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OF SENSIBLE DEVOTION
195

would forgive you every debt. And this you can do, not only by passing from one Mystery to another, but also from one act to another in the same Mystery; and this mode of offering may serve not only for yourself, but also for others.


CHAPTER LIX.

Of Sensible Devotion and of Dryness.

SENSIBLE devotion arises sometimes from nature, sometimes from the devil, and sometimes from grace. You will be able from its fruits to discern its source; since if it does not produce amendment of life, your only doubt will be, whether it proceeds from the devil, or from nature; and especially, if it is accompanied by a greater relish and sweetness, and attachment, and a certain self-esteem.

When, therefore, you shall feel your mind filled with spiritual sweetness, do not stop to dispute about the source from whence it comes; and do not lean upon it, nor suffer yourself to be taken off from the thought of your own nothingness; but with greater diligence and hatred of self, study to keep your heart free from all attachment, even to spiritual things, and seek God alone, and His good pleasure; for in this