasting.” Amen and Amen!
January 14, 2026
“Deșertăciunea gândurilor” tratează cu seriozitate realitatea păcatului săvârșit cu gândul, un aspect adesea neglijat al vieții creștine. Lectura m-a făcut mai atent la viața lăuntrică și la nevoia de veghere constantă a minții înaintea lui Dumnezeu.
Deși scurtă, lectura este profundă și aplicativă, autorul punctând cu acuratețe gânduri și lupte cu care m-am confruntat în mod concret.
Parcursă în paralel cu “Idolii unei inimi” a lui Tim Keller, lectura a fost o potrivire excelentă.
Deși scurtă, lectura este profundă și aplicativă, autorul punctând cu acuratețe gânduri și lupte cu care m-am confruntat în mod concret.
Parcursă în paralel cu “Idolii unei inimi” a lui Tim Keller, lectura a fost o potrivire excelentă.
August 27, 2025
Convicting, practical and comforting.
December 25, 2024
VERY convicting, but also very helpful. (I read the "Puritan Treasures for Today" version that RHB put out recently, edited by Brian G. Hedges.)
August 16, 2018
Um livro espetacular. Goodwin argumenta de forma sóbria e profunda sobre a necessidade dos nossos pensamentos serem levados cativos a Cristo, em genuína obediência. Deve ser lido e relido.
September 3, 2024
Un libro para leer en un día pero para pensarlo toda la vida...
Read
March 24, 2025Great, quick read. Convicting in regards to how significantly the thought life both reveals and influences the condition of the heart. Would recommend!
October 3, 2025
Highly recommend!
Read
July 10, 2024“The conclusion is: it is not what thoughts are in your hearts, or what passes through them, but it is what lodging you give to them that makes the difference, that proves your repentance. Many good thoughts and motions may pass as strangers through a bad man’s heart. And, likewise, multitudes of vain thoughts may make a thoroughfare of a believer’s heart, disturbing him in good duties, knocking on his heart to interrupt him. These may break in upon the heart of a good man, but they will not be allowed to stay there, they will not be fostered or harbored there.”
“Thoughts are to be repented of. Yea, repentance is expressed as to begin at the thoughts, “Let the unrighteous man [forsake] his thoughts” (Isa 55:7). And a man is never truly and thoroughly wrought on until his “every thought” is brought into “obedience” (2 Co 10:5).”
“Take the matter of reading, for many have leisure and ability to read much. They should ballast their heart with the Word of God; they should take in those precious Words, that precious wisdom, in order to profit themselves and others. They should be building up their own souls, but what do their curious fancies carry them to? What are they versed in? Why, they know playbooks; they know romances, all the curious needlework of idle brains; they load their heads with “apes and peacocks feathers,” instead of pearls and precious stones. As Solomon said, “The heart of him that has understanding seeketh knowledge; but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness” (Pro 15:14). Foolish discourses please their eyes and ears; these are the purveyors of food for their thoughts—like chameleons are said to do, men live on air and wind”
”We are told in Proverbs 6:22, that when we think of God’s Word, it will talk with us. If you are careful of what you do be- cause of your constitution, etc., then be most careful what you think, because thoughts can either upset or feed your soul. God’s words “I did eat,” said Jeremiah, speaking of meditation on them (Jer 15:16).”
”Remedies against Vain Thoughts
Remedy 1. First you must get your heart furnished and enriched with a good stock of sanctified, heavenly knowledge in spiritual and God-given truths. A “good man” has a “good treasure” in his heart (Mat 12:35).
2. Endeavor to preserve and keep up lively, holy and spiritual affections in your heart. Do not let them cool. Do not fall from your first love, fear, or joy in God.
3. Get your heart possessed with deep, strong and powerful apprehensions and impressions of God’s holiness, majesty, omnipresence, and omniscience.
4. Especially determine to speak with God when you first awake, as David did, “When I awake, I am still with thee” (Psa 139:18). To prevent vain, windy, frothy thoughts from taking possession of your heart when you first awake, first fill your heart with thoughts of God.
5. Have a watchful eye. Guard your heart all day long.
6. Be careful not to please your fancy too much with vanities and curious sights.
7. Be diligent in your calling. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might” (Ecc 9:10). Put to it all the intention and strength of your mind.
