Before putting yourself in peril, it is necessary to foresee and fear it; but when one is there, nothing remains but to despise it.

Do we accustom ourselves to see all things in the light of faith? Do we correct all our judgments by it? Alas! The greater part of Christians think and act like mere heathens; if we judge (as we justly may) of their faith by their practice, we must conclude they have no faith at all.

Discouragement is simply the despair of wounded self-love.

To just read the Bible, attend church, and avoid “big” sins-is this passionate, wholehearted love for God?

Simplicity is that grace which frees the soul from all unnecessary reflections upon itself.

We may as well tolerate all religions, since God Himself tolerates all.

Simplicity brings back the joys of Paradise. Not that we have pure pleasure without a moment's suffering, but when we are surrendered to God, we are not grasping for pleasure, and even our troubles are received with thanksgiving. This inner harmony, and this deliverance from fear and the tormenting desires of self, create a satisfaction in the soul which is above all the intoxicating joys of this world put together.