The prophet shows that, for the sake of silence, we are to abstain even from good talk. If this be so, how much more needful is it that we refrain from evil words, on account of the penalty of the sin!

The first degree of humility is prompt obedience.

Before all, and above all, attention shall be paid to the care of the sick, so that they shall be served as if they were Christ Himself.

Listen carefully, my child, to your master's precepts, and incline the ear of your heart. Receive willingly and carry out effectively your loving father's advice, that by the labor of obedience you may return to Him from whom you had departed by the sloth of disobedience.

Idleness is the enemy of the soul; and therefore the brethren ought to be employed in manual labor at certain times, at others, in devout reading.

The first step of humility is unhesitating obedience which comes naturally to those who cherish Christ above all.

Prayer ought to be short and pure, unless it be prolonged by the inspiration of Divine grace.