The dreamy luxury of indulging one's thoughts and ranging at ease through the whole spirit-world is so captivating, and when frequently indulged in acquires such power over us, that we cease to be free men.

The power to control your thoughts and feelings and to fix them on what object you choose is of the last necessity, as it is the highest aim of spiritual culture.

Be careful that you do not mistake a mental habit into which you have fallen for the guidance of the All-wise.

Is it not the very sacrifice you are appointed to make, to overcome this spiritual luxury and to become able to do that which is disagreeable?
Where is the sacrifice in following what the natural tendencies and fixed habits of our mind dispose us to do?
What victory have you acquired, what power to conquer in the struggle for sanctity do you possess, when you cannot so far control your thoughts and feelings as to be able to apply yourself to studies which you feel are necessary?
Here is your warfare.

You have not won the victory till you have become as able to drudge at Latin or Greek as to give up worldly wealth, pleasures, honors, or distinctions.
"But, my dear Isaac, you cannot gain this victory alone, nor by mere private meditation and prayer.