Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Vol. II:
On Christian Doctrine: Chapter 13

Chapter 13.—Same Subject, Continued.

21.  Whatever, then, is in accordance with the habits of those with whom we are either compelled by necessity, or undertake as a matter of duty, to spend this life, is to be turned by good and great men to some prudent or benevolent end, either directly, as is our duty, or figuratively, as is allowable to prophets.