A. The life of Christ was a continual model of perfect obedience. From twelve to thirty years of age all that we are told of Him in the Sacred Scriptures is that "He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them." Obedience is a most effectual means of subduing self-will and self-love, which are our most fatal enemies. "An obedient man shall speak of victory," because obedience draws down a most special and abundant grace; for so pleasing is it to God that He says of it: "Obedience is better than sacrifices." CHAPTER VII. THE RELIGIOUS STATE. Q. What is the fundamental principle or essence of the religious state? A. The three evangelical counsels, which we have just explained. Those who enter the religious state take vows to observe the counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Q. Why do so many people enter the religious state? A. First, to promote the honor and glory of God; second, to escape the dangers of the world, and the more securely to work out their salvation; for, "What doth it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and suffer the loss of his own soul?" Our blessed Lord Himself assures us that "many are called, but few are chosen." "Strive to enter at the narrow gate." Q. Why are religious happier and more cheerful than others? A. On account of their peace of mind, and their greater hope of the eternal rewards promised to those especially who leave all to follow Jesus Christ. Q. In what other way do you explain the happiness enjoyed by religious? A. There is a marvellous happiness to be found in holiness of life, because the various degrees of holiness are so many steps towards God, the centre and source of all happiness. Therefore the happiness of the religious state is like that "treasure hidden in a field, which a man having found, hid it, and for joy thereof goeth, and selleth all that lie hath, and buyeth that field." Q. Are religious useful to others as well as to themselves? A. Religious bring many blessings to mankind by exercising the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, and by "instructing many unto justice." Religious follow in a special manner the admonition of the Apostle: "Labor the more, that by good works you may make sure your calling and election." Besides making their own salvation more secure, religious undoubtedly contribute to the salvation of thousands of souls. Q. This thought is certainly very startling, but how can the matter be explained? A. Next after the priests of God, religious contribute much to keep up the faith and the spiritual life of the Church.