Chapter LVII. Of returning Thanks

SINCE all the good we have or do, is of God, and from God, we are bound to render thanks for all our virtuous exercises and victories, and for every benefit, particular and general, which we have received from His Pitiful Hand.

And to do this in a proper manner, we must consider the end for which our Lord is moved to communicate His grace to us; for, from this consideration and knowledge, we come to learn how God wills that we should return thanks.

And since in every benefit the Lord principally intends His own Honour, and to draw us to His love and service, first think with yourself in this way: "With what power, wisdom, and goodness, has my God granted and given to me this blessing and grace!"

Then, seeing that in you (as of yourself) there is nothing which could merit any blessing, but on the contrary nothing else but demerit and ingratitude, with profound humility address your Lord: "How is it, O Lord, that Thou deignest to regard a dead dog, bestowing so many benefits upon me? May Thy Name be blessed for ever and ever!"

And lastly, seeing that by the benefit He seeks again to be loved and served by you, inflame yourself with love towards so loving a Lord, and with sincere desire to serve Him in His way. And therefore to this end you will add a full offering of yourself, such as may be made in the following manner.