Chapter XV. Some Suggestions about the manner of Fighting; and especially against what Enemies, and with what Virtues, we should contend

YOU have seen already, how you must fight if you would conquer self, and adorn yourself with virtues.

Know, also, that to gain a quicker and easier conquest over your enemies, it is expedient, nay, necessary, that the conflict should be carried on daily, and especially the conflict with self-love; learn to receive, therefore, as dear friends, all the slights and insults which the world can heap upon you.

From our want of attention to this strife, and from making it of too little account, it frequently happens, as I have said before, that our victories are few and imperfect, are hardly won, and are not lasting.

Further, I warn you that you must fight with great steadfastness of purpose. And this gift you will easily gain, if you seek it by prayer; and if, when on the one hand you take into account the endless hatred and rage of your enemies, and the vast number of their squadrons and armies: you, on the other hand, consider how infinitely greater is the Goodness of God, and the love with which He loves you, and how much mightier too are the Angels of Heaven, and the prayers of the Saints, who are fighting on our side.

Animated by these reflections, how many, many poor weak women have resisted and overcome all the power and wisdom of the world, all the assaults of the flesh, and all the fury of Hell!

Therefore, you need never be disheartened, though at times the assaults of your enemy seem perpetually renewed, and though they threaten to last all your lifetime, and though certain falls on every side menace you; for, remember,—besides what has been already said—that the whole strength and wisdom of our enemies is in the Hands of our Divine Captain, for Whose honour we contend.

He values us inexpressibly; and having Himself called us and commanded us to engage in the battle, not only will He never suffer you, as far as He is concerned, to be overcome, but He Himself will fight for you, and give your enemies into your hand, in His own good time; and this to your greater reward, though He keep you waiting even to the last day of your life.

All you have to do is to fight valiantly, and never to throw down your arms, nor flee, however many wounds you may have sustained.

Finally, to spur yourself on to fight courageously, you must bear in mind that from this conflict there is no escape; for not to fight is all one with being taken prisoner or slain. Besides, the fury and bitter hatred of our enemies are such, that there is no possibility of any truce or peace.