As scripture says, “Where your heart is, there also is your treasure” [Mt. 6:21]; and surely, wherever a person’s heart is given, wherever their deepest desire draws them, this is indeed their god. If a man’s heart always longs for God, then God will surely be the Lord of the heart.
–Saint Macarius the Great (c. 300-391)
A person should desire no other path, even if he is at the summit of contemplation; on this road he walks safely. All blessings come to us through our Lord. He will teach us, for in beholding his life we find that he is the best example. What more do we desire from such a good friend at our side? Unlike our friends in the world, he will never abandon us when we are troubled or distressed. Blessed is the one who truly loves him and always keeps him near.
–Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)
True humility consists in being content with all that God is pleased to ordain for us, believing ourselves unworthy to be called His servants.
–Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)
I believe that if we are to meet so many needs in the world, we must become a living and continual prayer and love much. The power of a soul given wholly to love is great indeed.
–Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity (1880–1906)
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are touched upon in the Lord’s Prayer. Those gifts are not had except from the Father of lights. For that reason Christ, wanting to teach us in what manner we can obtain them, teaches us to ask for them in the Lord’s Prayer. In the first part the gift of fear is asked for, when He says: “Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name.” Secondly piety is asked for, when He says: “May Thy Kingdom come.” Third the gift of knowledge is asked for, when He says: “Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.” Fourth the gift of fortitude is asked for, when He says: “Give us this day our daily bread.” Bread strengthens the heart of a man. Fifth the gift of counsel is asked for, when He says: “And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors.” Sixth the gift of understanding is asked for, when He says: “And put us not to the test.” Seventh the gift of wisdom is asked for, when He says: “But free us from evil. Amen.”
–Saint Bonaventure (1221-1274)
The way of humility is this: self-control, prayer, and thinking yourself inferior to all creatures.
–Abba Tithoes (a Desert Father)
