Furthermore, the apostolic life does not exclude contemplation but encompasses it and profits by it to know better the eternal truths it must proclaim
Vincent de PaulNaturally, everyone loves his freedom, but we must beware of this as of a broad road that leads to perdition.
Vincent de PaulGood works are often spoiled by moving too quickly. . . . The good which God desires is accomplished almost by itself, without our even thinking of it.
Vincent de PaulIt will be easier for you to bring him around to where you want him more by gentleness and patience than by being too uncompromising.
Vincent de PaulForesight is good when it is subject to the latter, but it becomes excessive when we are in a hurry to avoid something we fear. We rely more on our own efforts than on those of his Providence, and we think we are doing a great deal by anticipating His orders by our own disorder, which causes us to rely on human prudence rather than on his Word.
Vincent de Paul