Westminster Confession of Faith, Larger Catechism. Yet, while we cannot impart health to ourselves, we should use legitimate means which, under God s blessing, are conducive thereto. So too we may, through our sinful folly, undermine and destroy our health. The same holds good in the spiritual realm. In many cases lack of Christian assurance, or a very low degree thereof, is due to a poor state of health.
Bodily infirmities react on the mind.
Low physical vitality is usually accompanied by lowness of spirits. A sluggish liver produces depression and despondency. Yet we are far from saying that this course would result in the recovery or increase of assurance, for spiritual effects cannot be produced by material agents. Nevertheless, the removal of a physical hindrance is often an aid. What we wish to make clear is that, in some instances at least, what is regarded as a lack of assurance is nothing more than physical inability to enjoy the things of God.