It often happens that we pray God to deliver us from some dangerous temptation, and yet that God does not hear us, but permits the temptation to continue troubling us. In such a case, let us understand that God permits even this for our greater good.
Alphonsus LiguoriThe principal means of acquiring an ardent love of Christ are mental prayer, Communion, mortification, retirement.
Alphonsus LiguoriSt. Jerome declares that he holds for certain, and has learned from experience, that he will never make a good end who has led a bad life to the very last: 'This I hold, this I have learned by much experience, that his will be an evil end who has always led an evil life.'
Alphonsus LiguoriSuch is the compassion, such the love which Mary bears us, that she is never tired of praying for us.
Alphonsus LiguoriAcquire the habit of speaking to God as if you were alone with Him, familiarly and with confidence and love, as to the dearest and most loving of friends. Speak to Him often of your business, your plans, your troubles, your fears - of everything that concerns you. Converse with Him confidently and frankly; for God is not wont to speak to a soul that does not speak to Him.
Alphonsus Liguori