Chapter XXVI. In what Way Self-love may be discovered

THAT you may ascertain how wide and extensive is the reign of self-love within you, frequently turn to consider which of the passions of the soul it is which most often leads your will, for it will be found not to stand alone.

Having discovered then the movement of love or desire, of joy or grief, then consider well whether the object loved or desired is a virtuous one, and in accordance with the commandments of God; and do the same with joy or sorrow, see whether the things which produce those effects are such as God would have us feel joy or sorrow for; or whether all springs from the world and from attachment to the creatures, which is shown by being occupied with them more than is necessary or requisite, or than God wills. If this be so, it is evident that self-love reigns in your will, and is the ruling principle of all.

But if your will be busied and occupied with virtues, and things which God wills, you must still consider whether it is directed to those objects by the impulse of the Divine Will, or by some liking of its own or caprice; for it often happens, that a man, actuated by some caprice or liking of his own, gives himself to various good works, such as prayers, fastings, communions, and other holy occupations.

This may be proved in two ways:—first, if the will does not accept all opportunities of doing good which present themselves, indifferently; secondly, if when some hindrance arises, it gives way to grief, vexation and disquietude; or when, on the other hand, it succeeds, if it yields to self-complacency and satisfaction.

If the will be moved by God, besides what has been said above, you must further consider to what end its actions are mostly directed. For if the end be simply to please God, so far it is well, yet even then a man may not feel quite secure; self-love is so subtle, and hides itself beneath good works and acts of virtue.

When this most cruel monster, self-love, shows itself openly, we must pursue it with all hatred even to death;—in little things too, and not only in great.

We should always be suspicious of its concealment. Therefore, after every good work, humble yourself, smite upon your breast, praying God to pardon you, and to keep you from self-love.

It will be well, therefore, early in the morning to turn to the Lord, and to protest to Him that you intend not to offend Him any more, and particularly on that day, but in all things ever to do His Divine Will, and for the sake of pleasing Him.

For this purpose often turn to God in prayer, and ask Him continually that He would protect you with His Hand, and enable you to do such things as please Him, and in the way that pleases Him.