Important Notes

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis

Book 2, Chapter 9

3. A man must go through a long and great conflict in himself before he can learn fully to overcome himself, and to draw his whole affection towards God. 

When a man relies upon himself he is easily drawn to human comforts. 

But a true lover of Christ, and a diligent pursuer of virtue, does not hunt after comforts, nor seek such sensible sweetness, but is rather willing to bear strong trials and hard labors for Christ. 

Therefore, when God gives spiritual comfort, receive it with thanksgiving, but know that it is the bounty of God, not thy merit.