The sun penetrates crystal and makes it more dazzling. In the same way, the sanctifying Spirit indwells in souls and makes them more radiant. They become like so many powerhouses beaming grace and love around them.
–Saint Basil the Great (329-379)
Fittingly did the Spirit appear in fire in every heart that he enters, he kindles the desire of his own eternity.
–Saint Gregory the Great (c. 540-604)
Control your appetites before they control you.
–Saint John Climacus (c. 525-606)
God rests with in gentle hearts. The gentle and merciful shall sit fearless in His regions, and will inherit Heavenly glory.
–Saint John Climacus (c. 525-606)
The first stage of this tranquility consists in silencing the lips when the heart is excited. The second, in silencing the mind when the soul is still excited. The goal is a perfect peacefulness even in the middle of the raging storm.
–Saint John Climacus (c. 525-606)
A discerning man, when he eats grapes, takes only the ripe ones and leaves the sour. Thus also the discerning mind carefully marks the virtues which he sees in any person. A mindless man seeks out the vices and failings … Even if you see someone sin with your own eyes, do not judge; for often even your eyes are deceived.
–Saint John Climacus (c. 525-606)
