I have read a comment from a reader who suggested that the reason why some people seek private revelations and visions is that they need emotional consolations from God.
This is exactly what we are warned against seeking by such as Garrigou-Lagrange. But, I think the reader has a point, sadly, which is that the search for emotional religious experience has been on the rise for many decades.
This seeking for emotional strokes from God is one reason why the charismatic movements and the Pentecostal congregations have been so popular.
Seeking emotional consolation is so dangerous that we have been warned against such over and over by the great saints.
Why is desiring visions and other consolations dangerous?
A few reasons...
1) The emotions are related to the passions which are not to be trusted. Our reason should rule over the emotions and passions.
2) The Evil One can mimic God's consolations and have one chasing after false visions in order to lead one to disobedience, confusion and pride.
3) Visions can be caused by an over-active imagination, memory, or even a bad lunch.
4) Such visions are not necessary for salvation.
We can ask the Holy Spirit for consolations, but it is better to suffer without such, and wait and trust in faith on Divine Providence. Such an attitude of trust and patience leads to personal holiness.
