The fervor of spirituality is usually very great in the beginning, but afterwards, the Lord …  makes as though He would go farther: in such a case we must stand firm and not be disturbed, because God is then withdrawing His most holy Hand of sweetnesses to see if we are strong; and then, if we resist and overcome those tribulations and temptations, the sweetnesses and heavenly consolations return.
— Saint Philip Neri (1515-1595)