If thou wilt follow these instructions thou wilt escape many dangers; for when the wily serpent sees the will of those who aim at the spiritual life strong and resolute, he attacks their understanding, that so he may be able to master both the one and the other. He therefore frequently infuses lofty and curious sentiments into their minds, especially if they be of an acute and subtle character, and such as are easily lifted up into pride; that occupied with the enjoyment and discussion of such matters, in which they falsely persuade themselves they enjoy God, they may neglect to purify their hearts, and to apply themselves to self-knowledge and real mortification. So, falling into the snare of pride, they make an idol of their own understanding.

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