Turn your heart to Him with thankfulness for the friends and
meagre, let faith in His promises make up for what is lacking. Rejoice in Him as the God of your salvation, even when the fig tree does not blossom and there is no fruit on the vine.
6. When you visit your friends, or receive their visits, wait on God. Turn your heart to Him with thankfulness for the friends and acquaintances in whom you find comfort. Consider it His mercy that your dwelling is not in a wilderness or a solitary desert but among others with whom you can freely converse. Thank Him that you are not cast out from society, burdened and shunned by all around you.
It is also His mercy that you have clothing not just for necessity but for beauty when going out, a mercy of which God says: "I decked thee with ornaments, and I put earrings in thine ears" (Ezekiel 16:11-12). Acknowledge Him for the houses, furniture, and means of hospitality He has provided, both for your own comfort and for that of your friends.
While in the company of others, look to God for wisdom to conduct yourself so as to do good and avoid harm. Pray for the grace to keep your speech seasoned and free from corrupt communication. Seek to abound in words that are good, edifying, and beneficial to the hearers, so that your lips may nourish many.
7. When you give alms or perform acts of charity, wait on God. Do these acts as unto Him, giving to a disciple in the name of a disciple and to the poor because they belong to Christ. Do not seek the praise of others, but aim for the glory of God with sincerity and integrity. Direct your charity to God, and your alms, like Cornelius' prayers and offerings, will rise as a memorial before Him (Acts 10:4).