Chapter 196

On Artificial Methods of Prayer

Spiritual prayer does not depend on any bodily strain, such as pressing attention to the heart or constricting the breath, and the like. It is accomplished by the noetic way. Begin by placing yourself in the presence of the Lord, and then, giving yourself entirely to the Lord in faith and hope, turn your prayer to him simply, like a child. The feelings that come—be content with whatever God sends. Spiritual work is not about ecstasies: its finest manifestation is a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart (Ps. 50:19). As you wrote, that when you imagine the Lord’s presence, things go better—always do this.

(Letter 906. Vol. 5, p. 181)