,the ,imitation of ,christ by ,thomas ,kempis ,translated by ,rev4 ,william ,benham ,contents ,,introductory ,,note ,,the ,,imitation ,,of ,,christ ,,the ,,first ,,book ,,admonitions ,,profitable ,,for ,,the ,,spiritual ,,life ,,chapter ,i ,of the imitation of ,christ1 and of contempt of the world and all its vanities ,,chapter ,,ii ,of thinking humbly of oneself ,,chapter ,,iii ,of the knowledge of truth ,,chapter ,,iv ,of prudence in action ,,chapter ,v ,of the reading of ,holy ,scriptures ,,chapter ,,vi ,of inordinate affections ,,chapter ,,vii ,of fleeing from vain hope and pride ,,chapter ,,viii ,of the danger of too much familiarity ,,chapter ,,ix ,of ,obedience and ,subjection ,,chapter ,x ,of the danger of superfluity of words ,,chapter ,,xi ,of seeking peace of mind and of spiritual progress ,,chapter ,,xii ,of the uses of adversity ,,chapter ,,xiii ,of resisting temptation ,,chapter ,,xiv ,on avoiding rash judgment ,,chapter ,,xv ,of works of charity ,,chapter ,,xvi ,of bearing with the faults of others ,,chapter ,,xvii ,of a ,religious life ,,chapter ,,xviii ,of the example of the holy fathers ,,chapter ,,xix ,of the exercises of a religious man ,,chapter ,,xx ,of the love of solitude and silence ,,chapter ,,xxi ,of compunction of heart ,,chapter ,,xxii ,on the contemplation of human misery ,,chapter ,,xxiii ,of meditation upon death ,,chapter ,,xxiv ,of the judgment and punishment of the wicked ,,chapter ,,xxv ,of the zealous amendment of our whole life ,,the ,,second ,,book ,,admonitions ,,concerning ,,the ,,inner ,,life ,,chapter ,i ,of the inward life ,,chapter ,,ii ,of lowly submission ,,chapter ,,iii ,of the good1 peaceable man ,,chapter ,,iv ,of a pure mind and simple intention ,,chapter ,v ,of self-esteem ,,chapter ,,vi ,of the joy of a good conscience ,,chapter ,,vii ,of loving ,jesus above all things ,,chapter ,,viii ,of the intimate love of ,jesus ,,chapter ,,ix ,of the lack of all comfort ,,chapter ,x ,of gratitude for the ,grace of ,god ,,chapter ,,xi ,of the fewness of those who love the ,cross of ,jesus ,,chapter ,,xii ,of the royal way of the ,holy ,cross ,,the ,,third ,,book ,,on ,,inward ,,consolation ,,chapter ,i ,of the inward voice of ,christ to the faithful soul ,,chapter ,,ii ,what the truth saith inwardly without noise of words ,,chapter ,,iii ,how all the words of ,god are to be heard with humility1 and how many consider them not ,,chapter ,,iv ,how we must walk in truth and humility before ,god ,,chapter ,v ,of the wonderful power of the ,divine ,love ,,chapter ,,vi ,of the proving of the true lover ,,chapter ,,vii ,of hiding our grace under the guard of humility ,,chapter ,,viii ,of a low estimation of self in the sight of ,god ,,chapter ,,ix ,that all things are to be referred to ,god1 as the final end ,,chapter ,x ,that it is sweet to despise the world and to serve ,god ,,chapter ,,xi ,that the desires of the heart are to be examined and governed ,,chapter ,,xii ,of the inward growth of patience1 and of the struggle against evil desires ,,chapter ,,xiii ,of the obedience of one in lowly subjection after the example of ,jesus ,christ ,,chapter ,,xiv ,of meditation upon the hidden judgments of ,god1 that we may not be lifted up because of our well-doing ,,chapter ,,xv ,how we must stand and speak1 in everything that we desire ,,chapter ,,xvi ,that true solace is to be sought in ,god alone ,,chapter ,,xvii ,that all care is to be cast upon ,god ,,chapter ,,xviii ,that temporal miseries are to be borne patiently after the example of ,christ ,,chapter ,,xix ,of bearing injuries1 and who shall be approved as truly patient ,,chapter ,,xx ,of confession of our infirmity and of the miseries of this life ,,chapter ,,xxi ,that we must rest in ,god above all goods and gifts ,,chapter ,,xxii ,of the recollection of ,god's manifold benefits ,,chapter ,,xxiii ,of four things which bring great peace ,,chapter ,,xxiv ,of avoiding of curious inquiry into the life of another ,,chapter ,,xxv ,wherein firm peace of heart and true profit consist ,,chapter ,,xxvi ,of the exaltation of a free spirit1 which humble prayer more deserveth than doth frequent reading ,,chapter ,,xxvii ,that personal love greatly hindereth from the highest good ,,chapter ,,xxviii ,against the tongues of detractors ,,chapter ,,xxix ,how when tribulation cometh we must call upon and bless ,god ,,chapter ,,xxx ,of seeking divine help1 and the confidence of obtaining grace ,,chapter ,,xxxi ,of the neglect of every creature1 that the ,creator may be found ,,chapter ,,xxxii ,of self-denial and the casting away all selfishness ,,chapter ,,xxxiii ,of instability of the heart1 and of directing the aim towards ,god ,,chapter ,,xxxiv ,that to him who loveth ,god is sweet above all things and in all things ,,chapter ,,xxxv ,that there is no security against temptation in this life ,,chapter ,,xxxvi ,against vain judgments of men ,,chapter ,,xxxvii ,of pure and entire resignation of self1 for the obtaining liberty of heart ,,chapter ,,xxxviii ,of a good government in external things1 and of having recourse to ,god in dangers ,,chapter ,,xxxix ,that man must not be immersed in business ,,chapter ,,xl ,that man hath no good in himself1 and nothing whereof to glory ,,chapter ,,xli ,of contempt of all temporal honour ,,chapter ,,xlii ,that our peace is not to be placed in men ,,chapter ,,xliii ,against vain and worldly knowledge ,,chapter ,,xliv ,of not troubling ourselves about outward things ,,chapter ,,xlv ,that we must not believe everyone1 and that we are prone to fall in our words ,,chapter ,,xlvi ,of having confidence in ,god when evil words are cast at us ,,chapter ,,xlvii ,that all troubles are to be endured for the sake of eternal life ,,chapter ,,xlviii ,of the day of eternity and of the straitnesses of this life ,,chapter ,,xlix ,of the desire after eternal life1 and how great blessings are promised to those who strive ,,chapter ,l ,how a desolate man ought to commit himself into the hands of ,god ,,chapter ,,li ,that we must give ourselves to humble works when we are unequal to those that are lofty ,,chapter ,,lii ,that a man ought not to reckon himself worthy of consolation1 but more worthy of chastisement ,,chapter ,,liii ,that the ,grace of ,god doth not join itself to those who mind earthly things ,,chapter ,,liv ,of the diverse motions of ,nature and of ,grace ,,chapter ,,lv ,of the corruption of ,nature and the efficacy of ,divine ,grace ,,chapter ,,lvi ,that we ought to deny ourselves1 and to imitate ,christ by means of the ,cross ,,chapter ,,lvii ,that a man must not be too much cast down when he falleth into some faults ,,chapter ,,lviii ,of deeper matters1 and ,god's hidden judgments which are not to be inquired into ,,chapter ,,lix ,that all hope and trust is to be fixed in ,god alone ,,the ,,fourth ,,book ,,of ,,the ,,sacrament ,,of ,,the ,,altar ,,chapter ,i ,with how great reverence ,christ must be received ,,chapter ,,ii ,that the greatness and charity of ,god is shown to men in the ,sacrament ,,chapter ,,iii ,that it is profitable to ,communicate often ,,chapter ,,iv ,that many good gifts are bestowed upon those who ,communicate devoutly ,,chapter ,v ,of the dignity of this ,sacrament1 and of the office of the priest ,,chapter ,,vi ,an inquiry concerning preparation for ,communion ,,chapter ,,vii ,of the examination of conscience1 and purpose of amendment ,,chapter ,,viii ,of the oblation of ,christ upon the cross1 and of resignation of self ,,chapter ,,ix ,that we ought to offer ourselves and all that is ours to ,god1 and to pray for all ,,chapter ,x ,that ,holy ,communion is not lightly to be omitted ,,chapter ,,xi ,that the ,body and ,blood of ,christ and the ,holy ,scriptures are most necessary to a faithful soul ,,chapter ,,xii ,that he who is about to ,communicate with ,christ ought to prepare himself with great diligence ,,chapter ,,xiii ,that the devout soul ought with the whole heart to yearn after union with ,christ in the ,sacrament ,,chapter ,,xiv ,of the fervent desire of certain devout persons to receive the ,body and ,blood of ,christ ,,chapter ,,xv ,that the grace of devotion is acquired by humility and self-denial ,,chapter ,,xvi ,that we ought to lay open our necessities to ,christ and to require ,his ,grace ,,chapter ,,xvii ,of fervent love and vehement desire of receiving ,christ ,,chapter ,,xviii ,that a man should not be a curious searcher of the ,sacrament1 but a humble imitator of ,christ1 submitting his sense to holy faith ,,introductory ,,note ,the treatise 8,of the ,imitation of ,christ0 appears to have been originally written in ,latin early in the fifteenth century4 ,its exact date and its authorship are still a matter of debate4 ,manuscripts of the ,latin version survive in considerable numbers all over ,western ,europe1 and they1 with the vast list of translations and of printed editions1 testify to its almost unparalleled popularity4 ,one scribe attributes it to ,st4 ,bernard of ,clairvaux2 but the fact that it contains a quotation from ,st4 ,francis of ,assisi1 who was born thirty years after the death of ,st4 ,bernard1 disposes of this theory4 ,in ,england there exist many manuscripts of the first three books1 called 8,musica ,ecclesiastica10 frequently ascribed to the ,english mystic ,walter ,hilton4 ,but ,hilton seems to have died in #acie1 and there is no evidence of the existence of the work before #adjj4 ,many manuscripts scattered throughout ,europe ascribe the book to ,jean le ,charlier de ,gerson1 the great ,chancellor of the ,university of ,paris1 who was a leading figure in the ,church in the earlier part of the fifteenth century4 ,the most probable author1 however1 especially when the internal evidence is considered1 is ,thomas ,haemmerlein1 known also as ,thomas ,kempis1 from his native town of ,kempen1 near the ,rhine1 about forty miles north of ,cologne4 ,haemmerlein1 who was born in #acgi or #achj1 was a member of the order of the ,brothers of ,common ,life1 and spent the last seventy years of his life at ,mount ,st4 ,agnes1 a monastery of ,augustinian canons in the diocese of ,utrecht4 ,here he died on ,july #bf1 #adga1 after an uneventful life spent in copying manuscripts1 reading1 and composing1 and in the peaceful routine of monastic piety4 ,with the exception of the ,bible1 no ,christian writing has had so wide a vogue or so sustained a popularity as this4 ,and yet1 in one sense1 it is hardly an original work at all4 ,its structure it owes largely to the writings of the medieval mystics1 and its ideas and phrases are a mosaic from the ,bible and the ,fathers of the early ,church4 ,but these elements are interwoven with such delicate skill and a religious feeling at once so ardent and so sound1 that it promises to remain1 what it has been for five hundred years1 the supreme call and guide to spiritual aspiration4 ,,the ,,imitation ,,of ,,christ ,,the ,,first ,,book ,,admonitions ,,profitable ,,for ,,the ,,spiritual ,,life ,,chapter ,i ,of the imitation of ,christ1 and of contempt of the world and all its vanities ,he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness17#a7 saith the ,lord4 ,these are the words of ,christ2 and they teach us how far we must imitate ,his life and character1 if we seek true illumination1 and deliverance from all blindness of heart4 ,let it be our most earnest study1 therefore1 to dwell upon the life of ,jesus ,christ4 #b4 ,his teaching surpasseth all teaching of holy men1 and such as have ,his ,spirit find therein the hidden manna47#b7 ,but there are many who1 though they frequently hear the ,gospel1 yet feel but little longing after it1 because they have not the mind of ,christ4 ,he1 therefore1 that will fully and with true wisdom understand the words of ,christ1 let him strive to conform his whole life to that mind of ,christ4 #c4 ,what doth it profit thee to enter into deep discussion concerning the ,holy ,trinity1 if thou lack humility1 and be thus displeasing to the ,trinity8 ,for verily it is not deep words that make a man holy and upright2 it is a good life which maketh a man dear to ,god4 ,i had rather feel contrition than be skilful in the definition thereof4 ,if thou knewest the whole ,bible1 and the sayings of all the philosophers1 what should all this profit thee without the love and grace of ,god8 ,vanity of vanities1 all is vanity1 save to love ,god1 and ,him only to serve4 ,that is the highest wisdom1 to cast the world behind us1 and to reach forward to the heavenly kingdom4 #d4 ,it is vanity then to seek after1 and to trust in1 the riches that shall perish4 ,it is vanity1 too1 to covet honours1 and to lift up ourselves on high4 ,it is vanity to follow the desires of the flesh and be led by them1 for this shall bring misery at the last4 ,it is vanity to desire a long life1 and to have little care for a good life4 ,it is vanity to take thought only for the life which now is1 and not to look forward to the things which shall be hereafter4 ,it is vanity to love that which quickly passeth away1 and not to hasten where eternal joy abideth4 #e4 ,be ofttimes mindful of the saying17#c7 ,the eye is not satisfied with seeing1 nor the ear with hearing4 ,strive1 therefore1 to turn away thy heart from the love of the things that are seen1 and to set it upon the things that are not seen4 ,for they who follow after their own fleshly lusts1 defile the conscience1 and destroy the grace of ,god4 7#a7 ,john viii4 #ab4 7#b7 ,revelations ii4 #ag4 7#c7 ,ecclesiastes i4 #h4 ,,chapter ,,ii ,of thinking humbly of oneself ,there is naturally in every man a desire to know1 but what profiteth knowledge without the fear of ,god8 ,better of a surety is a lowly peasant who serveth ,god1 than a proud philosopher who watcheth the stars and neglecteth the knowledge of himself4 ,he who knoweth himself well is vile in his own sight2 neither regardeth he the praises of men4 ,if ,i knew all the things that are in the world1 and were not in charity1 what should it help me before ,god1 who is to judge me according to my deeds8 #b4 ,rest from inordinate desire of knowledge1 for therein is found much distraction and deceit4 ,those who have knowledge desire to appear learned1 and to be called wise4 ,many things there are to know which profiteth little or nothing to the soul4 ,and foolish out of measure is he who attendeth upon other things rather than those which serve to his soul's health4 ,many words satisfy not the soul1 but a good life refresheth the mind1 and a pure conscience giveth great confidence towards ,god4 #c4 ,the greater and more complete thy knowledge1 the more severely shalt thou be judged1 unless thou hast lived holily4 ,therefore be not lifted up by any skill or knowledge that thou hast2 but rather fear concerning the knowledge which is given to thee4 ,if it seemeth to thee that thou knowest many things1 and understandest them well1 know also that there are many more things which thou knowest not4 ,be not high-minded1 but rather confess thine ignorance4 ,why desirest thou to lift thyself above another1 when there are found many more learned and more skilled in the ,scripture than thou8 ,if thou wilt know and learn anything with profit1 love to be thyself unknown and to be counted for nothing4 #d4 ,that is the highest and most profitable lesson1 when a man truly knoweth and judgeth lowly of himself4 ,to account nothing of one's self1 and to think always kindly and highly of others1 this is great and perfect wisdom4 ,even shouldest thou see thy neighbor sin openly or grievously1 yet thou oughtest not to reckon thyself better than he1 for thou knowest not how long thou shalt keep thine integrity4 ,all of us are weak and frail2 hold thou no man more frail than thyself4 ,,chapter ,,iii ,of the knowledge of truth ,happy is the man whom ,truth by itself doth teach1 not by figures and transient words1 but as it is in itself47#a7 ,our own judgment and feelings often deceive us1 and we discern but little of the truth4 ,what doth it profit to argue about hidden and dark things1 concerning which we shall not be even reproved in the judgment1 because we knew them not8 ,oh1 grievous folly1 to neglect the things which are profitable and necessary1 and to give our minds to things which are curious and hurtful6 ,having eyes1 we see not4 #b4 ,and what have we to do with talk about genus and species6 ,he to whom the ,eternal ,word speaketh is free from multiplied questionings4 ,from this ,one ,word are all things1 and all things speak of ,him2 and this is the ,beginning which also speaketh unto us47#b7 ,no man without ,him understandeth or rightly judgeth4 ,the man to whom all things are one1 who bringeth all things to one1 who seeth all things in one1 he is able to remain steadfast of spirit1 and at rest in ,god4 ,o ,god1 who art the ,truth1 make me one with ,thee in everlasting love4 ,it wearieth me oftentimes to read and listen to many things2 in ,thee is all that ,i wish for and desire4 ,let all the doctors hold their peace2 let all creation keep silence before ,thee3 speak ,thou alone to me4 #c4 ,the more a man hath unity and simplicity in himself1 the more things and the deeper things he understandeth2 and that without labour1 because he receiveth the light of understanding from above4 ,the spirit which is pure1 sincere1 and steadfast1 is not distracted though it hath many works to do1 because it doth all things to the honour of ,god1 and striveth to be free from all thoughts of self-seeking4 ,who is so full of hindrance and annoyance to thee as thine own undisciplined heart8 ,a man who is good and devout arrangeth beforehand within his own heart the works which he hath to do abroad2 and so is not drawn away by the desires of his evil will1 but subjecteth everything to the judgment of right reason4 ,who hath a harder battle to fight than he who striveth for self-mastery8 ,and this should be our endeavour1 even to master self1 and thus daily to grow stronger than self1 and go on unto perfection4 #d4 ,all perfection hath some imperfection joined to it in this life1 and all our power of sight is not without some darkness4 ,a lowly knowledge of thyself is a surer way to ,god than the deep searching of man's learning4 ,not that learning is to be blamed1 nor the taking account of anything that is good2 but a good conscience and a holy life is better than all4 ,and because many seek knowledge rather than good living1 therefore they go astray1 and bear little or no fruit4 #e4 ,o if they would give that diligence to the rooting out of vice and the planting of virtue which they give unto vain questionings3 there had not been so many evil doings and stumbling-blocks among the laity1 nor such ill living among houses of religion4 ,of a surety1 at the ,day of ,judgment it will be demanded of us1 not what we have read1 but what we have done2 not how well we have spoken1 but how holily we have lived4 ,tell me1 where now are all those masters and teachers1 whom thou knewest well1 whilst they were yet with you1 and flourished in learning8 ,their stalls are now filled by others1 who perhaps never have one thought concerning them4 ,whilst they lived they seemed to be somewhat1 but now no one speaks of them4 #f4 ,oh how quickly passeth the glory of the world away6 ,would that their life and knowledge had agreed together6 ,for then would they have read and inquired unto good purpose4 ,how many perish through empty learning in this world1 who care little for serving ,god4 ,and because they love to be great more than to be humble1 therefore they 8have become vain in their imaginations40 ,he only is truly great1 who hath great charity4 ,he is truly great who deemeth himself small1 and counteth all height of honour as nothing4 ,he is the truly wise man1 who counteth all earthly things as dung that he may win ,christ4 ,and he is the truly learned man1 who doeth the will of ,god1 and forsaketh his own will4 7#a7 ,psalm xciv4 #ab2 ,numbers xii4 #h4 7#b7 ,john viii4 #be 7,vulg474 ,,chapter ,,iv ,of prudence in action ,we must not trust every word of others or feeling within ourselves1 but cautiously and patiently try the matter1 whether it be of ,god4 ,unhappily we are so weak that we find it easier to believe and speak evil of others1 rather than good4 ,but they that are perfect1 do not give ready heed to every news-bearer1 for they know man's weakness that it is prone to evil and unstable in words4 #b4 ,this is great wisdom1 not to be hasty in action1 or stubborn in our own opinions4 ,a part of this wisdom also is not to believe every word we hear1 nor to tell others all that we hear1 even though we believe it4 ,take counsel with a man who is wise and of a good conscience2 and seek to be instructed by one better than thyself1 rather than to follow thine own inventions4 ,a good life maketh a man wise toward ,god1 and giveth him experience in many things4 ,the more humble a man is in himself1 and the more obedient towards ,god1 the wiser will he be in all things1 and the more shall his soul be at peace4 ,,chapter ,v ,of the reading of ,holy ,scriptures ,it is ,truth which we must look for in ,holy ,writ1 not cunning of words4 ,all ,scripture ought to be read in the spirit in which it was written4 ,we must rather seek for what is profitable in ,scripture1 than for what ministereth to subtlety in discourse4 ,therefore we ought to read books which are devotional and simple1 as well as those which are deep and difficult4 ,and let not the weight of the writer be a stumbling-block to thee1 whether he be of little or much learning1 but let the love of the pure ,truth draw thee to read4 ,ask not1 who hath said this or that1 but look to what he says4 #b4 ,men pass away1 but the truth of the ,lord endureth for ever4 ,without respect of persons ,god speaketh to us in divers manners4 ,our own curiosity often hindereth us in the reading of holy writings1 when we seek to understand and discuss1 where we should pass simply on4 ,if thou wouldst profit by thy reading1 read humbly1 simply1 honestly1 and not desiring to win a character for learning4 ,ask freely1 and hear in silence the words of holy men2 nor be displeased at the hard sayings of older men than thou1 for they are not uttered without cause4 ,,chapter ,,vi ,of inordinate affections ,whensoever a man desireth aught above measure1 immediately he becometh restless4 ,the proud and the avaricious man are never at rest2 while the poor and lowly of heart abide in the multitude of peace4 ,the man who is not yet wholly dead to self1 is soon tempted1 and is overcome in small and trifling matters4 ,it is hard for him who is weak in spirit1 and still in part carnal and inclined to the pleasures of sense1 to withdraw himself altogether from earthly desires4 ,and therefore1 when he withdraweth himself from these1 he is often sad1 and easily angered too if any oppose his will4 #b4 ,but if1 on the other hand1 he yield to his inclination1 immediately he is weighed down by the condemnation of his conscience2 for that he hath followed his own desire1 and yet in no way attained the peace which he hoped for4 ,for true peace of heart is to be found in resisting passion1 not in yielding to it4 ,and therefore there is no peace in the heart of a man who is carnal1 nor in him who is given up to the things that are without him1 but only in him who is fervent towards ,god and living the life of the ,spirit4 ,,chapter ,,vii ,of fleeing from vain hope and pride ,vain is the life of that man who putteth his trust in men or in any created ,thing4 ,be not ashamed to be the servant of others for the love of ,jesus ,christ1 and to be reckoned poor in this life4 ,rest not upon thyself1 but build thy hope in ,god4 ,do what lieth in thy power1 and ,god will help thy good intent4 ,trust not in thy learning1 nor in the cleverness of any that lives1 but rather trust in the favour of ,god1 who resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble4 #b4 ,boast not thyself in thy riches if thou hast them1 nor in thy friends if they be powerful1 but in ,god1 who giveth all things1 and in addition to all things desireth to give even ,himself4 ,be not lifted up because of thy strength or beauty of body1 for with only a slight sickness it will fail and wither away4 ,be not vain of thy skilfulness or ability1 lest thou displease ,god1 from whom cometh every good gift which we have4 #c4 ,count not thyself better than others1 lest perchance thou appear worse in the sight of ,god1 who knoweth what is in man4 ,be not proud of thy good works1 for ,god's judgments are of another sort than the judgments of man1 and what pleaseth man is ofttimes displeasing to ,him4 ,if thou hast any good1 believe that others have more1 and so thou mayest preserve thy humility4 ,it is no harm to thee if thou place thyself below all others2 but it is great harm if thou place thyself above even one4 ,peace is ever with the humble man1 but in the heart of the proud there is envy and continual wrath4 ,,chapter ,,viii ,of the danger of too much familiarity ,open not thine heart to every man1 but deal with one who is wise and feareth ,god4 ,be seldom with the young and with strangers4 ,be not a flatterer of the rich2 nor willingly seek the society of the great4 ,let thy company be the humble and the simple1 the devout and the gentle1 and let thy discourse be concerning things which edify4 ,be not familiar with any woman1 but commend all good women alike unto ,god4 ,choose for thy companions ,god and ,his ,angels only1 and flee from the notice of men4 #b4 ,we must love all men1 but not make close companions of all4 ,it sometimes falleth out that one who is unknown to us is highly regarded through good report of him1 whose actual person is nevertheless unpleasing to those who behold it4 ,we sometimes think to please others by our intimacy1 and forthwith displease them the more by the faultiness of character which they perceive in us4 ,,chapter ,,ix ,of ,obedience and ,subjection ,it is verily a great thing to live in obedience1 to be under authority1 and not to be at our own disposal4 ,far safer is it to live in subjection than in a place of authority4 ,many are in obedience from necessity rather than from love2 these take it amiss1 and repine for small cause4 ,nor will they gain freedom of spirit1 unless with all their heart they submit themselves for the love of ,god4 ,though thou run hither and thither1 thou wilt not find peace1 save in humble subjection to the authority of him who is set over thee4 ,fancies about places and change of them have deceived many4 #b4 ,true it is that every man willingly followeth his own bent1 and is the more inclined to those who agree with him4 ,but if ,christ is amongst us1 then it is necessary that we sometimes yield up our own opinion for the sake of peace4 ,who is so wise as to have perfect knowledge of all things8 ,therefore trust not too much to thine own opinion1 but be ready also to hear the opinions of others4 ,though thine own opinion be good1 yet if for the love of ,god thou foregoest it1 and followest that of another1 thou shalt the more profit thereby4 #c4 ,ofttimes ,i have heard that it is safer to hearken and to receive counsel than to give it4 ,it may also come to pass that each opinion may be good2 but to refuse to hearken to others when reason or occasion requireth it1 is a mark of pride or wilfulness4 ,,chapter ,x ,of the danger of superfluity of words ,avoid as far as thou canst the tumult of men2 for talk concerning worldly things1 though it be innocently undertaken1 is a hindrance1 so quickly are we led captive and defiled by vanity4 ,many a time ,i wish that ,i had held my peace1 and had not gone amongst men4 ,but why do we talk and gossip so continually1 seeing that we so rarely resume our silence without some hurt done to our conscience8 ,we like talking so much because we hope by our conversations to gain some mutual comfort1 and because we seek to refresh our wearied spirits by variety of thoughts4 ,and we very willingly talk and think of those things which we love or desire1 or else of those which we most dislike4 #b4 ,but alas6 it is often to no purpose and in vain4 ,for this outward consolation is no small hindrance to the inner comfort which cometh from ,god4 ,therefore must we watch and pray that time pass not idly away4 ,if it be right and desirable for thee to speak1 speak things which are to edification4 ,evil custom and neglect of our real profit tend much to make us heedless of watching over our lips4 ,nevertheless1 devout conversation on spiritual things helpeth not a little to spiritual progress1 most of all where those of kindred mind and spirit find their ground of fellowship in ,god4 ,,chapter ,,xi ,of seeking peace of mind and of spiritual progress ,we may enjoy abundance of peace if we refrain from busying ourselves with the sayings and doings of others1 and things which concern not ourselves4 ,how can he abide long time in peace who occupieth himself with other men's matters1 and with things without himself1 and meanwhile payeth little or rare heed to the self within8 ,blessed are the single-hearted1 for they shall have abundance of peace4 #b4 ,how came it to pass that many of the ,saints were so perfect1 so contemplative of ,divine things8 ,because they steadfastly sought to mortify themselves from all worldly desires1 and so were enabled to cling with their whole heart to ,god1 and be free and at leisure for the thought of ,him4 ,we are too much occupied with our own affections1 and too anxious about transitory things4 ,seldom1 too1 do we entirely conquer even a single fault1 nor are we zealous for daily growth in grace4 ,and so we remain lukewarm and unspiritual4 #c4 ,were we fully watchful of ourselves1 and not bound in spirit to outward things1 then might we be wise unto salvation1 and make progress in ,divine contemplation4 ,our great and grievous stumbling-block is that1 not being freed from our affections and desires1 we strive not to enter into the perfect way of the ,saints4 ,and when even a little trouble befalleth us1 too quickly are we cast down1 and fly to the world to give us comfort4 #d4 ,if we would quit ourselves like men1 and strive to stand firm in the battle1 then should we see the ,lord helping us from ,heaven4 ,for ,he ,himself is alway ready to help those who strive and who trust in ,him2 yea1 ,he provideth for us occasions of striving1 to the end that we may win the victory4 ,if we look upon our progress in religion as a progress only in outward observances and forms1 our devoutness will soon come to an end4 ,but let us lay the axe to the very root of our life1 that1 being cleansed from affections1 we may possess our souls in peace4 #e4 ,if each year should see one fault rooted out from us1 we should go quickly on to perfection4 ,but on the contrary1 we often feel that we were better and holier in the beginning of our conversion than after many years of profession4 ,zeal and progress ought to increase day by day2 yet now it seemeth a great thing if one is able to retain some portion of his first ardour4 ,if we would put some slight stress on ourselves at the beginning1 then afterwards we should be able to do all things with ease and joy4 #f4 ,it is a hard thing to break through a habit1 and a yet harder thing to go contrary to our own will4 ,yet if thou overcome not slight and easy obstacles1 how shalt thou overcome greater ones8 ,withstand thy will at the beginning1 and unlearn an evil habit1 lest it lead thee little by little into worse difficulties4 ,oh1 if thou knewest what peace to thyself thy holy life should bring to thyself1 and what joy to others1 methinketh thou wouldst be more zealous for spiritual profit4 ,,chapter ,,xii ,of the uses of adversity ,it is good for us that we sometimes have sorrows and adversities1 for they often make a man lay to heart that he is only a stranger and sojourner1 and may not put his trust in any worldly thing4 ,it is good that we sometimes endure contradictions1 and are hardly and unfairly judged1 when we do and mean what is good4 ,for these things help us to be humble1 and shield us from vain-glory4 ,for then we seek the more earnestly the witness of ,god1 when men speak evil of us falsely1 and give us no credit for good4 #b4 ,therefore ought a man to rest wholly upon ,god1 so that he needeth not seek much comfort at the hand of men4 ,when a man who feareth ,god is afflicted or tried or oppressed with evil thoughts1 then he seeth that ,god is the more necessary unto him1 since without ,god he can do no good thing4 ,then he is heavy of heart1 he groaneth1 he crieth out for the very disquietness of his heart4 ,then he groweth weary of life1 and would fain depart and be with ,christ4 ,by all this he is taught that in the world there can be no perfect security or fulness of peace4 ,,chapter ,,xiii ,of resisting temptation ,so long as we live in the world1 we cannot be without trouble and trial4 ,wherefore it is written in ,job1 ,the life of man upon the earth is a trial47#a7 ,and therefore ought each of us to give heed concerning trials and temptations1 and watch unto prayer1 lest the devil find occasion to deceive2 for he never sleepeth1 but goeth about seeking whom he may devour4 ,no man is so perfect in holiness that he hath never temptations1 nor can we ever be wholly free from them4 #b4 ,yet1 notwithstanding1 temptations turn greatly unto our profit1 even though they be great and hard to bear2 for through them we are humbled1 purified1 instructed4 ,all ,saints have passed through much tribulation and temptation1 and have profited thereby4 ,and they who endured not temptation became reprobate and fell away4 ,there is no position so sacred1 no place so secret1 that it is without temptations and adversities4 #c4 ,there is no man wholly free from temptations so long as he liveth1 because we have the root of temptation within ourselves1 in that we are born in concupiscence4 ,one temptation or sorrow passeth1 and another cometh2 and always we shall have somewhat to suffer1 for we have fallen from perfect happiness4 ,many who seek to fly from temptations fall yet more deeply into them4 ,by flight alone we cannot overcome1 but by endurance and true humility we are made stronger than all our enemies4 #d4 ,he who only resisteth outwardly and pulleth not up by the root1 shall profit little2 nay1 rather temptations will return to him the more quickly1 and will be the more terrible4 ,little by little1 through patience and long-suffering1 thou shalt conquer by the help of ,god1 rather than by violence and thine own strength of will4 ,in the midst of temptation often seek counsel2 and deal not hardly with one who is tempted1 but comfort and strengthen him as thou wouldest have done unto thyself4 #e4 ,the beginning of all temptations to evil is instability of temper and want of trust in ,god2 for even as a ship without a helm is tossed about by the waves1 so is a man who is careless and infirm of purpose tempted1 now on this side1 now on that4 ,as fire testeth iron1 so doth temptation the upright man4 ,oftentimes we know not what strength we have2 but temptation revealeth to us what we are4 ,nevertheless1 we must watch1 especially in the beginnings of temptation2 for then is the foe the more easily mastered1 when he is not suffered to enter within the mind1 but is met outside the door as soon as he hath knocked4 ,wherefore one saith1 ,check the beginnings2 once thou might'st have cured1 ,but now 'tis past thy skill1 too long hath it endured4 ,for first cometh to the mind the simple suggestion1 then the strong imagination1 afterwards pleasure1 evil affection1 assent4 ,and so little by little the enemy entereth in altogether1 because he was not resisted at the beginning4 ,and the longer a man delayeth his resistance1 the weaker he groweth1 and the stronger groweth the enemy against him4 #f4 ,some men suffer their most grievous temptations in the beginning of their conversion1 some at the end4 ,some are sorely tried their whole life long4 ,some there are who are tempted but lightly1 according to the wisdom and justice of the ordering of ,god1 who knoweth the character and circumstances of men1 and ordereth all things for the welfare of ,his elect4 #g4 ,therefore we ought not to despair when we are tempted1 but the more fervently should cry unto ,god1 that ,he will vouchsafe to help us in all our tribulation2 and that ,he will1 as ,st4 ,paul saith1 with the temptation make a way to escape that we may be able to bear it47#b7 ,let us therefore humble ourselves under the mighty hand of ,god in all temptation and trouble1 for ,he will save and exalt such as are of an humble spirit4 #h4 ,in temptations and troubles a man is proved1 what progress he hath made1 and therein is his reward the greater1 and his virtue doth the more appear4 ,nor is it a great thing if a man be devout and zealous so long as he suffereth no affliction2 but if he behave himself patiently in the time of adversity1 then is there hope of great progress4 ,some are kept safe from great temptations1 but are overtaken in those which are little and common1 that the humiliation may teach them not to trust to themselves in great things1 being weak in small things4 7#a7 ,job vii4 #a 7,vulg474 7#b7 #a ,corinthians x4 #ac4 ,,chapter ,,xiv ,on avoiding rash judgment ,look well unto thyself1 and beware that thou judge not the doings of others4 ,in judging others a man laboureth in vain2 he often erreth1 and easily falleth into sin2 but in judging and examining himself he always laboureth to good purpose4 ,according as a matter toucheth our fancy1 so oftentimes do we judge of it2 for easily do we fail of true judgment because of our own personal feeling4 ,if ,god were always the sole object of our desire1 we should the less easily be troubled by the erring judgment of our fancy4 #b4 ,but often some secret thought lurking within us1 or even some outward circumstance1 turneth us aside4 ,many are secretly seeking their own ends in what they do1 yet know it not4 ,they seem to live in good peace of mind so long as things go well with them1 and according to their desires1 but if their desires be frustrated and broken1 immediately they are shaken and displeased4 ,diversity of feelings and opinions very often brings about dissensions between friends1 between countrymen1 between religious and godly men4 #c4 ,established custom is not easily relinquished1 and no man is very easily led to see with the eyes of another4 ,if thou rest more upon thy own reason or experience than upon the power of ,jesus ,christ1 thy light shall come slowly and hardly2 for ,god willeth us to be perfectly subject unto ,himself1 and all our reason to be exalted by abundant love towards ,him4 ,,chapter ,,xv ,of works of charity ,for no worldly good whatsoever1 and for the love of no man1 must anything be done which is evil1 but for the help of the suffering a good work must sometimes be postponed1 or be changed for a better2 for herein a good work is not destroyed1 but improved4 ,without charity no work profiteth1 but whatsoever is done in charity1 however small and of no reputation it be1 bringeth forth good fruit2 for ,god verily considereth what a man is able to do1 more than the greatness of what he doth4 #b4 ,he doth much who loveth much4 ,he doth much who doth well4 ,he doth well who ministereth to the public good rather than to his own4 ,oftentimes that seemeth to be charity which is rather carnality1 because it springeth from natural inclination1 self-will1 hope of repayment1 desire of gain4 #c4 ,he who hath true and perfect charity1 in no wise seeketh his own good1 but desireth that ,god alone be altogether glorified4 ,he envieth none1 because he longeth for no selfish joy2 nor doth he desire to rejoice in himself1 but longeth to be blessed in ,god as the highest good4 ,he ascribeth good to none save to ,god only1 the ,fountain whence all good proceedeth1 and the ,end1 the ,peace1 the joy of all ,saints4 ,oh1 he who hath but a spark of true charity1 hath verily learned that all worldly things are full of vanity4 ,,chapter ,,xvi ,of bearing with the faults of others ,those things which a man cannot amend in himself or in others1 he ought patiently to bear1 until ,god shall otherwise ordain4 ,bethink thee that perhaps it is better for thy trial and patience1 without which our merits are but little worth4 ,nevertheless thou oughtest1 when thou findeth such impediments1 to beseech ,god that ,he would vouchsafe to sustain thee1 that thou be able to bear them with a good will4 #b4 ,if one who is once or twice admonished refuse to hearken1 strive not with him1 but commit all to ,god1 that ,his will may be done and ,his honour be shown in ,his servants1 for ,he knoweth well how to convert the evil unto good4 ,endeavour to be patient in bearing with other men's faults and infirmities whatsoever they be1 for thou thyself also hast many things which have need to be borne with by others4 ,if thou canst not make thine own self what thou desireth1 how shalt thou be able to fashion another to thine own liking4 ,we are ready to see others made perfect1 and yet we do not amend our own shortcomings4 #c4 ,we will that others be straitly corrected1 but we will not be corrected ourselves4 ,the freedom of others displeaseth us1 but we are dissatisfied that our own wishes shall be denied us4 ,we desire rules to be made restraining others1 but by no means will we suffer ourselves to be restrained4 ,thus therefore doth it plainly appear how seldom we weigh our neighbour in the same balance with ourselves4 ,if all men were perfect1 what then should we have to suffer from others for ,god8 #d4 ,but now hath ,god thus ordained1 that we may learn to bear one another's burdens1 because none is without defect1 none without a burden1 none sufficient of himself1 none wise enough of himself2 but it behoveth us to bear with one another1 to comfort one another1 to help1 instruct1 admonish one another4 ,how much strength each man hath is best proved by occasions of adversity3 for such occasions do not make a man frail1 but show of what temper he is4 ,,chapter ,,xvii ,of a ,religious life ,it behoveth thee to learn to mortify thyself in many things1 if thou wilt live in amity and concord with other men4 ,it is no small thing to dwell in a religious community or congregation1 and to live there without complaint1 and therein to remain faithful even unto death4 ,blessed is he who hath lived a good life in such a body1 and brought it to a happy end4 ,if thou wilt stand fast and wilt profit as thou oughtest1 hold thyself as an exile and a pilgrim upon the earth4 ,thou wilt have to be counted as a fool for ,christ1 if thou wilt lead a religious life4 #b4 ,the clothing and outward appearance are of small account2 it is change of character and entire mortification of the affections which make a truly religious man4 ,he who seeketh aught save ,god and the health of his soul1 shall find only tribulation and sorrow4 ,nor can he stand long in peace1 who striveth not to be least of all and servant of all4 #c4 ,thou art called to endure and to labour1 not to a life of ease and trifling talk4 ,here therefore are men tried as gold in the furnace4 ,no man can stand1 unless with all his heart he will humble himself for ,god's sake4 ,,chapter ,,xviii ,of the example of the holy fathers ,consider now the lively examples of the holy fathers1 in whom shone forth real perfectness and religion1 and thou shalt see how little1 even as nothing1 is all that we do4 ,ah6 ,what is our life when compared to theirs8 ,they1 saints and friends of ,christ as they were1 served the ,lord in hunger and thirst1 in cold and nakedness1 in labour and weariness1 in watchings and fastings1 in prayer and holy meditations1 in persecutions and much rebuke4 #b4 ,o how many and grievous tribulations did the ,apostles1 ,martyrs1 ,confessors1 ,virgins1 endure2 and all others who would walk in the footsteps of ,christ4 ,for they hated their souls in this world that they might keep them unto life eternal4 ,o how strict and retired a life was that of the holy fathers who dwelt in the desert6 what long and grievous temptations they did suffer6 how often were they assaulted by the enemy6 what frequent and fervid prayers did they offer unto ,god6 what strict fasts did they endure6 what fervent zeal