8. In your calling and in all your ways, commit your ways to God. “Commit thy works [ways] unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established [or, ordered]” (Pro 16:3).”
July 30, 2026
Super quick read, but quite convicting and helpful. I couldn't help but think how distracted and many my thoughts were even as reading this small book! I want to remember these quotes:
"Our thoughts are the first movers that propose all the evil that is within us. For they make the motion and bring the heart and object together. Thoughts cater to our lusts, holding up the object of desire, until the heart has played the adulterer with it and committed folly. This is so in mental impurity, as well as in other sinful desires. Thoughts hold up the images of the gods they create, which the heart then bows down to worship. Thoughts present honor, riches, and beauty to our hearts until the heart worships them, even the things themselves are absent."
"But for Adam in his innocence and for Christ, there was never a single thought misplaced. Though their thoughts were as many as the stars, yet they marched in their orbits and stayed in their proper place."
"This madness and distemper have been in the mind since the fall (though it is not as evident in our words because we know better). But if notes were taken of our thoughts, we would find them so to be such vagrant, wandering thoughts that we would not know how they came in, where they came from, or where they are going. But as God does all things in weight, number, and measure, so His image does within us, so far as it is renewed."
"And it is indeed a great sin when many of men's most pleasing thoughts are spent on things that do not concern them. For the things we ought to know, and which do concern us, are themselves enough to take up our thoughts. Nor do we have any thoughts to spare, for thoughts are precious things, the immediate fruits of an immortal nature. And God has given us power to form thoughts and use them in things that concern our own good, and that of our neighbors, and His glory. To not spend thoughts on these things is the greatest waste in the world."
"Finally, it proves the greatest possible discontentment in the mind when men in their thoughts put themselves into a condition that God never ordained for them."
"Consider your thoughts that you might be humbled. But for all their multitude, do not be discouraged. For God has more thoughts of mercy than you have of rebellion."
"Therefore, if there are not mines of precious truths hidden in the heart, it is no wonder that our thoughts coin nothing but the dross of superficial, vain thoughts, since the better materials which should feed the mind are lacking."
"Our thoughts are the first movers that propose all the evil that is within us. For they make the motion and bring the heart and object together. Thoughts cater to our lusts, holding up the object of desire, until the heart has played the adulterer with it and committed folly. This is so in mental impurity, as well as in other sinful desires. Thoughts hold up the images of the gods they create, which the heart then bows down to worship. Thoughts present honor, riches, and beauty to our hearts until the heart worships them, even the things themselves are absent."
"But for Adam in his innocence and for Christ, there was never a single thought misplaced. Though their thoughts were as many as the stars, yet they marched in their orbits and stayed in their proper place."
"This madness and distemper have been in the mind since the fall (though it is not as evident in our words because we know better). But if notes were taken of our thoughts, we would find them so to be such vagrant, wandering thoughts that we would not know how they came in, where they came from, or where they are going. But as God does all things in weight, number, and measure, so His image does within us, so far as it is renewed."
"And it is indeed a great sin when many of men's most pleasing thoughts are spent on things that do not concern them. For the things we ought to know, and which do concern us, are themselves enough to take up our thoughts. Nor do we have any thoughts to spare, for thoughts are precious things, the immediate fruits of an immortal nature. And God has given us power to form thoughts and use them in things that concern our own good, and that of our neighbors, and His glory. To not spend thoughts on these things is the greatest waste in the world."
"Finally, it proves the greatest possible discontentment in the mind when men in their thoughts put themselves into a condition that God never ordained for them."
"Consider your thoughts that you might be humbled. But for all their multitude, do not be discouraged. For God has more thoughts of mercy than you have of rebellion."
"Therefore, if there are not mines of precious truths hidden in the heart, it is no wonder that our thoughts coin nothing but the dross of superficial, vain thoughts, since the better materials which should feed the mind are lacking."
June 4, 2026
The Vanity of Thoughts is part of the Puritan Treasures for Today series published by Reformation Heritage. This series is aimed at the modern reader as the language is edited to more contemporary English. One interesting thing to note is that, despite “smoothing out difficult language of a bygone era” the book still quotes the King James Version of the Bible, making the quoted verses feel a little left behind while the rest is dressed in a new outfit. Despite this, Goodwin’s book is profoundly practical for the Christian today.
