Deuteronomy 21:17

Verse 17. But those principles which are felt to be of primary importance and real truths derived from heaven, even though they are repugnant to the natural disposition, must be allowed to have a double share in the formation of the regenerate character; for thereby comes the first dawning of spiritual life in the soul; and these principles are given to have the primary share in the formation of the regenerate character. [Note.—This subject may be further illustrated by the account of Jacob's wives, Rachel and Leah (see Arcana Coelestia 3919), also by the consideration of the conduct of parents towards their children, where it would be well-pleasing to indulge them, but really wise to correct them; —generally to give, from good-nature, people what they clamour for is natural, and to give them what is believed to be for their good ultimately is spiritual—and to give the same to the various appetites and desires of one's own mind is to behave with like wisdom towards oneself. (See Arcana Coelestia 988, 4992, 5008, 5028, 5032, etc.)]