and desire after spiritual profit did they manifest6 how bravely did they fight that their vices might not gain the mastery6 how entirely and steadfastly did they reach after ,god6 ,by day they laboured1 and at night they gave themselves ofttimes unto prayer2 yea1 even when they were labouring they ceased not from mental prayer4 #c4 ,they spent their whole time profitably2 every hour seemed short for retirement with ,god2 and through the great sweetness of contemplation1 even the need of bodily refreshment was forgotten4 ,they renounced all riches1 dignities1 honours1 friends1 kinsmen2 they desired nothing from the world2 they ate the bare necessaries of life2 they were unwilling to minister to the body even in necessity4 ,thus were they poor in earthly things1 but rich above measure in grace and virtue4 ,though poor to the outer eye1 within they were filled with grace and heavenly benedictions4 #d4 ,they were strangers to the world1 but unto ,god they were as kinsmen and friends4 ,they seemed unto themselves as of no reputation1 and in the world's eyes contemptible2 but in the sight of ,god they were precious and beloved4 ,they stood fast in true humility1 they lived in simple obedience1 they walked in love and patience2 and thus they waxed strong in spirit1 and obtained great favour before ,god4 ,to all religious men they were given as an example1 and they ought more to provoke us unto good livings than the number of the lukewarm tempteth to carelessness of life4 #e4 ,o how great was the love of all religious persons at the beginning of this sacred institution6 ,o what devoutness of prayer6 what rivalry in holiness6 what strict discipline was observed6 what reverence and obedience under the rule of the master showed they in all things6 ,the traces of them that remain until now testify that they were truly holy and perfect men1 who fighting so bravely trod the world underfoot4 ,now a man is counted great if only he be not a transgressor1 and if he can only endure with patience what he hath undertaken4 #f4 ,o the coldness and negligence of our times1 that we so quickly decline from the former love1 and it is become a weariness to live1 because of sloth and lukewarmness4 ,may progress in holiness not wholly fall asleep in thee1 who many times hast seen so many examples of devout men6 ,,chapter ,,xix ,of the exercises of a religious man ,the life of a ,christian ought to be adorned with all virtues1 that he may be inwardly what he outwardly appeareth unto men4 ,and verily it should be yet better within than without1 for ,god is a discerner of our heart1 ,whom we must reverence with all our hearts wheresoever we are1 and walk pure in ,his presence as do the angels4 ,we ought daily to renew our vows1 and to kindle our hearts to zeal1 as if each day were the first day of our conversion1 and to say1 8,help me1 ,o ,god1 in my good resolutions1 and in ,thy holy service1 and grant that this day ,i may make a good beginning1 for hitherto ,i have done nothing60 #b4 ,according to our resolution so is the rate of our progress1 and much diligence is needful for him who would make good progress4 ,for if he who resolveth bravely oftentimes falleth short1 how shall it be with him who resolveth rarely or feebly8 ,but manifold causes bring about abandonment of our resolution1 yet a trivial omission of holy exercises can hardly be made without some loss to us4 ,the resolution of the righteous dependeth more upon the grace of ,god than upon their own wisdom2 for in ,him they always put their trust1 whatsoever they take in hand4 ,for man proposeth1 but ,god disposeth2 and the way of a man is not in himself47#a7 #c4 ,if a holy exercise be sometimes omitted for the sake of some act of piety1 or of some brotherly kindness1 it can easily be taken up afterwards2 but if it be neglected through distaste or slothfulness1 then is it sinful1 and the mischief will be felt4 ,strive as earnestly as we may1 we shall still fall short in many things4 ,always should some distinct resolution be made by us2 and1 most of all1 we must strive against those sins which most easily beset us4 ,both our outer and inner life should be straitly examined and ruled by us1 because both have to do with our progress4 #d4 ,if thou canst not be always examining thyself1 thou canst at certain seasons1 and at least twice in the day1 at evening and at morning4 ,in the morning make thy resolves1 and in the evening inquire into thy life1 how thou hast sped to-day in word1 deed1 and thought2 for in these ways thou hast often perchance offended ,god and thy neighbour4 ,gird up thy lions like a man against the assaults of the devil2 bridle thine appetite1 and thou wilt soon be able to bridle every inclination of the flesh4 ,be thou never without something to do2 be reading1 or writing1 or praying1 or meditating1 or doing something that is useful to the community4 ,bodily exercises1 however1 must be undertaken with discretion1 nor are they to be used by all alike4 #e4 ,the duties which are not common to all must not be done openly1 but are safest carried on in secret4 ,but take heed that thou be not careless in the common duties1 and more devout in the secret2 but faithfully and honestly discharge the duties and commands which lie upon thee1 then afterwards1 if thou hast still leisure1 give thyself to thyself as thy devotion leadeth thee4 ,all cannot have one exercise1 but one suiteth better to this man and another to that4 ,even for the diversity of season different exercises are needed1 some suit better for feasts1 some for fasts4 ,we need one kind in time of temptations and others in time of peace and quietness4 ,some are suitable to our times of sadness1 and others when we are joyful in the ,lord4 #f4 ,when we draw near the time of the great feasts1 good exercises should be renewed1 and the prayers of holy men more fervently besought4 ,we ought to make our resolutions from one ,feast to another1 as if each were the period of our departure from this world1 and of entering into the eternal feast4 ,so ought we to prepare ourselves earnestly at solemn seasons1 and the more solemnly to live1 and to keep straightest watch upon each holy observance1 as though we were soon to receive the reward of our labours at the hand of ,god4 #g4 ,and if this be deferred1 let us believe ourselves to be as yet ill-prepared1 and unworthy as yet of the glory which shall be revealed in us at the appointed season2 and let us study to prepare ourselves the better for our end4 ,blessed is that servant1 as the ,evangelist ,luke hath it1 whom1 when the ,lord cometh ,he shall find watching4 ,verily ,i say unto you ,he will make him ruler over all that ,he hath47#b7 7#a7 ,jeremiah x4 #bc4 7#b7 ,luke xii4 #dc1 #dd4 ,,chapter ,,xx ,of the love of solitude and silence ,seek a suitable time for thy meditation1 and think frequently of the mercies of ,god to thee4 ,leave curious questions4 ,study such matters as bring thee sorrow for sin rather than amusement4 ,if thou withdraw thyself from trifling conversation and idle goings about1 as well as from novelties and gossip1 thou shalt find thy time sufficient and apt for good meditation4 ,the greatest saints used to avoid as far as they could the company of men1 and chose to live in secret with ,god4 #b4 ,one hath said1 8,as oft as ,i have gone among men1 so oft have ,i returned less a man40 ,this is what we often experience when we have been long time in conversation4 ,for it is easier to be altogether silent than it is not to exceed in word4 ,it is easier to remain hidden at home than to keep sufficient guard upon thyself out of doors4 ,he1 therefore1 that seeketh to reach that which is hidden and spiritual1 must go with ,jesus 8apart from the multitude40 ,no man safely goeth abroad who loveth not to rest at home4 ,no man safely talketh but he who loveth to hold his peace4 ,no man safely ruleth but he who loveth to be subject4 ,no man safely commandeth but he who loveth to obey4 #c4 ,no man safely rejoiceth but he who hath the testimony of a good conscience within himself4 ,the boldness of the ,saints was always full of the fear of ,god4 ,nor were they the less earnest and humble in themselves1 because they shone forth with great virtues and grace4 ,but the boldness of wicked men springeth from pride and presumption1 and at the last turneth to their own confusion4 ,never promise thyself security in this life1 howsoever good a monk or devout a solitary thou seemest4 #d4 ,often those who stand highest in the esteem of men1 fall the more grievously because of their over great confidence4 ,wherefore it is very profitable unto many that they should not be without inward temptation1 but should be frequently assaulted1 lest they be over confident1 lest they be indeed lifted up into pride1 or else lean too freely upon the consolations of the world4 ,o how good a conscience should that man keep1 who never sought a joy that passeth away1 who never became entangled with the world6 ,o how great peace and quiet should he possess1 who would cast off all vain care1 and think only of healthful and divine things1 and build his whole hope upon ,god6 #e4 ,no man is worthy of heavenly consolation but he who hath diligently exercised himself in holy compunction4 ,if thou wilt feel compunction within thy heart1 enter into thy chamber and shut out the tumults of the world1 as it is written1 ,commune with your own heart in your own chamber and be still47#a7 ,in retirement thou shalt find what often thou wilt lose abroad4 ,retirement1 if thou continue therein1 groweth sweet1 but if thou keep not in it1 begetteth weariness4 ,if in the beginning of thy conversation thou dwell in it and keep it well1 it shall afterwards be to thee a dear friend1 and a most pleasant solace4 #f4 ,in silence and quiet the devout soul goeth forward and learneth the hidden things of the ,scriptures4 ,therein findeth she a fountain of tears1 wherein to wash and cleanse herself each night1 that she may grow the more dear to her ,maker as she dwelleth the further from all worldly distraction4 ,to him who withdraweth himself from his acquaintance and friends ,god with his holy angels will draw nigh4 ,it is better to be unknown and take heed to oneself than to neglect oneself and work wonders4 ,it is praiseworthy for a religious man to go seldom abroad1 to fly from being seen1 to have no desire to see men4 #g4 ,why wouldest thou see what thou mayest not have8 ,the world passeth away and the lust thereof4 ,the desires of sensuality draw thee abroad1 but when an hour is past1 what dost thou bring home1 but a weight upon thy conscience and distraction of heart8 ,a merry going forth bringeth often a sorrowful return1 and a merry evening maketh a sad morning8 ,so doth all carnal joy begin pleasantly1 but in the end it gnaweth away and destroyeth4 ,what canst thou see abroad which thou seest not at home8 ,behold the heaven and the earth and the elements1 for out of these are all things made4 #h4 ,what canst thou see anywhere which can continue long under the sun8 ,thou believest perchance that thou shalt be satisfied1 but thou wilt never be able to attain unto this4 ,if thou shouldest see all things before thee at once1 what would it be but a vain vision8 ,lift up thine eyes to ,god on high1 and pray that thy sins and negligences may be forgiven4 ,leave vain things to vain men1 and mind thou the things which ,god hath commanded thee4 ,shut thy door upon thee1 and call unto thyself ,jesus thy beloved4 ,remain with ,him in thy chamber1 for thou shalt not elsewhere find so great peace4 ,if thou hadst not gone forth nor listened to vain talk1 thou hadst better kept thyself in good peace4 ,but because it sometimes delighteth thee to hear new things1 thou must therefore suffer trouble of heart4 7#a7 ,psalm iv4 #d4 ,,chapter ,,xxi ,of compunction of heart ,if thou wilt make any progress keep thyself in the fear of ,god1 and long not to be too free1 but restrain all thy senses under discipline and give not thyself up to senseless mirth4 ,give thyself to compunction of heart and thou shalt find devotion4 ,compunction openeth the way for many good things1 which dissoluteness is wont quickly to lose4 ,it is wonderful that any man can ever rejoice heartily in this life who considereth and weigheth his banishment1 and the manifold dangers which beset his soul4 #b4 ,through lightness of heart and neglect of our shortcomings we feel not the sorrows of our soul1 but often vainly laugh when we have good cause to weep4 ,there is no true liberty nor real joy1 save in the fear of ,god with a good conscience4 ,happy is he who can cast away every cause of distraction and bring himself to the one purpose of holy compunction4 ,happy is he who putteth away from him whatsoever may stain or burden his conscience4 ,strive manfully2 custom is overcome by custom4 ,if thou knowest how to let men alone1 they will gladly let thee alone to do thine own works4 #c4 ,busy not thyself with the affairs of others1 nor entangle thyself with the business of great men4 ,keep always thine eye upon thyself first of all1 and give advice to thyself specially before all thy dearest friends4 ,if thou hast not the favour of men1 be not thereby cast down1 but let thy concern be that thou holdest not thyself so well and circumspectly1 as becometh a servant of ,god and a devout monk4 ,it is often better and safer for a man not to have many comforts in this life1 especially those which concern the flesh4 ,but that we lack divine comforts or feel them rarely is to our own blame1 because we seek not compunction of heart1 nor utterly cast away those comforts which are vain and worldly4 #d4 ,know thyself to be unworthy of divine consolation1 and worthy rather of much tribulation4 ,when a man hath perfect compunction1 then all the world is burdensome and bitter to him4 ,a good man will find sufficient cause for mourning and weeping2 for whether he considereth himself1 or pondereth concerning his neighbour1 he knoweth that no man liveth here without tribulation1 and the more thoroughly he considereth himself1 the more thoroughly he grieveth4 ,grounds for just grief and inward compunction there are in our sins and vices1 wherein we lie so entangled that we are but seldom able to contemplate heavenly things4 #e4 ,if thou thoughtest upon thy death more often than how long thy life should be1 thou wouldest doubtless strive more earnestly to improve4 ,and if thou didst seriously consider the future pains of hell1 ,i believe thou wouldest willingly endure toil or pain and fear not discipline4 ,but because these things reach not the heart1 and we still love pleasant things1 therefore we remain cold and miserably indifferent4 #f4 ,oftentimes it is from poverty of spirit that the wretched body is so easily led to complain4 ,pray therefore humbly unto the ,lord that ,he will give thee the spirit of compunction and say in the language of the prophet1 ,feed me1 ,o ,lord1 with bread of tears1 and give me plenteousness of tears to drink47#a7 7#a7 ,psalm lxxx4 #e4 ,,chapter ,,xxii ,on the contemplation of human misery ,thou art miserable wheresoever thou art1 and whithersoever thou turnest1 unless thou turn thee to ,god4 ,why art thou disquieted because it happeneth not to thee according to thy wishes and desires8 ,who is he that hath everything according to his will8 ,neither ,i1 nor thou1 nor any man upon the earth4 ,there is no man in the world free from trouble or anguish1 though he were ,king or ,pope4 ,who is he who hath the happiest lot8 ,even he who is strong to suffer somewhat for ,god4 #b4 ,there are many foolish and unstable men who say1 8,see what a prosperous life that man hath1 how rich and how great he is1 how powerful1 how exalted40 ,but lift up thine eyes to the good things of heaven1 and thou shalt see that all these worldly things are nothing1 they are utterly uncertain1 yea1 they are wearisome1 because they are never possessed without care and fear4 ,the happiness of man lieth not in the abundance of temporal things but a moderate portion sufficeth him4 ,our life upon the earth is verily wretchedness4 ,the more a man desireth to be spiritual1 the more bitter doth the present life become to him2 because he the better understandeth and seeth the defects of human corruption4 ,for to eat1 to drink1 to watch1 to sleep1 to rest1 to labour1 and to be subject to the other necessities of nature1 is truly a great wretchedness and affliction to a devout man1 who would fain be released and free from all sin4 #c4 ,for the inner man is heavily burdened with the necessities of the body in this world4 ,wherefore the prophet devoutly prayeth to be freed from them1 saying1 ,deliver me from my necessities1 ,o ,lord47#a7 ,but woe to those who know not their own misery1 and yet greater woe to those who love this miserable and corruptible life4 ,for to such a degree do some cling to it 7even though by labouring or begging they scarce procure what is necessary for subsistence7 that if they might live here always1 they would care nothing for the ,kingdom of ,god4 #d4 ,oh foolish and faithless of heart1 who lie buried so deep in worldly things1 that they relish nothing save the things of the flesh6 ,miserable ones6 they will too sadly find out at the last1 how vile and worthless was that which they loved4 ,the saints of ,god and all loyal friends of ,christ held as nothing the things which pleased the flesh1 or those which flourished in this life1 but their whole hope and affection aspired to the things which are above4 ,their whole desire was borne upwards to everlasting and invisible things1 lest they should be drawn downwards by the love of things visible4 #e4 ,lose not1 brother1 thy loyal desire of progress to things spiritual4 ,there is yet time1 the hour is not past4 ,why wilt thou put off thy resolution8 ,arise1 begin this very moment1 and say1 8,now is the time to do3 now is the time to fight1 now is the proper time for amendment40 ,when thou art ill at ease and troubled1 then is the time when thou art nearest unto blessing4 ,thou must go through fire and water that ,god may bring thee into a wealthy place4 ,unless thou put force upon thyself1 thou wilt not conquer thy faults4 ,so long as we carry about with us this frail body1 we cannot be without sin1 we cannot live without weariness and trouble4 ,gladly would we have rest from all misery2 but because through sin we have lost innocence1 we have lost also the true happiness4 ,therefore must we be patient1 and wait for the mercy of ,god1 until this tyranny be overpast1 and this mortality be swallowed up of life4 #f4 ,o how great is the frailty of man1 which is ever prone to evil6 ,to-day thou confessest thy sins1 and to-morrow thou committest again the sins thou didst confess4 ,now dost thou resolve to avoid a fault1 and within an hour thou behavest thyself as if thou hadst never resolved at all4 ,good cause have we therefore to humble ourselves1 and never to think highly of ourselves1 seeing that we are so frail and unstable4 ,and quickly may that be lost by our negligence1 which by much labour was hardly attained through grace4 #g4 ,what shall become of us at the end1 if at the beginning we are lukewarm and idle8 ,woe unto us1 if we choose to rest1 as though it were a time of peace and security1 while as yet no sign appeareth in our life of true holiness4 ,rather had we need that we might begin yet afresh1 like good novices1 to be instructed unto good living1 if haply there might be hope of some future amendment and greater spiritual increase4 7#a7 ,psalm xxv4 #ag4 ,,chapter ,,xxiii ,of meditation upon death ,very quickly will there be an end of thee here2 take heed therefore how it will be with thee in another world4 ,to-day man is1 and to-morrow he will be seen no more4 ,and being removed out of sight1 quickly also he is out of mind4 ,o the dulness and hardness of man's heart1 which thinketh only of the present1 and looketh not forward to the future4 ,thou oughtest in every deed and thought so to order thyself1 as if thou wert to die this day4 ,if thou hadst a good conscience thou wouldst not greatly fear death4 ,it were better for thee to watch against sin1 than to fly from death4 ,if to-day thou art not ready1 how shalt thou be ready to-morrow8 ,to-morrow is an uncertain day2 and how knowest thou that thou shalt have a to-morrow8 #b4 ,what doth it profit to live long1 when we amend so little8 ,ah6 long life doth not always amend1 but often the more increaseth guilt4 ,oh that we might spend a single day in this world as it ought to be spent6 ,many there are who reckon the years since they were converted1 and yet oftentimes how little is the fruit thereof4 ,if it is a fearful thing to die1 it may be perchance a yet more fearful thing to live long4 ,happy is the man who hath the hour of his death always before his eyes1 and daily prepareth himself to die4 ,if thou hast ever seen one die1 consider that thou also shalt pass away by the same road4 #c4 ,when it is morning reflect that it may be thou shalt not see the evening1 and at eventide dare not to boast thyself of the morrow4 ,always be thou prepared1 and so live that death may never find thee unprepared4 ,many die suddenly and unexpectedly4 ,for at such an hour as ye think not1 the ,son of ,man cometh47#a7 ,when that last hour shall come1 thou wilt begin to think very differently of thy whole life past1 and wilt mourn bitterly that thou hast been so negligent and slothful4 #d4 ,happy and wise is he who now striveth to be such in life as he would fain be found in death6 ,for a perfect contempt of the world1 a fervent desire to excel in virtue1 the love of discipline1 the painfulness of repentance1 readiness to obey1 denial of self1 submission to any adversity for love of ,christ2 these are the things which shall give great confidence of a happy death4 ,whilst thou art in health thou hast many opportunities of good works2 but when thou art in sickness ,i know not how much thou wilt be able to do4 ,few are made better by infirmity3 even as they who wander much abroad seldom become holy4 #e4 ,trust not thy friends and kinsfolk1 nor put off the work of thy salvation to the future1 for men will forget thee sooner than thou thinkest4 ,it is better for thee now to provide in time1 and to send some good before thee1 than to trust to the help of others4 ,if thou art not anxious for thyself now1 who1 thinkest thou1 will be anxious for thee afterwards8 ,now the time is most precious4 ,now is the accepted time1 now is the day of salvation4 ,but alas6 that thou spendest not well this time1 wherein thou mightest lay up treasure which should profit thee everlastingly4 ,the hour will come when thou shalt desire one day1 yea1 one hour1 for amendment of life1 and ,i know not whether thou shalt obtain4 #f4 ,oh1 dearly beloved1 from what danger thou mightest free thyself1 from what great fear1 if only thou wouldst always live in fear1 and in expectation of death6 ,strive now to live in such wise that in the hour of death thou mayest rather rejoice than fear4 ,learn now to die to the world1 so shalt thou begin to live with ,christ4 ,learn now to contemn all earthly things1 and then mayest thou freely go unto ,christ4 ,keep under thy body by penitence1 and then shalt thou be able to have a sure confidence4 #g4 ,ah1 foolish one6 why thinkest thou that thou shalt live long1 when thou art not sure of a single day8 ,how many have been deceived1 and suddenly have been snatched away from the body6 ,how many times hast thou heard how one was slain by the sword1 another was drowned1 another falling from on high broke his neck1 another died at the table1 another whilst at play6 ,one died by fire1 another by the sword1 another by the pestilence1 another by the robber4 ,thus cometh death to all1 and the life of men swiftly passeth away like a shadow4 #h4 ,who will remember thee after thy death8 ,and who will entreat for thee8 ,work1 work now1 oh dearly beloved1 work all that thou canst4 ,for thou knowest not when thou shalt die1 nor what shall happen unto thee after death4 ,while thou hast time1 lay up for thyself undying riches4 ,think of nought but of thy salvation2 care only for the things of ,god4 ,make to thyself friends1 by venerating the saints of ,god and walking in their steps1 that when thou failest1 thou mayest be received into everlasting habitations47#b7 #i4 ,keep thyself as a stranger and a pilgrim upon the earth1 to whom the things of the world appertain not4 ,keep thine heart free1 and lifted up towards ,god1 for here have we no continuing city47#c7 ,to ,him direct thy daily prayers with crying and tears1 that thy spirit may be found worthy to pass happily after death unto its ,lord4 ,amen4 7#a7 ,matthew xxiv4 #dd4 7#b7 ,luke xvi4 #i4 7#c7 ,hebrews xiii4 #ad4 ,,chapter ,,xxiv ,of the judgment and punishment of the wicked ,in all that thou doest1 remember the end1 and how thou wilt stand before a strict judge1 from whom nothing is hid1 who is not bribed with gifts1 nor accepteth excuses1 but will judge righteous judgment4 ,o most miserable and foolish sinner1 who art sometimes in fear of the countenance of an angry man1 what wilt thou answer to ,god1 who knoweth all thy misdeeds8 ,why dost thou not provide for thyself against the day of judgment1 when no man shall be able to be excused or defended by means of another1 but each one shall bear his burden himself alone8 ,now doth thy labour bring forth fruit1 now is thy weeping acceptable1 thy groaning heard1 thy sorrow well pleasing to ,god1 and cleansing to thy soul4 #b4 ,even here on earth the patient man findeth great occasion of purifying his soul4 ,when suffering injuries he grieveth more for the other's malice than for his own wrong2 when he prayeth heartily for those that despitefully use him1 and forgiveth them from his heart2 when he is not slow to ask pardon from others2 when he is swifter to pity than to anger2 when he frequently denieth himself and striveth altogether to subdue the flesh to the spirit4 ,better is it now to purify the soul from sin1 than to cling to sins from which we must be purged hereafter4 ,truly we deceive ourselves by the inordinate love which we bear towards the flesh4 #c4 ,what is it which that fire shall devour1 save thy sins8 ,the more thou sparest thyself and followest the flesh1 the more heavy shall thy punishment be1 and the more fuel art thou heaping up for the burning4 ,for wherein a man hath sinned1 therein shall he be the more heavily punished4 ,there shall the slothful be pricked forward with burning goads1 and the gluttons be tormented with intolerable hunger and thirst4 ,there shall the luxurious and the lovers of pleasure be plunged into burning pitch and stinking brimstone1 and the envious shall howl like mad dogs for very grief4 #d4 ,no sin will there be which shall not be visited with its own proper punishment4 ,the proud shall be filled with utter confusion1 and the covetous shall be pinched with miserable poverty4 ,an hour's pain there shall be more grievous than a hundred years here of the bitterest penitence4 ,no quiet shall be there1 no comfort for the lost1 though here sometimes there is respite from pain1 and enjoyment of the solace of friends4 ,be thou anxious now and sorrowful for thy sins1 that in the day of judgment thou mayest have boldness with the blessed4 ,for then shall the righteous man stand in great boldness before the face of such as have afflicted him and made no account of his labours47#a7 ,then shall he stand up to judge1 he who now submitteth himself in humility to the judgments of men4 ,then shall the poor and humble man have great confidence1 while the proud is taken with fear on every side4 #e4 ,then shall it be seen that he was the wise man in this world who learned to be a fool and despised for ,christ4 ,then shall all tribulation patiently borne delight us1 while the mouth of the ungodly shall be stopped4 ,then shall every godly man rejoice1 and every profane man shall mourn4 ,then the afflicted flesh shall more rejoice than if it had been alway nourished in delights4 ,then the humble garment shall put on beauty1 and the precious robe shall hide itself as vile4 ,then the little poor cottage shall be more commended than the gilded palace4 ,then enduring patience shall have more might than all the power of the world4 ,then simple obedience shall be more highly exalted than all worldly wisdom4 #f4 ,then a pure and good conscience shall more rejoice than learned philosophy4 ,then contempt of riches shall have more weight than all the treasure of the children of this world4 ,then shalt thou find more comfort in having prayed devoutly than in having fared sumptuously4 ,then thou wilt rather rejoice in having kept silence than in having made long speech4 ,then holy deeds shall be far stronger than many fine words4 ,then a strict life and sincere penitence shall bring deeper pleasure than all earthly delight4 ,learn now to suffer a little1 that then thou mayest be enabled to escape heavier sufferings4 ,prove first here1 what thou art able to endure hereafter4 ,if now thou art able to bear so little1 how wilt thou be able to endure eternal torments8 ,if now a little suffering maketh thee so impatient1 what shall hell-fire do then8 ,behold of a surety thou art not able to have two ,paradises1 to take thy fill or delight here in this world1 and to reign with ,christ hereafter4 #g4 ,if even unto this day thou hadst ever lived in honours and pleasures1 what would the whole profit thee if now death came to thee in an instant8 ,all therefore is vanity1 save to love ,god and to serve ,him only4 ,for he who loveth ,god with all his heart feareth not death1 nor punishment1 nor judgment1 nor hell1 because perfect love giveth sure access to ,god4 ,but he who still delighteth in sin1 no marvel if he is afraid of death and judgment4 ,nevertheless it is a good thing1 if love as yet cannot restrain thee from evil1 that at least the fear of hell should hold thee back4 ,but he who putteth aside the fear of ,god cannot long continue in good1 but shall quickly fall into the snares of the devil4 7#a7 ,wisd4 v4 #a4 ,,chapter ,,xxv ,of the zealous amendment of our whole life ,be thou watchful and diligent in ,god's service1 and bethink thee often why thou hast renounced the world4 ,was it not that thou mightest live to ,god and become a spiritual man8 ,be zealous1 therefore1 for thy spiritual profit1 for thou shalt receive shortly the reward of thy labours1 and neither fear nor sorrow shall come any more into thy borders4 ,now shalt thou labour a little1 and thou shalt find great rest1 yea everlasting joy4 ,if thou shalt remain faithful and zealous in labour1 doubt not that ,god shall be faithful and bountiful in rewarding thee4 ,it is thy duty to have a good hope that thou wilt attain the victory1 but thou must not fall into security lest thou become slothful or lifted up4 #b4 ,a certain man being in anxiety of mind1 continually tossed about between hope and fear1 and being on a certain day overwhelmed with grief1 cast himself down in prayer before the altar in a church1 and meditated within himself1 saying1 8,oh6 if ,i but knew that ,i should still persevere10 and presently heard within him a voice from ,god1 8,and if thou didst know it1 what wouldst thou do8 ,do now what thou wouldst do then1 and thou shalt be very secure40 ,and straightway being comforted and strengthened1 he committed himself to the will of ,god and the perturbation of spirit ceased1 neither had he a mind any more to search curiously to know what should befall him hereafter1 but studied rather to inquire what was the good and acceptable will of ,god1 for the beginning and perfecting of every good work4 #c4 ,hope in the ,lord and be doing good1 saith the ,prophet2 dwell in the land and thou shalt be fed7#a7 with its riches4 ,one thing there is which holdeth back many from progress and fervent amendment1 even the dread of difficulty1 or the labour of the conflict4 ,nevertheless they advance above all others in virtue who strive manfully to conquer those things which are most grievous and contrary to them1 for there a man profiteth most and meriteth greater grace where he most overcometh himself and mortifieth himself in spirit4 #d4 ,but all men have not the same passions to conquer and to mortify1 yet he who is diligent shall attain more profit1 although he have stronger passions1 than another who is more temperate of disposition1 but is withal less fervent in the pursuit of virtue4 ,two things specially avail unto improvement in holiness1 namely firmness to withdraw ourselves from the sin to which by nature we are most inclined1 and earnest zeal for that good in which we are most lacking4 ,and strive also very earnestly to guard against and subdue those faults which displease thee most frequently in others4 #e4 ,gather some profit to thy soul wherever thou art1 and wherever thou seest or hearest good examples1 stir thyself to follow them1 but where thou seest anything which is blameworthy1 take heed that thou do not the same2 or if at any time thou hast done it1 strive quickly to amend thyself4 ,as thine eye observeth others1 so again are the eyes of others upon thee4 ,how sweet and pleasant is it to see zealous and godly brethren temperate and of good discipline2 and how sad is it and grievous to see them walking disorderly1 not practising the duties to which they are called4 ,how hurtful a thing it is to neglect the purpose of their calling1 and turn their inclinations to things which are none of their business4 #f4 ,be mindful of the duties which thou hast undertaken1 and set always before thee the remembrance of the ,crucified4 ,truly oughtest thou to be ashamed as thou lookest upon the life of ,jesus ,christ1 because thou hast not yet endeavoured to conform thyself more unto ,him1 though thou hast been a long time in the way of ,god4 ,a religious man who exercises himself seriously and devoutly in the most holy life and passion of our ,lord shall find there abundantly all things that are profitable and necessary for him1 neither is there need that he shall seek anything better beyond ,jesus4 ,oh6 if ,jesus crucified would come into our hearts1 how quickly1 and completely should we have learned all that we need to know6 #g4 ,he who is earnest receiveth and beareth well all things that are laid upon him4 ,he who is careless and lukewarm hath trouble upon trouble1 and suffereth anguish upon every side1 because he is without inward consolation1 and is forbidden to seek that which is outward4 ,he who is living without discipline is exposed to grievous ruin4 ,he who seeketh easier and lighter discipline shall always be in distress1 because one thing or another will give him displeasure4 #h4 ,o6 if no other duty lay upon us but to praise the ,lord our ,god with our whole heart and voice6 ,oh6 if thou never hadst need to eat or drink1 or sleep1 but wert always able to praise ,god1 and to give thyself to spiritual exercises alone2 then shouldst thou be far happier than now1 when for so many necessities thou must serve the flesh4 ,o6 that these necessities were not1 but only the spiritual refreshments of the soul1 which alas we taste too seldom4 #i4 ,when a man hath come to this1 that he seeketh comfort from no created thing1 then doth he perfectly begin to enjoy ,god1 then also will he be well contented with whatsoever shall happen unto him4 ,then will he neither rejoice for much nor be sorrowful for little1 but he committeth himself altogether and with full trust unto ,god1 who is all in all to him1 to whom nothing perisheth nor dieth1 but all things live to ,him and obey ,his every word without delay4 #aj4 ,remember always thine end1 and how the time which is lost returneth not4 ,without care and diligence thou shalt never get virtue4 ,if thou beginnest to grow cold1 it shall begin to go ill with thee1 but if thou givest thyself unto zeal thou shalt find much peace1 and shalt find thy labour the lighter because of the grace of ,god and the love of virtue4 ,a zealous and diligent man is ready for all things4 ,it is greater labour to resist sins and passions than to toil in bodily labours4 ,he who shunneth not small faults falleth little by little into greater4 ,at eventide thou shalt always be glad if thou spend the day profitably4 ,watch over thyself1 stir thyself up1 admonish thyself1 and howsoever it be with others1 neglect not thyself4 ,the more violence thou dost unto thyself1 the more thou shall profit4 ,amen4 7#a7 ,psalm xxxvii4 #c4 ,,the ,,second ,,book ,,admonitions ,,concerning ,,the ,,inner ,,life ,,chapter ,i ,of the inward life ,the kingdom of ,god is within you17#a7 saith the ,lord4 ,turn thee with all thine heart to the ,lord and forsake this miserable world1 and thou shalt find rest unto thy soul4 ,learn to despise outward things and to give thyself to things inward1 and thou shalt see the kingdom of ,god come within thee4 ,for the kingdom of ,god is peace and joy in the ,holy ,ghost1 and it is not given to the wicked4 ,christ will come to thee1 and show thee ,his consolation1 if thou prepare a worthy mansion for ,him within thee4 ,all ,his glory and beauty is from within1 and there it pleaseth ,him to dwell4 ,he often visiteth the inward man and holdeth with him sweet discourse1 giving him soothing consolation1 much peace1 friendship exceeding wonderful4 #b4 ,go to1 faithful soul1 prepare thy heart for this bridegroom that he may vouchsafe to come to thee and dwell within thee1 for so ,he saith1 if any man loveth me he will keep my words3 and my ,father will love him1 and we will come unto him and make our abode with him47#b7 ,give1 therefore1 place to ,christ and refuse entrance to all others4 ,when thou hast ,christ1 thou art rich1 and hast sufficient4 ,he shall be thy provider and faithful watchman in all things1 so that thou hast no need to trust in men1 for men soon change and swiftly pass away1 but ,christ remaineth for ever and standeth by us firmly even to the end4 #c4 ,there is no great trust to be placed in a frail and mortal man1 even though he be useful and dear to us1 neither should much sorrow arise within us if sometimes he oppose and contradict us4 ,they who are on thy side to-day1 may to-morrow be against thee1 and often are they turned round like the wind4 ,put thy whole trust in ,god and let ,him be thy fear and thy love1 ,he will answer for thee ,himself1 and will do for thee what is best4 ,here hast thou no continuing city17#c7 and wheresoever thou art1 thou art a stranger and a pilgrim1 and thou shalt never have rest unless thou art closely united to ,christ within thee4 #d4 ,why dost thou cast thine eyes hither and thither1 since this is not the place of thy rest8 ,in heaven ought thy habitation to be1 and all earthly things should be looked upon as it were in the passing by4 ,all things pass away and thou equally with them4 ,look that thou cleave not to them lest thou be taken with them and perish4 ,let thy contemplation be on the ,most ,high1 and let thy supplication be directed unto ,christ without ceasing4 ,if thou canst not behold high and heavenly things1 rest thou in the passion of ,christ and dwell willingly in ,his sacred wounds4 ,for if thou devoutly fly to the wounds of ,jesus1 and the precious marks of the nails and the spear1 thou shalt find great comfort in tribulation1 nor will the slights of men trouble thee much1 and thou wilt easily bear their unkind words4 #e4 ,christ also1 when ,he was in the world1 was despised and rejected of men1 and in ,his greatest necessity was left by ,his acquaintance and friends to bear these reproaches4 ,christ was willing to suffer and be despised1 and darest thou complain of any8 ,christ had adversaries and gainsayers1 and dost thou wish to have all men thy friends and benefactors8 ,whence shall thy patience attain her crown if no adversity befall thee8 ,if thou art unwilling to suffer any adversity1 how shalt thou be the friend of ,christ8 ,sustain thyself with ,christ and for ,christ if thou wilt reign with ,christ4 #f4 ,if thou hadst once entered into the mind of ,jesus1 and hadst tasted yea even a little of his tender love1 then wouldst thou care nought for thine own convenience or inconvenience1 but wouldst rather rejoice at trouble brought upon thee1 because the love of ,jesus maketh a man to despise himself4 ,he who loveth ,jesus1 and is inwardly true and free from inordinate affections1 is able to turn himself readily unto ,god1 and to rise above himself in spirit1 and to enjoy fruitful peace4 #g4 ,he who knoweth things as they are and not as they are said or seem to be1 he truly is wise1 and is taught of ,god more than of men4 ,he who knoweth how to walk from within1 and to set little value upon outward things1 requireth not places nor waiteth for seasons1 for holding his intercourse with ,god4 ,the inward man quickly recollecteth himself1 because he is never entirely given up to outward things4 ,no outward labour and no necessary occupations stand in his way1 but as events fall out1 so doth he fit himself to them4 ,he who is rightly disposed and ordered within careth not for the strange and perverse conduct of men4 ,a man is hindered and distracted in so far as he is moved by outward things4 #h4 ,if it were well with thee1 and thou wert purified from evil1 all things would work together for thy good and profiting4 ,for this cause do many things displease thee and often trouble thee1 that thou art not yet perfectly dead to thyself nor separated from all earthly things4 ,nothing so defileth and entangleth the heart of man as impure love towards created things4 ,if thou rejectest outward comfort thou wilt be able to contemplate heavenly things and frequently to be joyful inwardly4 7#a7 ,luke xvii4 #ba4 7#b7 ,john xiv4 #bc4 7#c7 ,hebrews xiii4 #ad4 ,,chapter ,,ii ,of lowly submission ,make no great account who is for thee or against thee1 but mind only the present duty and take care that ,god be with thee in whatsoever thou doest4 ,have a good conscience and ,god will defend thee1 for he whom ,god will help no man's perverseness shall be able to hurt4 ,if thou knowest how to hold thy peace and to suffer1 without doubt thou shalt see the help of the ,lord4 ,he knoweth the time and the way to deliver thee1 therefore must thou resign thyself to ,him4 ,to ,god it belongeth to help and to deliver from all confusion4 ,oftentimes it is very profitable for keeping us in greater humility1 that others know and rebuke our faults4 #b4 ,when a man humbleth himself for his defects1 he then easily pacifieth others and quickly satisfieth those that are angered against him4 ,god protecteth and delivereth the humble man1 ,he loveth and comforteth the humble man1 to the humble man ,he inclineth ,himself1 on the humble ,he bestoweth great grace1 and when he is cast down ,he raiseth him to glory3 to the humble ,he revealeth ,his secrets1 and sweetly draweth and inviteth him to ,himself4 ,the humble man having received reproach1 is yet in sufficient peace1 because he resteth on ,god and not on the world4 ,reckon not thyself to have profited in anywise unless thou feel thyself to be inferior to all4 ,,chapter ,,iii ,of the good1 peaceable man ,first keep thyself in peace1 and then shalt thou be able to be a peacemaker towards others4 ,a peaceable man doth more good than a well-learned4 ,a passionate man turneth even good into evil and easily believeth evil2 a good1 peaceable man converteth all things into good4 ,he who dwelleth in peace is suspicious of none1 but he who is discontented and restless is tossed with many suspicions1 and is neither quiet himself nor suffereth others to be quiet4 ,he often saith what he ought not to say1 and omitteth what it were more expedient for him to do4 ,he considereth to what duties others are bound1 and neglecteth those to which he is bound himself4 ,therefore be zealous first over thyself1 and then mayest thou righteously be zealous concerning thy neighbour4 #b4 ,thou knowest well how to excuse and to colour thine own deeds1 but thou wilt not accept the excuses of others4 ,it would be more just to accuse thyself and excuse thy brother4 ,if thou wilt that others bear with thee1 bear thou with others4 ,behold how far thou art as yet from the true charity and humility which knows