Chapter IX. That we ought not to seek Pleasures, nor the things which gratify our Tastes; but God Alone

ALWAYS choose toil, and love to be without the consolations of particular friendships and favours, which do not bring any profit with them to the soul; and rejoice to be ever subject to, and dependent on the will of others.

Let every thing be a means of leading you to God, and let nothing detain you on the way. This should- be your consolation, that every. thing is bitter to you, and God your only repose. Let all your labours be directed to your Lord; love Him, and give to Him your whole heart without fear; for He will find a good way to solve all your doubts, and will restore you when you fall. Lastly, in one word, if you will love Him, you shall possess all good. Offer yourself to God for a sacrifice, in peace and quietness of spirit. And the better to advance in this journey, and to bear yourself up without weariness and vexation, you should at every step dispose your soul, by expanding your will to the extent of the Divine Will. The more your will is thus expanded, the more you will receive. Your will must be thus disposed, to will or not to will in every case, according as God wills or does not will it. Always at every step renew your purpose of pleasing God, and do not determine upon what course you will pursue, except for the passing moment, but for the future keep yourself free. No one, however, is forbidden to exercise a proper prudence and diligence in providing for necessaries, according to his position. For this is according to the Will of God, and is no impediment to peace or genuine spiritual progress. Let your purpose be in all things to do your duty according to your ability, and be indifferent and resigned as to all results, which are beyond you.

There is one thing always in your power, and that is to offer to God your will, and desire no longer to will any thing of yourself; for as soon as you have this freedom, and are detached on all sides (which you can be always and everywhere, when occupied or not), you will enjoy tranquillity and peace. In this freedom of spirit consists the great good which you have in view. This freedom is nothing else than the perseverance of the interior man within himself, without going forth to will, desire, or seek any thing out of himself; and all the time you abide in this state of liberty, you will rejoice in that divine servitude, which is the great kingdom that is within us.