There is no real elevation of mind in a contempt of little things; it is, on the contrary, from too narrow views that we consider those things of little importance which have in fact such extensive consequences.
The greater our dread of crosses, the more necessary they are for us.
Before putting yourself in peril, it is necessary to foresee and fear it; but when one is there, nothing remains but to despise it.
We may be sure that it is the love of God only that can make us come out of self. If His powerful hand did not sustain us, we should not know how to take the first step in that direction.
Do not make best friends with a melancholy sad soul. They always are heavily loaded, and you must bear half.
Mankind, by the perverse depravity of their nature, esteem that which they have most desired as of no value the moment it is possessed, and torment themselves with fruitless wishes for that which is beyond their reach.
Nothing is more despicable than a professional talker who uses his words as a quack uses his remedies.
Children are excellent observers, and will often perceive your slightest defects. In general, those who govern children, forgive nothing in them, but everything in themselves.
To be faithful in prayer it is indispensable that we arrange all the activities of the day with a regularity that nothing can disturb.
I would have every minister of the gospel address his audience with the zeal of a friend, with the generous energy of a father, and with the exuberant affection of a mother.
You really don’t even own the present moment, for even this belongs to God.
Trouble and perplexity drive me to prayer, and prayer drives away perplexity and trouble.
Listen less to your own thoughts and more to God’s thoughts.
Speak, move, act in peace...
Should we feel at times disheartened and discouraged, a simple movement of heart toward God will renew our powers. Whatever he may demand of us, he will give us at the moment the strength and courage that we need.
Simplicity is that grace which frees the soul from all unnecessary reflections upon itself.
How desirable is this simplicity! Who will give it to me? I will quit all else; it is the pearl of great price.
Never let us be discouraged with ourselves. It is not when we are conscious of our faults that we are the most wicked; on the contrary, we are less so. We see by a brighter light; and let us remember for our consolation, that we never perceive our sins till we begin to cure them.
Let gratitude for the past inspire us with trust for the future.
As long as anything in this world means anything to you, your freedom is only a word. You are like a bird that is held by a leash; you can only fly so far.