Mark the Ascetic - On the Spiritual Law 86-88

86. He who neglects action and depends on theoretical knowledge holds a staff of reed instead of a double-edged sword; and when he confronts his enemies in time of war, 'it will go into his hand, and pierce it' (2 Kgs. 18:21), injecting its natural poison.
87. Every thought has its weight and measure in God's sight. For it is possible to think about the same thing either passionately or objectively.
88. After fulfilling a commandment expect to be tempted: for love of Christ is tested by adversity.