This book is part of an exposition of Jeremiah 4:14: “How long shall your evil thoughts lodge within you?” Goodwin sets out to “show the wickedness and the vanity of the heart by nature, particularly the vanity of thoughts” and posits that “it is not what thoughts pass through your hearts but those which lodge or dwell in your hearts that show your true repentance.” He is endeavoring where most pastors refuse or fail to go…into the secret workings of the mind of the believer.
It is Goodwin’s position that the way in which we choose to use our minds can be sinful and we must fight against our very nature to avoid this. We have a natural tendency to shy away from good thoughts and to focus and dwell on evil thoughts. If we are not diligent to avoid this, we naturally slip into this tendency. In chapter four, Goodwin focuses on evil thoughts. First, he defines foolish thoughts as those which are disjointed and cause our minds to toss to and fro or worse yet, to focus on nothing at all. It is in these times that our enemy takes advantage and fills the gap. Ironically, while we must wage war against our reluctance to focus on good, we have no such problem focusing on evil thoughts. In fact, we are experts at this by nature.
Additionally, Goodwin speaks about the importance of imagination, devoting an entire chapter to it. He argues that we can use our imaginations to focus on the comforts of the present, relive sins of the past, look forward to the indulgences we may enjoy in the future, or to just make up an alternative reality. Any of these are a misuse of our minds. In terms of practicality, he says we should have two primary responses to the discovery of the vanity of our thoughts. First, we respond in humility. Second, we are mindful to keep guard over our thoughts. Chapter seven is arguably the most beneficial, where Goodwin lays out remedies against vain thoughts. His first remedy is to store up heavenly truth. In other words, fill your mind with God’s word and the spiritual knowledge of things above. If we do so, when we find ourselves alone (the time our minds are most prone to wander) these thoughts of God and His word will guard our minds and push out evil thoughts. Another area he mentions is to start your day with the Lord. This fills the first fruits of your mind with godly affections before the world fills it with busyness and evil.
There is one area in which I disagree with Goodwin. On page 33, under the section on curious thoughts and the evil within, he sets aside a paragraph to chastise any reading outside of the Bible and spiritual topics of sound knowledge which profit ourselves and others. I would argue that a regimented reading plan, including fiction, through a biblical perspective is profitable as well. Furthermore, I do not believe the scriptures make it normative to avoid all forms of entertainment. It is not inherently sinful to partake in something entertaining such as reading a good book. It is more what you do with it and how you view it in light of scripture that can cause the problem. Goodwin calls this type of reading “curious fancies.” In this, I believe he misses the mark.
I must say though, this book surprised me. I had low expectations but found it to be a joy to read and overwhelmingly applicable to my own daily life. I’m sure other believers will experience the same. On another note, I will certainly read more from this series in the future. I believe they have struck a solid balance that will serve as a gateway to believers reading the Puritans and what could be wrong with that? In fact, this is one of seven books found in Read the Puritans “Where to Start” reading list.
The full review by Clayton Jones and many more can be found at:
https://readthepuritans.org/articles-...
This book is part of an exposition of Jeremiah 4:14: “How long shall your evil thoughts lodge within you?” Goodwin sets out to “show the wickedness and the vanity of the heart by nature, particularly the vanity of thoughts” and posits that “it is not what thoughts pass through your hearts but those which lodge or dwell in your hearts that show your true repentance.” He is endeavoring where most pastors refuse or fail to go…into the secret workings of the mind of the believer.
It is Goodwin’s position that the way in which we choose to use our minds can be sinful and we must fight against our very nature to avoid this. We have a natural tendency to shy away from good thoughts and to focus and dwell on evil thoughts. If we are not diligent to avoid this, we naturally slip into this tendency. In chapter four, Goodwin focuses on evil thoughts. First, he defines foolish thoughts as those which are disjointed and cause our minds to toss to and fro or worse yet, to focus on nothing at all. It is in these times that our enemy takes advantage and fills the gap. Ironically, while we must wage war against our reluctance to focus on good, we have no such problem focusing on evil thoughts. In fact, we are experts at this by nature.
