That when he began his business, he said to GOD, with a filial trust
in Him, "O my GOD, since Thou art with me, and I must now, in
obedience to Thy commands, apply my mind to these outward things, I
beseech Thee to grant me the grace to continue in Thy Presence; and to
this end do Thou prosper me with Thy assistance, receive all my works,
and possess all my affections."
As he proceeded in his work, he continued his familiar conversation
with his Maker,--imploring His grace, and offering to Him all his
actions.
When he had finished, he examined himself how he had discharged his
duty; if he found _well_, he returned thanks to GOD; if otherwise, he
asked pardon; and without being discouraged, he set his mind right
again, and continued his exercise of the _presence_ of GOD, as if he
had never deviated from it. "Thus," said he, "by rising after my
falls, and by frequently renewed acts of faith and love, I am come to
a state wherein it would be as difficult for me not to think of GOD as
it was at first to accustom myself to it."
As brother Lawrence had found such an advantage in walking in the
presence of GOD, it was natural for him to recommend it earnestly to
others; but his example was a stronger inducement than any arguments
he could propose.
Pages:
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29