the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart;” man looketh on the deed, but God considereth the intent. It is the token of a humble spirit always to do well, and to set little by oneself. Not to look for consolation from any created thing is a sign of great purity and inward faithfulness.
He that seeketh no outward witness on his own behalf, showeth plainly that he hath committed himself wholly to God. “For not he that commendeth himself is approved,” as St. Paul saith, “but whom the Lord commendeth.” To walk inwardly with God, and not to be held by any outer affections, is the state of a spiritual man.