4. They were strangers to the world, but unto God they were as
kinsmen and friends. They seemed unto themselves as of no
reputation, and in the world's eyes contemptible; but in the
sight of God they were precious and beloved. They stood fast in
true humility, they lived in simple obedience, they walked in
love and patience; and thus they waxed strong in spirit, and
obtained great favour before God. To all religious men they were
given as an example, and they ought more to provoke us unto good
livings than the number of the lukewarm tempteth to
carelessness of life.

5. O how great was the love of all religious persons at the
beginning of this sacred institution! O what devoutness of
prayer! what rivalry in holiness! what strict discipline was
observed! what reverence and obedience under the rule of the
master showed they in all things! The traces of them that remain
until now testify that they were truly holy and perfect men, who
fighting so bravely trod the world underfoot. Now a man is
counted great if only he be not a transgressor, and if he can
only endure with patience what he hath undertaken.

6. O the coldness and negligence of our times, that we so quickly
decline from the former love, and it is become a weariness to
live, because of sloth and lukewarmness. May progress in
holiness not wholly fall asleep in thee, who many times hast seen
so many examples of devout men!


CHAPTER XIX