prepare thy heart to suffer greater things; and do not justify thyself, as though thou oughtest not to suffer so great afflictions, but justify me in whatever I appoint, and praise My holy name without ceasing.
Then thou walkest in the true way of peace, and thou shaft have a sure hope to see My face again with great delight.
Now, if thou attain to the full contempt of thyself, know that thou shalt then enjoy abundance of peace, as great as this thy state of sojourning is capable of.
CHAPTER XXVI.
OF THE EXCELLENCY OF A FREE MIND, WHICH IS SOONER GAINED BY PRAYER THAN BY READING.
LORD, it is the business of a perfect man not to withdraw his mind from thought of heavenly things, and thus to pass amidst many cares without care.
Not as one destitute of all feeling, but, by the privilege of a free mind, cleaving to no creature with inordinate affection.
2. I beseech Thee, my most gracious God, preserve me from the cares of this life, lest I should be too much entangled thereby; and from the many necessities of the body, lest I should be ensnared by pleasure; and from whatsoever is an obstacle to the soul, lest, broken with troubles, I should be overthrown.
