Everyone flatters himself and carries a kingdom in his breast. - John Calvin

Let the first rule of right prayer then be, to have our heart and mind framed as becomes those who are entering into converse with God. This we shall accomplish in regard to the mind, if, laying aside carnal thoughts and cares which might interfere with the direct and pure contemplation of God, it not only be wholly intent on prayer, but also, as far as possible, be borne and raised above itself. ... When I say it must be raised above itself, I mean that it must not bring into the presence of God any of those things which our blind and stupid reason is wont to devise, nor keep itself confined within the little measure of its own vanity, but rise to a purity worthy of God.

For in the cross of Christ, as in a splendid theatre, the incomparable goodness of God is set before the whole world.

Where is our acknowledgement of God if our thoughts are fixed on the glamour of our garments?