And then he allows some of us to fall more severely and distressingly than before– at least that is how we see it. And then it seems to us, who are not always wise, that all we set out our hands to is lost. But it is not so. We need to fall, and we need to see that we have done so. For if we never fell we should not know how weak and pitiable we are in ourselves. Nor should we fully know the wonderful love of our maker.
–Saint Julian of Norwich (1342-1416)
If God makes you suffer greatly, it is a sign that he wants to make you a great saint.
–Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556)
To conquer himself is the greatest victory that man can gain.
–Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556)
The more promptly a soul seeks God with true reverence, the sooner does it find him; and the greater its eagerness in searching for him, the more ardently does it clasp him when found.
–Francisco de Osuna (1497-1541)
God enters the soul better when it is closed to all but Him, to whom it renders itself wholly with a fervent longing that is taught by no knowledge gained from any creatures, for it is above them all.
–Francisco de Osuna (1497-1541)
I pray God may open your eyes and let you see what hidden treasures he bestows on us in the trials from which the world thinks only to flee. Shame turns into honor when we seek God’s glory. Present affliction become the source of heavenly glory. To those who suffer wounds in fighting his battles God opens his arms in loving, tender friendship.
–Saint John of Avila (1500-1569)
