Posted on 08/27/2009 12:49:57 AM PDT by GonzoII
CHAPTER ONE THE NATURE OF THE HUMAN HEART AND THE WAY IN WHICH IT SHOULD BE GOVERNED
GOD CREATED the heart of man for no other end than to love Him, and to be loved by Him; and the sublimity of this divine design should convince us that it is the noblest of the works of His almighty hand. Our first obligation, then, is to direct that heart to place its affection in proper things, that exterior acts might flow from interior dispositions of the heart. For although corporal penances and various chastisements of the flesh are praiseworthy when practiced in prudent moderation, yet by this means alone rather than acquiring a single virtue, you will probably acquire conceit and vanity. All externals will prove ineffectual unless they be invigorated by and permeated with worthy internal dispositions.
The life of man is nothing but a continual warfare and temptation; and because it is a warfare, you must watch over your heart with sedulous care that it may be ever at peace. If any movements signal sensual disturbances, take heed to calm the storms within your heart instantly, never permitting the pursuit of vain and illusory pleasures. Exercise this caution not only in time of prayer, but anytime disquieting thoughts assail you, for prayers will be indifferently said until the soul knows peace.
Observe, however, that all this must be done with a certain mildness and effortless ease, as the principal effort of our lives should be the quieting of our hearts, and the prudent guidance of those hearts lest they go astray.
(Excerpt) Read more at catholictradition.org ...
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