Chapter XXVI. Of three temptations that are full of peril to the devout CHAPTER XXVI Of three temptations that are full of peril to the devout
(1) ASTER FLORENTIUS being a most skilful and mighty champion in the Spiritual contest used to say that there were three temptations, perilous above all others, whichM hidden beneath the cloak of good motives do deceive many; and unless a man resist these in due time, that is at the very outset, they lead little by little to a final overthrow, or make the indolent wretchedly lukewarm. But this doth make the matter worse, that through the subtility of the devil's wiles many are too heedless of such temptations, and scarce seek to be informed by men of prudence and knowledge as to the greatness of the perils into which they may fall.
(2) The first temptation is when one, newly converted, doth desire to return to his own country and to visit parents and friends; for such an one a return to the world, on the pretext 139 of doing good and in the hope of converting worldlings, is often the occasion of his neglecting his own soul, although he may think to gather truit in his own country. And while he dallieth there amid vain and inconstant persons, he doth expose himself to the winds and waves of temptation. Experience hath often shown how one that is lightminded, and not yet firmly founded in virtue, when he doth join himself to them of the world without restraint, is either entangled by their sins, or, under stress of temptation, doth grow cold toward the good courses he had begun. Therefore is it good for a man continually to flee from everything that is hurtful to the soul, and not to return to his country or his friends unless some notable cause compel him. Let him never be presumptuous about himself, but be suspicious of this present world that is everywhere filled with poisoned snares; let him follow the counsel and sayings of his Superior, for this in every case is the safer and surer way. Of ten men who associate for long with their kindred or friends, scarce one or two return unhurt, and it doth often happen that they who remain in the world, having withdrawn from their good resolutions become even worse and more worthless than other men: and rejecting the Grace of God blush not to resume those evil courses which they did once despise.
(3) The second temptation is when one that is a layman, wishing to be a Clerk, doth through this desire leave his lowly station, and retire from the holy Community in order that he may acquire learning and become great.
Wretched man! he knoweth not how evilly he is deceived when leaving his lowly station and obedience he seeketh higher place. Such an one is soon puffed up by a little knowledge 140 and is slow to become a good Clerk. God grant that he become not altogether a worldling; that of his own motion and for the sake of worthless learning doth risk the loss of virtue and blacken the repute of a good name.