not how to be angry or indignant against any save self alone4 ,it is no great thing to mingle with the good and the meek1 for this is naturally pleasing to all1 and every one of us willingly enjoyeth peace and liketh best those who think with us3 but to be able to live peaceably with the hard and perverse1 or with the disorderly1 or those who oppose us1 this is a great grace and a thing much to be commended and most worthy of a man4 #c4 ,there are who keep themselves in peace and keep peace also with others1 and there are who neither have peace nor suffer others to have peace2 they are troublesome to others1 but always more troublesome to themselves4 ,and there are who hold themselves in peace1 and study to bring others unto peace2 nevertheless1 all our peace in this sad life lieth in humble suffering rather than in not feeling adversities4 ,he who best knoweth how to suffer shall possess the most peace2 that man is conqueror of himself and lord of the world1 the friend of ,christ1 and the inheritor of heaven4 ,,chapter ,,iv ,of a pure mind and simple intention ,by two wings is man lifted above earthly things1 even by simplicity and purity4 ,simplicity ought to be in the intention1 purity in the affection4 ,simplicity reacheth towards ,god1 purity apprehendeth ,him and tasteth ,him4 ,no good action will be distasteful to thee if thou be free within from inordinate affection4 ,if thou reachest after and seekest1 nothing but the will of ,god and the benefit of thy neighbour1 thou wilt entirely enjoy inward liberty4 ,if thine heart were right1 then should every creature be a mirror of life and a book of holy doctrine4 ,there is no creature so small and vile but that it showeth us the goodness of ,god4 #b4 ,if thou wert good and pure within1 then wouldst thou look upon all things without hurt and understand them aright4 ,a pure heart seeth the very depths of heaven and hell4 ,such as each one is inwardly1 so judgeth he outwardly4 ,if there is any joy in the world surely the man of pure heart possesseth it1 and if there is anywhere tribulation and anguish1 the evil conscience knoweth it best4 ,as iron cast into the fire loseth rust and is made altogether glowing1 so the man who turneth himself altogether unto ,god is freed from slothfulness and changed into a new man4 #c4 ,when a man beginneth to grow lukewarm1 then he feareth a little labour1 and willingly accepteth outward consolation2 but when he beginneth perfectly to conquer himself and to walk manfully in the way of ,god1 then he counteth as nothing those things which aforetime seemed to be so grievous unto him4 ,,chapter ,v ,of self-esteem ,we cannot place too little confidence in ourselves1 because grace and understanding are often lacking to us4 ,little light is there within us1 and what we have we quickly lose by negligence4 ,oftentimes we perceive not how great is our inward blindness4 ,we often do ill and excuse it worse4 ,sometimes we are moved by passion and count it zeal2 we blame little faults in others and pass over great faults in ourselves4 ,quickly enough we feel and reckon up what we bear at the hands of others1 but we reflect not how much others are bearing from us4 ,he who would weigh well and rightly his own doings would not be the man to judge severely of another4 #b4 ,the spiritually-minded man putteth care of himself before all cares2 and he who diligently attendeth to himself easily keepeth silence concerning others4 ,thou wilt never be spiritually minded and godly unless thou art silent concerning other men's matters and take full heed to thyself4 ,if thou think wholly upon thyself and upon ,god1 what thou seest out of doors shall move thee little4 ,where art thou when thou art not present to thyself8 and when thou hast overrun all things1 what hath it profited thee1 thyself being neglected8 ,if thou wouldst have peace and true unity1 thou must put aside all other things1 and gaze only upon thyself4 #c4 ,then thou shalt make great progress if thou keep thyself free from all temporal care4 ,thou shalt lamentably fall away if thou set a value upon any worldly thing4 ,let nothing be great1 nothing high1 nothing pleasing1 nothing acceptable unto thee1 save ,god ,himself or the things of ,god4 ,reckon as altogether vain whatsoever consolation comes to thee from a creature4 ,the soul that loveth ,god looketh not to anything that is beneath ,god4 ,god alone is eternal and incomprehensible1 filling all things1 the solace of the soul1 and the true joy of the heart4 ,,chapter ,,vi ,of the joy of a good conscience ,the testimony of a good conscience is the glory of a good man4 ,have a good conscience and thou shalt ever have joy4 ,a good conscience is able to bear exceeding much1 and is exceeding joyful in the midst of adversities2 an evil conscience is ever fearful and unquiet4 ,thou shalt rest sweetly if thy heart condemn thee not4 ,never rejoice unless when thou hast done well4 ,the wicked have never true joy1 nor feel internal peace1 for there is no peace1 saith my ,god1 to the wicked47#a7 ,and if they say 8we are in peace1 there shall no harm happen unto us1 and who shall dare to do us hurt80 believe them not1 for suddenly shall the wrath of ,god rise up against them1 and their deeds shall be brought to nought1 and their thoughts shall perish4 #b4 ,to glory in tribulation is not grievous to him who loveth2 for such glorying is glorying in the ,cross of ,christ4 ,brief is the glory which is given and received of men4 ,sadness always goeth hand in hand with the glory of the world4 ,the glory of the good is in their conscience1 and not in the report of men4 ,the joy of the upright is from ,god and in ,god1 and their joy is in the truth4 ,he who desireth true and eternal glory careth not for that which is temporal2 and he who seeketh temporal glory1 or who despiseth it from his heart1 is proved to bear little love for that which is heavenly4 ,he who careth for neither praises nor reproaches hath great tranquillity of heart4 #c4 ,he will easily be contented and filled with peace1 whose conscience is pure4 ,thou art none the holier if thou art praised1 nor the viler if thou art reproached4 ,thou art what thou art2 and thou canst not be better than ,god pronounceth thee to be4 ,if thou considerest well what thou art inwardly1 thou wilt not care what men will say to thee4 ,man looketh on the outward appearance1 but the ,lord looketh on the heart37#b7 man looketh on the deed1 but ,god considereth the intent4 ,it is the token of a humble spirit always to do well1 and to set little by oneself4 ,not to look for consolation from any created thing is a sign of great purity and inward faithfulness4 #d4 ,he that seeketh no outward witness on his own behalf1 showeth plainly that he hath committed himself wholly to ,god4 ,for not he that commendeth himself is approved1 as ,st4 ,paul saith1 but whom the ,lord commendeth47#c7 ,to walk inwardly with ,god1 and not to be held by any outer affections1 is the state of a spiritual man4 7#a7 ,isaiah lvii4 #ba4 7#b7 #a ,samuel xvi4 #g4 7#c7 #b ,corinthians x4 #ah4 ,,chapter ,,vii ,of loving ,jesus above all things ,blessed is he who understandeth what it is to love ,jesus1 and to despise himself for ,jesus' sake4 ,he must give up all that he loveth for his ,beloved1 for ,jesus will be loved alone above all things4 ,the love of created things is deceiving and unstable1 but the love of ,jesus is faithful and lasting4 ,he who cleaveth to created things will fall with their slipperiness2 but he who embraceth ,jesus will stand upright for ever4 ,love ,him and hold ,him for thy friend1 for ,he will not forsake thee when all depart from thee1 nor will he suffer thee to perish at the last4 ,thou must one day be separated from all1 whether thou wilt or wilt not4 #b4 ,cleave thou to ,jesus in life and death1 and commit thyself unto ,his faithfulness1 who1 when all men fail thee1 is alone able to help thee4 ,thy ,beloved is such1 by nature1 that ,he will suffer no rival1 but alone will possess thy heart1 and as a king will sit upon ,his own throne4 ,if thou wouldst learn to put away from thee every created thing1 ,jesus would freely take up ,his abode with thee4 ,thou wilt find all trust little better than lost which thou hast placed in men1 and not in ,jesus4 ,trust not nor lean upon a reed shaken with the wind1 because all flesh is grass1 and the goodliness thereof falleth as the flower of the field47#a7 #c4 ,thou wilt be quickly deceived if thou lookest only upon the outward appearance of men1 for if thou seekest thy comfort and profit in others1 thou shalt too often experience loss4 ,if thou seekest ,jesus in all things thou shalt verily find ,jesus1 but if thou seekest thyself thou shalt also find thyself1 but to thine own hurt4 ,for if a man seeketh not ,jesus he is more hurtful to himself than all the world and all his adversaries4 7#a7 ,isaiah xl4 #f4 ,,chapter ,,viii ,of the intimate love of ,jesus ,when ,jesus is present all is well and nothing seemeth hard1 but when ,jesus is not present everything is hard4 ,when ,jesus speaketh not within1 our comfort is nothing worth1 but if ,jesus speaketh but a single word great is the comfort we experience4 ,did not ,mary ,magdalene rise up quickly from the place where she wept when ,martha said to her1 ,the ,master is come and calleth for thee87#a7 ,happy hour when ,jesus calleth thee from tears to the joy of the spirit6 ,how dry and hard art thou without ,jesus6 ,how senseless and vain if thou desirest aught beyond ,jesus6 ,is not this greater loss than if thou shouldst lose the whole world8 #b4 ,what can the world profit thee without ,jesus8 ,to be without ,jesus is the nethermost hell1 and to be with ,jesus is sweet paradise4 ,if ,jesus were with thee no enemy could hurt thee4 ,he who findeth ,jesus findeth a good treasure1 yea1 good above all good2 and he who loseth ,jesus loseth exceeding much1 yea1 more than the whole world4 ,most poor is he who liveth without ,jesus1 and most rich is he who is much with ,jesus4 #c4 ,it is great skill to know how to live with ,jesus1 and to know how to hold ,jesus is great wisdom4 ,be thou humble and peaceable and ,jesus shall be with thee4 ,be godly and quiet1 and ,jesus will remain with thee4 ,thou canst quickly drive away ,jesus and lose ,his favour if thou wilt turn away to the outer things4 ,and if thou hast put ,him to flight and lost ,him1 to whom wilt thou flee1 and whom then wilt thou seek for a friend8 ,without a friend thou canst not live long1 and if ,jesus be not thy friend above all thou shalt be very sad and desolate4 ,madly therefore doest thou if thou trusteth or findest joy in any other4 ,it is preferable to have the whole world against thee1 than ,jesus offended with thee4 ,therefore of all that are dear to thee1 let ,jesus be specially loved4 #d4 ,let all be loved for ,jesus' sake1 but ,jesus for ,his own4 ,jesus ,christ alone is to be specially loved1 for ,he alone is found good and faithful above all friends4 ,for ,his sake and in ,him let both enemies and friends be dear to thee1 and pray for them all that they may all know and love ,him4 ,never desire to be specially praised or loved1 because this belongeth to ,god alone1 who hath none like unto ,himself4 ,nor wish thou that any one set his heart on thee1 nor do thou give thyself up to the love of any1 but let ,jesus be in thee and in every good man4 #e4 ,be pure and free within thyself1 and be not entangled by any created thing4 ,thou oughtest to bring a bare and clean heart to ,god1 if thou desirest to be ready to see how gracious the ,lord is4 ,and in truth1 unless thou be prevented and drawn on by ,his grace1 thou wilt not attain to this1 that having cast out and dismissed all else1 thou alone art united to ,god4 ,for when the grace of ,god cometh to a man1 then he becometh able to do all things1 and when it departeth then he will be poor and weak and given up unto troubles4 ,in these thou art not to be cast down nor to despair1 but to rest with calm mind on the will of ,god1 and to bear all things which come upon thee unto the praise of ,jesus ,christ2 for after winter cometh summer1 after night returneth day1 after the tempest a great calm4 7#a7 ,john xi4 #bh4 ,,chapter ,,ix ,of the lack of all comfort ,it is no hard thing to despise human comfort when divine is present4 ,it is a great thing1 yea very great1 to be able to bear the loss both of human and divine comfort2 and for the love of ,god willingly to bear exile of heart1 and in nought to seek oneself1 nor to look to one's own merit4 ,what great matter is it1 if thou be cheerful of heart and devout when favour cometh to thee8 ,that is an hour wherein all rejoice4 ,pleasantly enough doth he ride whom the grace of ,god carrieth4 ,and what marvel1 if he feeleth no burden who is carried by the ,almighty1 and is led onwards by the ,guide from on high8 #b4 ,we are willing to accept anything for comfort1 and it is difficult for a man to be freed from himself4 ,the holy martyr ,laurence overcame the love of the world and even of his priestly master1 because he despised everything in the world which seemed to be pleasant2 and for the love of ,christ he calmly suffered even ,god's chief priest1 ,sixtus1 whom he dearly loved1 to be taken from him4 ,thus by the love of the ,creator he overcame the love of man1 and instead of human comfort he chose rather ,god's good pleasure4 ,so also learn thou to resign any near and beloved friend for the love of ,god4 ,nor take it amiss when thou hast been deserted by a friend1 knowing that we must all be parted from one another at last4 #c4 ,mightily and long must a man strive within himself before he learn altogether to overcome himself1 and to draw his whole affection towards ,god4 ,when a man resteth upon himself1 he easily slippeth away unto human comforts4 ,but a true lover of ,christ1 and a diligent seeker after virtue1 falleth not back upon those comforts1 nor seeketh such sweetness as may be tasted and handled1 but desireth rather hard exercises1 and to undertake severe labours for ,christ4 #d4 ,when1 therefore1 spiritual comfort is given by ,god1 receive it with giving of thanks1 and know that it is the gift of ,god1 not thy desert4 ,be not lifted up1 rejoice not overmuch nor foolishly presume1 but rather be more humble for the gift1 more wary and more careful in all thy doings2 for that hour will pass away1 and temptation will follow4 ,when comfort is taken from thee1 do not straightway despair1 but wait for the heavenly visitation with humility and patience1 for ,god is able to give thee back greater favour and consolation4 ,this is not new nor strange to those who have made trial of the way of ,god1 for with the great saints and the ancient prophets there was often this manner of change4 #e4 ,wherefore one said when the favour of ,god was present with him1 ,i said in my prosperity ,i shall never be moved17#a7 but he goeth on to say what he felt within himself when the favour departed3 ,thou didst turn ,thy face from me1 and ,i was troubled4 ,in spite whereof he in no wise despaireth1 but the more instantly entreateth ,god1 and saith1 ,unto ,thee1 ,o ,lord1 will ,i cry1 and will pray unto my ,god2 and then he receiveth the fruit of his prayer1 and testifieth how he hath been heard1 saying1 ,the ,lord heard me and had mercy upon me1 the ,lord was my helper4 ,but wherein8 ,thou hast turned my heaviness into joy1 ,thou hast put off my sackcloth and girded me with gladness4 ,if it was thus with the great saints1 we who are poor and needy ought not to despair if we are sometimes in the warmth and sometimes in the cold1 for the ,spirit cometh and goeth according to the good pleasure of ,his will4 ,wherefore holy ,job saith1 ,thou dost visit him in the morning1 and suddenly ,thou dost prove him47#b7 #f4 ,whereupon then can ,i hope1 or wherein may ,i trust1 save only in the great mercy of ,god1 and the hope of heavenly grace8 ,for whether good men are with me1 godly brethren or faithful friends1 whether holy books or beautiful discourses1 whether sweet hymns and songs1 all these help but little1 and have but little savour when ,i am deserted by ,god's favour and left to mine own poverty4 ,there is no better remedy1 then1 than patience and denial of self1 and an abiding in the will of ,god4 #g4 ,i have never found any man so religious and godly1 but that he felt sometimes a withdrawal of the divine favour1 and lack of fervour4 ,no saint was ever so filled with rapture1 so enlightened1 but that sooner or later he was tempted4 ,for he is not worthy of the great vision of ,god1 who1 for ,god's sake1 hath not been exercised by some temptation4 ,for temptation is wont to go before as a sign of the comfort which shall follow1 and heavenly comfort is promised to those who are proved by temptation4 ,as it is written1 ,to him that overcometh ,i will give to eat of the tree of life47#c7 #h4 ,divine comfort is given that a man may be stronger to bear adversities4 ,and temptation followeth1 lest he be lifted up because of the benefit4 ,the devil sleepeth not2 thy flesh is not yet dead2 therefore1 cease thou not to make thyself ready unto the battle1 for enemies stand on thy right hand and on thy left1 and they are never at rest4 7#a7 ,psalm xxx4 #f4 7#b7 ,job vii4 #ah4 7#c7 ,revelation ii4 #g4 ,,chapter ,x ,of gratitude for the ,grace of ,god ,why seekest thou rest when thou art born to labour8 ,prepare thyself for patience more than for comforts1 and for bearing the cross more than for joy4 ,for who among the men of this world would not gladly receive consolation and spiritual joy if he might always have it8 ,for spiritual comforts exceed all the delights of the world1 and all the pleasures of the flesh4 ,for all worldly delights are either empty or unclean1 whilst spiritual delights alone are pleasant and honourable1 the offspring of virtue1 and poured forth by ,god into pure minds4 ,but no man can always enjoy these divine comforts at his own will1 because the season of temptation ceaseth not for long4 #b4 ,great is the difference between a visitation from above and false liberty of spirit and great confidence in self4 ,god doeth well in giving us the grace of comfort1 but man doeth ill in not immediately giving ,god thanks thereof4 ,and thus the gifts of grace are not able to flow unto us1 because we are ungrateful to the ,author of them1 and return them not wholly to the ,fountain whence they flow4 ,for grace ever becometh the portion of him who is grateful and that is taken away from the proud1 which is wont to be given to the humble4 #c4 ,i desire no consolation which taketh away from me compunction1 ,i love no contemplation which leadeth to pride4 ,for all that is high is not holy1 nor is everything that is sweet good2 every desire is not pure2 nor is everything that is dear to us pleasing unto ,god4 ,willingly do ,i accept that grace whereby ,i am made humbler and more wary and more ready to renounce myself4 ,he who is made learned by the gift of grace and taught wisdom by the stroke of the withdrawal thereof1 will not dare to claim any good thing for himself1 but will rather confess that he is poor and needy4 ,give unto ,god the thing which is ,god's17#a7 and ascribe to thyself that which is thine2 that is1 give thanks unto ,god for ,his grace1 but for thyself alone confess thy fault1 and that thy punishment is deserved for thy fault4 #d4 ,sit thou down always in the lowest room and thou shalt be given the highest place47#b7 ,for the highest cannot be without the lowest4 ,for the highest saints of ,god are least in their own sight1 and the more glorious they are1 so much the lowlier are they in themselves2 full of grace and heavenly glory1 they are not desirous of vain-glory2 resting on ,god and strong in ,his might1 they cannot be lifted up in any wise4 ,and they who ascribe unto ,god all the good which they have received1 8seek not glory one of another1 but the glory which cometh from ,god only10 and they desire that ,god shall be praised in ,himself and in all ,his ,saints above all things1 and they are always striving for this very thing4 #e4 ,be thankful1 therefore1 for the least benefit and thou shalt be worthy to receive greater4 ,let the least be unto thee even as the greatest1 and let that which is of little account be unto thee as a special gift4 ,if the majesty of the ,giver be considered1 nothing that is given shall seem small and of no worth1 for that is not a small thing which is given by the ,most ,high ,god4 ,yea1 though ,he gave punishment and stripes1 we ought to be thankful1 because ,he ever doth for our profit whatever ,he suffereth to come upon us4 ,he who seeketh to retain the favour of ,god1 let him be thankful for the favour which is given1 and patient in respect of that which is taken away4 ,let him pray that it may return2 let him be wary and humble that he lose it not4 7#a7 ,matthew xxii4 #ba4 7#b7 ,luke xiv4 #aj4 ,,chapter ,,xi ,of the fewness of those who love the ,cross of ,jesus ,jesus hath many lovers of ,his heavenly kingdom1 but few bearers of ,his ,cross4 ,he hath many seekers of comfort1 but few of tribulation4 ,he findeth many companions of ,his table1 but few of ,his fasting4 ,all desire to rejoice with ,him1 few are willing to undergo anything for ,his sake4 ,many follow ,jesus that they may eat of ,his loaves1 but few that they may drink of the cup of ,his passion4 ,many are astonished at ,his ,miracles1 few follow after the shame of ,his ,cross4 ,many love ,jesus so long as no adversities happen to them4 ,many praise ,him and bless ,him1 so long as they receive any comforts from ,him4 ,but if ,jesus hide ,himself and withdraw from them a little while1 they fall either into complaining or into too great dejection of mind4 #b4 ,but they who love ,jesus for ,jesus' sake1 and not for any consolation of their own1 bless ,him in all tribulation and anguish of heart as in the highest consolation4 ,and if ,he should never give them consolation1 nevertheless they would always praise ,him and always give ,him thanks4 #c4 ,oh what power hath the pure love of ,jesus1 unmixed with any gain or love of self6 ,should not all they be called mercenary who are always seeking consolations8 ,do they not prove themselves lovers of self more than of ,christ who are always seeking their own gain and advantage8 ,where shall be found one who is willing to serve ,god altogether for nought8 #d4 ,rarely is any one found so spiritual as to be stripped of all selfish thoughts1 for who shall find a man truly poor in spirit and free of all created things8 8,his value is from afar1 yea from the ends of the earth40 ,a man may give away all his goods1 yet that is nothing2 and if he do many deeds of penitence1 yet that is a small thing2 and though he understand all knowledge1 yet that is afar off2 and if he have great virtue and zealous devotion1 yet much is lacking unto him1 yea1 one thing which is the most necessary to him of all4 ,what is it then8 ,that having given up all things besides1 he give up himself and go forth from himself utterly1 and retain nothing of self-love2 and having done all things which he knoweth to be his duty to do1 that he feel that he hath done nothing4 ,let him not reckon that much which might be much esteemed1 but let him pronounce himself to be in truth an unprofitable servant1 as the ,truth ,himself saith1 ,when ye have done all things that are commanded you1 say1 we are unprofitable servants47#a7 ,then may he be truly poor and naked in spirit1 and be able to say with the ,prophet1 ,as for me1 ,i am poor and needy47#b7 ,nevertheless1 no man is richer than he1 no man stronger1 no man freer4 ,for he knoweth both how to give up himself and all things1 and how to be lowly in his own eyes4 7#a7 ,luke xvii4 #aj4 7#b7 ,psalm xxv4 #af4 ,,chapter ,,xii ,of the royal way of the ,holy ,cross ,that seemeth a hard saying to many1 ,if any man will come after ,me1 let him deny himself and take up his ,cross and follow ,me47#a7 ,but it will be much harder to hear that last sentence1 ,depart from me1 ye wicked1 into eternal fire47#b7 ,for they who now willingly hear the word of the ,cross and follow it1 shall not then fear the hearing of eternal damnation4 ,this sign of the ,cross shall be in heaven when the ,lord cometh to ,judgment4 ,then all servants of the ,cross1 who in life have conformed themselves to the ,crucified1 shall draw nigh unto ,christ the ,judge with great boldness4 #b4 ,why fearest thou then to take up the cross which leadeth to a kingdom8 ,in the ,cross is health1 in the ,cross is life1 in the ,cross is protection from enemies1 in the ,cross is heavenly sweetness1 in the ,cross strength of mind1 in the ,cross joy of the spirit1 in the ,cross the height of virtue1 in the ,cross perfection of holiness4 ,there is no health of the soul1 no hope of eternal life1 save in the ,cross4 ,take up therefore1 thy cross and follow ,jesus and thou shalt go into eternal life4 ,he went before thee bearing ,his ,cross and died for thee upon the ,cross1 that thou also mayest bear thy cross and mayest love to be crucified upon it4 ,for if thou be dead with ,him1 thou shalt also live with ,him1 and if thou be a partaker of ,his sufferings thou shalt be also of ,his glory4 #c4 ,behold everything dependeth upon the ,cross1 and everything lieth in dying2 and there is none other way unto life and to true inward peace1 except the way of the ,holy ,cross and of daily mortification4 ,go where thou wilt1 seek whatsoever thou wilt1 and thou shalt find no higher way above nor safer way below1 than the way of the ,holy ,cross4 ,dispose and order all things according to thine own will and judgment1 and thou shalt ever find something to suffer either willingly or unwillingly1 and thus thou shalt ever find thy cross4 ,for thou shalt either feel pain of body1 or tribulation of spirit within thy soul4 #d4 ,sometimes thou wilt be forsaken of ,god1 sometimes thou wilt be tried by thy neighbour1 and which is more1 thou wilt often be wearisome to thyself4 ,and still thou canst not be delivered nor eased by any remedy or consolation1 but must bear so long as ,god will4 ,for ,god will have thee learn to suffer tribulation without consolation1 and to submit thyself fully to it1 and by tribulation be made more humble4 ,no man understandeth the ,passion of ,christ in his heart so well as he who hath had somewhat of the like suffering himself4 ,the ,cross therefore is always ready1 and every where waiteth for thee4 ,thou canst not flee from it whithersoever thou hurriest1 for whithersoever thou comest1 thou bearest thyself with thee1 and shalt ever find thyself4 ,turn thee above1 turn thee below1 turn thee without1 turn thee within1 and in them all thou shalt find the ,cross2 and needful is it that thou everywhere possess patience if thou wilt have internal peace and gain the everlasting crown4 #e4 ,if thou willingly bear the ,cross1 it will bear thee1 and will bring thee to the end which thou seekest1 even where there shall be the end of suffering2 though it shall not be here4 ,if thou bear it unwillingly1 thou makest a burden for thyself and greatly increaseth thy load1 and yet thou must bear it4 ,if thou cast away one cross1 without doubt thou shalt find another and perchance a heavier4 #f4 ,thinketh thou to escape what no mortal hath been able to avoid8 ,which of the saints in the world hath been without the cross and tribulation8 ,for not even ,jesus ,christ our ,lord was one hour without the anguish of ,his ,passion1 so long as ,he lived4 ,it behooved1 ,he said1 ,christ to suffer and to rise from the dead1 and so enter into his glory47#c7 ,and how dost thou seek another way than this royal way1 which is the way of the ,holy ,cross8 #g4 ,the whole life of ,christ was a cross and martyrdom1 and dost thou seek for thyself rest and joy8 ,thou art wrong1 thou art wrong1 if thou seekest aught but to suffer tribulations1 for this whole mortal life is full of miseries1 and set round with crosses4 ,and the higher a man hath advanced in the spirit1 the heavier crosses he will often find1 because the sorrow of his banishment increaseth with the strength of his love4 #h4 ,but yet the man who is thus in so many wise afflicted1 is not without refreshment of consolation1 because he feeleth abundant fruit to be growing within him out of the bearing of his cross4 ,for whilst he willingly submitteth himself to it1 every burden of tribulation is turned into an assurance of divine comfort1 and the more the flesh is wasted by affliction1 the more is the spirit strengthened mightily by inward grace4 ,and ofttimes so greatly is he comforted by the desire for tribulation and adversity1 through love of conformity to the ,cross of ,christ1 that he would not be without sorrow and tribulation2 for he believeth that he shall be the more acceptable to ,god1 the more and the heavier burdens he is able to bear for ,his sake4 ,this is not the virtue of man1 but the grace of ,christ which hath such power and energy in the weak flesh1 that what it naturally hateth and fleeth from1 this it draweth to and loveth through fervour of spirit4 #i4 ,it is not in the nature of man to bear the cross1 to love the cross1 to keep under the body and to bring it into subjection1 to fly from honours1 to bear reproaches meekly1 to despise self and desire to be despised1 to bear all adversities and losses1 and to desire no prosperity in this world4 ,if thou lookest to thyself1 thou wilt of thyself be able to do none of this2 but if thou trustest in the ,lord1 endurance shall be given thee from heaven1 and the world and the flesh shall be made subject to thy command4 ,yea1 thou shalt not even fear thine adversary the devil1 if thou be armed with faith and signed with the ,cross of ,christ4 #aj4 ,set thyself1 therefore1 like a good and faithful servant of ,christ1 to the manful bearing of the ,cross of thy ,lord1 who out of love was crucified for thee4 ,prepare thyself for the bearing many adversities and manifold troubles in this wretched life2 because so it shall be with thee wheresoever thou art1 and so in very deed thou shalt find it1 wherever thou hide thyself4 ,this it must be2 and there is no means of escaping from tribulation and sorrow1 except to bear them patiently4 ,drink thou lovingly thy ,lord's cup if thou desirest to be ,his friend and to have thy lot with ,him4 ,leave consolations to ,god1 let ,him do as seemeth best to ,him concerning them4 ,but do thou set thyself to endure tribulations1 and reckon them the best consolations2 for the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us17#d7 nor would they be even if thou wert to endure them all4 #aa4 ,when thou hast come to this1 that tribulation is sweet and pleasant to thee for ,christ's sake1 then reckon that it is well with thee1 because thou hast found paradise on earth4 ,so long as it is hard to thee to suffer and thou desirest to escape1 so long it will not be well with thee1 and tribulations will follow thee everywhere4 #ab4 ,if thou settest thyself to that thou oughtest1 namely1 to suffer and to die1 it shall soon go better with thee1 and thou shalt find peace4 ,though thou shouldest be caught up with ,paul unto the third heaven17#e7 thou art not on that account secure from suffering evil4 ,i will show him1 saith ,jesus1 what great things he must suffer for ,my ,name's sake47#f7 ,it remaineth1 therefore1 to thee to suffer1 if thou wilt love ,jesus and serve ,him continually4 #ac4 ,oh that thou wert worthy to suffer something for the name of ,jesus1 how great glory should await thee1 what rejoicing among all the saints of ,god1 what bright example also to thy neighbour6 ,for all men commend patience1 although few be willing to practise it4 ,thou oughtest surely to suffer a little for ,christ when many suffer heavier things for the world4 #ad4 ,know thou of a surety that thou oughtest to lead the life of a dying man4 ,and the more a man dieth to himself1 the more he beginneth to live towards ,god4 ,none is fit for the understanding of heavenly things1 unless he hath submitted himself to bearing adversities for ,christ4 ,nothing more acceptable to ,god1 nothing more healthful for thyself in this world1 than to suffer willingly for ,christ4 ,and if it were thine to choose1 thou oughtest rather to wish to suffer adversities for ,christ1 than to be refreshed with manifold consolations1 for thou wouldest be more like ,christ and more conformed to all saints4 ,for our worthiness and growth in grace lieth not in many delights and consolations1 but rather in bearing many troubles and adversities4 #ae4 ,if indeed there had been anything better and more profitable to the health of men than to suffer1 ,christ would surely have shown it by word and example4 ,for both the disciples who followed ,him1 and all who desire to follow ,him1 ,he plainly exhorteth to bear their cross1 and saith1 ,if any man will come after ,me1 let him deny himself and take up his cross1 and follow ,me47#g7 ,so now that we have thoroughly read and studied all things1 let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter4 ,we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of ,god47#h7 7#a7 ,matthew xvi4 #bd4 7#b7 ,matthew xxv4 #da4 7#c7 ,luke xxiv4 #df4 7#d7 ,romans viii4 #ah4 7#e7 #b ,corinthians xii4 #b4 7#f7 ,acts ix4 #af4 7#g7 ,luke ix4 #bc4 7#h7 ,acts xiv4 #ba4 ,,the ,,third ,,book ,,on ,,inward ,,consolation ,,chapter ,i ,of the inward voice of ,christ to the faithful soul ,i will hearken what the ,lord ,god shall say within me47#a7 ,blessed is the soul which heareth the ,lord speaking within it1 and receiveth the word of consolation from ,his mouth4 ,blessed are the ears which receive the echoes of the soft whisper of ,god1 and turn not aside to the whisperings of this world4 ,blessed truly are the ears which listen not to the voice that soundeth without1 but to that which teacheth truth inwardly4 ,blessed are the eyes which are closed to things without1 but are fixed upon things within4 ,blessed are they who search inward things and study to prepare themselves more and more by daily exercises for the receiving of heavenly mysteries4 ,blessed are they who long to have leisure for ,god1 and free themselves from every hindrance of the world4 ,think on these things1 ,o my soul1 and shut the doors of thy carnal desires1 so mayest thou hear what the ,lord ,god will say within thee4 #b4 ,these things saith thy ,beloved1 8,i am thy salvation1 ,i am thy peace and thy life4 ,keep thee unto ,me1 and thou shalt find peace40 ,put away thee all transitory things1 seek those things that are eternal4 ,for what are all temporal things but deceits1 and what shall all created things help thee if thou be forsaken by the ,creator8 ,therefore put all things else away1 and give thyself to the ,creator1 to be well pleasing and faithful to ,him1 that thou mayest be able to attain true blessedness4 7#a7 ,psalm lxxxv4 #h4 ,,chapter ,,ii ,what the truth saith inwardly without noise of words ,speak ,lord1 for thy servant heareth47#a7 ,i am ,thy servant2 ,o give me understanding that ,i may know ,thy testimonies4 ,incline my heart unto the words of ,thy mouth47#b7 ,let thy speech distil as the dew4 ,the children of ,israel spake in old time to ,moses1 ,speak thou unto us and we will hear1 but let not the ,lord speak unto us lest we die47#c7 ,not thus1 ,o ,lord1 not thus do ,i pray1 but rather with ,samuel the prophet1 ,i beseech ,thee humbly and earnestly1 ,speak1 ,lord1 for ,thy servant heareth4 ,let not ,moses speak to me1 nor any prophet1 but rather speak ,thou1 ,o ,lord1 who didst inspire and illuminate all the prophets2 for ,thou alone without them canst perfectly fill me with knowledge1 whilst they without ,thee shall profit nothing4 #b4 ,they can indeed utter words1 but they give not the spirit4 ,they speak with exceeding beauty1 but when ,thou art silent they kindle not the heart4 ,they give us scriptures1 but ,thou makest known the sense thereof4 ,they bring us mysteries1 but ,thou revealest the things which are signified4 ,they utter commandments1 but ,thou helpest to the fulfilling of them4 ,they show the way1 but ,thou givest strength for the journey4 ,they act only outwardly1 but ,thou dost instruct and enlighten the heart4 ,they water1 but ,thou givest the increase4 ,they cry with words1 but ,thou givest understanding to the hearer4 #c4 ,therefore let not ,moses speak to me1 but ,thou1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 ,eternal ,truth2 lest ,i die and bring forth no fruit1 being outwardly admonished1 but not enkindled within2 lest the word heard but not followed1 known but not loved1 believed but not obeyed1 rise up against me in the judgment4 ,speak1 ,lord1 for ,thy servant heareth2 ,thou hast the words of eternal life47#d7 ,speak unto me for some consolation unto my soul1 for the amendment of my whole life1 and for the praise and glory and eternal honour of ,thy ,name4 7#a7 #a ,samuel iii4 #i4 7#b7 ,psalm cxix4 #abe4 7#c7 ,exodus xx4 #ai4 7#d7 ,john vi4 #fh4 ,,chapter ,,iii ,how all the words of ,god are to be heard with humility1 and how many consider them not 8,my ,son1 hear ,my words1 for ,my words are most sweet1 surpassing all the knowledge of the philosophers and wise men of this world4 ,my words are spirit1 and they are life17#a7 and are not to be weighed by man's understanding4 ,they are not to be drawn forth for vain approbation1 but to be heard in silence1 and to be received with all humility and with deep love40 #b4 ,and ,i said1 8,blessed is the man whom ,thou teachest1 ,o ,lord1 and instructest him in ,thy law1 that ,thou mayest give him rest in time of adversity17#b7 and that he be not desolate in the earth40 #c4 8,i10 saith the ,lord1 8taught the prophets from the beginning1 and even now cease ,i not to speak unto all2 but many are deaf and hardened against ,my voice2 many love to listen to the world rather than to ,god1 they follow after the desires of the flesh more readily than after the good pleasure of ,god4 ,the world promiseth things that are temporal and small1 and it is served with great eagerness4 ,i promise things that are great and eternal1 and the hearts of mortals are slow to stir4 ,who serveth and obeyeth ,me in all things1 with such carefulness as he serveth the world and its rulers8 ,be thou ashamed1 ,o ,sidon1 saith the sea27#c7 ,and if thou reason seekest1 hear thou me4 ,for a little reward men make a long journey2 for eternal life many will scarce lift a foot once from the ground4 ,mean reward is sought after2 for a single piece of money sometimes there is shameful striving2 for a thing which is vain and for a trifling promise1 men shrink not from toiling day and night40 #d4 8,but1 ,o shame6 for an unchangeable good1 for an inestimable reward1 for the highest honour and for a glory that fadeth not away1 it is irksome to them to toil even a little4 ,be thou ashamed therefore1 slothful and discontented servant1 for they are found readier unto perdition than thou unto life4 ,they rejoice more heartily in vanity than thou in the truth4 ,sometimes1 indeed1 they are disappointed of their hope1 but my promise faileth no man1 nor sendeth away empty him who trusteth in ,me4 ,what ,i have promised ,i will give2 what ,i have said ,i will fulfil2 if only a man remain faithful in ,my love unto the end4 ,therefore am ,i the rewarder of all good men1 and a strong approver of all who are godly4 #e4 8,write ,my words in thy heart and consider them diligently1 for they shall be very needful to thee in time of temptation4 ,what thou understandest not when thou readest1 thou shalt know in the time of thy visitation4 ,i am wont to visit ,mine elect in twofold manner1 even by temptation and by comfort1 and ,i teach them two lessons day by day1 the one in chiding their faults1 the other in exhorting them to grow in grace4 ,he who hath ,my words and rejecteth them1 hath one who shall judge him at the last day40 ,a ,,prayer ,,for ,,the ,,spirit ,,of ,,devotion #f4 ,o ,lord my ,god1 ,thou art all my good1 and who am ,i that ,i should dare to speak unto ,thee8 ,i am the very poorest of ,thy servants1 an abject worm1 much poorer and more despicable than ,i know or dare to say4 ,nevertheless remember1 ,o ,lord1 that ,i am nothing1 ,i have nothing1 and can do nothing4 ,thou only art good1 just and holy2 ,thou canst do all things1 art over all things1 fillest all things1 leaving empty only the sinner4 ,call to mind ,thy tender mercies1 and fill my heart with ,thy grace1 ,thou who wilt not that ,thy work should return to ,thee void4 #g4 ,how can ,i bear this miserable life unless ,thy mercy and grace strengthen me8 ,turn not away ,thy face from me1 delay not ,thy visitation4 ,withdraw not ,thou ,thy comfort from me1 lest my soul 8gasp after thee as a thirsty land40 ,lord1 teach me to do ,thy will1 teach me to walk humbly and uprightly before ,thee1 for ,thou art my wisdom1 who knowest me in truth1 and knewest me before the world was made and before ,i was born into the world4 7#a7 ,john vi4 #fc4 7#b7 ,psalm xciv4 #ac4 7#c7 ,isaiah xxiii4 #d4 ,,chapter ,,iv ,how we must walk in truth and humility before ,god 8,my ,son6 walk before ,me in truth1 and in the simplicity of thy heart seek ,me continually4 ,he who walketh before ,me in the truth shall be safe from evil assaults1 and the truth shall deliver him from the wiles and slanders of the wicked4 ,if the truth shall make thee free1 thou shalt be free indeed1 and shalt not care for the vain words of men40 #b4 ,lord1 it is true as ,thou sayest2 let it1 ,i pray ,thee1 be so with me2 let ,thy truth teach me1 let it keep me and preserve me safe unto the end4 ,let it free me from all evil and inordinate affection1 and ,i will walk before ,thee in great freedom of heart4 #c4 8,i will teach thee10 saith the ,truth1 8the things which are right and pleasing before ,me4 ,think upon thy sins with great displeasure and sorrow1 and never think thyself anything because of thy good works4 ,verily thou art a sinner1 liable to many passions1 yea1 tied and bound with them4 ,of thyself thou always tendest unto nothing1 thou wilt quickly fall1 quickly be conquered1 quickly disturbed1 quickly undone4 ,thou hast nought whereof to glory1 but many reasons why thou shouldest reckon thyself vile1 for thou art far weaker than thou art able to comprehend4 #d4 8,let1 therefore1 nothing which thou doest seem to thee great2 let nothing be grand1 nothing of value or beauty1 nothing worthy of honour1 nothing lofty1 nothing praiseworthy or desirable1 save what is eternal4 ,let the eternal truth please thee above all things1 let thine own great vileness displease thee continually4 ,fear1 denounce1 flee nothing so much as thine own faults and sins1 which ought to be more displeasing to thee than any loss whatsoever of goods4 ,there are some who walk not sincerely before me1 but being led by curiosity and pride1 they desire to know my secret things and to understand the deep things of ,god1 whilst they neglect themselves and their salvation4 ,these often fall into great temptations and sins because of their pride and curiosity1 for ,i am against them4 #e4 8,fear thou the judgments of ,god1 fear greatly the wrath of the ,almighty4 ,shrink from debating upon the works of the ,most ,high1 but search narrowly thine own iniquities into what great sins thou hast fallen1 and how many good things thou hast neglected4 ,there are some who carry their devotion only in books1 some in pictures1 some in outward signs and figures2 some have ,me in their mouths1 but little in their hearts4 ,others there are who1 being enlightened in their understanding and purged in their affections1 continually long after eternal things1 hear of earthly things with unwillingness1 obey the necessities of nature with sorrow4 ,and these understand what the ,spirit of truth speaketh in them2 for ,he teacheth them to despise earthly things and to love heavenly2 to neglect the world and to desire heaven all the day and night40 ,,chapter ,v ,of the wonderful power of the ,divine ,love ,i bless ,thee1 ,o ,heavenly ,father1 ,father of my ,lord ,jesus ,christ1 for that ,thou hast vouchsafed to think of me1 poor that ,i am4 ,o1 ,father of ,mercies and ,god of all comfort17#a7 ,i give thanks unto ,thee1 who refreshest me sometimes with thine own comfort1 when ,i am unworthy of any comfort4 ,i bless and glorify ,thee continually1 with thine only begotten ,son and the ,holy ,ghost1 the ,paraclete1 for ever and ever4 ,o ,lord ,god1 ,holy lover of my soul1 when ,thou shalt come into my heart1 all my inward parts shall rejoice4 ,thou art my glory and the joy of my heart4 ,thou art my hope and my refuge in the day of my trouble4 #b4 ,but because ,i am still weak in love and imperfect in virtue1 ,i need to be strengthened and comforted by ,thee2 therefore visit ,thou me often and instruct me with ,thy holy ways of discipline4 ,deliver me from evil passions1 and cleanse my heart from all inordinate affections1 that1 being healed and altogether cleansed within1 ,i may be made ready to love1 strong to suffer1 steadfast to endure4 #c4 ,love is a great thing1 a good above all others1 which alone maketh every heavy burden light1 and equaliseth every inequality4 ,for it beareth the burden and maketh it no burden1 it maketh every bitter thing to be sweet and of good taste4 ,the surpassing love of ,jesus impelleth to great works1 and exciteth to the continual desiring of greater perfection4 ,love willeth to be raised up1 and not to be held down by any mean thing4 ,love willeth to be free and aloof from all worldly affection1 lest its inward power of vision be hindered1 lest it be entangled by any worldly prosperity or overcome by adversity4 ,nothing is sweeter than love1 nothing stronger1 nothing loftier1 nothing broader1 nothing pleasanter1 nothing fuller or better in heaven nor on earth1 for love was born of ,god and cannot rest save in ,god above all created things4 #d4 ,he who loveth flyeth1 runneth1 and is glad2 he is free and not hindered4 ,he giveth all things for all things1 and hath all things in all things1 because he resteth in ,one who is high above all1 from whom every good floweth and proceedeth4 ,he looketh not for gifts1 but turneth himself to the ,giver above all good things4 ,love oftentimes knoweth no measure1 but breaketh out above all measure2 love feeleth no burden1 reckoneth not labours1 striveth after more than it is able to do1 pleadeth not impossibility1 because it judgeth all things which are lawful for it to be possible4 ,it is strong therefore for all things1 and it fulfilleth many things1 and is successful where he who loveth not faileth and lieth down4 #e4 ,love is watchful1 and whilst sleeping still keepeth watch2 though fatigued it is not weary1 though pressed it is not forced1 though alarmed it is not terrified1 but like the living flame and the burning torch1 it breaketh forth on high and securely triumpheth4 ,if a man loveth1 he knoweth what this voice crieth4 ,for the ardent affection of the soul is a great clamour in the ears of ,god1 and it saith3 ,my ,god1 my ,beloved6 ,thou art all mine1 and ,i am all ,thine4 #f4 ,enlarge ,thou me in love1 that ,i may learn to taste with the innermost mouth of my heart how sweet it is to love1 to be dissolved1 and to swim in love4 ,let me be holden by love1 mounting above myself through exceeding fervour and admiration4 ,let me sing the song of love1 let me follow ,thee my ,beloved on high1 let my soul exhaust itself in ,thy praise1 exulting with love4 ,let me love ,thee more than myself1 not loving myself except for ,thy sake1 and all men in ,thee who truly love ,thee1 as the law of love commandeth which shineth forth from ,thee4 #g4 ,love is swift1 sincere1 pious1 pleasant1 gentle1 strong1 patient1 faithful1 prudent1 long-suffering1 manly1 and never seeking her own2 for wheresoever a man seeketh his own1 there he falleth from love4 ,love is circumspect1 humble1 and upright2 not weak1 not fickle1 nor intent on vain things2 sober1 chaste1 steadfast1 quiet1 and guarded in all the senses4 ,love is subject and obedient to all that are in authority1 vile and lowly in its own sight1 devout and grateful towards ,god1 faithful and always trusting in ,him even when ,god hideth ,his face1 for without sorrow we cannot live in love4 #h4 ,he who is not ready to suffer all things1 and to conform to the will of the ,beloved1 is not worthy to be called a lover of ,god4 ,it behoveth him who loveth to embrace willingly all hard and bitter things for the ,beloved's sake1 and not to be drawn away from ,him because of any contrary accidents4 7#a7 #b ,corinthians i4 #c4 ,,chapter ,,vi ,of the proving of the true lover 8,my ,son1 thou art not yet strong and prudent in thy love40 #b4 ,wherefore1 ,o my ,lord8 #c4 8,because for a little opposition thou fallest away from thy undertakings1 and too eagerly seekest after consolation4 ,the strong lover standeth fast in temptations1 and believeth not the evil persuasions of the enemy4 ,as in prosperity ,i please him1 so in adversity ,i do not displease4 #d4 8,the prudent lover considereth not the gift of the lover so much as the love of the giver4 ,he looketh for the affection more than the value1 and setteth all gifts lower than the ,beloved4 ,the noble lover resteth not in the gift1 but in ,me above every gift4 #e4 8,all is not lost1 though thou sometimes think of ,me or of ,my saints1 less than thou shouldest desire4 ,that good and sweet affection which thou sometimes perceivest is the effect of present grace and some foretaste of the heavenly country2 but hereon thou must not too much depend1 for it goeth and cometh4 ,but to strive against the evil motions of the mind which come to us1 and to resist the suggestions of the devil1 is a token of virtue and great merit4 #f4 8,therefore let not strange fancies disturb thee1 whencesoever they arise4 ,bravely observe thy purpose and thy upright intentions towards ,god4 ,it is not an illusion when thou art sometimes suddenly carried away into rapture1 and then suddenly art brought back to the wonted vanities of thy heart4 ,for thou dost rather unwillingly undergo them than cause them2 and so long as they displease thee and thou strivest against them1 it is a merit and no loss4 #g4 8,know thou that thine old enemy altogether striveth to hinder thy pursuit after good1 and to deter thee from every godly exercise1 to wit1 the contemplation of the ,saints1 the pious remembrance of ,my passion1 the profitable recollection of sin1 the keeping of thy own heart1 and the steadfast purpose to grow in virtue4 ,he suggesteth to thee many evil thoughts1 that he may work in thee weariness and terror1 and so draw thee away from prayer and holy reading4 ,humble confession displeaseth him1 and if he were able he would make thee to cease from ,communion4 ,believe him not1 nor heed him1 though many a time he hath laid for thee the snares of deceit4 ,account it to be from him1 when he suggesteth evil and unclean thoughts4 ,say unto him1 #8,depart unclean spirit2 put on shame1 miserable one2 horribly unclean art thou1 who bringest such things to mine ears4 ,depart from me1 detestable deceiver2 thou shalt have no part in me2 but ,jesus shall be with me1 as a strong warrior1 and thou shalt stand confounded4 ,rather would ,i die and bear all suffering1 than consent unto thee4 ,hold thy peace and be dumb2 ,i will not hear thee more1 though thou plottest more snares against me4 ,the ,lord is my light and my salvation3 whom then shall ,i fear8 ,though a host of men should rise up against me1 yet shall not my heart be afraid4 ,the ,lord is my strength and my ,redeemer4'7#a7 #h4 8,strive thou like a good soldier2 and if sometimes thou fail through weakness1 put on thy strength more bravely than before1 trusting in ,my more abundant grace1 and take thou much heed of vain confidence and pride4 ,because of it many are led into error1 and sometimes fall into blindness well-nigh irremediable4 ,let this ruin of the proud1 who foolishly lift themselves up1 be to thee for a warning and a continual exhortation to humility40 7#a7 ,psalms xxvii4 #a-c2 xix4 #ad4 ,,chapter ,,vii ,of hiding our grace under the guard of humility 8,my ,son1 it is better and safer for thee to hide the grace of devotion1 and not to lift thyself up on high1 nor to speak much thereof1 nor to value it greatly2 but rather to despise thyself1 and to fear as though this grace were given to one unworthy thereof4 ,nor must thou depend too much upon this feeling1 for it can very quickly be turned into its opposite4 ,think when thou art in a state of grace how miserable and poor thou art wont to be without grace4 ,nor is there advance in spiritual life in this alone1 that thou hast the grace of consolation1 but that thou humbly and unselfishly and patiently takest the withdrawal thereof2 so that thou cease not from the exercise of prayer1 nor suffer thy other common duties to be in anywise neglected2 rather do thy task more readily1 as though thou hadst gained more strength and knowledge2 and do not altogether neglect thyself because of the dearth and anxiety of spirit which thou feelest4 #b4 8,for there are many who1 when things have not gone prosperous with them1 become forthwith impatient or slothful4 ,for the way of a man is not in himself17#a7 but it is ,god's to give and to console1 when ,he will1 and as much as ,he will1 and whom ,he will1 as it shall please ,him1 and no further4 ,some who were presumptuous because of the grace of devotion within them1 have destroyed themselves1 because they would do more than they were able1 not considering the measure of their own littleness1 but rather following the impulse of the heart than the judgment of the reason4 ,and because they presumed beyond what was well-pleasing unto ,god1 therefore they quickly lost grace4 ,they became poor and were left vile1 who had built for themselves their nest in heaven2 so that being humbled and stricken with poverty1 they might learn not to fly with their own wings1 but to put their trust under ,my feathers4 ,they who are as yet new and unskilled in the way of the ,lord1 unless they rule themselves after the counsel of the wise1 may easily be deceived and led away4 #c4 8,but if they wish to follow their own fancies rather than trust the experience of others1 the result will be very dangerous to them if they still refuse to be drawn away from their own notion4 ,those who are wise in their own conceits1 seldom patiently endure to be ruled by others4 ,it is better to have a small portion of wisdom with humility1 and a slender understanding1 than great treasures of sciences with vain self-esteem4 ,it is better for thee to have less than much of what may make thee proud4 ,he doeth not very discreetly who giveth up himself entirely to joy1 forgetting his former helplessness and the chaste fear of the ,lord1 which feareth to lose the grace offered4 ,nor is he very wise1 after a manly sort1 who in time of adversity1 or any trouble whatsoever1 beareth himself too despairingly1 and feeleth concerning ,me less trustfully than he ought4 #d4 8,he who in time of peace willeth to be oversecure shall be often found in time of war overdispirited and full of fears4 ,if thou knewest always how to continue humble and moderate in thyself1 and to guide and rule thine own spirit well1 thou wouldest not so quickly fall into danger and mischief4 ,it is good counsel that when fervour of spirit is kindled1 thou shouldest meditate how it will be with thee when the light is taken away4 ,which when it doth happen1 remember that still the light may return again1 which ,i have taken away for a time for a warning to thee1 and also for mine own glory4 ,such a trial is often more useful than if thou hadst always things prosperous according to thine own will4 #e4 8,for merits are not to be reckoned by this1 that a man hath many visions or consolations1 or that he is skilled in the ,scriptures1 or that he is placed in a high situation2 but that he is grounded upon true humility and filled with divine charity1 that he always purely and uprightly seeketh the honour of ,god1 that he setteth not by himself1 but unfeignedly despiseth himself1 and even rejoiceth to be despised and humbled by others more than to be honoured40 7#a7 ,jeremiah x4 #bc4 ,,chapter ,,viii ,of a low estimation of self in the sight of ,god ,i will speak unto my ,lord who am but dust and ashes4 ,if ,i count myself more1 behold ,thou standest against me1 and my iniquities bear true testimony1 and ,i cannot gainsay it4 ,but if ,i abase myself1 and bring myself to nought1 and shrink from all self-esteem1 and grind myself to dust1 which ,i am1 ,thy grace will be favourable unto me1 and ,thy light will be near unto my heart2 and all self-esteem1 how little soever it be1 shall be swallowed up in the depths of my nothingness1 and shall perish for ever4 ,there ,thou showest to me myself1 what ,i am1 what ,i was1 and whither ,i have come3 so foolish was ,i and ignorant47#a7 ,if ,i am left to myself1 behold ,i am nothing1 ,i am all weakness2 but if suddenly ,thou look upon me1 immediately ,i am made strong1 and filled with new joy4 ,and it is great marvel that ,i am so suddenly lifted up1 and so graciously embraced by ,thee1 since ,i am always being carried to the deep by my own weight4 #b4 ,this is the doing of ,thy love which freely goeth before me and succoureth me in so many necessities1 which guardeth me also in great dangers and snatcheth me1 as ,i may truly say1 from innumerable evils4 ,for verily1 by loving myself amiss1 ,i lost myself1 and by seeking and sincerely loving ,thee alone1 ,i found both myself and ,thee1 and through love ,i have brought myself to yet deeper nothingness3 because ,thou1 ,o most sweet ,lord1 dealest with me beyond all merit1 and above all which ,i dare ask or think4 #c4 ,blessed be ,thou1 ,o my ,god1 because though ,i be unworthy of all ,thy benefits1 ,thy bountiful and infinite goodness never ceaseth to do good even to ingrates and to those who are turned far from ,thee4 ,turn ,thou us unto ,thyself1 that we may be grateful1 humble1 and godly1 for ,thou art our salvation1 our courage1 and our strength4 7#a7 ,psalm lxxiii4 #bb4 ,,chapter ,,ix ,that all things are to be referred to ,god1 as the final end 8,my ,son1 ,i must be thy ,supreme and final end1 if thou desirest to be truly happy4 ,out of such purpose thy affection shall be purified1 which too often is sinfully bent upon itself and upon created things4 ,for if thou seekest thyself in any matter1 straightway thou wilt fail within thyself and grow barren4 ,therefore refer everything to ,me first of all1 for it is ,i who gave thee all4 ,so look upon each blessing as flowing from the ,supreme ,good1 and thus all things are to be attributed to ,me as their source4 #b4 8,from ,me the humble and great1 the poor and the rich1 draw water as from a living fountain1 and those who serve ,me with a free and faithful spirit shall receive grace for grace4 ,but he who will glory apart from ,me1 or will be delighted with any good which lieth in himself1 shall not be established in true joy1 nor shall be enlarged in heart1 but shall be greatly hindered and thrown into tribulation4 ,therefore thou must not ascribe any good to thyself1 nor look upon virtue as belonging to any man1 but ascribe it all unto ,god1 without whom man hath nothing4 ,i gave all1 ,i will receive all again1 and with great strictness require ,i the giving of thanks4 #c4 8,this is the ,truth1 and by it the vanity of boasting is put to flight4 ,and if heavenly grace and true charity shall enter into thee1 there shall be no envy1 nor straitening of the heart1 nor shall any self-love take possession of thee4 ,for divine charity conquereth all things1 and enlargeth all the powers of the soul4 ,if thou art truly wise1 thou wilt rejoice in ,me alone1 thou wilt hope in ,me alone2 for there is none good but one1 that is ,god17#a7 ,who is to be praised above all things1 and in all things to receive blessing40 7#a7 ,luke xviii4 #ai4 ,,chapter ,x ,that it is sweet to despise the world and to serve ,god ,now will ,i speak again1 ,o my ,lord1 and hold not my peace2 ,i will say in the ears of my ,god1 my ,lord1 and my ,king1 who is exalted above all1 ,oh how plentiful is ,thy goodness which ,thou hast laid up for them that fear ,thee67#a7 ,but what art ,thou to those who love ,thee8 ,what to those who serve ,thee with their whole heart8 ,truly unspeakable is the sweetness of the contemplation of ,thee1 which ,thou bestowest upon those who love ,thee4 ,in this most of all ,thou hast showed me the sweetness of ,thy charity1 that when ,i was not1 ,thou madest me1 and when ,i wandered far from ,thee1 ,thou broughtest me back that ,i might serve ,thee1 and commandedst me to love ,thee4 #b4 ,o ,fountain of perpetual love1 what shall ,i say concerning ,thee8 ,how shall ,i be unmindful of ,thee1 who didst vouchsafe to remember me1 even after ,i pined away and perished8 ,thou hast had mercy beyond all hope upon ,thy servant1 and hast showed ,thy grace and friendship beyond all deserving4 ,what reward shall ,i render ,thee for this ,thy grace8 ,for it is not given unto all to renounce this world and its affairs1 and to take up a religious life4 ,for is it a great thing that ,i should serve ,thee1 whom every creature ought to serve8 ,it ought not to seem a great thing to me to serve ,thee2 but rather this appeareth to me a great and wonderful thing1 that ,thou vouchsafest to receive as ,thy servant one so poor and unworthy1 and to join him unto ,thy chosen servants4 #c4 ,behold all things which ,i have are ,thine1 and with them ,i serve ,thee4 ,and yet verily it is ,thou who servest me1 rather than ,i ,thee4 ,behold the heaven and the earth which ,thou hast created for the service of men2 they are at ,thy bidding1 and perform daily whatsoever ,thou dost command4 ,yea1 and this is little2 for ,thou hast even ordained the ,angels for the service of man4 ,but it surpasseth even all these things1 that ,thou ,thyself didst vouchsafe to minister unto man1 and didst promise that ,thou wouldest give ,thyself unto him4 #d4 ,what shall ,i render unto ,thee for all these ,thy manifold mercies8 ,oh that ,i were able to serve ,thee all the days of my life6 ,oh that even for one day ,i were enabled to do ,thee service worthy of ,thyself6 ,for verily ,thou art worthy of all service1 all honour1 and praise without end4 ,verily ,thou art my ,god1 and ,i am ,thy poor servant1 who am bound to serve ,thee with all my strength1 nor ought ,i ever to grow weary of ,thy praise4 ,this is my wish1 this is my exceeding great desire1 and whatsoever is lacking to me1 vouchsafe ,thou to supply4 #e4 ,it is great honour1 great glory to serve ,thee1 and to despise all for ,thy sake4 ,for they shall have great grace who of their own will shall submit themselves to ,thy most holy service4 ,they who for ,thy love have cast away every carnal delight shall find the sweetest consolation of the ,holy ,ghost4 ,they who enter the narrow way of life for ,thy ,name's sake1 and have put away all worldly cares1 shall attain great liberty of spirit4 #f4 ,oh grateful and delightsome service of ,god1 whereby man is made truly free and holy6 ,oh sacred condition of the religious servant1 which maketh man equal to the ,angels1 well-pleasing unto ,god1 terrible to evil spirits1 and acceptable to all faithful ones6 ,oh service to be embraced and ever desired1 in which the highest good is promised1 and joy is gained which shall remain for evermore6 7#a7 ,psalm xxxi4 #ai4 ,,chapter ,,xi ,that the desires of the heart are to be examined and governed 8,my ,son1 thou hast still many things to learn1 which thou hast not well learned yet40 #b4 ,what are they1 ,lord8 #c4 8,to place thy desire altogether in subjection to ,my good pleasure1 and not to be a lover of thyself1 but an earnest seeker of ,my will4 ,thy desires often excite and urge thee forward2 but consider with thyself whether thou art not more moved for thine own objects than for ,my honour4 ,if it is ,myself that thou seekest1 thou shalt be well content with whatsoever ,i shall ordain2 but if any pursuit of thine own lieth hidden within thee1 behold it is this which hindereth and weigheth thee down4 #d4 8,beware1 therefore1 lest thou strive too earnestly after some desire which thou hast conceived1 without taking counsel of ,me2 lest haply it repent thee afterwards1 and that displease thee which before pleased1 and for which thou didst long as for a great good4 ,for not every affection which seemeth good is to be forthwith followed2 neither is every opposite affection to be immediately avoided4 ,sometimes it is expedient to use restraint even in good desires and wishes1 lest through importunity thou fall into distraction of mind1 lest through want of discipline thou become a stumbling-block to others1 or lest by the resistance of others thou be suddenly disturbed and brought to confusion4 #e4 8,sometimes1 indeed1 it is needful to use violence1 and manfully to strive against the sensual appetite1 and not to consider what the flesh may or not will2 but rather to strive after this1 that it may become subject1 however unwillingly1 to the spirit4 ,and for so long it ought to be chastised and compelled to undergo slavery1 even until it be ready for all things1 and learn to be contented with little1 to be delighted with things simple1 and never to murmur at any inconvenience40 ,,chapter ,,xii ,of the inward growth of patience1 and of the struggle against evil desires ,o ,lord ,god1 ,i see that patience is very necessary unto me2 for many things in this life fall out contrary4 ,for howsoever ,i may have contrived for my peace1 my life cannot go on without strife and trouble4 #b4 8,thou speakest truly1 ,my ,son4 ,for ,i will not that thou seek such a peace as is without trials1 and knoweth no adversities2 but rather that thou shouldest judge thyself to have found peace1 when thou art tried with manifold tribulations1 and proved by many adversities4 ,if thou shalt say that thou art not able to bear much1 how then wilt thou sustain the fire hereafter8 ,of two evils we should always choose the less4 ,therefore1 that thou mayest escape eternal torments hereafter1 strive on ,god's behalf to endure present evils bravely4 ,thinkest thou that the children of this world suffer nought1 or but little8 ,thou wilt not find it so1 even though thou find out the most prosperous4 #c4 8#8,but1' thou wilt say1 #8they have many delights1 and they follow their own wills1 and thus they bear lightly their tribulations4' #d4 8,be it so1 grant that they have what they list2 but how long1 thinkest thou1 will it last8 ,behold1 like the smoke those who are rich in this world will pass away1 and no record shall remain of their past joys4 ,yea1 even while they yet live1 they rest not without bitterness and weariness and fear4 ,for from the very same thing wherein they find delight1 thence they oftentimes have the punishment of sorrow4 ,justly it befalleth them1 that because out of measure they seek out and pursue pleasures1 they enjoy them not without confusion and bitterness4 ,oh how short1 how false1 how inordinate and wicked are all these pleasures6 ,yet because of their sottishness and blindness men do not understand2 but like brute beasts1 for the sake of a little pleasure of this corruptible life1 they incur death of the soul4 ,thou therefore1 my son1 go not after thy lusts1 but refrain thyself from thine appetites47#a7 ,delight thou in the ,lord1 and ,he shall give thee thy heart's desire47#b7 #e4 8,for if thou wilt truly find delight1 and be abundantly comforted of ,me1 behold in the contempt of all worldly things and in the avoidance of all worthless pleasures shall be thy blessing1 and fulness of consolation shall be given thee4 ,and the more thou withdrawest thyself from all solace of creatures1 the more sweet and powerful consolations shalt thou find4 ,but at the first thou shalt not attain to them1 without some sorrow and hard striving4 ,long-accustomed habit will oppose1 but it shall be overcome by better habit4 ,the flesh will murmur again and again1 but will be restrained by fervour of spirit4 ,the old serpent will urge and embitter thee1 but will be put to flight by prayer2 moreover1 by useful labour his entrance will be greatly obstructed40 7#a7 ,ecclesiastes xviii4 #cj4 7#b7 ,psalm xxxvii4 #d4 ,,chapter ,,xiii ,of the obedience of one in lowly subjection after the example of ,jesus ,christ 8,my ,son1 he who striveth to withdraw himself from obedience1 withdraweth himself also from grace1 and he who seeketh private advantages1 loseth those which are common unto all4 ,if a man submit not freely and willingly to one set over him1 it is a sign that his flesh is not yet perfectly subject to himself1 but often resisteth and murmureth4 ,learn therefore quickly to submit thyself to him who is over thee1 if thou seekest to bring thine own flesh into subjection4 ,for the outward enemy is very quickly overcome if the inner man have not been laid low4 ,there is no more grievous and deadly enemy to the soul than thou art to thyself1 if thou art not led by the ,spirit4 ,thou must not altogether conceive contempt for thyself1 if thou wilt prevail against flesh and blood4 ,because as yet thou inordinately lovest thyself1 therefore thou shrinkest from yielding thyself to the will of others4 #b4 8,but what great thing is it that thou1 who art dust and nothingness1 yieldest thyself to man for ,god's sake1 when ,i1 the ,almighty and the ,most ,high1 who created all things out of nothing1 subjected ,myself to man for thy sake8 ,i became the most humble and despised of men1 that by ,my humility thou mightest overcome thy pride4 ,learn to obey1 ,o dust6 ,learn to humble thyself1 ,o earth and clay1 and to bow thyself beneath the feet of all4 ,learn to crush thy passions1 and to yield thyself in all subjection4 #c4 8,be zealous against thyself1 nor suffer pride to live within thee1 but so show thyself subject and of no reputation1 that all may be able to walk over thee1 and tread thee down as the clay in the streets4 ,what hast thou1 ,o foolish man1 of which to complain8 ,what1 ,o vile sinner1 canst thou answer those who speak against thee1 seeing thou hast so often offended ,god1 and many a time hast deserved hell8 ,but ,mine eye hath spared thee1 because thy soul was precious in ,my sight2 that thou mightest know ,my love1 and mightest be thankful for ,my benefits2 and that thou mightest give thyself altogether to true subjection and humility1 and patiently bear the contempt which thou meritest40 ,,chapter ,,xiv ,of meditation upon the hidden judgments of ,god1 that we may not be lifted up because of our well-doing ,thou sendest forth ,thy judgments against me1 ,o ,lord1 and shakest all my bones with fear and trembling1 and my soul trembleth exceedingly4 ,i stand astonished1 and remember that the heavens are not clean in thy sight47#a7 ,if ,thou chargest ,thine angels with folly1 and didst spare them not1 how shall it be unto me8 ,stars have fallen from heaven1 and what shall ,i dare who am but dust8 ,they whose works seemed to be praiseworthy1 fell into the lowest depths1 and they who did eat ,angels' food1 them have ,i seen delighted with the husks that the swine do eat4 #b4 ,there is therefore no holiness1 if ,thou ,o ,lord1 withdraw ,thine hand4 ,no wisdom profiteth1 if ,thou leave off to guide the helm4 ,no strength availeth1 if ,thou cease to preserve4 ,no purity is secure1 if ,thou protect it not4 ,no self-keeping availeth1 if ,thy holy watching be not there4 ,for when we are left alone we are swallowed up and perish1 but when we are visited1 we are raised up1 and we live4 ,for indeed we are unstable1 but are made strong through ,thee2 we grow cold1 but are rekindled by ,thee4 #c4 ,oh1 how humbly and abjectly must ,i reckon of myself1 how must ,i weigh it as nothing1 if ,i seem to have nothing good6 ,oh1 how profoundly ought ,i to submit myself to ,thy unfathomable judgments1 ,o ,lord1 when ,i find myself nothing else save nothing1 and again nothing6 ,oh weight unmeasurable1 oh ocean which cannot be crossed over1 where ,i find nothing of myself save nothing altogether6 ,where1 then1 is the hiding-place of glory1 where the confidence begotten of virtue8 ,all vain-glory is swallowed up in the depths of ,thy judgments against me4 #d4 ,what is all flesh in ,thy sight8 ,for how shall the clay boast against ,him that fashioned it87#b7 ,how can he be lifted up in vain speech whose heart is subjected in truth to ,god8 ,the whole world shall not lift him up whom ,truth hath subdued2 nor shall he be moved by the mouth of all who praise him1 who hath placed all his hope in ,god4 ,for they themselves who speak1 behold1 they are all nothing2 for they shall cease with the sound of their words1 but the truth of the ,lord endureth for ever47#c7 7#a7 ,job xv4 #ae4 7#b7 ,isaiah xxix4 #af4 7#c7 ,psalm cxvii4 #b4 ,,chapter ,,xv ,how we must stand and speak1 in everything that we desire 8,my ,son1 speak thou thus in every matter1 #8,lord1 if it please ,thee1 let this come to pass4 ,lord1 if this shall be for ,thine honour1 let it be done in ,thy ,name4 ,lord1 if thou see it good for me1 and approve it as useful1 then grant me to use it for ,thy honour4 ,but if thou knowest that it shall be hurtful unto me1 and not profitable for the health of my soul1 take the desire away from me'6 ,for not every desire is from the ,holy ,ghost1 although it appear to a man right and good4 ,it is difficult to judge with certainty whether a good or an evil spirit move thee to desire this or that1 or whether thou art moved by thine own spirit4 ,many have been deceived at the last1 who seemed at the beginning to be moved by a good spirit4 #b4 8,therefore1 whatsoever seemeth to thee desirable1 thou must always desire and seek after it with the fear of ,god and humility of heart1 and most of all1 must altogether resign thyself1 and commit all unto ,me and say1 #8,lord1 thou knowest what is best2 let this or that be1 according as ,thou wilt4 ,give what ,thou wilt1 so much as ,thou wilt1 when ,thou wilt4 ,do with me as ,thou knowest best1 and as best shall please ,thee1 and as shall be most to ,thine honour4 ,place me where ,thou wilt1 and freely work ,thy will with me in all things4 ,i am in ,thine hand1 and turn me in my course4 ,behold1 ,i am ,thy servant1 ready for all things2 for ,i desire to live not to myself but to ,thee4 ,oh1 that ,i might live worthily and perfectly4'0 ,a ,,prayer ,,to ,,be ,,enabled ,,to ,,do ,,god',s ,,will ,,perfectly #c4 ,grant me ,thy grace1 most merciful ,jesus1 that it may be with me1 and work in me1 and persevere with me1 even unto the end4 ,grant that ,i may ever desire and wish whatsoever is most pleasing and dear unto ,thee4 ,let ,thy will be mine1 and let my will alway follow ,thine1 and entirely accord with it4 ,may ,i choose and reject whatsoever ,thou dost2 yea1 let it be impossible for me to choose or reject except according to ,thy will4 #d4 ,grant that ,i may die to all worldly things1 and for ,thy sake love to be despised and unknown in this world4 ,grant unto me1 above all things that ,i can desire1 to rest in ,thee1 and that in ,thee my heart may be at peace4 ,thou art the true peace of the heart1 ,thou alone its rest2 apart from ,thee all things are hard and unquiet4 ,in ,thee alone1 the supreme and eternal ,god1 ,i will lay me down in peace and take my rest47#a7 ,amen4 7#a7 ,psalm iv4 #h4 ,,chapter ,,xvi ,that true solace is to be sought in ,god alone ,whatsoever ,i am able to desire or to think of for my solace1 ,i look for it not here1 but hereafter4 ,for if ,i alone had all the solaces of this world1 and were able to enjoy all its delights1 it is certain that they could not endure long4 ,wherefore1 ,o my soul1 thou canst be fully comforted and perfectly refreshed1 only in ,god1 the ,comforter of the poor1 and the lifter up of the humble4 ,wait but a little while1 my soul1 wait for the ,divine promise1 and thou shalt have abundance of all good things in heaven4 ,if thou longest too inordinately for the things which are now1 thou shalt lose those which are eternal and heavenly4 ,let temporal things be in the use1 eternal things in the desire4 ,thou canst not be satisfied with any temporal good1 for thou wast not created for the enjoyment of these4 #b4 ,although thou hadst all the good things which ever were created1 yet couldst not thou be happy and blessed2 all thy blessedness and thy felicity lieth in ,god who created all things2 not such felicity as seemeth good to the foolish lover of the world1 but such as ,christ's good and faithful servants wait for1 and as the spiritual and pure in heart sometimes taste1 whose conversation is in heaven47#a7 ,all human solace is empty and short-lived2 blessed and true is that solace which is felt inwardly1 springing from the truth4 ,the godly man everywhere beareth about with him his own ,comforter1 ,jesus1 and saith unto ,him3 8,be with me1 ,lord ,jesus1 always and everywhere4 ,let it be my comfort to be able to give up cheerfully all human comfort4 ,and if ,thy consolation fail me1 let ,thy will and righteous approval be alway with me for the highest comfort4 ,for ,thou wilt not always be chiding1 neither keepest ,thou ,thine anger for ever407#b7 7#a7 ,philippians iii4 #bj4 7#b7 ,psalm ciii4 #i4 ,,chapter ,,xvii ,that all care is to be cast upon ,god 8,my ,son1 suffer me to do with thee what ,i will2 ,i know what is expedient for thee4 ,thou thinkest as a man1 in many things thou judgest as human affection persuadeth thee40 #b4 ,lord1 what ,thou sayest is true4 ,greater is ,thy care for me than all the care which ,i am able to take for myself4 ,for too insecurely doth he stand who casteth not all his care upon ,thee4 ,lord1 so long as my will standeth right and firm in ,thee1 do with me what ,thou wilt1 for whatsoever ,thou shalt do with me cannot be aught but good4 ,blessed be ,thou if ,thou wilt leave me in darkness3 blessed also be ,thou if ,thou wilt leave me in light4 ,blessed be ,thou if ,thou vouchsafe to comfort me1 and always blessed be ,thou if ,thou cause me to be troubled4 #c4 8,my ,son6 even thus thou must stand if thou desirest to walk with ,me4 ,thou must be ready alike for suffering or rejoicing4 ,thou must be poor and needy as willingly as full and rich40 #d4 ,lord1 ,i will willingly bear for ,thee whatsoever ,thou wilt have to come upon me4 ,without choice ,i will receive from ,thy hand good and evil1 sweet and bitter1 joy and sadness1 and will give ,thee thanks for all things which shall happen unto me4 ,keep me from all sin1 and ,i will not fear death nor hell4 ,only cast me not away for ever1 nor blot me out of the book of life4 ,then no tribulation which shall come upon me shall do me hurt4 ,,chapter ,,xviii ,that temporal miseries are to be borne patiently after the example of ,christ 8,my ,son6 ,i came down from heaven for thy salvation2 ,i took upon ,me thy miseries not of necessity1 but drawn by love that thou mightest learn patience and mightest bear temporal miseries without murmuring4 ,for from the hour of ,my birth1 until ,my death upon the ,cross1 ,i ceased not from bearing of sorrow2 ,i had much lack of temporal things2 ,i oftentimes heard many reproaches against ,myself2 ,i gently bore contradictions and hard words2 ,i received ingratitude for benefits1 blasphemies for ,my miracles1 rebukes for ,my doctrine40 #b4 ,lord1 because ,thou wast patient in ,thy life1 herein most of all fulfilling the commandment of ,thy ,father1 it is well that ,i1 miserable sinner1 should patiently bear myself according to ,thy will1 and as long as ,thou wilt have it so1 should bear about with me for my salvation1 the burden of this corruptible life4 ,for although the present life seemeth burdensome1 it is nevertheless already made very full of merit through ,thy grace1 and to those who are weak it becometh easier and brighter through ,thy example and the footsteps of ,thy saints2 but it is also much more full of consolation than it was of old1 under the old ,testament1 when the gate of heaven remained shut2 and even the way to heaven seemed more obscure when so few cared to seek after the heavenly kingdom4 ,but not even those who were then just and in the way of salvation were able1 before ,thy ,passion and the ransom of ,thy holy ,death1 to enter the kingdom of heaven4 #c4 ,oh what great thanks am ,i bound to give ,thee1 who hast vouchsafed to show me and all faithful people the good and right way to ,thine eternal kingdom1 for ,thy way is our way1 and by holy patience we walk to ,thee who art our ,crown4 ,if ,thou hadst not gone before and taught us1 who would care to follow8 ,oh1 how far would they have gone backward if they had not beheld ,thy glorious example6 ,behold we are still lukewarm1 though we have heard of ,thy many signs and discourses2 what would become of us if we had not such a light to help us follow ,thee8 ,,chapter ,,xix ,of bearing injuries1 and who shall be approved as truly patient 8,what sayest thou1 ,my ,son8 ,cease to complain2 consider ,my suffering and that of ,my saints4 ,thou hast not yet resisted unto blood47#a7 ,it is little which thou sufferest in comparison with those who have suffered so many things1 have been so strongly tempted1 so grievously troubled1 so manywise proved and tried4 ,thou oughtest therefore to call to mind the more grievous sufferings of others that thou mightest bear thy lesser ones more easily1 and if they seem not to thee little1 see that it is not thy impatience which is the cause of this4 ,but whether they be little or whether they be great1 study to bear them all with patience4 #b4 8,so far as thou settest thyself to bear patiently1 so far thou dost wisely and art deserving of the more merit2 thou shalt also bear the more easily if thy mind and habit are carefully trained hereunto4 ,and say not #8,i cannot bear these things from such a man1 nor are things of this kind to be borne by me1 for he hath done me grievous harm and imputeth to me what ,i had never thought3 but from another ,i will suffer patiently1 such things as ,i see ,i ought to suffer4' ,foolish is such a thought as this1 for it considereth not the virtue of patience1 nor by whom that virtue is to be crowned1 but it rather weigheth persons and offences against self4 #c4 8,he is not truly patient who will only suffer as far as seemeth right to himself and from whom he pleaseth4 ,but the truly patient man considereth not by what man he is tried1 whether by one above him1 or by an equal or inferior1 whether by a good and holy man1 or a perverse and unworthy2 but indifferently from every creature1 whatsoever or how often soever adversity happeneth to him1 he gratefully accepteth all from the hand of ,god and counteth it great gain3 for with ,god nothing which is borne for ,his sake1 however small1 shall lose its reward4 #d4 8,be thou therefore ready for the fight if thou wilt have the victory4 ,without striving thou canst not win the crown of patience2 if thou wilt not suffer thou refusest to be crowned4 ,but if thou desirest to be crowned1 strive manfully1 endure patiently4 ,without labour thou drawest not near to rest1 nor without fighting comest thou to victory40 #e4 ,make possible to me1 ,o ,lord1 by grace what seemeth impossible to me by nature4 ,thou knowest how little ,i am able to bear1 and how quickly ,i am cast down when a like adversity riseth up against me4 ,whatsoever trial of tribulation may come to me1 may it become unto me pleasing and acceptable1 for to suffer and be vexed for ,thy sake is exceeding healthful to the soul4 7#a7 ,hebrews xii4 #d4 ,,chapter ,,xx ,of confession of our infirmity and of the miseries of this life ,i will acknowledge my sin unto ,thee27#a7 ,i will confess to ,thee1 ,lord1 my infirmity4 ,it is often a small thing which casteth me down and maketh me sad4 ,i resolve that ,i will act bravely1 but when a little temptation cometh1 immediately ,i am in a great strait4 ,wonderfully small sometimes is the matter whence a grievous temptation cometh1 and whilst ,i imagine myself safe for a little space2 when ,i am not considering1 ,i find myself often almost overcome by a little puff of wind4 #b4 ,behold1 therefore1 ,o ,lord1 my humility and my frailty1 which is altogether known to ,thee4 ,be merciful unto me1 and draw me out of the mire that ,i sink not17#b7 lest ,i ever remain cast down4 ,this is what frequently throweth me backward and confoundeth me before ,thee1 that ,i am so liable to fall1 so weak to resist my passions4 ,and though their assault is not altogether according to my will1 it is violent and grievous1 and it altogether wearieth me to live thus daily in conflict4 ,herein is my infirmity made known to me1 that hateful fancies always rush in far more easily than they depart4 #c4 ,oh that ,thou1 most mighty ,god of ,israel1 ,lover of all faithful souls1 wouldst look upon the labour and sorrow of ,thy servant1 and give him help in all things whereunto he striveth4 ,strengthen me with heavenly fortitude1 lest the old man1 this miserable flesh1 not being yet fully subdued to the spirit1 prevail to rule over me2 against which ,i ought to strive so long as ,i remain in this most miserable life4 ,oh what a life is this1 where tribulations and miseries cease not1 where all things are full of snares and of enemies1 for when one tribulation or temptation goeth1 another cometh1 yea1 while the former conflict is yet raging others come more in number and unexpected4 #d4 ,and how can the life of man be loved1 seeing that it hath so many bitter things1 that it is subjected to so many calamities and miseries4 ,how can it be even called life1 when it produces so many deaths and plagues8 ,the world is often reproached because it is deceitful and vain1 yet notwithstanding it is not easily given up1 because the lusts of the flesh have too much rule over it4 ,some draw us to love1 some to hate4 ,the lust of the flesh1 the lust of the eyes1 and the pride of life1 these draw to love of the world2 but the punishments and miseries which righteously follow these things1 bring forth hatred of the world and weariness4 #e4 ,but1 alas6 an evil desire conquereth a mind given to the world1 and thinketh it happiness to be under the nettles7#c7 because it savoureth not nor perceiveth the sweetness of ,god nor the inward gracefulness of virtue4 ,but they who perfectly despise the world and strive to live unto ,god in holy discipline1 these are not ignorant of the divine sweetness promised to all who truly deny themselves and see clearly how grievously the world erreth1 and in how many ways it is deceived4 7#a7 ,psalm xxxii4 #e4 7#b7 ,psalm lxix4 #ad4 7#c7 ,job xxx4 #g4 ,,chapter ,,xxi ,that we must rest in ,god above all goods and gifts ,above all things and in all things thou shalt rest alway in the ,lord1 ,o my soul1 for he himself is the eternal rest of the saints4 ,grant me1 most sweet and loving ,jesus1 to rest in ,thee above every creature1 above all health and beauty1 above all glory and honour1 above all power and dignity1 above all knowledge and skilfulness1 above all riches and arts1 above all joy and exultation1 above all fame and praise1 above all sweetness and consolation1 above all hope and promise1 above all merit and desire1 above all gifts and rewards which ,thou canst give and pour forth1 above all joy and jubilation which the mind is able to receive and feel2 in a word1 above ,angels and ,archangels and all the army of heaven1 above all things visible and invisible1 and above everything which ,thou1 ,o my ,god1 art not4 #b4 ,for ,thou1 ,o ,lord1 my ,god1 art best above all things2 ,thou only art the ,most ,high1 ,thou only the ,almighty1 ,thou only the ,all-sufficient1 and the ,fulness of all things2 ,thou only the ,all-delightsome and the ,all-comforting2 ,thou alone the altogether lovely and altogether loving2 ,thou alone the ,most ,exalted and ,most ,glorious above all things2 in ,whom all things are1 and were1 and ever shall be1 altogether and all-perfect4 ,and thus it falleth short and is insufficient whatsoever ,thou givest to me without ,thyself or whatsoever ,thou revealest or dost promise concerning ,thyself1 whilst ,thou art not seen or fully possessed3 since verily my heart cannot truly rest nor be entirely content1 except it rest in ,thee1 and go beyond all gifts and every creature4 #c4 ,o my most beloved ,spouse1 ,jesus ,christ1 most holy lover of my soul1 ,ruler of this whole ,creation1 who shall give me the wings of true liberty1 that ,i may flee to ,thee and