Let all doctors hold their peace; let all creatures be silent in Thy sight; speak Thou alone unto me.
3. The more a man is at one within himself, and of single heart, so much the more and higher things doth he understand without labour; for he receiveth the light of wisdom from above.
A pure, sincere, and stable spirit is not distracted, though it be employed in many works; for that it doeth all to the honour of God, and being at rest within, seeketh not itself in anything it doeth.
What hinders and troubles thee more than the unmortified affections of thine own heart?
A good and devout man arrangeth beforehand within himself those things which he ought to do.
Neither do they draw him according to the desires of an inordinate inclination, but according to the direction of right reason.
Who hath a greater combat than he that laboureth to overcome himself?
This ought to be our endeavour, to conquer ourselves, and daily wax stronger, and grow in holiness.
4. All perfection in this life hath some imperfection mixed with it; and no knowledge of ours is without some darkness.
A humble knowledge of thyself is a surer way to God than a deep search after learning.
Yet learning and knowledge are not to be blamed, for that is good, and ordained by God; but a good conscience and a virtuous life are always to be preferred.
But because many endeavour to get knowledge
