In all things, therefore, let all follow the Rule as guide, and let no one be so rash as to deviate from it. Let no one in the monastery follow his own heart's fancy; and let no one presume to contend with his Abbot in an insolent way or even outside of the monastery. But if anyone should presume to do so, let him undergo the discipline of the Rule. At the same time, the Abbot himself should do all things in the fear of God and in observance of the Rule, knowing that beyond a doubt he will have to render an account of all his decisions to God, the most just Judge. But if the business to be done in the interests of the monastery be of lesser importance, let him take counsel with the seniors only. It is written, "Do everything with counsel, and you will not repent when you have done it" (Eccles. 32:24).

God informs scripture. Scripture informs the Rule. The Rule informs the Abbot. God, scripture, the Rule, and the Abbot guide all in the monastery.

We are not to follow our "heart's fancy" - cordis voluntatem - or the spontaneous desires of the will. We are to be disciplined in matching our choices to the guidance given.

Are there times when God, or scripture, or the Rule, or the Abbot seem to be in disagreement? If so, take counsel together.