In the spiritual life we can do nothing worthy without repentance, but the Lord has much mercy on us because of our intentions. He who compels himself and holds on to repentance until the end, even if he sins is saved because he compelled himself, for the Lord promised this in the Gospel.
Marcus EremitaConsistently pray in all things, so that you might not do anything without the help of God ... Whoever does or busies himself with anything without prayer does not succeed in the end. Concerning this, the Lord said: "Without Me you can't do anything". (John 15:5)
Marcus EremitaWhen the mind forgets the purpose of Christian life, then even the clear fulfillment of virtue becomes profitless.
Marcus EremitaAs water and fire oppose one another when combined, so are self-justification and humility opposed to one another.
Marcus EremitaIf you want the Lord to hide your sins, then don't talk to people about what kind of virtues you have. For as we relate to our virtues, so God relates to our sins.
Marcus Eremita