not allow yourself to be drawn aside one step from that which is true and right as to your own nothingness, but turn first to God, and say to Him from your heart, "Keep me, O Lord, from ever robbing Thee of Thy Glory and Grace. To Thee be praise, honour, and glory, but to me confusion of face." Then, turning to him who is praising you, say inwardly, as if addressing him—"How is it that he regards me as good, when in reality my God Alone and His works are good?"
Humble yourself in this manner, and give to the Lord that which is His own, and thus you will put to flight your enemies, and fit yourself to receive greater gifts and favours from God.
And if you are tempted to vanity by looking back upon some good works you have done, regard them at once as God's works, and not your own, and say in your heart, as if addressing them—"I know not how ye did appear or begin to be in my mind, for ye did not derive your origin from me; but the good God and His Grace created, nourished and preserved you. Him only, then, will I acknowledge as your true and first Father, Him will I thank, and to Him will I give all praise on your account.
Consider, then, that not only do all the works which you have done fall short of the light and grace which has been bestowed upon you, in order that you may have the knowledge and
