We must be watchful, especially in the beginning of the temptation; for the enemy is then more easily overcome, if he be not suffered to enter the door of your hearts, but be resisted without the gate at his first knock.
Wherefore one said, “Withstand the beginning: for an after remedy comes too late.”
First, there occurreth to the mind a simple evil thought; then a strong imagination; afterward delight; and lastly consent.
And so by little and little our malicious enemy getteth entrance, while he is not resisted in the beginning.
And the longer one is slack in resisting, the weaker he becomes daily, and the enemy stronger against him.
Some suffer the greatest temptation in the beginning of their conversion; others in the latter end.
Others again are much troubled almost throughout their life.
Some are but slightly tempted, according to the wisdom which weigheth the states of men, and ordereth all things for the good of his elect.
We ought therefore, when we are tempted, so much the more fervently to pray unto God; who surely will give with the temptation, a way to escape, that we may be able to bear it.
Let us therefore humble ourselves under the hand of God, in all temptations and tribulations; for he will exalt the humble in spirit.