No man doth safely rule, but he that is glad to be ruled.
No man doth safely rule, but he that hath learned gladly to obey.
3. No man rejoiceth safely, unless he hath within him the testimony of a good conscience.
And yet always the security of the Saints was full of the fear of God.
Neither were they the less anxious and humble in themselves, for that they shone outwardly with grace and great virtues.
But the security of bad men ariseth from pride and presumption, and in the end it deceiveth them.
Although thou seem to be a Religious person, yet never promise thyself security in this life.
4. Oftentimes those who have been in the greatest esteem and account amongst men, have fallen into the greatest danger, by overmuch self-confidence.
Wherefore to many it is more profitable not to be altogether free from temptations, but to be often assaulted, lest they should feel too safe, and so perhaps be puffed up with pride; or else should too freely give themselves to worldly comforts.
O how good a conscience would he keep, that would never seek after transitory joy, nor entangle himself with the world.
O what great peace and quietness would he possess, that would cut off all vain anxiety, and think only upon divine things, and such as are profitable for his soul, and would place all his confidence in God.
5. No man is worthy of heavenly comfort, unless he have diligently exercised himself in holy compunction.
