When therefore the enemy suggesteth these things unto thee, or some curious people raise the question, let thy answer be that of the prophet, "Thou art just, o Lord, and Thy judgment is right."
And again, "The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether."
My judgments are to be feared, not to be discussed; for they are such as cannot be comprehended by the understanding of man.
2. In like manner I advise thee not to inquire, nor dispute of the merits of holy men, as to which is holier than the other, or which shall be the greater in the kingdom of heaven.
These things oftentimes breed strife and contentions, they also nourish pride and vain-glory; from whence spring envy and dissensions.
To desire to search out such things answereth no good end, and is painful to the righteous; for I am not the God of dissension, but of peace; which peace consisteth rather in true humility, than in self-exaltation.
3. Some are carried with zeal of affection towards these or those; but this is rather human love than divine.
I am He Who made all the saints; I gave them grace; I obtain for them glory.
I know what every one hath deserved; I have prevented them with the blessing of My goodness.
I foreknew My beloved ones before the beginning of the world.
I chose them out of the world: they chose not Me first.
