10/1/2018
If all you do is wait for favorable conditions for your salvation to come, you will never begin to lead a life pleasing to God.
St. Anatoly (Potapov)
The enemy of mankind will act with cunning, so that he might if possible draw even the elect into heresy.
Take care to guard yourself from condemning and judging; you will have to give an answer not for the faults and offenses of your neighbor, but for your own, and especially for judging.
The kingdom of God is within you (Lk. 17:21), said the Lord; that is, in the heart. Therefore, it is necessary to seek it out in the heart, cleansing it of the passions and assaults of the enemy, judging and reproaching no one…—St. Macarius of Optina
The beginning of our salvation lies in a sincere comprehension of our sinfulness and the self-reproach and humility before God and people that follow as a result. A heart that is broken and humbled God will not despise (Ps. 50:19). In addition to this, it is necessary to deny ourselves (Mk. 8:34), that is, to reject our own will and understanding and to obey our superiors and mentors, as the holy fathers teach.
St. Macarius of Optina
I will also tell you not to seek lofty gifts, spiritual exaltation and consolations—they are granted according to the measure of our humility.
Know that God is taking care of you when He sends sorrows and grief, and wants through them to teach you and make you wise in spiritual reason.