find rest8 ,oh when shall it be given me to be open to receive ,thee to the full1 and to see how sweet ,thou art1 ,o ,lord my ,god8 ,when shall ,i collect myself altogether in ,thee1 that because of ,thy love ,i may not feel myself at all1 but may know ,thee only above every sense and measure1 in measure not known to others4 ,but now ,i ofttimes groan1 and bear my sad estate with sorrow2 because many evils befall me in this vale of miseries which continually disturb and fill me with sorrow1 and encloud me1 continually hinder and fill me with care1 allure and entangle me1 that ,i cannot have free access to ,thee1 nor enjoy that sweet intercourse which is always near at hand to the blessed spirits4 ,let my deep sighing come before ,thee1 and my manifold desolation on the earth4 #d4 ,o ,jesus1 ,light of ,eternal ,glory1 solace of the wandering soul1 before ,thee my mouth is without speech1 and my silence speaketh to ,thee4 ,how long will my ,lord delay to come unto me8 ,let ,him come unto me1 ,his poor and humble one1 and make me glad4 ,let ,him put forth ,his hand1 and deliver ,his holy one from every snare4 ,come1 ,oh come2 for without ,thee shall be no joyful day or hour1 for ,thou art my joy1 and without ,thee is my table empty4 ,i am miserable1 and in a manner imprisoned and loaded with fetters1 until ,thou refresh me by the light of ,thy presence1 and give me liberty1 and show ,thy loving countenance4 #e4 ,let others seek some other thing instead of ,thee1 whatsoever it shall please them2 but for my part nothing else pleaseth or shall please1 save ,thou1 my ,god1 my hope1 my eternal salvation4 ,i will not hold my peace1 nor cease to implore1 until ,thy grace return1 and until ,thou speak to me within4 #f4 8,behold1 here ,i am6 ,behold1 ,i come to thee1 for thou didst call ,me4 ,thy tears and the longing of thy soul1 thy humbleness and contrition of heart have inclined ,me1 and brought ,me to thee40 #g4 ,and ,i said ,lord1 ,i have called upon ,thee1 and ,i have longed to enjoy ,thee1 being ready to reject everything for ,thy sake4 ,for ,thou didst first move me to seek ,thee4 ,therefore1 blessed be ,thou1 ,o ,lord1 who has wrought this good work upon ,thy servant1 according to the multitude of ,thy mercy4 ,what then hath ,thy servant to say in ,thy presence1 save to humble himself greatly before ,thee1 being alway mindful of his own iniquity and vileness4 ,for there is none like unto ,thee in all marvels of heaven and earth4 ,excellent are ,thy works1 true are ,thy judgments1 and by ,thy ,providence are all things governed4 ,therefore praise and glory be unto ,thee1 ,o ,wisdom of the ,father1 let my mouth and my soul and all created things praise and bless ,thee together4 ,,chapter ,,xxii ,of the recollection of ,god's manifold benefits ,open1 ,o ,lord1 my heart in ,thy law1 and teach me to walk in the way of ,thy commandments4 ,grant me to understand ,thy will and to be mindful of ,thy benefits1 both general and special1 with great reverence and diligent meditation1 that thus ,i may be able worthily to give ,thee thanks4 ,yet ,i know and confess that ,i cannot render ,thee due praises for the least of ,thy mercies4 ,i am less than the least of all the good things which ,thou gavest me2 and when ,i consider ,thy majesty1 my spirit faileth because of the greatness thereof4 #b4 ,all things which we have in the soul and in the body1 and whatsoever things we possess1 whether outwardly or inwardly1 naturally or supernaturally1 are ,thy good gifts1 and prove ,thee1 from whom we have received them all1 to be good1 gentle1 and kind4 ,although one receiveth many things1 and another fewer1 yet all are ,thine1 and without ,thee not even the least thing can be possessed4 ,he who hath received greater cannot boast that it is of his own merit1 nor lift himself up above others1 nor contemn those beneath him2 for he is the greater and the better who ascribeth least to himself1 and in giving thanks is the humbler and more devout2 and he who holdeth himself to be viler than all1 and judgeth himself to be the more unworthy1 is the apter for receiving greater things4 #c4 ,but he who hath received fewer gifts1 ought not to be cast down1 nor to take it amiss1 nor to envy him who is richer2 but rather ought he to look unto ,thee1 and to greatly extol ,thy goodness1 for ,thou pourest forth ,thy gifts so richly1 so freely and largely1 without respect of persons4 ,all things come of ,thee2 therefore in all things shalt thou be praised4 ,thou knowest what is best to be given to each2 and why this man hath less1 and that more1 is not for us but for ,thee to understand1 for unto ,thee each man's deservings are fully known4 #d4 ,wherefore1 ,o ,lord ,god1 ,i reckon it even a great benefit1 not to have many things1 whence praise and glory may appear outwardly1 and after the thought of men4 ,for so it is that he who considereth his own poverty and vileness1 ought not only to draw therefrom no grief or sorrow1 or sadness of spirit1 but rather comfort and cheerfulness2 because ,thou1 ,lord1 hast chosen the poor and humble1 and those who are poor in this world1 to be ,thy friends and acquaintance4 ,so give all ,thine apostles witness whom ,thou hast made princes in all lands4 ,yet they had their conversation in this world blameless1 so humble and meek1 without any malice or deceit1 that they even rejoiced to suffer rebukes for ,thy ,name's sake17#a7 and what things the world hateth1 they embraced with great joy4 #e4 ,therefore ought nothing so much to rejoice him who loveth ,thee and knoweth ,thy benefits1 as ,thy will in him1 and the good pleasure of ,thine eternal ,providence1 wherewith he ought to be so contented and comforted1 that he would as willingly be the least as any other would be the greatest1 as peaceable and contented in the lowest as in the highest place1 and as willingly held of small and low account and of no name or reputation as to be more honourable and greater in the world than others4 ,for ,thy will and the love of ,thine honour ought to go before all things1 and to please and comfort him more1 than all benefits that are given or may be given to himself4 7#a7 ,acts v4 #da4 ,,chapter ,,xxiii ,of four things which bring great peace 8,my ,son1 now will ,i teach thee the way of peace and of true liberty40 #b4 ,do1 ,o my ,lord1 as ,thou sayest1 for this is pleasing unto me to hear4 #c4 8,strive1 ,my ,son1 to do another's will rather than thine own4 ,choose always to have less rather than more4 ,seek always after the lowest place1 and to be subject to all4 ,wish always and pray that the will of ,god be fulfilled in thee4 ,behold1 such a man as this entereth into the inheritance of peace and quietness40 #d4 ,o my ,lord1 this ,thy short discourse hath in itself much of perfectness4 ,it is short in words but full of meaning1 and abundant in fruit4 ,for if it were possible that ,i should fully keep it1 disturbance would not so easily arise within me4 ,for as often as ,i feel myself disquieted and weighed down1 ,i find myself to have gone back from this teaching4 ,but ,thou1 ,who art ,almighty1 and always lovest progress in the soul1 vouchsafe more grace1 that ,i may be enabled to fulfil ,thy exhortation1 and work out my salvation4 ,a ,,prayer ,,against ,,evil ,,thoughts #e4 ,o ,lord my ,god1 be not ,thou far from me1 my ,god1 haste ,thee to help me17#a7 for many thoughts and great fears have risen up against me1 afflicting my soul4 ,how shall ,i pass through them unhurt8 how shall ,i break through them8 #f4 8,i10 saith ,he1 8will go before thee1 and make the crooked places straight407#b7 ,i will open the prison doors1 and reveal to thee the secret places4 #g4 ,do1 ,lord1 as ,thou sayest2 and let all evil thoughts fly away before ,thy face4 ,this is my hope and my only comfort1 to fly unto ,thee in all tribulation1 to hope in ,thee1 to call upon ,thee from my heart and patiently wait for ,thy loving kindness4 ,a ,,prayer ,,for ,,enlightenment ,,of ,,the ,,mind #h4 ,enlighten me1 ,blessed ,jesus1 with the brightness of ,thy inner light1 and cast forth all darkness from the habitation of my heart4 ,restrain my many wandering thoughts1 and carry away the temptations which strive to do me hurt4 ,fight ,thou mightily for me1 and drive forth the evil beasts1 so call ,i alluring lusts1 that peace may be within ,thy walls and plenteousness of praise within ,thy palaces17#c7 even in my pure conscience4 ,command ,thou the winds and the storms1 say unto the sea1 8,be still10 say unto the stormy wind1 8,hold thy peace10 so shall there be a great calm4 #i4 ,oh send forth ,thy light and ,thy truth17#d7 that they may shine upon the earth2 for ,i am but earth without form and void until ,thou give me light4 ,pour forth ,thy grace from above2 water my heart with the dew of heaven2 give the waters of devotion to water the face of the earth1 and cause it to bring forth good and perfect fruit4 ,lift up my mind which is oppressed with the weight of sins1 and raise my whole desire to heavenly things2 that having tasted the sweetness of the happiness which is from above1 it may take no pleasure in thinking of things of earth4 #aj4 ,draw me and deliver me from every unstable comfort of creatures1 for no created thing is able to satisfy my desire and to give me comfort4 ,join me to ,thyself by the inseparable bond of love1 for ,thou alone art sufficient to him that loveth ,thee1 and without ,thee all things are vain toys4 7#a7 ,psalm lxxi4 #ab4 7#b7 ,isaiah xlv4 #b4 7#c7 ,psalm cxxii4 #g4 7#d7 ,psalm xliii4 #c4 ,,chapter ,,xxiv ,of avoiding of curious inquiry into the life of another 8,my ,son1 be not curious1 nor trouble thyself with vain cares4 ,what is that to thee8 ,follow thou ,me47#a7 ,for what is it to thee whether a man be this or that1 or say or do thus or thus8 ,thou hast no need to answer for others1 but thou must give an answer for thyself4 ,why therefore dost thou entangle thyself8 ,behold1 ,i know all men1 and ,i behold all things which are done under the sun2 and ,i know how it standeth with each one1 what he thinketh1 what he willeth1 and to what end his thoughts reach4 ,all things therefore are to be committed to ,me2 watch thou thyself in godly peace1 and leave him who is unquiet to be unquiet as he will4 ,whatsoever he shall do or say1 shall come unto him1 for he cannot deceive ,me4 #b4 8,trouble not thyself about the shadow of a great name1 nor about the friendship of many1 nor about the love of men towards thee4 ,for these things beget distraction and great sorrows of heart4 ,my word should speak freely unto thee1 and ,i would reveal secrets1 if only thou didst diligently look for ,my appearing1 and didst open unto ,me the gates of thy heart4 ,be sober and watch unto prayer17#b7 and humble thyself in all things40 7#a7 ,john xxi4 #bb4 7#b7 #a ,peter iv4 #g4 ,,chapter ,,xxv ,wherein firm peace of heart and true profit consist 8,my ,son1 ,i have said1 ,peace ,i leave with you1 ,my peace ,i give unto you1 not as the world giveth give ,i unto you47#a7 ,all men desire peace1 but all do not care for the things which belong unto true peace4 ,my peace is with the humble and lowly in heart4 ,thy peace shall be in much patience4 ,if thou heardest ,me1 and didst follow ,my voice1 thou shouldest enjoy much peace40 #b4 ,what then shall ,i do1 ,lord8 #c4 8,in everything take heed to thyself what thou doest1 and what thou sayest2 and direct all thy purpose to this1 that thou please ,me alone1 and desire or seek nothing apart from ,me4 ,but1 moreover1 judge nothing rashly concerning the words or deeds of others1 nor meddle with matters which are not committed to thee2 and it may be that thou shalt be disturbed little or rarely4 ,yet never to feel any disquiet1 nor to suffer any pain of heart or body1 this belongeth not to the present life1 but is the state of eternal rest4 ,therefore count not thyself to have found true peace1 if thou hast felt no grief2 nor that then all is well if thou hast no adversary2 nor that this is perfect if all things fall out according to thy desire4 ,nor then reckon thyself to be anything great1 or think that thou art specially beloved1 if thou art in a state of great fervour and sweetness of spirit2 for not by these things is the true lover of virtue known1 nor in them doth the profit and perfection of man consist40 #d4 ,in what then1 ,lord8 #e4 8,in offering thyself with all thy heart to the ,divine ,will1 in not seeking the things which are thine own1 whether great or small1 whether temporal or eternal2 so that thou remain with the same steady countenance in giving of thanks between prosperity and adversity1 weighing all things in an equal balance4 ,if thou be so brave and long-suffering in hope that when inward comfort is taken from thee1 thou even prepare thy heart for the more endurance1 and justify not thyself1 as though thou oughtest not to suffer these heavy things1 but dost justify ,me in all things that ,i appoint1 and dost bless ,my ,holy ,name1 then dost thou walk in the true and right way of peace1 and shalt have a sure hope that thou shalt again behold ,my face with joy4 ,for if thou come to an utter contempt of thyself1 know that then thou shalt enjoy abundance of peace1 as much as is possible where thou art but a wayfaring man40 7#a7 ,john xiv4 #bg4 ,,chapter ,,xxvi ,of the exaltation of a free spirit1 which humble prayer more deserveth than doth frequent reading ,lord1 this is the work of a perfect man1 never to slacken his mind from attention to heavenly things1 and among many cares to pass along as it were without care1 not after the manner of one indifferent1 but rather with the privilege of a free mind1 cleaving to no creature with inordinate affection4 #b4 ,i beseech ,thee1 my most merciful ,lord ,god1 preserve me from the cares of this life1 lest ,i become too much entangled2 from many necessities of the body1 lest ,i be taken captive by pleasure2 from all obstacles of the spirit1 lest ,i be broken and cast down with cares4 ,i say not from those things which the vanity of the world goeth about after with all eagerness1 but from those miseries1 which by the universal curse of mortality weigh down and hold back the soul of thy servant in punishment1 that it cannot enter into liberty of spirit1 so often as it would4 #c4 ,o my ,god1 sweetness unspeakable1 turn into bitterness all my fleshly consolation1 which draweth me away from the love of eternal things1 and wickedly allureth toward itself by setting before me some present delight4 ,let not1 ,o my ,god1 let not flesh and blood prevail over me1 let not the world and its short glory deceive me1 let not the devil and his craftiness supplant me4 ,give me courage to resist1 patience to endure1 constancy to persevere4 ,grant1 in place of all consolations of the world1 the most sweet unction of ,thy ,spirit1 and in place of carnal love1 pour into me the love of ,thy ,name4 #d4 ,behold1 food and drink and clothing1 and all the other needs appertaining to the support of the body1 are burdensome to the devout spirit4 ,grant that ,i may use such things with moderation1 and that ,i be not entangled with inordinate affection for them4 ,to cast away all these things is not lawful1 because nature must be sustained1 but to require superfluities and things which merely minister delight1 the holy law forbiddeth2 for otherwise the flesh would wax insolent against the spirit4 ,in all these things1 ,i beseech ,thee1 let ,thy hand guide and teach me1 that ,i in no way exceed4 ,,chapter ,,xxvii ,that personal love greatly hindereth from the highest good 8,my ,son1 thou must give all for all1 and be nothing of thine own4 ,know thou that the love of thyself is more hurtful to thee than anything in the world4 ,according to the love and inclination which thou hast1 everything more or less cleaveth to thee4 ,if thy love be pure1 sincere1 well-regulated1 thou shalt not be in captivity to anything4 ,do not covet what thou mayest not have2 do not have what is able to hinder thee1 and to rob thee of inward liberty4 ,it is wonderful that thou committest not thyself to ,me from the very bottom of thy heart1 with all things which thou canst desire or have4 #b4 8,why art thou consumed with vain sorrow8 ,why art thou wearied with superfluous cares8 ,stand thou by ,my good pleasure1 and thou shalt suffer no loss4 ,if thou seekest after this or that1 and wilt be here or there1 according to thine own advantage or the fulfilling of thine own pleasure1 thou shalt never be in quiet1 nor free from care1 because in everything somewhat will be found lacking1 and everywhere there will be somebody who opposeth thee4 #c4 8,therefore it is not gaining or multiplying of this thing or that which advantageth thee1 but rather the despising it and cutting it by the root out of thy heart2 which thou must not only understand of money and riches1 but of the desire after honour and vain praise1 things which all pass away with the world4 ,the place availeth little if the spirit of devotion is wanting2 nor shall that peace stand long which is sought from abroad1 if the state of thy heart is without the true foundation1 that is1 if it abide not in ,me4 ,thou mayest change1 but thou canst not better thyself2 for when occasion ariseth and is accepted thou shalt find what thou didst fly from1 yea more40 ,a ,,prayer ,,for ,,cleansing ,,of ,,the ,,heart ,,and ,,for ,,heavenly ,,wisdom #d4 ,strengthen me1 ,o ,god1 by the grace of ,thy ,holy ,spirit4 ,give me virtue to be strengthened with might in the inner man1 and to free my heart from all fruitless care and trouble1 and that ,i be not drawn away by various desires after any things whatsoever1 whether of little value or great1 but that ,i may look upon all as passing away1 and myself as passing away with them2 because there is no profit under the sun1 and all is vanity and vexation of spirit47#a7 ,oh how wise is he that considereth thus6 #e4 ,give me1 ,o ,lord1 heavenly wisdom1 that ,i may learn to seek ,thee above all things and to find ,thee2 to relish ,thee above all things and to love ,thee2 and to understand all other things1 even as they are1 according to the order of ,thy wisdom4 ,grant me prudently to avoid the flatterer1 and patiently to bear with him that opposeth me2 for this is great wisdom1 not to be carried by every wind of words1 nor to give ear to the wicked flattering ,siren2 for thus do we go safely on in the way we have begun4 7#a7 ,ecclesiastes ii4 #aa4 ,,chapter ,,xxviii ,against the tongues of detractors 8,my ,son1 take it not sadly to heart1 if any think ill of thee1 and say of thee what thou art unwilling to hear4 ,thou oughtest to think worse of thyself1 and to believe no man weaker than thyself4 ,if thou walkest inwardly1 thou wilt not weigh flying words above their value4 ,it is no small prudence to keep silence in an evil time and to turn inwardly unto ,me1 and not to be troubled by human judgment4 #b4 8,let not thy peace depend upon the word of men2 for whether they judge well or ill of thee1 thou art not therefore any other man than thyself4 ,where is true peace or true glory8 ,is it not in ,me8 ,and he who seeketh not to please men1 nor feareth to displease1 shall enjoy abundant peace4 ,from inordinate love and vain fear ariseth all disquietude of heart1 and all distraction of the senses40 ,,chapter ,,xxix ,how when tribulation cometh we must call upon and bless ,god ,blessed be thy name1 ,o ,lord1 for evermore1 who hast willed this temptation and trouble to come upon me4 ,i cannot escape it1 but have need to flee unto ,thee1 that ,thou mayest succour me and turn it unto me for good4 ,lord1 now am ,i in tribulation1 and it is not well within my heart1 but ,i am sore vexed by the suffering which lieth upon me4 ,and now1 ,o dear ,father1 what shall ,i say8 ,i am taken among the snares4 ,save me from this hour1 but for this cause came ,i unto this hour17#a7 that ,thou mightest be glorified when ,i am deeply humbled and am delivered through ,thee4 ,let it be ,thy pleasure to deliver me27#b7 for what can ,i do who am poor1 and without ,thee whither shall ,i go8 ,give patience this time also4 ,help me1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 and ,i will not fear how much soever ,i be weighed down4 #b4 ,and now amid these things what shall ,i say8 ,lord1 ,thy will be done4 ,i have well deserved to be troubled and weighed down4 ,therefore ,i ought to bear1 would that it be with patience1 until the tempest be overpast and comfort return4 ,yet is ,thine omnipotent arm able also to take this temptation away from me1 and to lessen its power that ,i fall not utterly under it1 even as many a time past thou has helped me1 ,o ,god1 my merciful ,god4 ,and as much as this deliverance is difficult to me1 so much is it easy to ,thee1 ,o right hand of the most ,highest4 7#a7 ,john xii4 #bg4 7#b7 ,psalm xl4 #af4 ,,chapter ,,xxx ,of seeking divine help1 and the confidence of obtaining grace 8,my ,son1 ,i the ,lord am a stronghold in the day of trouble47#a7 ,come unto ,me1 when it is not well with thee4 8,this it is which chiefly hindereth heavenly consolation1 that thou too slowly betakest thyself unto prayer4 ,for before thou earnestly seekest unto ,me1 thou dost first seek after many means of comfort1 and refresheth thyself in outward things3 so it cometh to pass that all things profit thee but little until thou learn that it is ,i who deliver those who trust in ,me2 neither beside ,me is there any strong help1 nor profitable counsel1 nor enduring remedy4 ,but now1 recovering courage after the tempest1 grow thou strong in the light of ,my mercies1 for ,i am nigh1 saith the ,lord1 that ,i may restore all things not only as they were at the first1 but also abundantly and one upon another4 #b4 8,for is anything too hard for ,me1 or shall ,i be like unto one who saith and doeth not8 ,where is thy faith8 ,stand fast and with perseverance4 ,be long-suffering and strong4 ,consolation will come unto thee in its due season4 ,wait for ,me2 yea1 wait2 ,i will come and heal thee4 ,it is temptation which vexeth thee1 and a vain fear which terrifieth thee4 ,what doth care about future events bring thee1 save sorrow upon sorrow8 ,sufficient for the day is the evil thereof47#b7 ,it is vain and useless to be disturbed or lifted up about future things which perhaps will never come4 #c4 8,but it is the nature of man to be deceived by fancies of this sort1 and it is a sign of a mind which is still weak to be so easily drawn away at the suggestion of the enemy4 ,for he careth not whether he deceive and beguile by true means or false2 whether he throw thee down by the love of the present or fear of the future4 ,therefore let not thy heart be troubled1 neither let it be afraid4 ,believe in ,me1 and put thy trust in ,my mercy47#c7 ,when thou thinkest thyself far removed from ,me1 ,i am often the nearer4 ,when thou reckonest that almost all is lost1 then often is greater opportunity of gain at hand4 ,all is not lost when something goeth contrary to thy wishes4 ,thou oughtest not to judge according to present feeling1 nor so to take or give way to any grief which befalleth thee1 as if all hope of escape were taken away4 #d4 8,think not thyself totally abandoned1 although for the time ,i have sent to thee some tribulation1 or have even withdrawn some cherished consolation2 for this is the way to the ,kingdom of ,heaven4 ,and without doubt it is better for thee and for all ,my other servants1 that ye should be proved by adversities1 than that ye should have all things as ye would4 ,i know thy hidden thoughts3 and that it is very needful for thy soul's health that sometimes thou be left without relish1 lest perchance thou be lifted up by prosperity1 and desirous to please thyself in that which thou art not4 ,what ,i have given ,i am able to take away1 and to restore again at ,my good pleasure4 #e4 8,when ,i shall have given1 it is ,mine2 when ,i shall have taken away1 ,i have not taken what is thine2 for every good gift and every perfect gift7#d7 is from me4 ,if ,i shall have sent upon thee grief or any vexation1 be not angry1 nor let thy heart be sad2 ,i am able quickly to lift thee up and to change every burden into joy4 ,but ,i am just and greatly to be praised1 when ,i do thus unto thee4 #f4 8,if thou rightly consider1 and look upon it with truth1 thou oughtest never to be so sadly cast down because of adversity1 but rather shouldst rejoice and give thanks2 yea1 verily to count it the highest joy that ,i afflict thee with sorrows and spare thee not4 ,as ,my ,father hath loved ,me1 so love ,i you27#e7 thus have ,i spoken unto ,my beloved disciples3 whom ,i sent forth not unto worldly joys1 but to great strivings2 not unto honours1 but unto contempt2 not unto ease1 but to labours2 not unto rest1 but to bring forth much fruit with patience4 ,my son1 remember these words40 7#a7 ,nahum i4 #g4 7#b7 ,matthew vi4 #cd4 7#c7 ,john xiv4 #bg2 ,psalm xiii4 #e4 7#d7 ,james i4 #ag4 7#e7 ,john xv4 #i4 ,,chapter ,,xxxi ,of the neglect of every creature1 that the ,creator may be found ,o ,lord1 ,i still need more grace1 if ,i would arrive where neither man nor any other creature may hinder me4 ,for so long as anything keepeth me back1 ,i cannot freely fly unto ,thee4 ,he desired eagerly thus to fly1 who cried1 saying1 ,oh that ,i had wings like a dove1 for then would ,i flee away and be at rest4 ,what is more peaceful than the single eye8 ,and what more free than he that desireth nothing upon earth8 ,therefore must a man rise above every creature1 and perfectly forsake himself1 and with abstracted mind to stand and behold that ,thou1 the ,creator of all things1 hast among ,thy creatures nothing like unto ,thyself4 ,and except a man be freed from all creatures1 he will not be able to reach freely after ,divine things4 ,therefore few are found who give themselves to contemplation1 because few know how to separate themselves entirely from perishing and created things4 #b4 ,for this much grace is necessary1 which may lift up the soul and raise it above itself4 ,and except a man be lifted up in the spirit1 and freed from all creatures1 and altogether united to ,god1 whatsoever he knoweth1 whatsoever even he hath1 it mattereth but little4 ,he who esteemeth anything great save the one only incomprehensible1 eternal1 good1 shall long time be little and lie low4 ,for whatsoever is not ,god is nothing1 and ought to be counted for nothing4 ,great is the difference between a godly man1 illuminated with wisdom1 and a scholar learned in knowledge and given to books4 ,far nobler is that doctrine which floweth down from the divine fulness above1 than that which is acquired laboriously by human study4 #c4 ,many are found who desire contemplation1 but they do not strive to practice those things which are required thereunto4 ,it is also a great impediment1 that much is made of symbols and external signs1 and too little of thorough mortification4 ,i know not how it is1 and by what spirit we are led1 and what we who would be deemed spiritual are aiming at1 that we give so great labour and so eager solicitude for transitory and worthless things1 and scarcely ever gather our senses together to think at all of our inward condition4 #d4 ,ah1 me6 ,forthwith after a little recollection we rush out of doors1 and do not subject our actions to a strict examination4 ,where our affections are set we take no heed1 and we weep not that all things belonging to us are so defiled4 ,for because all flesh had corrupted itself upon the earth1 the great deluge came4 ,since therefore our inmost affections are very corrupt1 it followeth of necessity that our actions also are corrupt1 being the index of a deficient inward strength4 ,out of a pure heart proceedeth the fruit of good living4 #e4 ,we demand1 how much a man hath done2 but from how much virtue he acted1 is not so narrowly considered4 ,we ask if he be strong1 rich1 handsome1 clever1 whether he is a good writer1 good singer1 good workman2 but how poor he may be in spirit1 how patient and gentle1 how devout and meditative1 on these things many are silent4 ,nature looketh upon the outward appearance of a man1 grace turneth its thought to the heart4 ,the former frequently judgeth amiss2 the latter trusteth in ,god1 that it may not be deceived4 ,,chapter ,,xxxii ,of self-denial and the casting away all selfishness 8,my ,son1 thou canst not possess perfect liberty unless thou altogether deny thyself4 ,all they are enslaved who are possessors of riches1 they who love themselves1 the selfish1 the curious1 the restless2 those who ever seek after soft things1 and not after the things of ,jesus ,christ2 those who continually plan and devise that which will not stand4 ,for whatsoever cometh not of ,god shall perish4 ,hold fast the short and complete saying1 #8,renounce all things1 and thou shalt find all things2 give up thy lust1 and thou shalt find rest4' ,dwell upon this in thy mind1 and when thou art full of it1 thou shalt understand all things40 #b4 ,o ,lord1 this is not the work of a day1 nor children's play2 verily in this short saying is enclosed all the perfection of the religious4 #c4 8,my son1 thou oughtest not to be turned aside1 nor immediately cast down1 because thou hast heard the way of the perfect4 ,rather oughtest thou to be provoked to higher aims1 and at the least to long after the desire thereof4 ,oh that it were so with thee1 and that thou hadst come to this1 that thou wert not a lover of thine own self1 but wert ready always to ,my nod1 and to his whom ,i have placed over thee as thy father4 ,then shouldest thou please ,me exceedingly1 and all thy life should go on in joy and peace4 ,thou hast still many things to renounce1 which if thou resign not utterly to ,me1 thou shalt not gain what thou seekest4 ,i counsel thee to buy of ,me gold tried in the fire1 that thou mayest be rich17#a7 that is heavenly wisdom1 which despiseth all base things4 ,put away from thee earthly wisdom1 and all pleasure1 whether common to men1 or thine own4 #d4 8,i tell thee that thou must buy vile things with those which are costly and great in the esteem of men4 ,for wonderfully vile and small1 and almost given up to forgetfulness1 doth true heavenly wisdom appear1 which thinketh not high things of itself1 nor seeketh to be magnified upon the earth2 many honour it with their lips1 but in heart are far from it2 it is indeed the precious pearl1 which is hidden from many40 7#a7 ,revelation iii4 #ah4 ,,chapter ,,xxxiii ,of instability of the heart1 and of directing the aim towards ,god 8,my ,son1 trust not thy feeling1 for that which is now will be quickly changed into somewhat else4 ,as long as thou livest thou art subject to change1 howsoever unwilling2 so that thou art found now joyful1 now sad2 now at peace1 now disquieted2 now devout1 now indevout2 now studious1 now careless2 now sad1 now cheerful4 ,but the wise man1 and he who is truly learned in spirit1 standeth above these changeable things1 attentive not to what he may feel in himself1 or from what quarter the wind may blow1 but that the whole intent of his mind may carry him on to the due and much-desired end4 ,for thus will he be able to remain one and the same and unshaken1 the single eye of his desire being steadfastly fixed1 through the manifold changes of the world1 upon ,me4 #b4 8,but according as the eye of intention be the more pure1 even so will a man make his way steadfastly through the manifold storms4 ,but in many the eye of pure intention waxeth dim2 for it quickly resteth itself upon anything pleasant which occurreth1 and rarely is any man found altogether free from the blemish of self-seeking4 ,so the ,jews of old came to ,bethany1 to the house of ,martha and ,mary1 that they might see not ,jesus1 but ,lazarus1 whom he had raised from the dead47#a7 ,therefore must the eye of the intention be cleansed1 that it may be single and right1 and above all things which come in its way1 may be directed unto ,me40 7#a7 ,john xii4 #i4 ,,chapter ,,xxxiv ,that to him who loveth ,god is sweet above all things and in all things ,behold1 ,god is mine1 and all things are mine6 ,what will ,i more1 and what more happy thing can ,i desire8 ,o delightsome and sweet world6 that is1 to him that loveth the ,word1 not the world1 neither the things that are in the world47#a7 ,my ,god1 my all6 ,to him that understandeth1 that word sufficeth1 and to repeat it often is pleasing to him that loveth it4 ,when ,thou art present all things are pleasant2 when ,thou art absent1 all things are wearisome4 ,thou makest the heart to be at rest1 givest it deep peace and festal joy4 ,thou makest it to think rightly in every matter1 and in every matter to give ,thee praise2 neither can anything please long without ,thee but if it would be pleasant and of sweet savour1 ,thy grace must be there1 and it is ,thy wisdom which must give unto it a sweet savour4 #b4 ,to him who tasteth ,thee1 what can be distasteful8 ,and to him who tasteth ,thee not1 what is there which can make him joyous8 ,but the worldly wise1 and they who enjoy the flesh1 these fail in ,thy wisdom2 for in the wisdom of the world is found utter vanity1 and to be carnally minded is death4 ,but they who follow after ,thee through contempt of worldly things1 and mortification of the flesh1 are found to be truly wise because they are carried from vanity to verity1 from the flesh to the spirit4 ,they taste that the ,lord is good1 and whatsoever good they find in creatures1 they count it all unto the praise of the ,creator4 ,unlike1 yea1 very unlike is the enjoyment of the ,creator to enjoyment of the ,creature1 the enjoyment of eternity and of time1 of light uncreated and of light reflected4 #c4 ,o ,light everlasting1 surpassing all created lights1 dart down ,thy ray from on high which shall pierce the inmost depths of my heart4 ,give purity1 joy1 clearness1 life to my spirit that with all its powers it may cleave unto ,thee with rapture passing man's understanding4 ,oh when shall that blessed and longed-for time come when ,thou shalt satisfy me with ,thy presence1 and be unto me ,all in all8 ,so long as this is delayed1 my joy shall not be full4 ,still1 ah me6 the old man liveth in me3 he is not yet all crucified1 not yet quite dead2 still he lusteth fiercely against the spirit1 wageth inward wars1 nor suffereth the soul's kingdom to be in peace4 #d4 ,but ,thou who rulest the raging of the sea1 and stillest the waves thereof when they arise1 rise up and help me4 ,scatter the people that delight in war47#b7 ,destroy them by ,thy power4 ,show forth1 ,i beseech ,thee1 ,thy might1 and let ,thy right hand be glorified1 for ,i have no hope1 no refuge1 save in ,thee1 ,o ,lord my ,god4 7#a7 #a ,john ii4 #ae4 7#b7 ,psalm lxviii4 #cj4 ,,chapter ,,xxxv ,that there is no security against temptation in this life 8,my ,son1 thou art never secure in this life1 but thy spiritual armour will always be needful for thee as long as thou livest4 ,thou dwellest among foes1 and art attacked on the right hand and on the left4 ,if therefore thou use not on all sides the shield of patience1 thou wilt not remain long unwounded4 ,above all1 if thou keep not thy heart fixed upon ,me with steadfast purpose to bear all things for ,my sake1 thou shalt not be able to bear the fierceness of the attack1 nor to attain to the victory of the blessed4 ,therefore must thou struggle bravely all thy life through1 and put forth a strong hand against those things which oppose thee4 ,for to him that overcometh is the hidden manna given17#a7 but great misery is reserved for the slothful4 #b4 8,if thou seek rest in this life1 how then wilt thou attain unto the rest which is eternal8 ,set not thyself to attain much rest1 but much patience4 ,seek the true peace1 not in earth but in heaven1 not in man nor in any created thing1 but in ,god alone4 ,for the love of ,god thou must willingly undergo all things1 whether labours or sorrows1 temptations1 vexations1 anxieties1 necessities1 infirmities1 injuries1 gainsayings1 rebukes1 humiliations1 confusions1 corrections1 despisings2 these things help unto virtue1 these things prove the scholar of ,christ2 these things fashion the heavenly crown4 ,i will give thee an eternal reward for short labour1 and infinite glory for transient shame4 #c4 8,thinkest thou that thou shalt always have spiritual consolations at thy will8 ,my ,saints had never such1 but instead thereof manifold griefs1 and divers temptations1 and heavy desolations4 ,but patiently they bore themselves in all1 and trusted in ,god more than in themselves1 knowing that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us47#b7 ,wouldst thou have that immediately which many have hardly attained unto after many tears and hard labours8 ,wait for the ,lord1 quit thyself like a man and be strong2 be not faint-hearted1 nor go aside from ,me1 but constantly devote thy body and soul to the glory of ,god4 ,i will reward thee plenteously1 ,i will be with thee in trouble407#c7 7#a7 ,revelation ii4 #ag4 7#b7 ,romans viii4 #ag4 7#c7 ,psalm xci4 #ae4 ,,chapter ,,xxxvi ,against vain judgments of men 8,my ,son1 anchor thy soul firmly upon ,god1 and fear not man's judgment1 when conscience pronounceth thee pious and innocent4 ,it is good and blessed thus to suffer2 nor will it be grievous to the heart which is humble1 and which trusteth in ,god more than in itself4 ,many men have many opinions1 and therefore little trust is to be placed in them4 ,but moreover it is impossible to please all4 ,although ,paul studied to please all men in the ,lord1 and to become all things to all men17#a7 yet nevertheless with him it was a very small thing that he should be judged by man's judgment407#b7 #b4 ,he laboured abundantly1 as much as in him lay1 for the building up and the salvation of others2 but he could not avoid being sometimes judged and despised by others4 ,therefore he committed all to ,god1 who knew all1 and by patience and humility defended himself against evil speakers1 or foolish and false thinkers1 and those who accused him according to their pleasure4 ,nevertheless1 from time to time he replied1 lest his silence should become a stumbling-block to those who were weak4 #c4 8,who art thou1 that thou shouldst be afraid of a man that shall die8 ,to-day he is1 and to-morrow his place is not found4 ,fear ,god and thou shalt not quail before the terrors of men4 ,what can any man do against thee by words or deeds8 ,he hurteth himself more than thee1 nor shall he escape the judgment of ,god1 whosoever he may be4 ,have thou ,god before thine eyes1 and do not contend with fretful words4 ,and if for the present thou seem to give way1 and to suffer confusion which thou hast not deserved1 be not angry at this1 nor by impatience diminish thy reward2 but rather look up to ,me in heaven1 for ,i am able to deliver thee from all confusion and hurt1 and to render to every man according to his works40 7#a7 #a ,corinthians ix4 #bb4 7#b7 #a ,corinthians iv4 #c4 ,,chapter ,,xxxvii ,of pure and entire resignation of self1 for the obtaining liberty of heart 8,my ,son1 lose thyself and thou shalt find ,me4 ,stand still without all choosing and all thought of self1 and thou shalt ever be a gainer4 ,for more grace shall be added to thee1 as soon as thou resignest thyself1 and so long as thou dost not turn back to take thyself again40 #b4 ,o ,lord1 how often shall ,i resign myself1 and in what things shall ,i lose myself8 #c4 8,always2 every hour3 in that which is little1 and in that which is great4 ,i make no exception1 but will that thou be found naked in all things4 ,otherwise how canst thou be ,mine and ,i thine1 unless thou be inwardly and outwardly free from every will of thine own8 ,the sooner thou dost this1 the better shall it be with thee2 and the more fully and sincerely1 the more thou shalt please ,me1 and the more abundantly shalt thou be rewarded4 #d4 8,some resign themselves1 but with certain reservations1 for they do not fully trust in ,god1 therefore they think that they have some provision to make for themselves4 ,some again at first offer everything2 but afterwards being pressed by temptation they return to their own devices1 and thus make no progress in virtue4 ,they will not attain to the true liberty of a pure heart1 nor to the grace of ,my sweet companionship1 unless they first entirely resign themselves and daily offer themselves up as a sacrifice2 without this the union which bringeth forth fruit standeth not nor will stand4 #e4 8,many a time ,i have said unto thee1 and now say again1 ,give thyself up1 resign thyself1 and thou shalt have great inward peace4 ,give all for all2 demand nothing1 ask nothing in return2 stand simply and with no hesitation in ,me1 and thou shalt possess ,me4 ,thou shalt have liberty of heart1 and the darkness shall not overwhelm thee4 ,for this strive thou1 pray for it1 long after it1 that thou mayest be delivered from all possession of thyself1 and nakedly follow ,jesus who was made naked for thee2 mayest die unto thyself and live eternally to ,me4 ,then shall all vain fancies disappear1 all evil disturbings1 and superfluous cares4 ,then also shall immoderate fear depart from thee1 and inordinate love shall die40 ,,chapter ,,xxxviii ,of a good government in external things1 and of having recourse to ,god in dangers 8,my ,son1 for this thou must diligently make thy endeavour1 that in every place and outward action or occupation thou mayest be free within1 and have power over thyself2 and that all things be under thee1 not thou under them2 that thou be master and ruler of thy actions1 not a slave or hireling1 but rather a free and true ,hebrew1 entering into the lot and the liberty of the children of ,god1 who stand above the present and look upon the eternal1 who with the left eye behold things transitory1 and with the right things heavenly2 whom temporal things draw not to cleave unto1 but who rather draw temporal things to do them good service1 even as they were ordained of ,god to do1 and appointed by the ,master ,workman1 who hath left nought in ,his creation without aim and end4 #b4 8,and if in any chance of life thou stand not in outward appearances1 nor judgest things which are seen and heard by the fleshly sense1 but straightway in every cause enterest with ,moses into the tabernacle to ask counsel of ,god2 thou shalt hear a divine response and come forth instructed concerning many things that are and shall be4 ,for always ,moses had recourse to the tabernacle for the solving of all doubts and questionings2 and fled to the help of prayer to be delivered from the dangers and evil deeds of men4 ,thus also oughtest thou to fly to the secret chamber of thy heart1 and earnestly implore the divine succour4 ,for this cause we read that ,joshua and the children of ,israel were deceived by the ,gibeonites1 that they asked not counsel at the mouth of the ,lord17#a7 but being too ready to listen to fair speeches1 were deceived by pretended piety40 7#a7 ,joshua ix4 #ad4 ,,chapter ,,xxxix ,that man must not be immersed in business 8,my ,son1 always commit thy cause to ,me2 ,i will dispose it aright in due time4 ,wait for ,my arrangement of it1 and then thou shalt find it for thy profit40 #b4 ,o ,lord1 right freely ,i commit all things to ,thee2 for my planning can profit but little4 ,oh that ,i did not dwell so much on future events1 but could offer myself altogether to ,thy pleasures without delay4 #c4 8,my ,son1 a man often striveth vehemently after somewhat which he desireth2 but when he hath obtained it he beginneth to be of another mind1 because his affections towards it are not lasting1 but rather rush on from one thing to another4 ,therefore it is not really a small thing1 when in small things we resist self40 #d4 ,the true progress of man lieth in self-denial1 and a man who denieth himself is free and safe4 ,but the old enemy1 opposer of all good things1 ceaseth not from temptation2 but day and night setteth his wicked snares1 if haply he may be able to entrap the unwary4 ,watch and pray1 saith the ,lord1 lest ye enter into temptation47#a7 7#a7 ,matthew xxvi4 #da4 ,,chapter ,,xl ,that man hath no good in himself1 and nothing whereof to glory ,lord1 what is man that ,thou art mindful of him1 or the son of man that ,thou visitest him87#a7 ,what hath man deserved1 that ,thou shouldest