In two ways I am wont to visit Mine elect, namely, with temptation and with consolation.
And I daily read two lessons to them, one in reproving their vices, another in exhorting them, to the increase of all virtues.
He that hath My words and despiseth them, hath One that shall judge him in the last day.
5. A Prayer to implore the grace of Devotion:—
O Lord my God! Thou art to me whatsoever is good. And who am I, that I should dare to speak to Thee? I am Thy poorest, meanest servant, and a most vile worm, much more poor and contemptible than I can or dare express.
Yet do thou remember, Lord, that I am nothing, have nothing, and can do nothing.
Thou alone art good, just, and holy; Thou canst do all things, Thou accomplishest all things. Thou fillest all things, only the sinner Thou leavest empty.
Remember Thy mercies, and fill my heart with Thy grace, Thou Who wilt not that Thy works should be void and in vain.
6. How can I bear up myself in this miserable life, unless Thou strengthen me with Thy mercy and grace? Turn not Thy face away from me; delay not Thy visitation; withdraw not Thy consolation, lest my soul become as a thirsty land.
Teach me, O Lord, to do Thy will; teach me to live worthily and humbly in Thy sight; for Thou art my wisdom, Thou dost truly know me, and didst know me before the world was made, and before I was born.
