y son, say this in everything: “If it is the Lord's will, so let it be.† Lord if it be to Your honor, in Your name let this be done. Lord, if You see it expedient for me, and approve it to be useful, then grant to me that I may use this to Your honor. But if You know it will be hurtful to me, and no profit to the the health of my soul, take away any such desire from me.”
For not every desire proceeds from the Holy Spirit, even though it seems right and good. It is difficult to judge truly whether a good spirit or the contrary drives you to desire this or that; or whether by your own spirit you be moved. Many have been deceived in the end, who at first seemed to be led on by a good spirit.
Therefore whatever occurs to the mind as desirable must always be desired and prayed for in the fear of God and with humility of heart. You must commit the whole matter to Me with special resignation of yourself, and say: “O Lord, You know what is the better way, let this or that be done, in accordance with Your will. Give what You will, how much You will, and when You will. Deal with me as You know, as best pleases You, and is most for Your honor. Set me where You will, and deal with me in all things just as You will. I am in Your hand: turn me round, and turn me