bestow thy favour upon him8 ,lord1 what cause can ,i have of complaint1 if ,thou forsake me8 ,or what can ,i justly allege1 if ,thou refuse to hear my petition8 ,of a truth1 this ,i may truly think and say1 ,lord1 ,i am nothing1 ,i have nothing that is good of myself1 but ,i fall short in all things1 and ever tend unto nothing4 ,and unless ,i am helped by ,thee and inwardly supported1 ,i become altogether lukewarm and reckless4 #b4 ,but ,thou1 ,o ,lord1 art always the same1 and endurest for ever1 always good1 righteous1 and holy2 doing all things well1 righteously1 and holily1 and disposing all in ,thy wisdom4 ,but ,i who am more ready to go forward than backward1 never continue in one stay1 because changes sevenfold pass over me4 ,yet it quickly becometh better when it so pleaseth ,thee1 and ,thou puttest forth ,thy hand to help me2 because ,thou alone canst aid without help of man1 and canst so strengthen me that my countenance shall be no more changed1 but my heart shall be turned to ,thee1 and rest in ,thee alone4 #c4 ,wherefore1 if ,i but knew well how to reject all human consolations1 whether for the sake of gaining devotion1 or because of the necessity by which ,i was compelled to seek ,thee1 seeing there is no man who can comfort me2 then could ,i worthily trust in ,thy grace1 and rejoice in the gift of new consolation4 #d4 ,thanks be to ,thee1 from whom all cometh1 whensoever it goeth well with me6 ,but ,i am vanity and nothing in ,thy sight1 a man inconstant and weak4 ,what then have ,i whereof to glory1 or why do ,i long to be held in honour8 ,is it not for nought8 ,this also is utterly vain4 ,verily vain glory is an evil plague1 the greatest of vanities1 because it draweth us away from the true glory1 and robbeth us of heavenly grace4 ,for whilst a man pleaseth himself he displeaseth ,thee2 whilst he gapeth after the praises of man1 he is deprived of true virtues4 #e4 ,but true glory and holy rejoicing lieth in glorying in ,thee and not in self2 in rejoicing in ,thy ,name1 not in our own virtue2 in not taking delight in any creature1 save only for ,thy sake4 ,let thy ,name1 not mine be praised2 let ,thy work1 not mine be magnified2 let ,thy holy ,name be blessed1 but to me let nought be given of the praises of men4 ,thou art my glory1 ,thou art the joy of my heart4 ,in ,thee will ,i make my boast and be glad all the day long1 but for myself let me not glory save only in my infirmities47#b7 #f4 ,let the ,jews seek the honour which cometh from one another2 but ,i will ask for that which cometh from ,god only47#c7 ,truly all human glory1 all temporal honour1 all worldly exultation1 compared to ,thy eternal glory1 is but vanity and folly4 ,o ,god my ,truth and my ,mercy1 ,blessed ,trinity1 to ,thee alone be all praise1 honour1 power1 and glory for ever and for ever4 ,amen4 7#a7 ,psalm viii4 #d4 7#b7 #b ,corinthians xii4 #e4 7#c7 ,john v4 #dd4 ,,chapter ,,xli ,of contempt of all temporal honour 8,my ,son1 make it no matter of thine1 if thou see others honoured and exalted1 and thyself despised and humbled4 ,lift up thine heart to ,me in heaven1 and then the contempt of men upon earth will not make thee sad40 #b4 ,o ,lord1 we are in blindness1 and are quickly seduced by vanity4 ,if ,i look rightly within myself1 never was injury done unto me by any creature1 and therefore ,i have nought whereof to complain before ,thee4 ,but because ,i have many times and grievously sinned against ,thee1 all creatures do justly take arms against me4 ,therefore to me confusion and contempt are justly due1 but to ,thee praise and honour and glory4 ,and except ,i dispose myself for this1 namely1 to be willing that every creature should despise and desert me1 and that ,i should be esteemed altogether as nothing1 ,i cannot be inwardly filled with peace and strength1 nor spiritually enlightened1 nor fully united to ,thee4 ,,chapter ,,xlii ,that our peace is not to be placed in men 8,my ,son1 if thou set thy peace on any person because thou hast high opinion of him1 and art familiar with him1 thou shalt be unstable and entangled4 ,but if thou betake thyself to the ever-living and abiding ,truth1 the desertion or death of a friend shall not make thee sad4 ,in ,me ought the love of thy friend to subsist1 and for ,my sake is every one to be loved1 whosoever he be1 who appeareth to thee good1 and is very dear to thee in this life4 ,without ,me friendship hath no strength or endurance1 neither is that love true and pure1 which ,i unite not4 ,thou oughtest to be so dead to such affections of beloved friends1 that as far as in thee lieth1 thou wouldst rather choose to be without any companionship of men4 ,the nearer a man approacheth to ,god1 the further he recedeth from all earthly solace4 ,the deeper also he descendeth into himself1 and the viler he appeareth in his own eyes1 the higher he ascendeth towards ,god4 #b4 8,but he who attributeth anything good to himself1 hindereth the grace of ,god from coming to him1 because the grace of the ,holy ,ghost ever seeketh the humble heart4 ,if thou couldst make thyself utterly nothing1 and empty thyself of the love of every creature1 then should it be ,my part to overflow unto thee with great grace4 ,when thou settest thine eyes upon creatures1 the face of the ,creator is withdrawn from thee4 ,learn in all things to conquer thyself for thy ,creator's sake1 then shalt thou be able to attain unto divine knowledge4 ,how small soever anything be1 if it be loved and regarded inordinately1 it holdeth us back from the highest good1 and corrupteth40 ,,chapter ,,xliii ,against vain and worldly knowledge 8,my ,son1 let not the fair and subtle sayings of men move thee4 ,for the kingdom of ,god is not in word1 but in power47#a7 ,give ear to ,my words1 for they kindle the heart and enlighten the mind1 they bring contrition1 and they supply manifold consolations4 ,never read thou the word that thou mayest appear more learned or wise2 but study for the mortification of thy sins1 for this will be far more profitable for thee than the knowledge of many difficult questions4 #b4 8,when thou hast read and learned many things1 thou must always return to one first principle4 ,i am ,he that teacheth man knowledge17#b7 and ,i give unto babes clearer knowledge than can be taught by man4 ,he to whom ,i speak will be quickly wise and shall grow much in the spirit4 ,woe unto them who inquire into many curious questions from men1 and take little heed concerning the way of ,my service4 ,the time will come when ,christ will appear1 the ,master of masters1 the ,lord of the ,angels1 to hear the lessons of all1 that is to examine the consciences of each one4 ,and then will ,he search ,jerusalem with candles17#c7 and the hidden things of darkness7#d7 shall be made manifest1 and the arguings of tongues shall be silent4 #c4 8,i am ,he who in an instant lift up the humble spirit1 to learn more reasonings of the ,eternal ,truth1 than if a man had studied ten years in the schools4 ,i teach without noise of words1 without confusion of opinions1 without striving after honour1 without clash of arguments4 ,i am ,he who teach men to despise earthly things1 to loathe things present1 to seek things heavenly1 to enjoy things eternal1 to flee honours1 to endure offences1 to place all hope in ,me1 to desire nothing apart from ,me1 and above all things to love ,me ardently4 #d4 8,for there was one1 who by loving ,me from the bottom of his heart1 learned divine things1 and spake things that were wonderful2 he profited more by forsaking all things than by studying subtleties4 ,but to some ,i speak common things1 to others special2 to some ,i appear gently in signs and figures1 and again to some ,i reveal mysteries in much light4 ,the voice of books is one1 but it informeth not all alike2 because ,i inwardly am the ,teacher of truth1 the ,searcher of the heart1 the ,discerner of the thoughts1 the ,mover of actions1 distributing to each man1 as ,i judge meet40 7#a7 #a ,corinthians iv4 #bj4 7#b7 ,psalm xciv4 #aj4 7#c7 ,zephaniah i4 #ab4 7#d7 #a ,corinthians iv4 #e4 ,,chapter ,,xliv ,of not troubling ourselves about outward things 8,my ,son1 in many things it behoveth thee to be ignorant1 and to esteem thyself as one dead upon the earth1 and as one to whom the whole world is crucified4 ,many things also thou must pass by with deaf ear1 and must rather think upon those things which belong unto thy peace4 ,it is more profitable to turn away thine eyes from those things that displease1 and to leave each man to his own opinion1 than to give thyself to discourses of strife4 ,if thou stand well with ,god and hast ,his judgment in thy mind1 thou wilt verily easily bear to be as one conquered40 #b4 ,o ,lord1 to what have we come8 ,behold a temporal loss is mourned over2 for a trifling gain we labour and hurry2 and spiritual loss passeth away into forgetfulness1 and we rarely recover it4 ,that which profiteth little or nothing is looked after1 and that which is altogether necessary is negligently passed by2 because the whole man slideth away to outward things1 and unless he quickly recovereth himself in outward things he willingly lieth down4 ,,chapter ,,xlv ,that we must not believe everyone1 and that we are prone to fall in our words ,lord1 be thou my help in trouble1 for vain is the help of man47#a7 ,how often have ,i failed to find faithfulness1 where ,i thought ,i possessed it4 ,how many times ,i have found it where ,i least expected4 ,vain therefore is hope in men1 but the salvation of the just1 ,o ,god1 is in ,thee4 ,blessed be thou1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 in all things which happen unto us4 ,we are weak and unstable1 we are quickly deceived and quite changed4 #b4 ,who is the man who is able to keep himself so warily and circumspectly as not sometimes to come into some snare of perplexity8 ,but he who trusteth in ,thee1 ,o ,lord1 and seeketh ,thee with an unfeigned heart1 doth not so easily slip4 ,and if he fall into any tribulation1 howsoever he may be entangled1 yet very quickly he shall be delivered through ,thee1 or by ,thee shall be comforted1 because ,thou wilt not forsake him that trusteth in ,thee unto the end4 ,a friend who continueth faithful in all the distresses of his friend is rare to be found4 ,thou1 ,o ,lord1 ,thou alone art most faithful in all things1 and there is none other like unto ,thee4 #c4 ,oh1 how truly wise was that holy soul which said1 8,my mind is steadfastly fixed1 and it is grounded in ,christ407#b7 ,if thus it were with me1 the fear of man should not so easily tempt me1 nor the arrows of words move me4 ,who is sufficient to foresee all things1 who to guard beforehand against future ills8 ,if even things which are foreseen sometimes hurt us1 what can things which are not foreseen do1 but grievously injure8 ,but wherefore have ,i not better provided for myself1 miserable that ,i am8 ,why1 too1 have ,i given such heed to others8 ,but we are men1 nor are we other than frail men1 even though by many we are reckoned and called angels4 ,whom shall ,i trust1 ,o ,lord1 whom shall ,i trust but ,thee8 ,thou art the ,truth1 and deceivest not1 nor canst be deceived4 ,and on the other hand1 ,every man is a liar17#c7 weak1 unstable and frail1 especially in his words1 so that one ought scarcely ever to believe what seemeth to sound right on the face of it4 #d4 ,with what wisdom hast thou warned us beforehand to beware of men1 and that a man's foes are they of his own household17#d7 and that we must not believe if one say unto us ,lo here1 or ,lo there47#e7 ,i have been taught by my loss1 and ,o that ,i may prove more careful and not foolish hereby4 8,be cautious10 saith some one3 8be cautious1 keep unto thyself what ,i tell thee40 ,and whilst ,i am silent and believe that it is hid with me1 he himself cannot keep silence concerning it1 but straightway betrayeth me and himself1 and goeth his way4 ,protect me1 ,o ,lord1 from such mischief-making and reckless men2 let me not fall into their hands1 nor ever do such things myself4 ,put a true and steadfast word into my mouth1 and remove a deceitful tongue far from me4 ,what ,i would not suffer1 ,i ought by all means to beware of doing4 #e4 ,oh1 how good and peacemaking a thing it is to be silent concerning others1 and not carelessly to believe all reports1 nor to hand them on further2 how good also to lay one's self open to few1 to seek ever to have ,thee as the beholder of the heart2 not to be carried about with every wind of words1 but to desire that all things inward and outward be done according to the good pleasure of ,thy will6 ,how safe for the preserving of heavenly grace to fly from human approval1 and not to long after the things which seem to win admiration abroad1 but to follow with all earnestness those things which bring amendment of life and heavenly fervour6 ,how many have been injured by their virtue being made known and too hastily praised4 ,how truly profitable hath been grace preserved in silence in this frail life1 which1 as we are told1 is all temptation and warfare4 7#a7 ,psalm lx4 #aa4 7#b7 ,st4 ,agatha4 7#c7 ,psalm cxvi4 #aa2 ,romans iii4 #d4 7#d7 ,matthew x4 #ag1 #cf4 7#e7 ,matthew xxiv4 #bc4 ,,chapter ,,xlvi ,of having confidence in ,god when evil words are cast at us 8,my ,son1 stand fast and believe in ,me4 ,for what are words but words8 ,they fly through the air1 but they bruise no stone4 ,if thou are guilty1 think how thou wouldst gladly amend thyself2 if thou knowest nothing against thyself1 consider that thou wilt gladly bear this for ,god's sake4 ,it is little enough that thou sometimes hast to bear hard words1 for thou art not yet able to bear hard blows4 ,and wherefore do such trivial matters go to thine heart1 except that thou art yet carnal1 and regardest men more than thou oughtest8 ,for because thou fearest to be despised1 thou art unwilling to be reproved for thy faults1 and seekest paltry shelters of excuses4 #b4 8,but look better into thyself1 and thou shalt know that the world is still alive in thee1 and the vain love of pleasing men4 ,for when thou fleest away from being abased and confounded for thy faults1 it is plain that thou art neither truly humble nor truly dead to the world1 and that the world is not crucified to thee4 ,but hearken to ,my word1 and thou shalt not care for ten thousand words of men4 ,behold1 if all things could be said against thee which the utmost malice could invent1 what should it hurt thee if thou wert altogether to let it go1 and make no more account of it than of a mote8 ,could it pluck out a single hair of thy head8 #c4 8,but he that hath no heart within him1 and hath not ,god before his eyes1 is easily moved by a word of reproach2 but he who trusteth in ,me1 and seeketh not to abide by his own judgment1 shall be free from the fear of men4 ,for ,i am the ,judge and the ,discerner of all secrets2 ,i know how the thing hath been done2 ,i know both the injurer and the bearer4 ,from ,me went forth that word1 by ,my permission this hath happened1 that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed47#a7 ,i shall judge the guilty and the innocent2 but beforehand ,i have willed to try them both by a secret judgment4 #d4 8,the testimony of men often deceiveth4 ,my judgment is true2 it will stand1 and it shall not be overturned4 ,it commonly lieth hid1 and only to few in certain cases is it made known2 yet it never erreth1 nor can err1 although it seem not right to the eyes of foolish men4 ,to ,me1 therefore1 must men have recourse in all judgment1 and must not lean to their opinion4 ,for there shall no evil happen to the just17#b7 whatsoever may be sent to him by ,god4 ,even though some unjust charge be brought against him1 he will care little2 nor1 again1 will he exult above measure1 if through others he be clearly vindicated4 ,for he considereth that ,i am ,he who try the hearts and reins17#c7 who judge not outwardly and according to human appearance2 for often in ,mine eyes that is found blameworthy which in the judgment of men is held worthy of praise40 #e4 ,o ,lord ,god1 ,o ,judge1 just1 strong1 and patient1 who knowest the frailty and sinfulness of men1 be ,thou my strength and my whole confidence2 for my own conscience sufficeth me not4 ,thou knowest what ,i know not2 and therefore ought ,i under all rebuke to humble myself1 and to bear it meekly4 ,therefore mercifully forgive me as often as ,i have not done this1 and grant me the next time the grace of greater endurance4 ,for better unto me is ,thine abundant pity for the attainment of ,thy pardon1 than the righteousness which ,i believe myself to have for defence against my conscience1 which lieth wait against me4 ,although ,i know nothing against myself1 yet ,i am not hereby justified17#d7 because if ,thy mercy were removed away1 in ,thy sight should no man living be justified47#e7 7#a7 ,luke ii4 #ce4 7#b7 ,proverbs xii4 #ba4 7#c7 ,psalm vii4 #i4 7#d7 #a ,corinthians iv4 #d4 7#e7 ,psalm cxliii4 #b4 ,,chapter ,,xlvii ,that all troubles are to be endured for the sake of eternal life 8,my ,son1 let not the labours which thou hast undertaken for ,me break thee down1 nor let tribulations cast thee down in any wise1 but let my promise strengthen and comfort thee in every event4 ,i am sufficient to reward thee above all measure and extent4 ,not long shalt thou labour here1 nor always be weighed down with sorrows4 ,wait yet a little while1 and thou shalt see a speedy end of thine evils4 ,an hour shall come when all labour and confusion shall cease4 ,little and short is all that passeth away with time4 #b4 8,do earnestly what thou dost2 labour faithfully in ,my vineyard2 ,i will be thy reward4 ,write1 read1 sing1 weep1 be silent1 pray1 endure adversities manfully2 eternal life is worthy of all these conflicts1 yea1 and of greater4 ,peace shall come in one day which is known to the ,lord2 which shall be neither day nor night17#a7 but light eternal1 infinite clearness1 steadfast peace1 and undisturbed rest4 ,thou shalt not say then1 ,who shall deliver me from the body of this death87#b7 nor cry out1 ,woe is me1 for my sojourning is prolonged17#c7 because death will be utterly destroyed1 and there shall be salvation which can never fail1 no more anxiety1 happy delight1 sweet and noble society4 #c4 8,oh1 if thou sawest the unfading crowns of the ,saints in heaven1 and with what great glory they now rejoice1 who aforetime were reckoned by this world contemptibly and as it were unworthy of life1 truly thou wouldst immediately humble thyself even to the earth1 and wouldst desire rather to be in subjection to all1 than to have authority over one2 nor wouldst thou long for pleasant days of this life1 but wouldst more rejoice to be afflicted for ,god's sake1 and wouldst esteem it gain to be counted for nought amongst men4 #d4 8,oh1 if these things were sweet to thy taste1 and moved thee to the bottom of thine heart1 how shouldst thou dare even once to complain8 ,are not all laborious things to be endured for the sake of eternal life8 ,it is no small thing1 the losing or gaining the ,kingdom of ,god4 ,lift up therefore thy face to heaven4 ,behold1 ,i and all ,my ,saints with ,me1 who in this world had a hard conflict1 now rejoice1 are now comforted1 are now secure1 are now at peace1 and shall remain with ,me evermore in the ,kingdom of ,my ,father40 7#a7 ,zechariah xiv4 #g4 7#b7 ,romans vii4 #bd4 7#c7 ,psalm cxx4 ,,chapter ,,xlviii ,of the day of eternity and of the straitnesses of this life ,oh most blessed mansion of the ,city which is above6 ,oh most clear day of eternity which the night obscureth not1 but the ,supreme ,truth ever enlighteneth6 ,day always joyful1 always secure and never changing its state into those which are contrary4 ,oh would that this day might shine forth1 and that all these temporal things would come to an end4 ,it shineth indeed upon the ,saints1 glowing with unending brightness1 but only from afar and through a glass1 upon those who are pilgrims on the earth4 #b4 ,the citizens of heaven know how glorious that day is2 the exiled sons of ,eve groan1 because this is bitter and wearisome4 ,the days of this life are few and evil1 full of sorrows and straits1 where man is defiled with many sins1 ensnared with many passions1 bound fast with many fears1 wearied with many cares1 distracted with many questionings1 entangled with many vanities1 compassed about with many errors1 worn away with many labours1 weighed down with temptations1 enervated by pleasures1 tormented by poverty4 #c4 ,oh when shall there be an end of these evils8 ,when shall ,i be delivered from the wretched slavery of my sins8 ,when shall ,i be mindful1 ,o ,lord1 of ,thee alone8 ,when shall ,i rejoice in ,thee to the full8 ,when shall ,i be in true liberty without any impediment1 without any burden on mind or body8 ,when shall there be solid peace1 peace immovable and secure1 peace within and without1 peace firm on every side8 ,blessed ,jesus1 when shall ,i stand to behold ,thee8 ,when shall ,i gaze upon the glory of ,thy kingdom8 ,when shalt ,thou be to me all in all8 ,oh when shall ,i be with ,thee in ,thy ,kingdom which ,thou hast prepared from the foundation of the world for them that love ,thee8 ,i am left destitute1 an exile in a hostile land1 where are daily wars and grievous misfortunes4 #d4 ,console my exile1 mitigate my sorrow1 for towards ,thee all my desire longeth4 ,for all is to me a burden1 whatsoever this world offereth for consolation4 ,i yearn to enjoy ,thee intimately1 but ,i cannot attain unto it4 ,i long to cleave to heavenly things1 but temporal things and unmortified passions press me down4 ,in my mind ,i would be above all things1 but in my flesh ,i am unwillingly compelled to be beneath them4 ,so1 wretched man that ,i am1 ,i fight with myself1 and am made grievous even unto myself1 while the spirit seeketh to be above and the flesh to be beneath4 #e4 ,oh how ,i suffer inwardly1 while with the mind ,i discourse on heavenly things1 and presently a crowd of carnal things rusheth upon me whilst ,i pray4 ,my ,god1 be not ,thou far from me1 nor depart in wrath from ,thy servant4 ,cast forth ,thy lightning and scatter them2 send out ,thine arrows17#a7 and let all delusions of my enemy be confounded4 ,recall my senses unto ,thyself1 cause me to forget all worldly things2 grant me quickly to cast away and despise the imaginations of sin4 ,succour me1 ,o ,eternal ,truth1 that no vanity may move me4 ,come unto me1 ,o ,heavenly ,sweetness1 and let all impurity flee from before ,thy face4 ,pardon me also1 and of ,thy mercy deal gently with me1 whensoever in prayer ,i think on anything besides ,thee2 for truly ,i confess that ,i am wont to be continually distracted4 ,for often and often1 where in the body ,i stand or sit1 there ,i myself am not2 but rather am ,i there1 whither ,i am borne by my thoughts4 ,where my thought is1 there am ,i2 and there commonly is my thought where that which ,i love is4 ,that readily occurreth to me1 which naturally delighteth1 or pleaseth through custom4 #f4 ,wherefore ,thou1 who art the ,truth1 hast plainly said1 ,where your treasure is1 there will your heart be also47#b7 ,if ,i love heaven1 ,i gladly meditate on heavenly things4 ,if ,i love the world1 ,i rejoice in the delights of the world1 and am made sorry by its adversities4 ,if ,i love the flesh1 ,i am continually imagining the things which belong to the flesh2 if ,i love the spirit1 ,i am delighted by meditating on spiritual things4 ,for whatsoever things ,i love1 on these ,i readily converse and listen1 and carry home with me the images of them4 ,but blessed is that man who for ,thy sake1 ,o ,lord1 is willing to part from all creatures2 who doth violence to his fleshly nature and crucifieth the lusts of the flesh by the fervour of his spirit1 so that with serene conscience he may offer unto ,thee a pure prayer1 and be made worthy to enter into the angelic choirs1 having shut out from himself1 both outwardly and inwardly1 all worldly things4 7#a7 ,psalm lxxi4 #ab4 7#b7 ,matthew vi4 #ba4 ,,chapter ,,xlix ,of the desire after eternal life1 and how great blessings are promised to those who strive 8,my ,son1 when thou feelest the desire of eternal happiness to be poured into thee from above1 and longest to depart from the tabernacle of this body1 that thou mayest contemplate ,my glory without shadow of turning1 enlarge thine heart1 and take in this holy inspiration with all thy desire4 ,give most hearty thanks to the ,supreme ,goodness1 who dealeth with thee so graciously1 visiteth thee so lovingly1 stirreth thee up so fervently1 raiseth thee so powerfully1 lest thou sink down through thine own weight1 to earthly things4 ,for not by thine own meditating or striving dost thou receive this gift1 but by the sole gracious condescension of ,supreme ,grace and ,divine regard2 to the end that thou mayest make progress in virtue and in more humility1 and prepare thyself for future conflicts1 and cleave unto ,me with all the affection of thy heart1 and strive to serve ,me with fervent will4 #b4 8,my ,son1 often the fire burneth1 but the flame ascendeth not without smoke4 ,so also the desires of some men burn towards heavenly things1 and yet they are not free from the temptation of carnal affection4 ,thus therefore they are not acting with an altogether simple desire for ,god's glory when they pray to ,him so earnestly4 ,such1 too1 is oftentimes thy desire1 when thou hast imagined it to be so earnest4 ,for that is not pure and perfect which is tainted with thine own self-seeking4 #c4 8,seek thou not what is pleasant and advantageous to thyself1 but what is acceptable and honourable unto ,me2 for if thou judgest rightly1 thou must choose and follow after ,my appointment rather than thine own desire2 yea1 rather than anything that can be desired4 ,i know thy desire1 and ,i have heard thy many groanings4 ,already thou longest to be in the glorious liberty of the children of ,god2 already the eternal home delighteth thee1 and the heavenly country full of joy2 but the hour is not yet come2 there remaineth still another season1 even a season of warfare1 a season of labour and probation4 ,thou desirest to be filled with the ,chief ,good1 but thou canst not attain it immediately4 ,i ,,am that ,good2 wait for ,me1 until the ,kingdom of ,god shall come4 #d4 8,thou must still be tried upon earth1 and be exercised in many things4 ,consolation shall from time to time be given thee1 but abundant satisfying shall not be granted4 ,be strong therefore1 and be thou brave both in working and in suffering things which are against thy nature4 ,thou must put on the new man1 and be changed into another man4 ,thou must often do what thou wouldst not2 and thou must leave undone what thou wouldst do4 ,what pleaseth others shall have good success1 what pleaseth thee shall have no prosperity4 ,what others say shall be listened to2 what thou sayest shall receive no heed4 ,others shall ask and receive2 thou shalt ask and not obtain4 ,others shall be great in the report of men1 but about thee shall nothing be spoken4 ,to others this or that shall be entrusted2 thou shalt be judged useful for nought4 #e4 8,for this cause nature shall sometimes be filled with sadness2 and it is a great thing if thou bear it silently4 ,in this and many like things the faithful servant of the ,lord is wont to be tried1 how far he is able to deny himself and bring himself into subjection in all things4 ,scarcely is there anything in which thou hast need to mortify thyself so much as in seeing things which are adverse to thy will2 especially when things are commanded thee to be done which seem to thee inexpedient or of little use to thee4 ,and because thou darest not resist a higher power1 being under authority1 therefore it seemeth hard for thee to shape thy course according to the nod of another1 and to forego thine own opinion4 #f4 8,but consider1 ,my ,son1 the fruit of these labours1 the swift end1 and the reward exceeding great2 and thou shalt find it no pain to bear them then1 but rather the strongest solace of thy patience4 ,for even in exchange for this trifling desire which thou hast readily forsaken1 thou shalt always have thy will in ,heaven4 ,there verily thou shalt find all that thou wouldst1 all that thou canst long for4 ,there thou shalt have all good within thy power without the fear of losing it4 ,there thy will1 ever at one with ,mine1 shall desire nothing outward1 nothing for itself4 ,there no man shall withstand thee1 none shall complain of thee1 none shall hinder1 nothing shall stand in thy path2 but all things desired by thee shall be present together1 and shall refresh thy whole affection1 and fill it up even to the brim4 ,there ,i will glory for the scorn suffered here1 the garment of praise for sorrow1 and for the lowest place a throne in the ,kingdom1 for ever4 ,there shall appear the fruit of obedience1 the labour of repentance shall rejoice1 and humble subjection shall be crowned gloriously4 #g4 8,now therefore bow thyself humbly under the hands of all men2 nor let it trouble thee who said this or who ordered that2 but take special heed that whether thy superior1 thy inferior1 or thy equal1 require anything from thee1 or even show a desire for it2 take it all in good part1 and study with a good will to fulfil the desire4 ,let one seek this1 another that2 let this man glory in this1 and that man in that1 and be praised a thousand thousand times1 but rejoice thou only in the contempt of thyself1 and in ,mine own good pleasure and glory4 ,this is what thou art to long for1 even that whether by life or by death ,god may be ever magnified in thee407#a7 7#a7 ,philippians i4 #bj4 ,,chapter ,l ,how a desolate man ought to commit himself into the hands of ,god ,o ,lord1 ,holy ,father1 be ,thou blessed now and evermore2 because as ,thou wilt so it is done1 and what ,thou doest is good4 ,let ,thy servant rejoice in ,thee1 not in himself1 nor in any other2 because ,thou alone art the true joy1 ,thou art my hope and my crown1 ,thou art my joy and my honour1 ,o ,lord4 ,what hath ,thy servant1 which he received not from ,thee1 even without merit of his own8 ,thine are all things which ,thou hast given1 and which ,thou hast made4 ,i am poor and in misery even from my youth up17#a7 and my soul is sorrowful unto tears1 sometimes also it is disquieted within itself1 because of the sufferings which are coming upon it4 #b4 ,i long after the joy of peace2 for the peace of ,thy children do ,i beseech1 for in the light of ,thy comfort they are fed by ,thee4 ,if ,thou give peace1 if ,thou pour into me holy joy1 the soul of ,thy servant shall be full of melody1 and devout in ,thy praise4 ,but if ,thou withdraw ,thyself as too often ,thou art wont1 he will not be able to run in the way of ,thy commandments1 but rather he will smite his breast and will bow his knees2 because it is not with him as yesterday and the day before1 when ,thy candle shined upon his head17#b7 and he walked under the shadow of ,thy wings17#c7 from the temptations which beset him4 #c4 ,o ,father1 righteous and ever to be praised1 the hour cometh when ,thy servant is to be proved4 ,o beloved ,father1 it is well that in this hour ,thy servant suffer somewhat for ,thy sake4 ,o ,father1 evermore to be adored1 as the hour cometh which ,thou foreknewest from everlasting1 when for a little while ,thy servant should outwardly bow down1 but always live inwardly with ,thee2 when for a little while he should be little regarded1 humbled1 and fail in the eyes of men2 should be wasted with sufferings and weaknesses1 to rise again with ,thee in the dawn of the new light1 and be glorified in the heavenly places4 ,o ,holy ,father1 thou hast ordained it so1 and so hast willed it2 and that is done which ,thou ,thyself hast commanded4 #d4 ,for this is ,thy favour to ,thy friend1 that he should suffer and be troubled in the world for ,thy love's sake1 how often soever1 and by whomsoever and whosoever ,thou hast suffered it to be done4 ,without ,thy counsel and providence1 and without cause1 nothing cometh to pass on the earth4 ,it is good for me1 ,lord1 that ,i had been in trouble1 that ,i may learn ,thy statutes17#d7 and may cast away all pride of heart and presumption4 ,it is profitable for me that confusion hath covered my face1 that ,i may seek to ,thee for consolation rather than unto men4 ,by this also ,i have learned to dread ,thine unsearchable judgment1 who afflictest the just with the wicked1 but not without equity and justice4 #e4 ,thanks be unto ,thee1 because ,thou hast not spared my sins1 but hast beaten me with stripes of love1 inflicting pains1 and sending troubles upon me without and within4 ,there is none who can console me1 of all things which are under heaven1 but ,thou only1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 ,thou heavenly ,physician of souls1 who dost scourge and hast mercy1 who leadest down to hell and bringest up again47#e7 ,thy discipline over me1 and ,thy rod itself shall teach me4 #f4 ,behold1 ,o beloved ,father1 ,i am in ,thy hands1 ,i bow myself under the rod of ,thy correction4 ,smite my back and my neck that ,i may bend my crookedness to ,thy will4 ,make me a pious and lowly disciple1 as ,thou wert wont to be kind1 that ,i may walk according to every nod of ,thine4 ,to ,thee ,i commend myself and all that ,i have for correction2 better is it to be punished here than hereafter4 ,thou knowest all things and each of them2 and nothing remaineth hid from ,thee in man's conscience4 ,before they are1 thou knowest that they will be1 and ,thou needest not that any man teach ,thee or admonish ,thee concerning the things which are done upon the earth4 ,thou knowest what is expedient for my profit1 and how greatly trouble serveth unto the scrubbing off the rust of sin4 ,do with me according to ,thy desired good pleasure1 and despise not my life which is full of sin1 known to none so entirely and fully as to ,thee alone4 #g4 ,grant me1 ,o ,lord1 to know that which ought to be known2 to love that which ought to be loved2 to praise that which pleaseth ,thee most1 to esteem that which is precious in ,thy sight1 to blame that which is vile in ,thine eyes4 ,suffer me not to judge according to the sight of bodily eyes1 nor to give sentence according to the hearing of the ears of ignorant men2 but to discern in true judgment between visible and spiritual things1 and above all things to be ever seeking after the will of ,thy good pleasure4 #h4 ,oftentimes the senses of men are deceived in judging2 the lovers of the world also are deceived in that they love only visible things4 ,what is a man better because by man he is reckoned very great8 ,the deceiver deceiveth the deceiver1 the vain man the vain1 the blind man the blind1 the weak man the weak1 when they exalt one another2 and in truth they rather put to shame1 while they foolishly praise4 ,for as humble ,st4 ,francis saith1 8,what each one is in ,thine eyes1 so much he is1 and no more40 7#a7 ,psalm lxxxviii4 #ae4 7#b7 ,job xxix4 #c4 7#c7 ,psalm xvii4 #h4 7#d7 ,psalm cxix4 #ga4 7#e7 ,job xiii4 #b4 ,,chapter ,,li ,that we must give ourselves to humble works when we are unequal to those that are lofty 8,my ,son1 thou art not always able to continue in very fervent desire after virtues1 nor to stand fast in the loftier region of contemplation2 but thou must of necessity sometimes descend to lower things because of thine original corruption1 and bear about the burden of corruptible life1 though unwillingly and with weariness4 ,so long as thou wearest a mortal body1 thou shalt feel weariness and heaviness of heart4 ,therefore thou oughtest to groan often in the flesh because of the burden of the flesh1 inasmuch as thou canst not give thyself to spiritual studies and divine contemplation unceasingly4 #b4 8,at such a time it is expedient for thee to flee to humble and external works1 and to renew thyself with good actions2 to wait for ,my coming and heavenly visitation with sure confidence2 to bear thy exile and drought of mind with patience1 until thou be visited by ,me again1 and be freed from all anxieties4 ,for ,i will cause thee to forget thy labours1 and altogether to enjoy eternal peace4 ,i will spread open before thee the pleasant pastures of the ,scriptures1 that with enlarged heart thou mayest begin to run in the way of ,my commandments4 ,and thou shalt say1 #8,the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us4'07#a7 7#a7 ,romans viii4 #ah4 ,,chapter ,,lii ,that a man ought not to reckon himself worthy of consolation1 but more worthy of chastisement ,o ,lord1 ,i am not worthy of ,thy consolation1 nor of any spiritual visitation2 and therefore ,thou dealest justly with me1 when ,thou leavest me poor and desolate4 ,for if ,i were able to pour forth tears like the sea1 still should ,i not be worthy of ,thy consolation4 ,therefore am ,i nothing worthy save to be scourged and punished1 because ,i have grievously and many a time offended ,thee1 and in many things have greatly sinned4 ,therefore1 true account being taken1 ,i am not worthy even of the least of ,thy consolations4 ,but ,thou1 gracious and merciful ,god1 who willest not that ,thy works should perish1 to show forth the riches of ,thy mercy upon the vessels of mercy17#a7 vouchsafest even beyond all his own deserving1 to comfort ,thy servant above the measure of mankind4 ,for ,thy consolations are not like unto the discoursings of men4 #b4 ,what have ,i done1 ,o ,lord1 that ,thou shouldst bestow any heavenly comfort upon me8 ,i remember not that ,i have done any good1 but have been ever prone to sin and slow to amendment4 ,it is true and ,i cannot deny it4 ,if ,i should say otherwise1 ,thou wouldst rise up against me1 and there would be none to defend me4 ,what have ,i deserved for my sins but hell and everlasting fire8 ,in very truth ,i confess that ,i am worthy of all scorn and contempt1 nor is it fit that ,i should be remembered among ,thy faithful servants4 ,and although ,i be unwilling to hear this1 nevertheless ,i will for the ,truth's sake1 accuse myself of my sins1 that the more readily ,i may prevail to be accounted worthy of ,thy mercy4 #c4 ,what shall ,i say1 guilty that ,i am and filled with confusion8 ,i have no mouth to utter1 unless it be this word alone1 8,i have sinned1 ,lord1 ,i have sinned2 have mercy upon me1 forgive me40 ,let me alone1 that ,i may take comfort a little before ,i go whence ,i shall not return even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death47#b7 ,what dost ,thou so much require of a guilty and miserable sinner1 as that he be contrite1 and humble himself for his sins8 ,in true contrition and humiliation of heart is begotten the hope of pardon1 the troubled conscience is reconciled1 lost grace is recovered1 a man is preserved from the wrath to come1 and ,god and the penitent soul hasten to meet each other with a holy kiss47#c7 #d4 ,the humble contrition of sinners is an acceptable sacrifice unto ,thee1 ,o ,lord1 sending forth a smell sweeter far in ,thy sight than the incense4 ,this also is that pleasant ointment which ,thou wouldst have poured upon ,thy sacred feet1 for a broken and contrite heart ,thou hast never despised47#d7 ,there is the place of refuge from the wrathful countenance of the enemy4 ,there is amended and washed away whatsoever evil hath elsewhere been contracted4 7#a7 ,romans ix4 #bc4 7#b7 ,job x4 #bj1 #ba4 7#c7 ,luke xv4 #bj4 7#d7 ,psalm li4 #ag4 ,,chapter ,,liii ,that the ,grace of ,god doth not join itself to those who mind earthly things 8,my ,son1 precious is ,my grace1 it suffereth not itself to be joined with outward things1 nor with earthly consolations4 ,therefore thou oughtest to cast away all things which hinder grace1 if thou longest to receive the inpouring thereof4 ,seek a secret place for thyself1 love to dwell alone with thyself1 desire the conversation of no one2 but rather pour out thy devout prayer to ,god1 that thou mayest possess a contrite mind and a pure conscience4 ,count the whole world as nought2 seek to be alone with ,god before all outward things4 ,for thou canst not be alone with ,me1 and at the same time be delighted with transitory things4 ,thou oughtest to be separated from thy acquaintances and dear friends1 and keep thy mind free from all worldly comfort4 ,so the blessed ,apostle ,peter beseecheth1 that ,christ's faithful ones bear themselves in this world as strangers and pilgrims47#a7 #b4 8,oh how great a confidence shall there be to the dying man whom no affection to anything detaineth in the world8 ,but to have a heart so separated from all things1 a sickly soul doth not yet comprehend1 nor doth the carnal man know the liberty of the spiritual man4 ,but if indeed he desire to be spiritually minded1 he must renounce both those who are far off1 and those who are near1 and to beware of no man more than himself4 ,if thou perfectly conquer thyself1 very easily shalt thou subdue all things besides4 ,perfect victory is the triumph over oneself4 ,for whoso keepeth himself in subjection1 in such manner that the sensual affections obey the reason1 and the reason in all things obeyeth ,me1 he truly is conqueror of himself1 and lord of the world4 #c4 8,if thou desire to climb to this height1 thou oughtest to start bravely1 and to lay the axe to the root1 to the end that thou mayest pull up and destroy the hidden inordinate inclination towards thyself1 and towards all selfish and earthly good4 ,from this sin1 that a man loveth himself too inordinately1 almost everything hangeth which needeth to be utterly overcome3 when that evil is conquered and put under foot1 there shall be great peace and tranquillity continually4 ,but because few strive earnestly to die perfectly to themselves1 and do not heartily go forth from themselves1 therefore do they remain entangled in themselves1 and cannot be raised in spirit above themselves4 ,but he who desireth to walk at liberty with ,me1 must of necessity mortify all his evil and inordinate affections1 and must cling to no creature with selfish love40 7#a7 #a ,peter ii4 #aa4 ,,chapter ,,liv ,of the diverse motions of ,nature and of ,grace 8,my ,son1 pay diligent heed to the motions of ,nature and of ,grace1 because they move in a very contrary and subtle manner1 and are hardly distinguished save by a spiritual and inwardly enlightened man4 ,all men indeed seek good1 and make pretence of something good in all that they say or do2 and thus under the appearance of good many are deceived4 #b4 8,nature is deceitful and draweth away1 ensnareth1 and deceiveth many1 and always hath self for her end2 but ,grace walketh in simplicity and turneth away from every appearance of evil1 maketh no false pretences1 and doeth all entirely for the sake of ,god1 in whom also she finally resteth4 #c4 8,nature is very unwilling to die1 and to be pressed down1 and to be overcome1 and to be in subjection1 and to bear the yoke readily2 but ,grace studieth self-mortification1 resisteth sensuality1 seeketh to be subdued1 longeth to be conquered1 and willeth not to use her own liberty4 ,she loveth to be held by discipline1 and not to have authority over any1 but always to live1 to remain1 to have her being under ,god1 and for ,god's sake is ready to be humbly subject to every ordinance of man4 #d4 8,nature laboureth for her own advantage1 and considereth what profit she may gain from another2 but ,grace considereth more1 not what may be useful and convenient to self1 but what may be profitable to the many4 #e4 8,nature willingly receiveth honour and reverence2 but ,grace faithfully ascribeth all honour and glory to ,god4 #f4 8,nature feareth confusion and contempt1 but ,grace rejoiceth to suffer shame for the name of ,jesus4 #g4 8,nature loveth ease and bodily quiet2 ,grace cannot be unemployed1 but gladly embraceth labour4 #h4 8,nature seeketh to possess things curious and attractive1 and abhorreth those which are rough and cheap2 ,grace is delighted with things simple and humble1 despiseth not those which are rough1 nor refuseth to be clothed with old garments4 #i4 8,nature hath regard to things temporal1 rejoiceth in earthly lucre1 is made sad by loss1 vexed by any little injurious word2 but ,grace reacheth after things eternal1 cleaveth not to those which are temporal1 is not