CHAPTER IV.
OF THE COMMON TEMPTATIONS, WHICH FOR THE MOST PART, ASSAULT THOSE WHO GIVE THEMSELVES TO MEDITATION; AS ALSO OF THE REMEDIES AGAINST THEM.
Now, let US see with what temptations, they, who frequent the exercise of prayer and meditation, are molested, that we may provide convenient remedies for them, which be these: — First, the want of spiritual consolations. Second, a multitude of unprofitable thoughts. Third, thoughts of infidelity and blasphemy. Fourth, fancies in the night. Fifth, sleepiness and drowsiness. Sixth, diffidence of going forward. Seventh, too much presumption of their own sanctity. Eighth, inordinate desire of learning. Ninth, indiscreet zeal.
These are the common temptations which do trouble those, who lead a virtuous life.
A REMEDY FOR THE FIRST TEMPTATION.
To him that wanteth spiritual consolations, this is the remedy, that, therefore, he omitteth not his customary exercises of prayer, although they seem unsavory, and of no fruit;
