In this book you will therefore find wholesome instruction, great
knowledge of the interior life, and of the human heart, - the
result of years of experience in the direction of souls. The
subject is at once both highly important and very difficult. The
Author has not confined himself to general principles and vague
maxims, but he has entered into the very sanctuary of the soul,
into its secret folds and most intricate windings. The thread of
Reason, the light of Faith, and the torch of Experience have led
him safely through that labyrinth where so many lose themselves,
rashly attempting to explore it without the proper guides. A few
principles, presented under different aspects, solve all
difficulties, throw light upon doubts that are ever recurring,
expose all the subterfuges of self-love, sloth, and cowardice,
refute their objections, and silence their excuses. The Author has
followed the most useful plan for works of this kind. He adopts the
method of reasoning - and his reasoning is as clear as it is solid.
The greater number of persons who profess piety prefer appeals to
their imagination and to their heart, rather than to their reason.
They like to be excited by lively descriptions, and by tender and
touching language; but in so doing, they are seeking a passing
gratification rather than a real and permanent benefit. Such
descriptions and sentiments soon fade away, but the fruits of
conviction are more lasting. Pure reason and true faith never vary;
imagination and feeling are incessantly changing according to the
different objects which act upon them. It is from indolence that
feeling is preferred to reasoning. The greater part of mankind are
indolent, and hence there are so few who care to reflect and
reason. But one who has an earnest love for virtue and duty, who is
anxious about his salvation, should not shrink from the mental
effort which the exercise of reason and of faith requires. We
should remember that no sincere and permanent resolution can be
taken without a conviction of its necessity. This is accorditlg to
the natural order of reason, and to the economy of grace. The
understanding must be enlightened before the will can be moved.
This work appears to be specially intended for the instruction of
persons living in religious communities, and for seculars aiming at
perfection; but in this age of indifference and discouragement all
who profess the true faith may here find no little help to
undeceive them in their errors, and to strengthen them against the
wiles of self-love. We venture to hope that even Directors of
consciences may discover therein that which will increase their
light, and supply for any want of experience in their difficult and
dangerous ministry.
General
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