Additionally, Goodwin speaks about the importance of imagination, devoting an entire chapter to it. He argues that we can use our imaginations to focus on the comforts of the present, relive sins of the past, look forward to the indulgences we may enjoy in the future, or to just make up an alternative reality. Any of these are a misuse of our minds. In terms of practicality, he says we should have two primary responses to the discovery of the vanity of our thoughts. First, we respond in humility. Second, we are mindful to keep guard over our thoughts. Chapter seven is arguably the most beneficial, where Goodwin lays out remedies against vain thoughts. His first remedy is to store up heavenly truth. In other words, fill your mind with God’s word and the spiritual knowledge of things above. If we do so, when we find ourselves alone (the time our minds are most prone to wander) these thoughts of God and His word will guard our minds and push out evil thoughts. Another area he mentions is to start your day with the Lord. This fills the first fruits of your mind with godly affections before the world fills it with busyness and evil.
There is one area in which I disagree with Goodwin. On page 33, under the section on curious thoughts and the evil within, he sets aside a paragraph to chastise any reading outside of the Bible and spiritual topics of sound knowledge which profit ourselves and others. I would argue that a regimented reading plan, including fiction, through a biblical perspective is profitable as well. Furthermore, I do not believe the scriptures make it normative to avoid all forms of entertainment. It is not inherently sinful to partake in something entertaining such as reading a good book. It is more what you do with it and how you view it in light of scripture that can cause the problem. Goodwin calls this type of reading “curious fancies.” In this, I believe he misses the mark.
I must say though, this book surprised me. I had low expectations but found it to be a joy to read and overwhelmingly applicable to my own daily life. I’m sure other believers will experience the same. On another note, I will certainly read more from this series in the future. I believe they have struck a solid balance that will serve as a gateway to believers reading the Puritans and what could be wrong with that? In fact, this is one of seven books found in Read the Puritans “Where to Start” reading list.
The full review by Clayton Jones and many more can be found at:
https://readthepuritans.org/articles-...
January 13, 2026
Every time I sat down to read this, it was like receiving a big, intense blast of rebuke + instruction + encouragement. Though sometimes it was hard to follow certain points, there's a lot to consider here on how to think about our thought life as Christians. Goodwin also covers topics about thoughts (e.g., curiosity, imagination) that I hadn't read/heard/seen much about and found helpful.
And God has given us power to form thoughts and use them in things that concern our own good, and that of our neighbors, and His glory. To not spend thoughts on these things is the greatest waste in the world.
…even if you suppose your thoughts to be the least and smallest of your sins, yet their multitude makes them more in number and heavier in weight than all other sins. For there is nothing smaller than a grain of sand, but when you heap up sand, nothing is heavier…But for all their multitude, do not be discouraged. For God has more thoughts of mercy than you have of rebellion.
And if you are careful about the companions you keep–those who lodge in your houses and share your rooms–then how much more should you be careful of your thoughts which lodge in your hearts, which is not your house but God’s built for Himself and for Christ and His Word to dwell in?
And God has given us power to form thoughts and use them in things that concern our own good, and that of our neighbors, and His glory. To not spend thoughts on these things is the greatest waste in the world.
…even if you suppose your thoughts to be the least and smallest of your sins, yet their multitude makes them more in number and heavier in weight than all other sins. For there is nothing smaller than a grain of sand, but when you heap up sand, nothing is heavier…But for all their multitude, do not be discouraged. For God has more thoughts of mercy than you have of rebellion.
And if you are careful about the companions you keep–those who lodge in your houses and share your rooms–then how much more should you be careful of your thoughts which lodge in your hearts, which is not your house but God’s built for Himself and for Christ and His Word to dwell in?
June 25, 2026
Again, another book that has molded me in my sanctification and Christian Walk.
I love this whole book and it it is based on Jeremiah 4:14.
The human heart is like a “boardinghouse where we welcome and entertain many ideas like unwelcome guests.”
We need to think seriously about what we think throughout the day. Thoughts flood into our heads by the thousands in very few minutes, especially with all the technologies and information we purposely expose ourselves to. Sin finds it root in our thought life. Here is where we need to allow the Holy Spirit to take control and regulate.
I love the connection made … Idle mind.. idle thoughts … idle talk.
We need to guard what comes in, driving out those thoughts that cause us to sin or be discouraged.
I especially appreciated Chapter 7, Remedies against Vain Thoughts.”
1) Store up Heavenly Truth
2) Preserve Spiritual Affections
3) Consider God’s Character
4) Start the Day Well
5) Keep Watch Throughout the Day.
6) Guard Your Eyes
7) Focus on Your Work
8) Commit yourself to the Lord
I won’t say anymore but just grab a copy and read and digest. You will be encouraged!
