Fire cannot last long in water, nor can a shameful thought in a heart that loves God. For every man who loves God suffers gladly, and voluntary suffering is by nature the enemy of sensual pleasure.
–Saint Kosmas Aitolos (c.1714 – 1779)
First of all it must be understood that it is the duty of all Christians – especially of those whose calling dedicates them to the spiritual life – to strive always and in every way to be united with God, their creator, lover, benefactor, and their supreme good, by Whom and for Whom they were created. This is because the center and the final purpose of the soul, which God created, must be God Himself alone, and nothing else – God whom Whom the soul has received its life and its nature, and for Whom it must eternally live.
–Saint Dimitry of Rostov (1651-1709)
Go courageously to God, along the way He has traced out for you, steadfastly embracing the means He offers you.
–Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647- 1690)
God, whose love and joy are present everywhere,
can’t come to visit you unless you aren’t there.
–Angelus Silesius (1624-1677)
