Sometimes we are unduly excited when things go well, and at other times we are too alarmed when things go badly. . . We ought to establish our hearts firmly in God’s strength, and struggle, as best we can, to place all of our hope and confidence in the Lord so that we shall be like him, as far as it is possible, even in his unchanging rest and stability.
–Blessed Jordan of Saxony (c. 1190-1237)
The difficulties of life do not have to be unbearable. It is the way we look at them – through faith or unbelief – that makes them seem so. We must be convinced that our Father is full of love for us and that He only permits trials to come our way for our own good.
–Brother Lawrence (1614-1691)
Let all our employment be to know God: the more one knows Him, the more one desires to know Him. And as knowledge is commonly the measure of love, the deeper and more extensive our knowledge shall be, the greater will be our love: and if our love of God were great we should love Him equally in pains and pleasures.
–Brother Lawrence (1614-1691)
God knoweth best what is needful for us, and all that He does is for our good. If we knew how much He loves us, we should be always ready to receive equally and with indifference from His hand the sweet and the bitter; all would please that came from Him. The sorest afflictions never appear intolerable, but when we see them in the wrong light. When we see them in the hand of God, who dispenses them: when we know that it is our loving Father, who abases and distresses us: our sufferings will lose their bitterness, and become even matter of consolation.
–Brother Lawrence (1614-1691)
Always receive with equal contentment from God’s hand either consolations or sufferings, peace or distress, health or illness. Ask nothing, refuse nothing, but always be ready to do and to suffer anything that comes from His Providence.
–Saint Teresa Margaret (1747-1770)
Whatever troubles may be before you, accept them bravely, remembering Whom you are trying to follow. Do not be afraid. Love one another, bear with one another, and let charity guide you all your life. God will reward you as only He can.
–Saint Mary MacKillop (1842-1909)