Puritan Treasures for Today is a great source as it takes these Puritan classics and breaks them down into “bite sized” reads. Even people like me can read and understand! :)
Blessings,
Chas Morse
I love this whole book and it it is based on Jeremiah 4:14.
The human heart is like a “boardinghouse where we welcome and entertain many ideas like unwelcome guests.”
We need to think seriously about what we think throughout the day. Thoughts flood into our heads by the thousands in very few minutes, especially with all the technologies and information we purposely expose ourselves to. Sin finds it root in our thought life. Here is where we need to allow the Holy Spirit to take control and regulate.
I love the connection made … Idle mind.. idle thoughts … idle talk.
We need to guard what comes in, driving out those thoughts that cause us to sin or be discouraged.
I especially appreciated Chapter 7, Remedies against Vain Thoughts.”
1) Store up Heavenly Truth
2) Preserve Spiritual Affections
3) Consider God’s Character
4) Start the Day Well
5) Keep Watch Throughout the Day.
6) Guard Your Eyes
7) Focus on Your Work
8) Commit yourself to the Lord
I won’t say anymore but just grab a copy and read and digest. You will be encouraged!
Puritan Treasures for Today is a great source as it takes these Puritan classics and breaks them down into “bite sized” reads. Even people like me can read and understand! :)
Blessings,
Chas Morse
March 2, 2020
This is a fantastic little pamphlet, sermon, thing. It would go over like a ton of bricks now on many points from his explanation of Dinah's sin to the task of ordering thoughts and seeing them both as the overflow of a rightly ordered heart and an oft neglected domain.
Mr Goodwin is hard and kind. I kept expecting the brimstone and only received encouragement and clarity. If anything it settled my mind, as some one who is likely to churn over things, this settling, this crossing of Christ over the tiny ambiguities I can't work out is a gift.
I expect to reread this soon and regularly.
Mr Goodwin is hard and kind. I kept expecting the brimstone and only received encouragement and clarity. If anything it settled my mind, as some one who is likely to churn over things, this settling, this crossing of Christ over the tiny ambiguities I can't work out is a gift.
I expect to reread this soon and regularly.
May 25, 2026
20/10…highly highly recommend. Short but dense. We love a book that uses metaphors to help you understand concepts and this book does a great job of it. I read the version edited by Brian Hedges. This is one of those books that changes the way you think about life and understanding our natural inclination towards foolishness through our thoughts and desires.
April 12, 2026
Very humbling with some helpful, practical, and biblically-rooted measures in killing vain thoughts.
July 3, 2026
Excellent book. Will revisit.
May 5, 2026
So thought provoking and so convicting! I can see myself revisiting this in the future.
September 9, 2022
Un sermón realmente confrontante pero al mismo tiempo esperanzador. Que Dios renueve nuestras mentes para un fin mayor que es conocer Su gloria.
July 14, 2023
Inspirador e Instructivo
Es una obra muy útil para quienes luchamos por desarrollar ‘una higiene de los pensamientos’, puesto que nos orienta respecto a la responsabilidad de cada cristiano en el cultivo de su mente conforme a los principios generales de las Sagradas Escrituras.
¡Muy recomendado!
Es una obra muy útil para quienes luchamos por desarrollar ‘una higiene de los pensamientos’, puesto que nos orienta respecto a la responsabilidad de cada cristiano en el cultivo de su mente conforme a los principios generales de las Sagradas Escrituras.
¡Muy recomendado!
November 1, 2025
5 ⭐️
This was a short, wonderful read. I loved listening to this book, and it had many great points and reminders for me. I think it’s good for me to ponder on how all thoughts, even my positive/“good” thoughts, can still be vanity especially if it’s distracting me from what I should be thinking/doing in service/worship of God.
This was a short, wonderful read. I loved listening to this book, and it had many great points and reminders for me. I think it’s good for me to ponder on how all thoughts, even my positive/“good” thoughts, can still be vanity especially if it’s distracting me from what I should be thinking/doing in service/worship of God.
April 28, 2025
Since the things you think of have the most intimate fellowship and conversation with you, you should be most careful what they are.
The language was a little challenging for me but it was amazing insight into our thoughts and how they can take charge of our lives.
...only God can rule your thoughts. By them we chiefly sanctify Him in our hearts
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews