Avoid being bashful with God, as some people are, in the belief that they are being humble. It would not be humility on your part if the King were to do you a favor and you refused to accept it.
–Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)
If you do not feel like praying then force yourself. The Holy Fathers say that prayer with force is higher than prayer unforced. You do not want to, but force yourself. The Kingdom of Heaven is taken by force (Matthew 1112).
–Saint Ambrose of Optina (1812-1891)
The greatest part of my prayer here and for years now is thankgiving. What else should I ask, when I have everything?
–Gabriela Papayannis (1897-1992)
Follow your own way of speaking to our Lord sincerely, lovingly, confidently, and simply, as your heart dictates.
–Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641)
Jesus is honey on the lips, melody in the ear, joy in the heart. Yet not alone is that name light and food. It is also a remedy. Is any one amongst you sad? Let the name of Jesus enter his heart; let it leap thence to his mouth; and lo! the light shining from that name shall scatter every cloud and restore peace.
–Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)
There is another inward kind of prayer without ceasing, which is the desire of the heart… If you do not want to pause in prayer then never pause in your longing. Your continuous desire is your continuous prayer. If you cease to desire than you will have fallen silent in your prayer.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
