COLLOQUY XXVIII
Temptations are Allowed for our Greater Profit.
One of the Brethren was assailed by a grievous and obstinate temptation, which drove him almost to despair ; and he dreaded the holy Father discovering the state of his soul, lest if he knew him to be thus assaulted by the devil, he should love him less. But the kind Father sent for his afflicted child, and consoled him lovingly, saying : ‘Be not afflicted or dismayed, my son. Believe me, I now consider thee a greater servant of God than before, and be assured that the more thou art tempted, the dearer dost thou become to me. No one, my son, can repute himself to be the servant of God, until he has passed through temptation and tribulation. A temptation overcome, is like the ring by which God espouses a soul to Himself. Many flatter themselves upon their numerous good works, and rejoice never to have suffered tribulations and temptations. But, because they are frightened even before they begin to fight, God, knowing their weakness, does not try them with temptations ; for hard combats are reserved for great virtue. It is a sign of His special favour when God leaves nothing unpunished in His servants in this world.’