perturbed by losses1 nor embittered by any hard words1 because she hath placed her treasure and joy in heaven where nought perisheth4 #aj4 8,nature is covetous1 and receiveth more willingly than she giveth1 loveth things that are personal and private to herself2 while ,grace is kind and generous1 avoideth selfishness1 is contented with a little1 believeth that it is more blessed to give than to receive4 #aa4 8,nature inclineth thee to created things1 to thine own flesh1 to vanities and dissipation2 but ,grace draweth to ,god and to virtues1 renounceth creatures1 fleeth from the world1 hateth the desires of the flesh1 restraineth vagaries1 blusheth to be seen in public4 #ab4 8,nature is glad to receive some outward solace in which the senses may have delight2 but ,grace seeketh to be comforted in ,god alone1 and to have delight in the chief good above all visible things4 #ac4 8,nature doeth everything for her own gain and profit1 can do nothing as a free favour1 but hopeth to attain something as good or better1 or some praise or favour for her benefits2 and she loveth that her own deeds and gifts should be highly valued2 but ,grace seeketh nothing temporal1 nor requireth any other gift of reward than ,god alone2 neither longeth she for more of temporal necessities than such as may suffice for the attaining of eternal life4 #ad4 8,nature rejoiceth in many friends and kinsfolk1 she boasteth of noble place and noble birth1 she smileth on the powerful1 flattereth the rich1 applaudeth those who are like herself2 but ,grace loveth even her enemies1 and is not lifted up by the multitude of friends1 setteth no store upon high place or high birth1 unless there be greater virtue therewith2 favoureth the poor man more than the rich1 hath more sympathy with the innocent than with the powerful2 rejoiceth with the truthful1 not with the liar2 always exhorteth the good to strive after better gifts of grace1 and to become by holiness like unto the ,son of ,god4 #ae4 8,nature quickly complaineth of poverty and of trouble2 ,grace beareth want with constancy4 #af4 8,nature looketh upon all things in reference to herself2 striveth and argueth for self2 but ,grace bringeth back all things to ,god from whom they came at the beginning2 ascribeth no good to herself nor arrogantly presumeth2 is not contentious1 nor preferreth her own opinion to others1 but in every sense and understanding submitteth herself to the ,eternal wisdom and the ,divine judgment4 #ag4 8,nature is eager to know secrets and to hear new things2 she loveth to appear abroad1 and to make experience of many things through the senses2 she desireth to be acknowledged and to do those things which win praise and admiration2 but ,grace careth not to gather up new or curious things1 because all this springeth from the old corruption1 whereas there is nothing new or lasting upon earth4 ,so she teacheth to restrain the senses1 to shun vain complacency and ostentation1 to hide humbly those things which merit praise and real admiration1 and from everything and in all knowledge to seek after useful fruit1 and the praise and honour of ,god4 ,she desireth not to receive praise for herself or her own1 but longeth that ,god be blessed in all ,his gifts1 who out of unmingled love bestoweth all things40 #ah4 ,this ,grace is a supernatural light1 and a certain special gift of ,god1 and the proper mark of the elect1 and the pledge of eternal salvation2 it exalteth a man from earthly things to love those that are heavenly2 and it maketh the carnal man spiritual4 ,so far therefore as ,nature is utterly pressed down and overcome1 so far is greater ,grace bestowed and the inner man is daily created anew by fresh visitations1 after the image of ,god4 ,,chapter ,,lv ,of the corruption of ,nature and the efficacy of ,divine ,grace ,o ,lord my ,god1 who hast created me after thine own image and similitude1 grant me this grace1 which ,thou hast shown to be so great and so necessary for salvation1 that ,i may conquer my wicked nature1 which draweth me to sin and to perdition4 ,for ,i feel in my flesh the law of sin1 contradicting the law of my mind1 and bringing me into captivity to the obedience of sensuality in many things2 nor can ,i resist its passions1 unless ,thy most holy grace assist me1 fervently poured into my heart4 #b4 ,there is need of ,thy grace1 yea1 and of a great measure thereof1 that my nature may be conquered1 which hath alway been prone to evil from my youth4 ,for being fallen through the first man ,adam1 and corrupted through sin1 the punishment of this stain descended upon all men2 so that ,nature itself1 which was framed good and right by ,thee1 is now used to express the vice and infirmity of corrupted ,nature2 because its motion left unto itself draweth men away to evil and to lower things4 ,for the little power which remaineth is as it were one spark lying hid in the ashes4 ,this is ,natural reason itself1 encompassed with thick clouds1 having yet a discernment of good and evil1 a distinction of the true and the false1 though it be powerless to fulfil all that it approveth1 and possess not yet the full light of truth1 nor healthfulness of its affections4 #c4 ,hence it is1 ,o my ,god1 that ,i delight in ,thy law after the inward man17#a7 knowing that ,thy commandment is holy and just and good2 reproving also all evil1 and the sin that is to be avoided3 yet with the flesh ,i serve the law of sin1 whilst ,i obey sensuality rather than reason4 ,hence it is that to will to do good is present with me1 but how to perform it ,i find not47#b7 ,hence ,i ofttimes purpose many good things2 but because grace is lacking to help mine infirmities1 ,i fall back before a little resistance and fail4 ,hence it cometh to pass that ,i recognize the way of perfectness1 and see very clearly what things ,i ought to do2 but pressed down by the weight of my own corruption1 ,i rise not to the things which are more perfect4 #d4 ,oh how entirely necessary is ,thy grace to me1 ,o ,lord1 for a good beginning1 for progress1 and for bringing to perfection4 ,for without it ,i can do nothing1 but ,i can do all things through ,thy grace which strengtheneth me47#c7 ,o truly heavenly grace1 without which our own merits are nought1 and no gifts of ,nature at all are to be esteemed4 ,arts1 riches1 beauty1 strength1 wit1 eloquence1 they all avail nothing before ,thee1 ,o ,lord1 without ,thy grace4 ,for the gifts of ,nature belong to good and evil alike2 but the proper gift of the elect is grace--that is1 love--and they who bear the mark thereof are held worthy of everlasting life4 ,so mighty is this grace1 that without it neither the gift of prophecy nor the working of miracles1 nor any speculation1 howsoever lofty1 is of any value at all4 ,but neither faith1 nor hope1 nor any other virtue is accepted with ,thee without love and grace4 #e4 ,o most blessed grace that makest the poor in spirit rich in virtues1 and renderest him who is rich in many things humble in spirit1 come ,thou1 descend upon me1 fill me early with ,thy consolation1 lest my soul fail through weariness and drought of mind4 ,i beseech thee1 ,o ,lord1 that ,i may find grace in ,thy sight1 for ,thy grace is sufficient for me17#d7 when ,i obtain not those things which ,nature longeth for4 ,if ,i be tempted and vexed with many tribulations1 ,i will fear no evil1 while ,thy grace remaineth with me4 ,this alone is my strength1 this bringeth me counsel and help4 ,it is more powerful than all enemies1 and wiser than all the wise men in the world4 #f4 ,it is the mistress of truth1 the teacher of discipline1 the light of the heart1 the solace of anxiety1 the banisher of sorrow1 the deliverer from fear1 the nurse of devotion1 the drawer forth of tears4 ,what am ,i without it1 save a dry tree1 a useless branch1 worthy to be cast away6 8,let ,thy grace1 therefore1 ,o ,lord1 always prevent and follow me1 and make me continually given to all good works1 through ,jesus ,christ1 ,thy ,son4 ,amen40 7#a7 ,romans vii4 #ab1 #bb4 #be4 7#b7 ,romans vii4 #ah4 7#c7 ,philippians iv4 #ac4 7#d7 #b ,corinthians xii4 #i4 ,,chapter ,,lvi ,that we ought to deny ourselves1 and to imitate ,christ by means of the ,cross ,my ,son1 so far as thou art able to go out of thyself so far shalt thou be able to enter into ,me4 ,as to desire no outward thing worketh internal peace1 so the forsaking of self inwardly joineth unto ,god4 ,i will that thou learn perfect self-denial1 living in ,my will without contradiction or complaint4 ,follow ,me3 ,i am the way1 the truth1 and the life47#a7 ,without the way thou canst not go1 without the truth thou canst not know1 without the life thou canst not live4 ,i am the ,way which thou oughtest to follow2 the ,truth which thou oughtest to believe2 the ,life which thou oughtest to hope for4 ,i am the ,way unchangeable2 the ,truth infallible2 the ,life everlasting4 ,i am the ,way altogether straight1 the ,truth supreme1 the true ,life1 the blessed ,life1 the uncreated ,life4 ,if thou remain in ,my way thou shalt know the ,truth1 and the truth shall make thee free17#b7 and thou shalt lay hold on eternal life4 #b4 8,if thou wilt enter into life1 keep the commandments47#c7 ,if thou wilt know the truth1 believe in ,me4 ,if thou wilt be perfect1 sell all that thou hast4 ,if thou wilt be ,my disciple1 deny thyself4 ,if thou wouldst possess the blessed life1 despise the life which now is4 ,if thou wilt be exalted in heaven1 humble thyself in the world4 ,if thou wilt reign with ,me1 bear the cross with ,me2 for only the servants of the cross find the way of blessedness and of true light40 #c4 ,o ,lord ,jesu1 forasmuch as ,thy life was straitened and despised by the world1 grant unto me to imitate ,thee in despising the world1 for the servant is not greater than his lord1 nor the disciple above his master47#d7 ,let ,thy servant be exercised in ,thy life1 because there is my salvation and true holiness4 ,whatsoever ,i read or hear besides it1 it refresheth me not1 nor giveth me delight4 #d4 8,my son1 because thou knowest these things and hast read them all1 blessed shalt thou be if thou doest them4 ,he who hath ,my commandments and keepeth them1 he it is that loveth ,me1 and ,i will love him1 and will manifest ,myself to him17#e7 and ,i will make him to sit down with ,me in ,my ,father's ,kingdom40 #e4 ,o ,lord ,jesu1 as ,thou hast said and promised1 even so let it be unto me1 and grant me to prove worthy4 ,i have received the cross at ,thy hand2 ,i have carried it1 and will carry it even unto death1 as ,thou hast laid it upon me4 ,truly the life of a truly devoted servant is a cross1 but it leadeth to paradise4 ,i have begun2 ,i may not return back nor leave it4 #f4 ,come1 my brothers1 let us together go forward4 ,jesus shall be with us4 ,for ,jesus' sake have we taken up this cross1 for ,jesus' sake let us persevere in the cross4 ,he will be our helper1 who was our ,captain and ,forerunner4 ,behold our ,king entereth in before us1 and ,he will fight for us4 ,let us follow bravely1 let no man fear terrors2 let us be prepared to die bravely in battle1 and let us not so stain our honour17#f7 as to fly from the cross4 7#a7 ,john xiv4 #f4 7#b7 ,john viii4 #cb4 7#c7 ,matthew xix4 #ag1 #ba4 7#d7 ,matthew x4 #bd4 7#e7 ,john xiv4 #ba4 7#f7 #a ,mac4 ix4 #aj4 ,,chapter ,,lvii ,that a man must not be too much cast down when he falleth into some faults 8,my ,son1 patience and humility in adversities are more pleasing to ,me than much comfort and devotion in prosperity4 ,why doth a little thing spoken against thee make thee sad8 ,if it had been more1 thou still oughtest not to be moved4 ,but now suffer it to go by2 it is not the first1 it is not new1 and it will not be the last1 if thou live long4 ,thou art brave enough1 so long as no adversity meeteth thee4 ,thou givest good counsel also1 and knowest how to strengthen others with thy words2 but when tribulation suddenly knocketh at thine own door1 thy counsel and strength fail4 ,consider thy great frailty1 which thou dost so often experience in trifling matters nevertheless1 for thy soul's health these things are done when they and such like happen unto thee4 #b4 8,put them away from thy heart as well as thou canst1 and if tribulation hath touched thee1 yet let it not cast thee down nor entangle thee long4 ,at the least1 bear patiently1 if thou canst not joyfully4 ,and although thou be very unwilling to hear it1 and feel indignation1 yet check thyself1 and suffer no unadvised word to come forth from thy lips1 whereby the little ones may be offended4 ,soon the storm which hath been raised shall be stilled1 and inward grief shall be sweetened by returning grace4 ,i yet live1 saith the ,lord1 ready to help thee1 and to give thee more than wonted consolation if thou put thy trust in ,me1 and call devoutly upon ,me4 #c4 8,be thou more calm of spirit1 and gird thyself for greater endurance4 ,all is not frustrated1 though thou find thyself very often afflicted or grievously tempted4 ,thou art man1 not ,god2 thou art flesh1 not an angel4 ,how shouldst thou be able to remain alway in the same state of virtue1 when an angel in heaven fell1 and the first man in paradise8 ,i am ,he who lifteth up the mourners to deliverance1 and those who know their own infirmity ,i raise up to my own nature40 #d4 ,o ,lord1 blessed be ,thy word1 sweeter to my mouth than honey and the honeycomb4 ,what should ,i do in my so great tribulations and anxieties1 unless ,thou didst comfort me with ,thy holy words8 ,if only ,i may attain unto the haven of salvation1 what matter is it what things or how many ,i suffer8 ,give me a good end1 give me a happy passage out of this world4 ,remember me1 ,o my ,god1 and lead me by the right way unto ,thy ,kingdom4 ,amen4 ,,chapter ,,lviii ,of deeper matters1 and ,god's hidden judgments which are not to be inquired into 8,my ,son1 beware thou dispute not of high matters and of the hidden judgments of ,god2 why this man is thus left1 and that man is taken into so great favour2 why also this man is so greatly afflicted1 and that so highly exalted4 ,these things pass all man's power of judging1 neither may any reasoning or disputation have power to search out the divine judgments4 ,when therefore the enemy suggesteth these things to thee1 or when any curious people ask such questions1 answer with that word of the ,prophet1 ,just art ,thou1 ,o ,lord1 and true is ,thy judgment17#a7 and with this1 ,the judgments of the ,lord are true1 and righteous altogether47#b7 ,my judgments are to be feared1 not to be disputed on1 because they are incomprehensible to human understanding4 #b4 8,and be not given to inquire or dispute about the merits of the ,saints1 which is holier than another1 or which is the greater in the ,kingdom of ,heaven4 ,such questions often beget useless strifes and contentions3 they also nourish pride and vain glory1 whence envyings and dissensions arise1 while one man arrogantly endeavoureth to exalt one ,saint and another another4 ,but to wish to know and search out such things bringeth no fruit1 but it rather displeaseth the ,saints2 for ,i am not the ,god of confusion but of peace27#c7 which peace consisteth more in true humility than in self-exaltation4 #c4 8,some are drawn by zeal of love to greater affection to these ,saints or those2 but this is human affection rather than divine4 ,i am ,he ,who made all the ,saints3 ,i gave them grace1 ,i brought them glory2 ,i know the merits of every one2 ,i prevented them with the blessings of ,my goodness47#d7 ,i foreknew my beloved ones from everlasting1 ,i chose them out of the world27#e7 they did not choose ,me4 ,i called them by ,my grace1 drew them by ,my mercy1 led them on through sundry temptations4 ,i poured mighty consolations upon them1 ,i gave them perseverance1 ,i crowned their patience4 #d4 8,i acknowledge the first and the last2 ,i embrace all with inestimable love4 ,i am to be praised in all ,my ,saints2 ,i am to be blessed above all things1 and to be honoured in every one whom ,i have so gloriously exalted and predestined1 without any preceding merits of their own4 ,he therefore that shall despise one of the least of these ,my people1 honoureth not the great2 because ,i made both small and great47#f7 ,and he who speaketh against any of ,my ,saints speaketh against ,me1 and against all others in the ,kingdom of ,heaven40 ,they are all one through the bond of charity2 they think the same thing1 will the same thing1 and all are united in love one to another4 #e4 8,but yet 7which is far better7 they love ,me above themselves and their own merits4 ,for being caught up above themselves1 and drawn beyond self-love1 they go all straightforward to the love of ,me1 and they rest in ,me in perfect enjoyment4 ,there is nothing which can turn them away or press them down2 for being full of ,eternal ,truth1 they burn with the fire of inextinguishable charity4 ,therefore let all carnal and natural men hold their peace concerning the state of the ,saints1 for they know nothing save to love their own personal enjoyment4 ,they take away and add according to their own inclination1 not as it pleaseth the ,eternal ,truth4 #f4 8,in many men this is ignorance1 chiefly is it so in those who1 being little enlightened1 rarely learn to love any one with perfect spiritual love4 ,they are still much drawn by natural affection and human friendship to these or to those3 and as they reckon of themselves in lower matters1 so also do they frame imaginations of things heavenly4 ,but there is an immeasurable difference between those things which they imperfectly imagine1 and these things which enlightened men behold through supernatural revelation4 #g4 8,take heed1 therefore1 ,my son1 that thou treat not curiously those things which surpass thy knowledge1 but rather make this thy business and give attention to it1 namely1 that thou seek to be found1 even though it be the least1 in the ,kingdom of ,god4 ,and even if any one should know who were holier than others1 or who were held greatest in the ,kingdom of ,heaven2 what should that knowledge profit him1 unless through this knowledge he should humble himself before ,me1 and should rise up to give greater praise unto ,my name8 ,he who considereth how great are his own sins1 how small his virtues1 and how far he is removed from the perfection of the ,saints1 doeth far more acceptably in the sight of ,god1 than he who disputeth about their greatness or littleness4 #h4 8,they are altogether well content1 if men would learn to be content1 and to refrain from vain babbling4 ,they glory not of their own merits1 seeing they ascribe no good unto themselves1 but all unto ,me1 seeing that ,i of my infinite charity have given them all things4 ,they are filled with so great love of the ,divinity1 and with such overflowing joy1 that no glory is lacking to them1 neither can any felicity be lacking4 ,all the ,saints1 the higher they are exalted in glory1 the humbler are they in themselves1 and the nearer and dearer are they unto ,me4 ,and so thou hast it written that they cast their crowns before ,god and fell on their faces before the ,lamb1 and worshipped ,him that liveth for ever and ever47#g7 #i4 8,many ask who is greatest in the ,kingdom of ,heaven1 who know not whether they shall be worthy to be counted among the least4 ,it is a great thing to be even the least in ,heaven1 where all are great1 because all shall be called1 and shall be1 the sons of ,god4 ,a little one shall become a thousand1 but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed4 ,for when the disciples asked who should be the greatest in the ,kingdom of ,heaven1 they received no other answer than this1 ,except ye be converted and become as little children1 ye shall not enter into the ,kingdom of ,heaven4 ,but whosoever shall humble himself as this little child1 the same shall be greatest in the ,kingdom of ,heaven407#h7 #aj4 ,woe unto them who disdain to humble themselves willingly with the little children2 for the low gate of the kingdom of ,heaven will not suffer them to enter in4 ,woe also to them who are rich1 who have their consolation here27#i7 because whilst the poor enter into the kingdom of ,god1 they shall stand lamenting without4 ,rejoice ye humble1 and exult ye poor1 for yours is the kingdom of ,god if only ye walk in the truth4 7#a7 ,psalm cxix4 #acg4 7#b7 ,psalm xix4 #i4 7#c7 #a ,corinthians xiv4 #cc4 7#d7 ,psalm xxi4 #c4 7#e7 ,john xv4 #ai4 7#f7 ,wisd4 vi4 #h4 7#g7 ,revelation iv4 #aj2 v4 #ad4 7#h7 ,matthew xviii4 #c4 7#i7 ,luke vi4 #bd4 ,,chapter ,,lix ,that all hope and trust is to be fixed in ,god alone ,o ,lord1 what is my trust which ,i have in this life1 or what is my greatest comfort of all the things which are seen under ,heaven8 ,is it not ,thou1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 whose mercies are without number8 ,where hath it been well with me without ,thee8 ,or when could it be evil whilst ,thou wert near8 ,i had rather be poor for ,thy sake1 than rich without ,thee4 ,i choose rather to be a pilgrim upon the earth with ,thee than without ,thee to possess heaven4 ,where ,thou art1 there is heaven2 and where ,thou are not1 behold there death and hell4 ,thou art all my desire1 and therefore must ,i groan and cry and earnestly pray after ,thee4 ,in short ,i can confide fully in none to give me ready help in necessities1 save in ,thee alone1 ,o my ,god4 ,thou art my hope1 ,thou art my trust1 ,thou art my ,comforter1 and most faithful in all things4 #b4 ,all men seek their own27#a7 ,thou settest forward only my salvation and my profit1 and turnest all things unto my good4 ,even though ,thou dost expose me to divers temptations and adversities1 ,thou ordainest all this unto my advantage1 for ,thou are wont to prove ,thy beloved ones in a thousand ways4 ,in which proving ,thou oughtest no less to be loved and praised1 than if ,thou wert filling me full of heavenly consolations4 #c4 ,in ,thee1 therefore1 ,o ,lord ,god1 ,i put all my hope and my refuge1 on ,thee ,i lay all my tribulation and anguish2 because ,i find all to be weak and unstable whatsoever ,i behold out of ,thee4 ,for many friends shall not profit1 nor strong helpers be able to succour1 nor prudent counsellors to give a useful answer1 nor the books of the learned to console1 nor any precious substance to deliver1 nor any secret and beautiful place to give shelter1 if ,thou ,thyself do not assist1 help1 strengthen1 comfort1 instruct1 keep in safety4 #d4 ,for all things which seem to belong to the attainment of peace and felicity are nothing when ,thou art absent1 and bring no felicity at all in reality4 ,therefore art ,thou the end of all good1 and the fulness of ,life1 and the soul of eloquence2 and to hope in ,thee above all things is the strongest solace of ,thy servants4 ,mine eyes look unto ,thee17#b7 in ,thee is my trust1 ,o my ,god1 ,father of mercies4 #e4 ,bless and sanctify my soul with heavenly blessing that it may become ,thy holy habitation1 and the seat of ,thy eternal glory2 and let nothing be found in the ,temple of ,thy divinity which may offend the eyes of ,thy majesty4 ,according to the greatness of ,thy goodness and the multitude of ,thy mercies look upon me1 and hear the prayer of ,thy poor servant1 far exiled from ,thee in the land of the shadow of death4 ,protect and preserve the soul of ,thy least servant amid so many dangers of corruptible life1 and by ,thy grace accompanying me1 direct it by the way of peace unto its home of perpetual light4 ,amen4 7#a7 ,philippians ii4 #ba 7#b7 ,psalm cxli4 #h4 ,,the ,,fourth ,,book ,,of ,,the ,,sacrament ,,of ,,the ,,altar ,a devout exhortation to the ,holy ,communion ,the ,voice of ,christ ,come unto ,me1 all ye that labour and are heavy laden1 and ,i will refresh you17#a7 saith the ,lord4 ,the bread that ,i will give is ,my flesh which ,i give for the life of the world47#b7 ,take1 eat3 this is ,my ,body1 which is given for you2 this do in remembrance of ,me47#c7 ,he that eateth ,my flesh and drinketh ,my blood dwelleth in ,me and ,i in him4 ,the words that ,i speak unto you1 they are spirit1 and they are life47#d7 7#a7 ,matthew xi4 #bh 7#b7 ,john vi4 #ea4 7#c7 ,matthew xxvi4 #bf2 ,luke xxii4 #ai4 7#d7 ,john vi4 #ea1 #fc4 ,,chapter ,i ,with how great reverence ,christ must be received ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,these are ,thy words1 ,o ,christ1 ,eternal ,truth2 though not uttered at one time nor written together in one place of ,scripture4 ,because therefore they are ,thy words and true1 ,i must gratefully and faithfully receive them all4 ,they are ,thine1 and ,thou hast uttered them2 and they are mine also1 because ,thou didst speak them for my salvation4 ,gladly ,i receive them from ,thy mouth1 that they may be more deeply implanted in my heart4 ,words of such great grace arouse me1 for they are full of sweetness and love2 but my own sins terrify me1 and my impure conscience driveth me away from receiving so great mysteries4 ,the sweetness of ,thy words encourageth me1 but the multitude of my faults presseth me down4 #b4 ,thou commandest that ,i draw near to ,thee with firm confidence1 if ,i would have part with ,thee1 and that ,i receive the food of immortality1 if ,i desire to obtain eternal life and glory4 ,come unto ,me1 sayest ,thou1 all that labour and are heavy laden1 and ,i will refresh you4 ,oh1 sweet and lovely word in the ear of the sinner1 that ,thou1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 dost invite the poor and needy to the ,communion of ,thy most holy body and blood4 ,but who am ,i1 ,o ,lord1 that ,i should presume to approach unto ,thee8 ,behold the heaven of heavens cannot contain ,thee1 and yet ,thou sayest1 ,come ye all unto ,me4 #c4 ,what meaneth this most gracious condescension1 this most lovely invitation8 ,how shall ,i dare to come1 who know no good thing of myself1 whence ,i might be able to presume8 ,how shall ,i bring ,thee within my house1 seeing that ,i so often have sinned in ,thy most loving sight8 ,angels and ,archangels stand in awe of ,thee1 the ,saints and just men fear ,thee1 and ,thou sayest1 ,come unto ,me6 ,except ,thou1 ,lord1 hadst said it1 who should believe it true8 ,and except ,thou hadst commanded1 who should attempt to draw near8 #d4 ,behold1 ,noah1 that just man1 laboured for a hundred years in building the ark1 that he might be saved with the few2 and ,i1 how shall ,i be able in one hour to prepare myself to receive the ,builder of the world with reverence8 ,moses1 ,thy servant1 ,thy great and especial friend1 made an ark of incorruptible wood1 which also he covered with purest gold1 that he might lay up in it the tables of the law1 and ,i1 a corruptible creature1 shall ,i dare thus easily to receive ,thee1 the ,maker of the ,law and the ,giver of life8 ,solomon1 the wisest of the kings of ,israel1 was seven years building his magnificent temple to the praise of ,thy ,name1 and for eight days celebrated the feast of its dedication1 offered a thousand peace offerings1 and solemnly brought up the ,ark of the ,covenant to the place prepared for it1 with the sound of trumpets and great joy1 and ,i1 unhappy and poorest of mankind1 how shall ,i bring ,thee into my house1 who scarce know how to spend half an hour in devotion8 ,and oh that it were even one half hour worthily spent6 #e4 ,o my ,god1 how earnestly these holy men strove to please ,thee6 ,and alas6 how little and trifling is that which ,i do6 how short a time do ,i spend1 when ,i am disposing myself to ,communion4 ,rarely altogether collected1 most rarely cleansed from all distraction4 ,and surely in the saving presence of ,thy ,godhead no unmeet thought ought to intrude1 nor should any creature take possession of me1 because it is not an ,angel but the ,lord of the ,angels1 that ,i am about to receive as my ,guest4 #f4 ,yet there is a vast difference between the ,ark of the ,covenant with its relics1 and ,thy most pure ,body with its ineffable virtues1 between those sacrifices of the law1 which were figures of things to come1 and the true sacrifice of ,thy ,body1 the completion of all the ancient sacrifices4 #g4 ,wherefore then do ,i not yearn more ardently after ,thy adorable presence8 ,why do ,i not prepare myself with greater solicitude to receive ,thy holy things1 when those holy ,patriarchs and ,prophets of old1 kings also and princes1 with the whole people1 manifested so great affection of devotion towards ,thy ,divine ,service8 #h4 ,the most devout king ,david danced with all his might before the ,ark of ,god1 calling to mind the benefits granted to his forefathers in days past2 he fashioned musical instruments of various sorts1 put forth ,psalms1 and appointed them to be sung with joy1 played also himself ofttimes on the harp1 being inspired with the grace of the ,holy ,ghost2 he taught the people of ,israel to praise ,god with the whole heart1 and with unity of voice to bless and praise ,him every day4 ,if so great devotion was then exercised1 and celebration of divine praise was carried on before the ,ark of the ,testimony1 how great reverence and devotion ought now to be shown by me and all ,christian people at the ministering of the ,sacrament1 at receiving the most precious ,body and ,blood of ,christ4 #i4 ,many run to diverse places to visit the memorials of departed ,saints1 and rejoice to hear of their deeds and to look upon the beautiful buildings of their shrines4 ,and behold1 ,thou art present here with me1 ,o my ,god1 ,saint of ,saints1 ,creator of men and ,lord of the ,angels4 ,often in looking at those memorials men are moved by curiosity and novelty1 and very little fruit of amendment is borne away1 especially when there is so much careless trifling and so little true contrition4 ,but here in the ,sacrament of the ,altar1 ,thou art present altogether1 ,my ,god1 the ,man ,christ ,jesus2 where also abundant fruit of eternal life is given to every one soever that receiveth ,thee worthily and devoutly4 ,but to this no levity draweth1 no curiosity1 nor sensuality1 only steadfast faith1 devout hope1 and sincere charity4 #aj4 ,o ,god1 invisible ,creator of the world1 how wondrously dost ,thou work with us1 how sweetly and graciously ,thou dealest with ,thine elect1 to whom ,thou offerest ,thyself to be received in this ,sacrament6 ,for this surpasseth all understanding1 this specially draweth the hearts of the devout and enkindleth their affections4 ,for even thy true faithful ones themselves1 who order their whole life to amendment1 oftentimes gain from this most excellent ,sacrament great grace of devotion and love of virtue4 #aa4 ,oh admirable and hidden grace of the ,sacrament1 which only ,christ's faithful ones know1 but the faithless and those who serve sin cannot experience6 ,in this ,sacrament is conferred spiritual grace1 and lost virtue is regained in the soul1 and the beauty which was disfigured by sin returneth again4 ,so great sometimes is this grace that out of the fulness of devotion given1 not only the mind but also the weak body feeleth that more strength is supplied unto it4 #ab4 ,but greatly must we mourn and lament over our lukewarmness and negligence1 that we are not drawn by greater affection to become partakers of ,christ1 in whom all the hope and the merit of those that are to be saved consist4 ,for ,he ,himself is our sanctification and redemption47#a7 ,he is the consolation of pilgrims and the eternal fruition of the ,saints4 ,therefore it is grievously to be lamented that many so little consider this health-giving mystery1 which maketh heaven glad and preserveth the whole world4 ,alas for the blindness and hardness of man's heart1 that he considereth not more this unspeakable gift1 and even slippeth down through the daily use1 into carelessness4 #ac4 ,for if this most holy ,sacrament were celebrated in one place only1 and were consecrated only by one priest in the whole world1 with what great desire thinkest thou1 would men be affected towards that place and towards such a priest of ,god1 that they might behold the divine mysteries celebrated8 ,but now are many men made priests and in many places the ,sacrament is celebrated1 that the grace and love of ,god towards men might the more appear1 the more widely the ,holy ,communion is spread abroad over all the world4 ,thanks be unto ,thee1 ,o good ,jesus1 ,eternal ,shepherd1 who hast vouchsafed to refresh us1 poor and exiled ones1 with ,thy precious ,body and ,blood1 and to invite us to partake these holy mysteries by the invitation from ,thine own mouth1 saying1 ,come unto ,me1 ye who labour and are heavy laden1 and ,i will refresh you4 7#a7 #a ,corinthians i4 #cj4 ,,chapter ,,ii ,that the greatness and charity of ,god is shown to men in the ,sacrament ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,trusting in ,thy goodness and great mercy1 ,o ,lord1 ,i draw near1 the sick to the ,healer1 the hungering and thirsting to the ,fountain of life1 the poverty-stricken to the ,king of heaven1 the servant to the ,lord1 the creature to the ,creator1 the desolate to my own gentle ,comforter4 ,but whence is this unto me1 that ,thou comest unto me8 ,who am ,i that ,thou shouldest offer me ,thyself8 ,how doth a sinner dare to appear before ,thee8 ,and how dost thou vouchsafe to come to the sinner8 ,thou knowest ,thy servant1 and ,thou knowest that he hath in him no good thing for which ,thou shouldest grant him this grace4 ,i confess therefore mine own vileness1 ,i acknowledge ,thy goodness1 ,i praise ,thy tenderness1 and ,i give ,thee thanks for ,thine exceeding great love4 ,for ,thou doest this for ,thine own sake1 not for my merits1 that ,thy goodness may be more manifest unto me1 ,thy charity more abundantly poured out upon me1 and ,thy humility more perfectly commended unto me4 ,therefore because this pleaseth ,thee and ,thou hast commanded that thus it shall be1 ,thy condescension pleaseth me also2 and oh that mine iniquity hinder it not4 #b4 ,o most sweet and tender ,jesus1 what reverence1 what giving of thanks is due to ,thee with perpetual praise for the receiving of ,thy sacred ,body and ,blood1 the dignity whereof no man is found able to express4 ,but what shall ,i think upon in this ,communion in approaching my ,lord1 whom ,i am not able worthily to honour1 and nevertheless whom ,i long devoutly to receive8 ,what shall be better and more healthful meditation for me1 than utter humiliation of myself before ,thee1 and exaltation of ,thine infinite goodness towards me8 ,i praise ,thee1 ,o my ,god1 and exalt ,thee for evermore4 ,i despise myself1 and cast myself down before ,thee into the deep of my vileness4 #c4 ,behold1 ,thou art the ,saint of saints and ,i the refuse of sinners2 behold1 ,thou stoopest unto me who am not worthy to look upon ,thee2 behold1 ,thou comest unto me1 ,thou willest to be with me1 ,thou invitest me to ,thy feast4 ,thou willest to give me the heavenly food and bread of angels to eat2 none other1 in truth1 than ,thyself1 ,the living bread1 which didst descend from heaven2 and givest life to the world47#a7 #d4 ,behold1 whence this love proceedeth6 what manner of condescension shineth forth herein4 ,what great giving of thanks and praise is due unto ,thee for these benefits6 ,oh how salutary and profitable ,thy purpose when ,thou didst ordain this6 ,how sweet and pleasant the feast when ,thou didst give ,thyself for food6 ,oh how admirable is thy working1 ,o ,lord1 how mighty ,thy power1 how unspeakable ,thy truth6 ,for ,thou didst speak the word1 and all things were made2 and this is done which ,thou hast commanded4 #e4 ,a thing wonderful1 and worthy of faith1 and surpassing all the understanding of man1 that ,thou1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 very ,god and very man1 givest ,thyself altogether to us in a little bread and wine1 and art so our inexhaustible food4 ,thou1 ,o ,lord of all1 who hast need of nothing1 hast willed to dwell in us through ,thy ,sacrament4 ,preserve my heart and my body undefiled1 that with a joyful and pure conscience ,i may be able very often to celebrate1 and7#b7 receive to my perpetual health4 ,thy mysteries1 which ,thou hast consecrated and instituted both for ,thine own honour1 and for a perpetual memorial4 #f4 ,rejoice1 ,o my soul1 and give thanks unto ,god for so great a gift and precious consolation1 left unto thee in this vale of tears4 ,for so oft as thou callest this mystery to mind and receivest the body of ,christ1 so often dost thou celebrate the work of thy redemption1 and art made partaker of all the merits of ,christ4 ,for the charity of ,christ never groweth less1 and the greatness of ,his propitiation is never exhausted4 ,therefore1 by continual renewal of thy spirit1 thou oughtest to dispose thyself hereunto and to weigh the great mystery of salvation with attentive consideration4 ,so great1 new1 and joyful ought it to appear to thee when thou comest to communion1 as if on this self-same day ,christ for the first time were descending into the ,virgin's womb and becoming man1 or hanging on the cross1 suffering and dying for the salvation of mankind4 7#a7 ,john vi4 #ea4 7#b7 ,the words in brackets are only suitable for a priest4 ,,chapter ,,iii ,that it is profitable to ,communicate often ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,behold ,i come unto ,thee1 ,o ,lord1 that ,i may be blessed through ,thy gift1 and be made joyful in ,thy holy feast which ,thou1 ,o ,god1 of ,thy goodness hast prepared for the poor47#a7 ,behold in ,thee is all that ,i can and ought to desire1 ,thou art my salvation and redemption1 my hope and strength1 my honour and glory4 ,therefore rejoice the soul of ,thy servant this day1 for unto ,thee1 ,o ,lord ,jesus1 do ,i lift up my soul47#b7 ,i long now to receive ,thee devoutly and reverently1 ,i desire to bring ,thee into my house1 so that with ,zacchaeus ,i may be counted worthy to be blessed by ,thee and numbered among the children of ,abraham4 ,my soul hath an earnest desire for ,thy ,body1 my heart longeth to be united with ,thee4 #b4 ,give me ,thyself and it sufficeth1 for besides ,thee no consolation availeth4 ,without ,thee ,i cannot be1 and without ,thy visitation ,i have no power to live4 ,and therefore ,i must needs draw nigh unto ,thee often1 and receive ,thee for the healing of my soul1 lest haply ,i faint by the way if ,i be deprived of heavenly food4 ,for so ,thou1 most merciful ,jesus1 preaching to the people and healing many sick1 didst once say1 ,i will not send them away fasting to their own homes1 lest they faint by the way47#c7 ,deal therefore now to me in like manner1 for ,thou left ,thyself for the consolation of the faithful in the ,sacrament4 ,for ,thou art the sweet refreshment of the soul1 and he who shall eat ,thee worthily shall be partaker and inheritor of the eternal glory4 ,necessary indeed it is for me1 who so often slide backwards and sin1 so quickly wax cold and faint1 to renew1 cleanse1 enkindle myself by frequent prayers and penitences and receiving of ,thy sacred ,body and ,blood lest haply by too long abstinence1 ,i fall short of my holy resolutions4 #c4 ,for the imaginations of man's heart are evil from his youth17#d7 and except divine medicine succour him1 man slideth away continually unto the worse4 ,the ,holy ,communion therefore draweth us back from evil1 and strengtheneth us for good4 ,for if ,i now be so negligent and lukewarm when ,i communicate or celebrate1 how should it be with me1 if ,i receive not this medicine1 and sought not so great a help8 ,and though ,i am not every day fit nor well prepared to celebrate1 ,i will nevertheless give diligent heed at due season1 to receive the divine mysteries1 and to become partaker of so great grace4 ,for this is the one principal consolation of a faithful soul1 so long as it is absent from ,thee in mortal body1 that being continually mindful of its ,god1 it receiveth its ,beloved with devout spirit4 #d4 ,oh wonderful condescension of ,thy pity surrounding us1 that ,thou1 ,o ,lord ,god1 ,creator and ,quickener of all spirits1 deignest to come unto a soul so poor and weak1 and to appease its hunger with ,thy whole ,deity and ,humanity4 ,oh happy mind and blessed soul1 to which is granted devoutly to receive ,thee its ,lord ,god1 and in so receiving ,thee to be filled with all spiritual joy6 ,oh how great a ,lord doth it entertain1 how beloved a ,guest doth it bring in1 how delightful a ,companion doth it receive1 how faithful a ,friend doth it welcome1 how beautiful and exalted a ,spouse1 above every other ,beloved1 doth it embrace1 ,one to be loved above all things that can be desired6 ,oh my most sweet ,beloved1 let heaven and earth and all the glory of them1 be silent in ,thy presence2 seeing whatsoever praise and beauty they have it is of ,thy gracious bounty2 and they shall never reach unto the loveliness of ,thy ,name1 ,whose ,wisdom is infinite47#e7 7#a7 ,psalm lxviii4 #aj4 7#b7 ,psalm lxxxvi4 #d4 7#c7 ,matthew xv4 #cb4 7#d7 ,genesis viii4 #ba4 7#e7 ,psalm cxlvii4 #e4 ,,chapter ,,iv ,that many good gifts are bestowed upon those who ,communicate devoutly ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,o ,lord my ,god1 prevent ,thou ,thy servant with the blessings of ,thy sweetness1 that ,i may be enabled to draw near worthily and devoutly to ,thy glorious ,sacrament4 ,awaken my heart towards ,thee1 and deliver me from heavy slumber4 ,visit me with ,thy salvation that ,i may in spirit taste ,thy sweetness1 which plentifully lieth hid in this ,sacrament as in a fountain4 ,lighten also mine eyes to behold this so great mystery1 and strengthen me that ,i may believe it with undoubting faith4 ,for it is ,thy word1 not human power2 it is ,thy holy institution1 not the invention of man4 ,for no man is found fit in himself to receive and to understand these things1 which transcend even the wisdom of the ,angels4 ,what portion then shall ,i1 unworthy sinner1 who am but dust and ashes1 be able to search into and comprehend of so deep a ,sacrament8 #b4 ,o ,lord1 in the simplicity of my heart1 in good and firm faith1 and according to ,thy will1 ,i draw nigh unto ,thee with hope and reverence1 and truly believe that ,thou art here present in the ,sacrament1 ,god and man4 ,thou willest therefore that ,i receive ,thee and unite myself to ,thee in charity4 ,wherefore ,i beseech ,thy mercy1 and implore ,thee to give me ,thy special grace1 to this end1 that ,i may be wholly dissolved and overflow with love towards ,thee1 and no more suffer any other consolation to enter into me4 ,for this most high and most glorious ,sacrament is the health of the soul and the body1 the medicine of all spiritual sickness1 whereby ,i am healed of my sins1 my passions are bridled1 temptations are conquered or weakened1 more grace is poured into me1 virtue begun is increased1 faith is made firm1 hope is strengthened1 and charity is enkindled and enlarged4 #c4 ,for in this ,sacrament ,thou hast bestowed many good things and still bestowest them continually on ,thine elect who communicate devoutly1 ,o my ,god1 ,lifter up of my soul1 ,repairer of human infirmity1 and ,giver of all inward consolation4 ,for ,thou pourest into them much consolation against all sorts of tribulation1 and out of the deep of their own misery ,thou liftest them up to the hope of ,thy protection1 and with ever new grace1 dost inwardly refresh and enlighten them2 so that they who felt themselves to be anxious and without affection before ,communion1 afterwards being refreshed with heavenly food and drink1 find themselves changed for the better4 ,and even in such wise ,thou dealest severally with ,thine elect1 that they may truly acknowledge and clearly make proof that they have nothing whatsoever of their own1 and what goodness and grace come to them from ,thee2 because being in themselves cold1 hard of heart1 indevout1 through ,thee they become fervent1 zealous1 and devout4 ,for who is there coming humbly to the fountain of sweetness1 carrieth not away thence at the least some little of that sweetness8 ,or who standing by a large fire1 feeleth not from thence a little of its heat8 ,and ,thou art ever a full and overflowing fountain1 a fire continually burning1 and never going out4 #d4 ,wherefore if it is not suffered to me to draw from the fulness of the fountain1 nor to drink