He doth well that serveth his neighbor, and not his own will.
Often it seemeth to be charity, and it is rather carnality; because natural inclinations, self-will, hope of reward, and desire of our own interest, are motives that men are rarely free from.
He that hath true and perfect charity seeketh himself in nothing; but only desireth in all things that God should be exalted.
He envieth none, because he seeketh not his own satisfaction; neither rejoiceth in himself, but chooses God only for his portion.
He attributes nothing that is good to any man, but wholly referreth it unto God, from whom, as from the fountain, all things proceed: in whom finally all the saints rest.
O that he had but one spark of true charity, he would certainly discern that all earthly things are full of vanity!
[December 23.]
When one that was in great anxiety of mind, often wavering between fear and hope, did once humbly prostrate himself in prayer, and said, O, if I knew that I should persevere! he presently heard within him an answer from God which said, If thou didst know it, what wouldst thou do? Do what thou wouldst do then, and thou shalt be safe.
And being herewith comforted and strengthened, he committed himself wholly to the will of God, and his anxiety ceased: