A Christian should always remember that the value of his good works is not based on their number and excellence, but on the love of God which prompts him to do these things.

Not to follow the advice of our confessor is pride and a want of faith.

Strive always to confess your sins with a deep knowledge of your own wretchedness and with clarity and purity.

The road is narrow. He who wishes to travel it more easily must cast off all things and use the cross as his cane. In other words, he must be truly resolved to suffer willingly for the love of God in all things.

Beloved, all that is harsh and difficult I want for myself, and all that is gentle and sweet for thee.

For true devotion must issue from the heart, and consist in the truth and substances alone of what is represented by spiritual things; all the rest is affection and attachment proceeding from imperfection; and in order that one may pass to any kind of perfection it is necessary for such desires to be killed.

In sorrow and suffering, go straight to God with confidence, and you will be strengthened, enlightened and instructed.