unto satisfying1 yet will ,i set my lips to the mouth of the heavenly conduit1 that at least ,i may receive a small drop to quench my thirst1 that ,i dry not up within my heart4 ,and if ,i am not yet able to be altogether heavenly and so enkindled as the ,cherubim and ,seraphim1 yet will ,i endeavour to give myself unto devotion1 and to prepare my heart1 that ,i may gain if it be but a little flame of the divine fire1 through the humble receiving of the life-giving ,sacrament4 ,but whatsoever is wanting unto me1 ,o merciful ,jesus1 ,most ,holy ,saviour1 do ,thou of ,thy kindness and grace supply1 who hast vouchsafed to call all unto ,thee1 saying1 ,come unto me1 all ye that are weary and heavy laden1 and ,i will refresh you4 #e4 ,i indeed labour in the sweat of my face1 ,i am tormented with sorrow of heart1 ,i am burdened with sins1 ,i am disquieted with temptations1 ,i am entangled and oppressed with many passions1 and there is none to help me1 there is none to deliver and ease me1 but ,thou1 ,o ,lord ,god1 my ,saviour1 to whom ,i commit myself and all things that are mine1 that ,thou mayest preserve me and lead me unto life eternal4 ,receive me unto the praise and glory of ,thy name1 who hast prepared ,thy ,body and ,blood to be my meat and drink4 ,grant1 ,o ,lord ,god my ,saviour1 that with coming often to ,thy mysteries the zeal of my devotion may increase4 ,,chapter ,v ,of the dignity of this ,sacrament1 and of the office of the priest ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,if thou hadst angelic purity and the holiness of holy ,john the ,baptist1 thou wouldest not be worthy to receive or to minister this ,sacrament4 ,for this is not deserved by merit of man that a man should consecrate and minister the ,sacrament of ,christ1 and take for food the bread of ,angels4 ,vast is the mystery1 and great is the dignity of the priests1 to whom is given what is not granted to ,angels4 ,for priests only1 rightly ordained in the church1 have the power of consecrating and celebrating the ,body of ,christ4 ,the priest indeed is the minister of ,god1 using the ,word of ,god by ,god's command and institution2 nevertheless ,god is there the principal ,author and invisible ,worker1 that to whom all that ,he willeth is subject1 and all ,he commandeth is obedient4 #b4 ,therefore thou must believe ,god ,almighty in this most excellent ,sacrament1 more than thine own sense or any visible sign at all4 ,and therefore with fear and reverence is this work to be approached4 ,take heed therefore and see what it is of which the ministry is committed to thee by the laying on of the ,bishop's hand4 ,behold thou art made a priest and art consecrated to celebrate4 ,see now that thou do it before ,god faithfully and devoutly at due time1 and shew thyself without blame4 ,thou hast not lightened thy burden1 but art now bound with a straiter bond of discipline1 and art pledged to a higher degree of holiness4 ,a priest ought to be adorned with all virtues and to afford to others an example of good life4 ,his conversation must not be with the popular and common ways of men1 but with ,angels in ,heaven or with perfect men on earth4 #c4 ,a priest clad in holy garments taketh ,christ's place that he may pray unto ,god with all supplication and humility for himself and for the whole people4 ,he must always remember the ,passion of ,christ4 ,he must diligently look upon ,christ's footsteps and fervently endeavour himself to follow them4 ,he must bear meekly for ,god whatsoever ills are brought upon him by others4 ,he must mourn for his own sins1 and for the sins committed by others1 and may not grow careless of prayer and holy oblation1 until he prevail to obtain grace and mercy4 ,when the priest celebrateth1 he honoureth ,god1 giveth joy to the ,angels1 buildeth up the ,church1 helpeth the living1 hath communion with the departed1 and maketh himself a partaker of all good things4 ,,chapter ,,vi ,an inquiry concerning preparation for ,communion ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,when ,i consider ,thy dignity1 ,o ,lord1 and mine own vileness1 ,i tremble very exceedingly1 and am confounded within myself4 ,for if ,i approach not1 ,i fly from life2 and if ,i intrude myself unworthily1 ,i run into ,thy displeasure4 ,what then shall ,i do1 ,o my ,god1 ,thou helper and ,counsellor in necessities4 #b4 ,teach ,thou me the right way2 propound unto me some short exercise befitting ,holy ,communion4 ,for it is profitable to know how ,i ought to prepare my heart devoutly and reverently for ,thee1 to the intent that ,i may receive ,thy ,sacrament to my soul's health or it may be also for the celebrating this so great and divine mystery4 ,,chapter ,,vii ,of the examination of conscience1 and purpose of amendment ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,above all things the priest of ,god must draw nigh1 with all humility of heart and supplicating reverence1 with full faith and pious desire for the honour of ,god1 to celebrate1 minister1 and receive this ,sacrament4 ,diligently examine thy conscience and with all thy might with true contrition and humble confession cleanse and purify it1 so that thou mayest feel no burden1 nor know anything which bringeth thee remorse and impedeth thy free approach4 ,have displeasure against all thy sins in general1 and specially sorrow and mourn because of thy daily transgressions4 ,and if thou have time1 confess unto ,god in the secret of thine heart1 all miseries of thine own passion4 #b4 ,lament grievously and be sorry1 because thou art still so carnal and worldly1 so unmortified from thy passions1 so full of the motion of concupiscence1 so unguarded in thine outward senses1 so often entangled in many vain fancies1 so much inclined to outward things1 so negligent of internal2 so ready to laughter and dissoluteness1 so unready to weeping and contrition2 so prone to ease and indulgence of the flesh1 so dull to zeal and fervour2 so curious to hear novelties and behold beauties1 so loth to embrace things humble and despised2 so desirous to have many things1 so grudging in giving1 so close in keeping2 so inconsiderate in speaking1 so reluctant to keep silence2 so disorderly in manners1 so inconsiderate in actions2 so eager after food1 so deaf towards the ,word of ,god2 so eager after rest1 so slow to labour2 so watchful after tales1 so sleepy towards holy watchings2 so eager for the end of them1 so wandering in attention to them2 so negligent in observing the hours of prayer1 so lukewarm in celebrating1 so unfruitful in communicating2 so quickly distracted1 so seldom quite collected with thyself2 so quickly moved to anger1 so ready for displeasure at others2 so prone to judging1 so severe at reproving2 so joyful in prosperity1 so weak in adversity2 so often making many good resolutions and bringing them to so little effect4 #c4 ,when thou hast confessed and bewailed these and thy other shortcomings1 with sorrow and sore displeasure at thine own infirmity1 make then a firm resolution of continual amendment of life and of progress in all that is good4 ,then moreover with full resignation and entire will offer thyself to the honour of ,my name on the altar of thine heart as a perpetual whole burnt-offering1 even by faithfully presenting thy body and soul unto ,me1 to the end that thou mayest so be accounted worthy to draw near to offer this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to ,god1 and to receive the ,sacrament of ,my ,body and ,blood to thy soul's health4 ,for there is no oblation worthier1 no satisfaction greater for the destroying of sin1 than that a man offer himself to ,god purely and entirely with the oblation of the ,body and ,blood of ,christ in the ,holy ,communion4 ,if a man shall have done what in him lieth1 and shall repent him truly1 then how often soever he shall draw nigh unto ,me for pardon and grace1 ,as ,i live1 saith the ,lord1 ,i have no pleasure in the death of a sinner1 but rather that he should be converted1 and live4 ,all his transgressions that he hath committed1 they shall not be mentioned unto him47#a7 7#a7 ,ezekiel xviii4 #bb1 #bc4 ,,chapter ,,viii ,of the oblation of ,christ upon the cross1 and of resignation of self ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,as ,i of my own will offered myself unto ,god the ,father on the ,cross for thy sins with outstretched hands and naked body1 so that nothing remained in ,me that did not become altogether a sacrifice for the ,divine propitiation2 so also oughtest thou every day to offer thyself willingly unto ,me for a pure and holy oblation with all thy strength and affections1 even to the utmost powers of thine heart4 ,what more do ,i require of thee than thou study to resign thyself altogether unto ,me8 ,whatsoever thou givest besides thyself1 ,i nothing care for1 for ,i ask not thy gift1 but thee4 #b4 ,as it would not be sufficient for thee if thou hadst all things except ,me1 even so whatsoever thou shalt give ,me1 if thou give ,me not thyself1 it cannot please ,me4 ,offer thyself to ,me1 and give thyself altogether for ,god1 so shall thy offering be accepted4 ,behold ,i offered ,myself altogether to the ,father for thee1 ,i give also ,my whole body and blood for food1 that thou mightest remain altogether ,mine and ,i thine4 ,but if thou stand in thyself1 and offer not thyself freely to ,my will1 thy offering is not perfect1 neither shall the union betwixt us be complete4 ,therefore ought the freewill offering of thyself into the hands of ,god to go before all thy works1 if thou wilt attain liberty and grace4 ,for this is the cause that so few are inwardly enlightened and made free1 that they know not how to deny themselves entirely4 ,my word standeth sure1 ,except a man forsake all1 he cannot be ,my disciple47#a7 ,thou therefore1 if thou wilt be ,my disciple1 offer thyself to ,me with all thy affections4 7#a7 ,luke xiv4 #cc4 ,,chapter ,,ix ,that we ought to offer ourselves and all that is ours to ,god1 and to pray for all ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,lord1 all that is in the heaven and in the earth is ,thine47#a7 ,i desire to offer myself up unto thee as a freewill offering1 and to continue ,thine for ever4 ,lord1 in the uprightness of mine heart ,i willingly offer7#b7 myself to ,thee to-day to be ,thy servant for ever1 in humble submission and for a sacrifice of perpetual praise4 ,receive me with this holy ,communion of ,thy precious ,body1 which ,i celebrate before ,thee this day in the presence of the ,angels invisibly surrounding1 that it may be for the salvation of me and of all ,thy people4 #b4 ,lord1 ,i lay before ,thee at this celebration all my sins and offences which ,i have committed before ,thee and ,thy holy ,angels1 from the day whereon ,i was first able to sin even unto this hour2 that ,thou mayest consume and burn them every one with the fire of ,thy charity1 and mayest do away all the stains of my sins1 and cleanse my conscience from all offence1 and restore me to ,thy favour which by sinning ,i have lost1 fully forgiving me all1 and mercifully admitting me to the kiss of peace4 #c4 ,what can ,i do concerning my sins1 save humbly to confess and lament them and unceasingly to beseech ,thy propitiation8 ,i beseech ,thee1 be propitious unto me and hear me1 when ,i stand before ,thee1 ,o my ,god4 ,all my sins displease me grievously3 ,i will never more commit them2 but ,i grieve for them and will grieve so long as ,i live1 steadfastly purposing to repent me truly1 and to make restitution as far as ,i can4 ,forgive1 ,o ,god1 forgive me my sins for ,thy holy ,name's sake2 save my soul1 which ,thou hast redeemed with ,thy precious blood4 ,behold ,i commit myself to ,thy mercy1 ,i resign myself to ,thy hands4 ,deal with me according to ,thy loving-kindness1 not according to my wickedness and iniquity4 #d4 ,i offer also unto ,thee all my goodness1 though it is exceedingly little and imperfect1 that ,thou mayest mend and sanctify it1 that ,thou mayest make it well pleasing and acceptable in ,thy sight1 and ever draw it on towards perfection2 and furthermore bring me safely1 slothful and useless poor creature that ,i am1 to a happy and blessed end4 #e4 ,moreover ,i offer unto ,thee all pious desires of the devout1 necessities of parents1 friends1 brothers1 sisters1 and all who are dear to me1 and of those who have done good to me1 or to others for ,thy love2 and those who have desired and besought my prayers for themselves and all belonging to them2 that all may feel themselves assisted by ,thy grace1 enriched by consolation1 protected from dangers1 freed from pains2 and that being delivered from all evils they may joyfully give ,thee exceeding thanks4 #f4 ,i offer also to ,thee prayers and ,sacramental intercessions for those specially who have injured me in aught1 made me sad1 or spoken evil concerning me1 or have caused me any loss or displeasure2 for all those also whom ,i have at any time made sad1 disturbed1 burdened1 and scandalized1 by words or deeds1 knowingly or ignorantly2 that to all of us alike1 ,thou mayest equally pardon our sins and mutual offences4 ,take away1 ,o ,lord1 from our hearts all suspicion1 indignation1 anger1 and contention1 and whatsoever is able to injure charity and diminish brotherly love4 ,have mercy1 have mercy1 ,lord1 on those who entreat ,thy mercy2 give grace to the needy2 and make us such that we may be worthy to enjoy ,thy grace1 and go forward to the life eternal4 ,amen4 7#a7 #a ,chronicles xxix4 #aa4 7#b7 #a ,chronicles xxix4 #ag4 ,,chapter ,x ,that ,holy ,communion is not lightly to be omitted ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,thou must frequently betake thee to the ,fountain of grace and divine mercy1 to the ,fountain of goodness and all purity2 to the end that thou mayest obtain the healing of thy passions and vices1 and mayest be made stronger and more watchful against all temptations and wiles of the devil4 ,the enemy1 knowing what profit and exceeding strong remedy lieth in the ,holy ,communion1 striveth by all means and occasions to draw back and hinder the faithful and devout1 so far as he can4 #b4 ,for when some set about to prepare themselves for ,holy ,communion1 they suffer from the more evil suggestions of ,satan4 ,the very evil spirit himself 7as is written in ,job71 cometh among the sons of ,god that he may trouble them by his accustomed evil dealing1 or make them over timid and perplexed2 to the intent that he may diminish their affections1 or take away their faith by his attacks1 if haply he may prevail upon them to give up ,holy ,communion altogether1 or to come thereto with lukewarm hearts4 ,but his wiles and delusions must not be heeded1 howsoever wicked and terrible they be2 but all his delusion must be cast back upon his own head4 ,the wretch must be despised and laughed to scorn3 neither must ,holy ,communion be omitted because of his insults and the inward troubles which he stirreth up4 #c4 ,often also too much carefulness or some anxiety or other touching confession hindereth from obtaining devotion4 ,do thou according to the counsel of wise men1 and lay aside anxiety and scruple1 because it hindereth the grace of ,god and destroyeth devotion of mind4 ,because of some little vexation or trouble do not thou neglect ,holy ,communion1 but rather hasten to confess it1 and forgive freely all offences committed against thee4 ,and if thou hast offended any man1 humbly beg for pardon1 and ,god shall freely forgive thee4 #d4 ,what profiteth it to put off for long time the confession of thy sins1 or to defer ,holy ,communion8 ,cleanse thyself forthwith1 spit out the poison with all speed1 hasten to take the remedy1 and thou shalt feel thyself better than if thou didst long defer it4 ,if to-day thou defer it on one account1 to-morrow perchance some greater obstacle will come1 and so thou mayest be long time hindered from ,communion and become more unfit4 ,as soon as thou canst1 shake thyself from thy present heaviness and sloth1 for it profiteth nothing to be long anxious1 to go long on thy way with heaviness of heart1 and because of daily little obstacles to sever thyself from divine things3 nay it is exceeding hurtful to defer thy ,communion long1 for this commonly bringeth on great torpor4 ,alas6 there are some1 lukewarm and undisciplined1 who willingly find excuses for delaying repentance1 and desire to defer ,holy ,communion1 lest they should be bound to keep stricter watch upon themselves4 #e4 ,alas6 how little charity1 what flagging devotion1 have they who so lightly put off ,holy ,communion4 ,how happy is he1 how acceptable to ,god1 who so liveth1 and in such purity of conscience keepeth himself1 that any day he could be ready and well inclined to communicate1 if it were in his power1 and might be done without the notice of others4 ,if a man sometimes abstaineth for the sake of humility or some sound cause1 he is to be commended for his reverence4 ,but if drowsiness have taken hold of him1 he ought to rouse himself and to do what in him lieth2 and the ,lord will help his desire for the good will which he hath1 which ,god specially approveth4 #f4 ,but when he is hindered by sufficient cause1 yet will he ever have a good will and pious intention to communicate2 and so he shall not be lacking in the fruit of the ,sacrament4 ,for any devout man is able every day and every hour to draw near to spiritual communion with ,christ to his soul's health and without hindrance4 ,nevertheless on certain days and at the appointed time he ought to receive the ,body and ,blood of his ,redeemer with affectionate reverence1 and rather to seek after the praise and honour of ,god1 than his own comfort4 ,for so often doth he communicate mystically1 and is invisibly refreshed1 as he devoutly calleth to mind the mystery of ,christ's incarnation and ,his ,passion1 and is inflamed with the love of ,him4 #g4 ,he who only prepareth himself when a festival is at hand or custom compelleth1 will too often be unprepared4 ,blessed is he who offereth himself to ,god for a whole burnt-offering1 so often as he celebrateth or communicateth6 ,be not too slow nor too hurried in thy celebrating1 but preserve the good received custom of those with whom thou livest4 ,thou oughtest not to produce weariness and annoyance in others1 but to observe the received custom1 according to the institution of the elders2 and to minister to the profit of others rather than to thine own devotion or feeling4 ,,chapter ,,xi ,that the ,body and ,blood of ,christ and the ,holy ,scriptures are most necessary to a faithful soul ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,o most sweet ,lord ,jesus1 how great is the blessedness of the devout soul that feedeth with ,thee in ,thy banquet1 where there is set before it no other food than ,thyself its only ,beloved1 more to be desired than all the desires of the heart8 ,and to me it would verily be sweet to pour forth my tears in ,thy presence from the very bottom of my heart1 and with the pious ,magdalene to water ,thy feet with my tears4 ,but where is this devotion8 ,where the abundant flowing of holy tears8 ,surely in ,thy presence and in the presence of the holy ,angels my whole heart ought to burn and to weep for joy2 for ,i have ,thee in the ,sacrament verily present1 although hidden under other form4 #b4 ,for in ,thine own ,divine brightness1 mine eyes could not endure to behold ,thee1 neither could the whole world stand before the splendour of the glory of ,thy ,majesty4 ,in this therefore ,thou hast consideration unto my weakness1 that ,thou hidest ,thyself under the ,sacrament4 ,i verily possess and adore ,him whom the ,angels adore in heaven2 ,i yet for a while by faith1 but they by sight and without a veil4 ,it is good for me to be content with the light of true faith1 and to walk therein until the day of eternal brightness dawn1 and the shadows of figures flee away47#a7 ,but when that which is perfect is come1 the using of ,sacraments shall cease1 because the ,blessed in heavenly glory have no need of ,sacramental remedy4 ,for they rejoice unceasingly in the presence of ,god1 beholding ,his glory face to face1 and being changed from glory to glory7#b7 of the infinite ,god1 they taste the ,word of ,god made flesh1 as ,he was in the beginning and remaineth for everlasting4 #c4 ,when ,i think on these wondrous things1 even spiritual comfort whatsoever it be becometh sore weariness to me2 for so long as ,i see not openly my ,lord in ,his own ,glory1 ,i count for nothing all which ,i behold and hear in the world4 ,thou1 ,o ,god1 art my witness that nothing is able to comfort me1 no creature is able to give me rest1 save ,thou1 ,o my ,god1 whom ,i desire to contemplate everlastingly4 ,but this is not possible1 so long as ,i remain in this mortal state4 ,therefore ought ,i to set myself unto great patience1 and submit myself unto ,thee in every desire4 ,for even ,thy ,saints1 ,o ,lord1 who now rejoice with ,thee in the kingdom of heaven1 waited for the coming of ,thy glory whilst they lived here1 in faith and great glory4 ,what they believed1 that believe ,i2 what they hoped1 ,i hope2 whither they have attained to1 thither through ,thy grace hope ,i to come4 ,i will walk meanwhile in faith1 strengthened by the examples of the ,saints4 ,i will have also holy books for comfort and for a mirror of life1 and above them all ,thy most holy ,body and ,blood shall be for me a special remedy and refuge4 #d4 ,for two things do ,i feel to be exceedingly necessary to me in this life1 without which this miserable life would be intolerable to me2 being detained in the prison of this body1 ,i confess that ,i need two things1 even food and light4 ,thou hast therefore given to me who am so weak1 ,thy sacred ,body and ,blood1 for the refreshing of my soul and body1 and hast set ,thy ,word for a lantern to my feet47#c7 ,without these two ,i could not properly live2 for the ,word of ,god is the light of my soul1 and ,thy ,sacrament the bread of life4 ,these may also be called the two tables1 placed on this side and on that1 in the treasury of ,thy holy ,church4 ,one table is that of the ,sacred ,altar1 bearing the holy bread1 that is the precious ,body and ,blood of ,christ2 the other is the table of the ,divine ,law1 containing holy doctrine1 teaching the true faith1 and leading steadfastly onwards even to that which is within the veil1 where the ,holy of ,holies is4 #e4 ,thanks be unto ,thee1 ,o ,lord ,jesus1 ,light of ,light everlasting1 for that table of holy doctrine which ,thou has furnished unto us by ,thy servants the ,prophets and ,apostles and other teachers4 ,thanks be to ,thee1 ,o ,creator and ,redeemer of men1 who to make known ,thy love to the whole world has prepared a great supper1 in which ,thou hast set forth for good not the typical lamb1 but ,thine own most ,holy ,body and ,blood2 making all ,thy faithful ones joyful with this holy banquet and giving them to drink the cup of salvation1 wherein are all the delights of ,paradise1 and the holy ,angels do feed with us1 and with yet happier sweetness4 #f4 ,oh how great and honourable is the office of the priests1 to whom it is given to consecrate the ,sacrament of the ,lord of majesty with holy words1 to bless it with the lips1 to hold it in their hands1 to receive it with their own mouth1 and to administer it to others6 ,oh how clean ought those hands to be1 how pure the mouth1 how holy the body1 how unspotted the heart of the priest1 to whom so often the ,author of purity entereth in6 ,from the mouth of the priest ought naught to proceed but what is holy1 what is honest and profitable1 because he so often receiveth the ,sacrament of ,christ4 #g4 ,his eyes ought to be single and pure1 seeing they are wont to look upon the ,body of ,christ2 the hands should be pure and lifted towards heaven1 which are wont to hold within them the ,creator of heaven and earth4 ,to priests is it specially said in the ,law1 ,be ye holy1 for ,i the ,lord your ,god am holy47#d7 #h4 ,assist us with ,thy grace1 ,o ,almighty ,god1 that we who have taken upon us the priestly office1 may be able to converse worthily and devoutly with ,thee in all purity and good conscience4 ,and if we are not able to have our conversation in such innocency of life as we ought1 yet grant unto us worthily to lament the sins which we have committed1 and in the spirit of humility and full purpose of a good will1 to serve ,thee more earnestly for the future4 7#a7 ,cant4 ii4 #ag4 7#b7 #b ,corinthians iii4 #ah4 7#c7 ,psalm cxix4 #aje4 7#d7 ,leviticus xix4 #b4 ,,chapter ,,xii ,that he who is about to ,communicate with ,christ ought to prepare himself with great diligence ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,i am the ,lover of purity1 and ,giver of sanctity4 ,i seek a pure heart1 and there is the place of ,my rest4 ,prepare for ,me the larger upper room furnished1 and ,i will keep the ,passover at thy house with my disciples47#a7 ,if thou wilt that ,i come unto thee and abide with thee1 purge out the old leaven17#b7 and cleanse the habitation of thy heart4 ,shut out the whole world1 and all the throng of sins2 sit as a sparrow alone upon the house-top17#c7 and think upon thy transgressions with bitterness of thy soul4 ,for everyone that loveth prepareth the best and fairest place for his beloved1 because hereby the affection of him that entertaineth his beloved is known4 #b4 ,yet know thou that thou canst not make sufficient preparation out of the merit of any action of thine1 even though thou shouldest prepare thyself for a whole year1 and hadst nothing else in thy mind4 ,but out of ,my tenderness and grace alone art thou permitted to draw nigh unto ,my table2 as though a beggar were called to a rich man's dinner1 and had no other recompense to offer him for the benefits done unto him1 but to humble himself and to give him thanks4 ,do therefore as much as lieth in thee1 and do it diligently1 not of custom1 nor of necessity1 but with fear1 reverence1 and affection1 receive the ,body of thy beloved ,lord ,god1 who vouchsafeth to come unto thee4 ,i am ,he who hath called thee2 ,i commanded it to be done2 ,i will supply what is lacking to thee2 come and receive ,me4 #c4 ,when ,i give the grace of devotion1 give thanks unto thy ,god2 it is not because thou art worthy1 but because ,i had mercy on thee4 ,if thou hast not devotion1 but rather feelest thyself dry1 be instant in prayer1 cease not to groan and knock2 cease not until thou prevail to obtain some crumb or drop of saving grace4 ,thou hast need of ,me1 ,i have no need of thee4 ,nor dost thou come to sanctify ,me1 but ,i come to sanctify thee and make thee better4 ,thou comest that thou mayest be sanctified by ,me1 and be united to ,me2 that thou mayest receive fresh grace1 and be kindled anew to amendment of life4 ,see that thou neglect not this grace1 but prepare thy heart with all diligence1 and receive thy ,beloved unto thee4 #d4 ,but thou oughtest not only to prepare thyself for devotion before ,communion1 thou must also keep thyself with all diligence therein after receiving the ,sacrament2 nor is less watchfulness needed afterwards1 than devout preparation beforehand3 for good watchfulness afterwards becometh in turn the best preparation for the gaining more grace4 ,for hereby is a man made entirely indisposed to good1 if he immediately return from ,communion to give himself up to outward consolations4 ,beware of much speaking2 remain in a secret place1 and hold communion with thy ,god2 for thou hast ,him whom the whole world cannot take away from thee4 ,i am ,he to whom thou oughtest wholly to give thyself2 so that now thou mayest live not wholly in thyself1 but in ,me1 free from all anxiety4 7#a7 ,mark xiv4 #ad1 #ae4 7#b7 #a ,corinthians v4 #g4 7#c7 ,psalm cii4 #g4 ,,chapter ,,xiii ,that the devout soul ought with the whole heart to yearn after union with ,christ in the ,sacrament ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,who shall grant unto me1 ,o ,lord1 that ,i may find ,thee alone1 and open all my heart unto ,thee1 and enjoy ,thee as much as my soul desireth2 and that no man may henceforth look upon me1 nor any creature move me or have respect unto me1 but ,thou alone speak unto me and ,i unto ,thee1 even as beloved is wont to speak unto beloved1 and friend to feast with friend8 ,for this do ,i pray1 this do ,i long for1 that ,i may be wholly united unto ,thee1 and may withdraw my heart from all created things1 and by means of ,holy ,communion and frequent celebration may learn more and more to relish heavenly and eternal things4 ,ah1 ,lord ,god1 when shall ,i be entirely united and lost in ,thee1 and altogether forgetful of myself8 ,thou in me1 and ,i in ,thee27#a7 even so grant that we may in like manner continue together in one4 #b4 ,verily ,thou art my ,beloved1 the choicest among ten thousand17#b7 in whom my soul delighteth to dwell all the days of her life4 ,verily ,thou art my ,peacemaker1 in ,whom is perfect peace and true rest1 apart from ,whom is labour and sorrow and infinite misery4 ,verily ,thou art a ,god that hidest ,thyself1 and ,thy counsel is not with the wicked1 but ,thy ,word is with the humble and the simple4 ,o how sweet1 ,o ,lord1 is ,thy spirit1 who that ,thou mightest manifest ,thy sweetness towards ,thy children1 dost vouchsafe to refresh them with the bread which is full of sweetness1 which cometh down from heaven4 ,verily there is no other nation so great1 which hath its gods drawing nigh to them1 as ,thou1 our ,god1 art present unto all ,thy faithful ones17#c7 unto whom for their daily solace1 and for lifting up their heart unto heaven1 ,thou givest ,thyself for their food and delight4 #c4 ,for what other nation is there so renowned as the ,christian people8 ,or what creature is so beloved under heaven as the devout soul to which ,god entereth in1 that he may feed it with ,his glorious flesh8 ,o unspeakable grace6 ,o wonderful condescension6 ,o immeasurable love specially bestowed upon men6 ,but what reward shall ,i give unto the ,lord for this grace1 for charity so mighty8 ,there is nothing which ,i am able to present more acceptable than to give my heart altogether unto ,god1 and to join it inwardly to ,him4 ,then all my inward parts shall rejoice1 when my soul shall be perfectly united unto ,god4 ,then shall ,he say unto me1 8,if thou wilt be with ,me1 ,i will be with thee40 ,and ,i will answer ,him1 8,vouchsafe1 ,o ,lord1 to abide with me1 ,i will gladly be with ,thee2 this is my whole desire1 even that my heart be united unto ,thee40 7#a7 ,john xv4 #d4 7#b7 ,cant4 v4 #aj4 7#c7 ,deuteronomy iv4 #g4 ,,chapter ,,xiv ,of the fervent desire of certain devout persons to receive the ,body and ,blood of ,christ ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,o how great is the abundance of ,thy sweetness1 ,o ,lord1 which ,thou hast laid up for them that fear ,thee4 ,when ,i call to mind some devout persons who draw nigh to ,thy ,sacrament1 ,o ,lord1 with the deepest devotion and affection1 then very often ,i am confounded in myself and blush for shame1 that ,i approach ,thine altar and table of ,holy ,communion so carelessly and coldly1 that ,i remain so dry and without affection1 that ,i am not wholly kindled with love before ,thee1 my ,god1 nor so vehemently drawn and affected as many devout persons have been1 who out of the very earnest desire of the ,communion1 and tender affection of heart1 could not refrain from weeping1 but as it were with mouth of heart and body alike panted inwardly after ,thee1 ,o ,god1 ,o ,fountain of ,life1 having no power to appease or satiate their hunger1 save by receiving ,thy ,body with all joyfulness and spiritual eagerness4 #b4 ,o truly ardent faith of those1 becoming a very proof of ,thy ,sacred ,presence6 ,for they verily know their ,lord in the breaking of bread1 whose heart so ardently burneth within them7#a7 when ,jesus walketh with them by the way4 ,ah me6 far from me for the most part is such love and devotion as this1 such vehement love and ardour4 ,be merciful unto me1 ,o ,jesus1 good1 sweet1 and kind1 and grant unto ,thy poor suppliant to feel sometimes1 in ,holy ,communion1 though it be but a little1 the cordial affection of ,thy love1 that my faith may grow stronger1 my hope in ,thy goodness increase1 and my charity1 once kindled within me by the tasting of the heavenly manna1 may never fail4 #c4 ,but ,thy mercy is able even to grant me the grace which ,i long for1 and to visit me most tenderly with the spirit of fervour when the day of ,thy good pleasure shall come4 ,for1 although ,i burn not with desire so vehement as theirs who are specially devout towards ,thee1 yet1 through ,thy grace1 ,i have a desire after that greatly inflamed desire1 praying and desiring to be made partaker with all those who so fervently love ,thee1 and to be numbered among their holy company4 7#a7 ,luke xxiv4 #cb4 ,,chapter ,,xv ,that the grace of devotion is acquired by humility and self-denial ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,thou oughtest to seek earnestly the grace of devotion1 to ask it fervently1 to wait for it patiently and faithfully1 to receive it gratefully1 to preserve it humbly1 to work with it diligently1 and to leave to ,god the time and manner of heavenly visitation until it come4 ,chiefly oughtest thou to humble thyself when thou feelest inwardly little or no devotion1 yet not to be too much cast down1 nor to grieve out of measure4 ,god ofttimes giveth in one short moment what ,he hath long time denied2 ,he sometimes giveth at the end what at the beginning of prayer ,he hath deferred to give4 #b4 ,if grace were always given immediately1 and were at hand at the wish1 it would be hardly bearable to weak man4 ,wherefore the grace of devotion is to be waited for with a good hope and with humble patience4 ,yet impute it to thyself and to thy sins when it is not given1 or when it is mysteriously taken away4 ,it is sometimes a small thing which hindereth and hideth grace2 7if indeed that ought to be called small and not rather great1 which hindereth so great a good72 but if thou remove this1 be it small or great1 and perfectly overcome it1 thou wilt have what thou hast asked4 #c4 ,for immediately that thou hast given thyself unto ,god with all thine heart1 and hast sought neither this nor that according to thine own will and pleasure1 but hast altogether settled thyself in ,him1 thou shalt find thyself united and at peace2 because nothing shall give thee so sweet relish and delight1 as the good pleasure of the ,divine will4 ,whosoever therefore shall have lifted up his will unto ,god with singleness of heart1 and shall have delivered himself from every inordinate love or dislike of any created thing1 he will be the most fit for receiving grace1 and worthy of the gift of devotion4 ,for where the ,lord findeth empty vessels17#a7 there giveth ,he ,his blessing4 ,and the more perfectly a man forsaketh things which cannot profit1 and the more he dieth to himself1 the more quickly doth grace come1 the more plentifully doth it enter in1 and the higher doth it lift up the free heart4 #d4 ,then shall he see1 and flow together1 and wonder1 and his heart shall be enlarged within him17#b7 because the hand of the ,lord is with him1 and he hath put himself wholly in ,his hand1 even for ever4 ,lo1 thus shall the man be blessed1 that seeketh ,god with all his heart1 and receiveth not his soul in vain4 ,this man in receiving the ,holy ,eucharist obtaineth the great grace of ,divine ,union2 because he hath not regard to his own devotion and comfort1 but1 above all devotion and comfort1 to the glory and honour of ,god4 7#a7 #b ,kings iv4 7#b7 ,isaiah lx4 #e4 ,,chapter ,,xvi ,that we ought to lay open our necessities to ,christ and to require ,his ,grace ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,o most sweet and loving ,lord1 whom now ,i devoutly desire to receive1 ,thou knowest my infirmity and the necessity which ,i suffer1 in what evils and vices ,i lie2 how often ,i am weighed down1 tempted1 disturbed1 and defiled4 ,i come unto ,thee for remedy1 ,i beseech of ,thee consolation and support4 ,i speak unto ,thee who knowest all things1 to whom all my secrets are open1 and who alone art able perfectly to comfort and help me4 ,thou knowest what good thing ,i most stand in need of1 and how poor ,i am in virtues4 #b4 ,behold1 ,i stand poor and naked before ,thee1 requiring grace1 and imploring mercy4 ,refresh the hungry suppliant1 kindle my coldness with the fire of ,thy love1 illuminate my blindness with the brightness of ,thy presence4 ,turn thou all earthly things into bitterness for me1 all grievous and contrary things into patience1 all things worthless and created into contempt and oblivion4 ,lift up my heart unto ,thee in ,heaven1 and suffer me not to wander over the earth4 ,be ,thou alone sweet unto me from this day forward for ever1 because ,thou alone art my meat and drink1 my love and joy1 my sweetness and my whole good4 #c4 ,oh that ,thou wouldest altogether by ,thy presence1 kindle1 consume1 and transform me into ,thyself2 that ,i may be made one spirit with ,thee1 by the grace of inward union1 and the melting of earnest love6 ,suffer me not to go away from ,thee hungry and dry2 but deal mercifully with me1 as oftentimes ,thou hast dealt wondrously with ,thy saints4 ,what marvel if ,i should be wholly kindled from ,thee1 and in myself should utterly fail1 since ,thou art fire always burning and never failing1 love purifying the heart and enlightening the understanding4 ,,chapter ,,xvii ,of fervent love and vehement desire of receiving ,christ ,the ,voice of the ,disciple ,with the deepest devotion and fervent love1 with all affection and fervour of heart1 ,i long to receive ,thee1 ,o ,lord1 even as many ,saints and devout persons have desired ,thee in communicating1 who were altogether well pleasing to ,thee by their sanctity of life1 and dwelt in all ardent devotion4 ,o my ,god1 ,eternal ,love1 my whole ,good1 ,happiness without measure1 ,i long to receive ,thee with the most vehement desire and becoming reverence which any ,saint ever had or could have4 #b4 ,and although ,i be unworthy to have all those feelings of devotion1 yet do ,i offer ,thee the whole affection of my heart1 even as though ,i alone had all those most grateful inflamed desires4 ,yea1 also1 whatsoever things a pious mind is able to conceive and long for1 all these with the deepest veneration and inward fervour do ,i offer and present unto ,thee4 ,i desire to reserve nothing unto myself1 but freely and entirely to offer myself and all that ,i have unto ,thee for a sacrifice4 ,o ,lord my ,god1 my ,creator and ,redeemer6 with such affection1 reverence1 praise1 and honour1 with such gratitude1 worthiness1 and love1 with such faith1 hope1 and purity do ,i desire to receive ,thee this day1 as ,thy most blessed ,mother1 the glorious ,virgin ,mary1 received and desired ,thee1 when she humbly and devoutly answered the ,angel who brought unto her the glad tidings of the mystery of the ,incarnation4 ,behold the handmaid of the ,lord2 be it unto me according to thy word47#a7 #c4 ,and as ,thy blessed forerunner1 the most excellent of ,saints1 ,john ,baptist1 being full of joy in ,thy presence1 leapt while yet in the womb of his mother1 for joy in the ,holy ,ghost2 and afterwards discerning ,jesus walking amongst men1 humbled himself exceedingly1 and said1 with devout affection1 ,the friend of the bridegroom1 who standeth and heareth him1 rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice27#b7 even so ,i wish to be inflamed with great and holy desires1 and to present myself unto ,thee with my whole heart4 ,whence also1 on behalf of myself and of all commended to me in prayer1 ,i offer and present unto ,thee the jubilation of all devout hearts1 their ardent affections1 their mental ecstasies1 and supernatural illuminations and heavenly visions1 with all the virtues and praises celebrated and to be celebrated by every creature in heaven and earth2 to the end that by all ,thou mayest worthily be praised and glorified for ever4 #d4 ,receive my prayers1 ,o ,lord my ,god1 and my desires of giving ,thee infinite praise and unbounded benediction1 which1 according to the multitude of ,thine unspeakable greatness1 are most justly due unto ,thee4 ,these do ,i give ,thee1 and desire to give every day and every moment2 and with beseechings and affectionate desires ,i call upon all celestial spirits and all ,thy faithful people to join with me in rendering ,thee thanks and praises4 #e4 ,let all peoples1 nations1 and tongues praise ,thee1 and magnify ,thy holy and sweet-sounding ,name1 with highest jubilations and ardent devotion4 ,and let all who reverently and devoutly celebrate ,thy most high ,sacrament1 and receive it with full assurance of faith1 be accounted worthy to find grace and mercy with ,thee1 and intercede with all supplication for me a sinner2 and when they shall have attained unto their wished-for devotion and joyous union with ,thee1 and shall depart full of comfort and wondrously refreshed from ,thy holy1 heavenly table1 let them vouchsafe to be mindful of me1 for ,i am poor and needy4 7#a7 ,luke i4 #ch4 7#b7 ,john iii4 #bi4 ,,chapter ,,xviii ,that a man should not be a curious searcher of the ,sacrament1 but a humble imitator of ,christ1 submitting his sense to holy faith ,the ,voice of the ,beloved ,thou must take heed of curious and useless searching into this most profound ,sacrament1 if thou wilt not be plunged into the abyss of doubt4 ,he that is a searcher of ,majesty shall be oppressed by the glory thereof47#a7 ,god is able to do more than man can understand4 ,a pious and humble search after truth is to be allowed1 when it is always ready to be taught1 and striving to walk after the wholesome opinions of the fathers4 #b4 ,blessed is the simplicity which leaveth alone the difficult paths of questionings1 and followeth the plain and firm steps of ,god's commandments4 ,many have lost devotion whilst they sought to search into deeper things4 ,faith is required of thee1 and a sincere life1 not loftiness of intellect1 nor deepness in the mysteries of ,god4 ,if thou understandest not nor comprehendest the things which are beneath thee1 how shalt thou comprehend those which are above thee8 ,submit thyself unto ,god1 and humble thy sense to faith1 and the light of knowledge shall be given thee1 as shall be profitable and necessary unto thee4 #c4 ,there are some who are grievously tempted concerning faith and the ,sacrament2 but this is not to be imputed to themselves but rather to the enemy4 ,care not then for this1 dispute not with thine own thoughts1 nor make answer to the doubts which are cast into thee by the devil2 but believe the words of ,god1 believe ,his ,saints and ,prophets1 and the wicked enemy shall flee from thee4 ,often it profiteth much1 that the servant of ,god endureth such things4 ,for the enemy tempteth not unbelievers and sinners1 because he already hath secure possession of them2 but he tempteth and harasseth the faithful and devout by various means4 #d4 ,go forward therefore with simple and undoubting faith1 and draw nigh unto the ,sacrament with supplicating reverence4 ,and whatsoever thou art not enabled to understand1 that commit without anxiety to ,almighty ,god4 ,god deceiveth thee not2 he is deceived who believeth too much in himself4 ,god walketh with the simple1 revealeth ,himself to the humble1 giveth understanding to babes1 openeth the sense to pure minds1 and hideth grace from the curious and proud4 ,human reason is weak and may be deceived2 but true faith cannot be deceived4 #e4 ,all reason and natural investigation ought to follow faith1 not to precede1 nor to break it4 ,for faith and love do here especially take the highest place1 and work in hidden ways in this most holy and exceeding excellent ,sacrament4 ,god who is eternal and incomprehensible1 and of infinite power1 doth great and inscrutable things in heaven and in earth1 and ,his wonderful works are past finding out4 ,if the works of ,god were of such sort that they might easily be comprehended by human reason1 they should no longer be called wonderful or unspeakable4 7#a7 ,proverbs xxv4 #bg 7,vulg474