CONVERSION – The Varieties of Religious Experience
To be converted, to be regenerated, to receive grace, to experience religion, to gain an assurance, are so many phrases which denote the process, gradual or sudden, by which a self hitherto divided, and consciously wrong inferior and unhappy, becomes unified and consciously right superior and happy, in consequence of its firmer hold upon religious realities.
Fifteenth Letter – THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD – Brother Lawrence
Let us begin earnestly to be devoted to Him. Let us cast everything else out of our hearts. He wants to possess the heart alone. Beg this favor of Him. If we do all we can, we will soon see that change wrought in us which we so greatly desire.
Fourteenth Letter – THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD – Brother Lawrence
We must hinder our spirits wandering from Him on all occasions. We must make our heart a spiritual temple so we can constantly adore Him. We must continually watch over ourselves so we do not do anything that may displease Him.
Thirteenth Letter – THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD – Brother Lawrence
Love sweetens pains. And when one loves God, one suffers for His sake with joy and courage. Do so, I beseech you. Comfort yourself with Him. He is the only physician for all our illnesses.
Twelfth Letter – THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD – Brother Lawrence
Take courage. Offer Him your pain and pray to Him for strength to endure them. Above all, get in the habit of often thinking of God, and forget Him the least you can. Adore Him in your infirmities.
Tenth Letter – THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD – Brother Lawrence
It is pleasing to see all the faith you have in God. May He increase it in you more and more. We cannot have too much trust in so good and faithful a Friend who will never fail us in this world nor in the next.