Making a Noise by Crying “Silence”

*’ A crier in the court, that is often cojnma7iding silence, disturbeth the court more than they that make the noise; so, disputing with our distractions increaseth theni. They are better avoided by a severe contempt’ That is to say, when Satan would disturb us at our devotions by injecting blasphemous thoughts or trifling ideas, we had better keep right on, and as much as possible disregard his interruptions. As blind Bartimaeus cried all the more because officious persons sought to silence him, so should we be the more vehement in our supplications when the devil seeks to take us off from them. When he knocks let us fasten another bolt, and let him knock till he grows weary. Our business is with the Lord, and let us give our whole heart to seeking his face, for if we turn away to answer the enemy he will at once have gained his point. When he paints images on our fancy, if we steadfastly refuse to look at them he will cease from the unprofitable work, and betake himself to work upon some more foolish folk, who will turn aside from prayer to answer his vile insinuations. Let him howl as he pleases; if we do not regard him his pride will be hurt more severely than by any blow that we can aim at him.

“Satan trembles when he sees
The weakest saint upon his knees.”

Therefore, let us keep to our praying, and let him keep to his tempting till he has had enough of it. “Get thee behind me, Satan” is as much attention as he deserves. Herein is wisdom, and he that hath understanding will learn from it.