For I have learnt for a fact that nothing so effectively obtains, retains and regains grace, as that we should always be found not high-minded before God, but filled with holy fear.
Bernard of ClairvauxHumility is, of all graces, the chiefest when it does not know itself to be a grace at all.
Bernard of ClairvauxLet your prayer for temporal blessings be strictly limited to things absolutely necessary.
Bernard of ClairvauxI do a great wrong in His sight, when I beseech Him that He will hear my prayer, which as I give utterance to it, I do not hear myself. I entreat Him that He will think of me; but I regard neither myself nor Him. Nay, what is worse, turning over corrupt and evil thoughts in mine heart, I thrust a dreadful offensiveness into His presence.
Bernard of Clairvaux