Section 36

“The invasion and display of evil spirits, by contrast, is full of disorder: noise, crashing sounds, and shouting like the disturbance caused by rough young men or robbers. From this come fear in the heart, agitation and confusion of thought, despondency, hatred toward those who practice the ascetic life, carelessness, grief, memories of relatives, fear of death, and finally desire for evil things, contempt for virtue, and instability of character.

“So whenever you have seen something and become afraid, pay attention to what follows. If your fear is immediately taken away and in its place there come inexpressible joy, gladness, courage, renewed strength, calmness of thought, all the qualities I mentioned before, boldness, and love toward God, then take courage and pray. Joy and a settled condition of soul reveal the holiness of the one who is present.

“Thus Abraham rejoiced when he saw the Lord; and John leaped for joy at the voice of Mary, the God-bearer.

“But if, when something appears, there is disorder, pounding outside, worldly display, threats of death, and the other things I have already described, then know that it is an assault of evil spirits.