It comes to pass, from the little care men take to root out of their hearts lesser desires, that, after having conquered the stronger cravings of the same passion, many, when they least expect it, have been assaulted and vanquished by their old enemies more completely and fatally than at first.
Be mindful, too, sometimes to mortify and check yourself in things which are lawful but not necessary; for, from such a course of discipline, many good results will follow.
You will in this way dispose yourself more and more for victory over self in other things, you will gain strength and skill to struggle against temptations, you will avoid manifold devices of the Devil, and perform a work very pleasing to the Lord.
Beloved, I speak plainly to you; if, in the way which I have taught you, you will go on faithfully and constantly in these holy exercises for reforming and mastering yourself, then, I promise you, that you shall in a short time make much progress, and become really spiritual, and not in name only.
But in no other way, or course of discipline—however such may commend itself to you and be agreeable to your taste, yea, though it may seem to unite you in secret converse with your Lord—can I assure you that you will attain any
