Chapter XXVII - Of the means employed by the Devil to assail and deceive those who desire to give themselves up to the practice of virtue, and those who are already entangled in the bondage of sin

You must know, that the devil is intent upon nothing but our ruin, and that he does not use the same method of assault with all persons.

In order, then, to make known to you some of his modes of attack, his stratagems and devices, I will set before you several different conditions of men.

Some remain in the service of sin without a thought of escape.

Some would fain be free, but never make the attempt.

Others think they are walking in the way of holiness, while they are wandering far from it.

And lastly, some, after having attained unto holiness, fall into deeper perdition.

We will discourse separately of each.

- taken from The Spiritual Combat, by Father Lorenzo Scupoli