Which Of These Feelings Is Profitable For You

Cleanse your thoughts, O human, for they are My abode and dwelling place.

Jesus laughed a lot. John wept a lot. John said to Jesus, “You have become exceedingly carefree against all the subtle deceits, that you laugh so much.” Jesus replied, “You have become exceedingly unmindful of the subtle, mysterious, wonderful graces and loving kindness of God, that you weep so much.” One of God’s saints was present at this incident. He asked God, “Which of these two has the higher station?” God answered, “He who thinks better of Me.” In other words, “I come when you think of Me. Each person has an image and an idea of Me. Whatever picture he forms of Me, there I am. I fill that picture where God dwells. I care nothing for that point of view where God does not exist.
Cleanse your thoughts, O human, for they are My abode and dwelling place.
Now test yourself as to weeping and laughter, fasting and prayer, solitude and company, and the rest. Which of these is more profitable to you? Whichever brings you straighter on the road and gains you the greatest advancement, choose that task. Take counsel from your heart, even though others may disagree. The truth is within you. Compare it with what others say. When they agree, then follow that course.
Fihi Ma Fihi - Discourse 11, A. J. Arberry