Page:Spiritualcombat.djvu/295

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OF LOVE OF OUR NEIGHBOUR

CHAPTER VI.

Of the Prudence which we ought to exercise in the Love of our Neighbour, so as not to disturb this Peace.

EXPERIENCE itself will show you, if you will make trial of it, that this path of charity and love towards God and our neighbour is the most clear and plain road leading to eternal life. The Lord said that He "came to send fire upon the earth," and that His only desire was "that it be kindled." But although the love of God has no bounds, that for our neighbour should have; for, if it is not properly moderated, it might become a cause of great injury to you, and lead you, through gaining others, to be lost and ruined yourself. You must love your neighbour only in such a way as not to hurt your own soul. Although you are bound to set a good example, yet you must not be actuated by that motive only, else you will lose all benefit to yourself. Act in all things with simplicity and piety, without respect to any thing but to please God alone. Be humble in all you do, and you will realise what little benefit the example of such an one as you are, can be to others. Remember that your