are forced into your mind. Bravely keep your purpose, and an upright intention toward God. Neither is it an illusion that sometimes you are suddenly rapt into ecstasy, and presently return again to the follies of your heart. For these you rather unwillingly suffer, than commit; and so long as they displease you, and you strive against them, it is a matter of reward and no loss.
Know that the ancient Enemy strives by all means to hinder your desire to do good, and to keep you void of all religious exercises; particularly from the devout remembrance of My passion, from the profitable calling to mind of sins, from the guarding of your heart, and from the firm purpose of advancing in virtue. Many evil thoughts he forces on you, that he may cause a weariness and horror, to call you back from prayer and holy reading. Humble confession is displeasing to him; and if he could, he would cause you to cease from holy communion.  Believe him not, nor regard him, although he often sets snares of deceit.  Charge him with it when he suggests evil and unclean thoughts.  Say to him, “ ‘Away you unclean spirit!.’ † Blush, you miserable wretch! Most unclean are you that bring such things to my ears. Begone from me, you wicked Seducer! You will have no part in me, but Jesus will be with me as a strong Warrior,
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