We must often recall that our Lord has saved us by his suffering and endurance and that we must work out our salvation by sufferings and afflictions, enduring with all possible meekness the injuries, denials and discomforts we meet.
–Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
How offensive to God is rash judgment. It is a kind of spiritual jaundice that causes all things to appear evil to the eyes of those infected with it… Rash judgments draw a conclusion from an action in order to condemn the other.
–Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
If I want only pure water, what does it matter whether it be brought me in a vase of gold or glass? What is it to me whether the will of God be presented to me in tribulation or consolation, since I desire and seek only the divine will?
— Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
Should we feel at times disheartened and discouraged, a simple movement of heart toward God will renew our powers. Whatever he may demand of us, he will give us at the moment the strength and courage that we need.
–François Fénèlon (1651-1715)
God dwells within. Our soul is God’s palace! Conversation with him is without bounds or limits. As long as we will enter within ourselves, and as long a time as we will remain, we may enjoy this heavenly conversation in perfect liberty.
–Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774-1821)
Yes, my dear brethren, we shall see at the Judgement that the largest section of Christians practiced a religion of whim or caprice only—that is to say, the greatest number of them practiced their religion merely from motives of routine, and very few sought God alone in what they did.
–Saint John Vianney (1786-1859)
