If we were to keep these tidbits ever before us our lives would change. Our feathers would get ruffled less, pettiness would vanish, each event that happens throughout the day would become meaningful. Let’s take them to heart…these loving and consoling thoughts!
Do not look forward to the changes and chances of this life with fear; rather look upon them with strong hope that, as they arise, God, Whose child you are, will deliver you from them.
He has kept you hitherto—do you but hold fast to His dear Hand, and He will lead you safely through all things; where you cannot walk He will bear you in His Arms.
Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow; the same Everlasting Father Who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow, and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.
Take courage, and turn troubles which you cannot remedy into material for spiritual progress.
Often turn to Our Lord, Who is watching you, poor frail little being that you are, amid your labors and distractions. He sends you help and blesses your afflictions. This thought should enable you to bear your troubles patiently and quietly, for love of Him Who only allows you to be tried for your own good.
Raise your heart continually to God, seek His aid, and let the foundation of your consolation be your happiness in being His.
All vexations and annoyances will be powerless to move you while you remember that you have such a Friend—such a Stay, such a Refuge.
Strive to see God in all things without exception, and acquiesce in His Will with absolute submission. Do everything for God, uniting yourself to Him by an upward glance, or by the overflowing of your heart towards Him.
Do not be eager for anything; do everything tranquilly and peacefully. Be comforted.
When the shore is gained, who will heed the toil and the storm? We shall steer safely through every storm, so long as our hearts are right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God.
If at times we are somewhat stunned by the tempest, never fear; let us take breath and go on afresh. Do not be disconcerted by the fits of vexation and uneasiness which are sometimes produced by the multiplicity of your worries. No indeed, dearest child, all these are but opportunities of strengthening yourself in the loving forbearing graces which Our Lord sets before us.
Do not lose your inward peace for anything whatsoever; not even if your whole world seems upset. Recommend all things to God, and keep yourself tranquil and in repose on the bosom of His Paternal Providence.
Whatever happens, abide steadfastly in a determination to cling simply to God, trusting to His eternal love for you. If you find that you have wandered forth from this Shelter, recall your heart quietly and simply.
Maintain a holy simplicity of mind and do not burden yourself with a host of cares, wishes, or longings, under any pretext whatever.
I would have you invoke God often through the day, saying with St. Paul “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?”
“Wouldst Thou have me serve Thee in the lowest ministries of Thy house? Too happy, if I may but serve Thee in any way.”
When any special thing is hard for you, ask, “Wouldst Thou have me do it? Then, unworthy though I be, I will do it most willingly.” Oh, what treasures you will gain in this way—greater than you can conceive!
Every morning compose your soul for a tranquil day. All through it be careful often to recall your resolution, and bring yourself back to it, again and again.
If something discomposes you, do not be upset or troubled; but, having discovered the fact, humble yourself gently before God, and try to bring your mind into a quiet attitude. Say to yourself, “Well I have made a false step; now I must go more carefully and watchfully.”
Do this each time, however frequently you fall. Make constant acts of meekness; seek to be calm, even in the most trifling things. Above all, do not be discouraged; be patient; wait; strive to attain a calm, gentle spirit.
Treat your boys as young men. You want them to grow up to be hardworking and confident. Is it not true, that the more productive we are, the better we feel? Then structure your children’s day to be active and busy—they will thrive under these conditions. -Finer Femininity
Coloring pages…
A sermon for your day! The Real Presence: He is Really There!
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Thank you very much. :’)
May I ask you where this passage is taken from? I have my copy of Introduction to the Devout Life, and I would like to find this there if it did come from this gem. Thank you, as always, for your beautiful example and inspiration here on your blog.
This was a beautiful way to begin my week. I will be copying it down to read time and again. So grateful for your efforts on this blog and for all the Godly encouragement. God Bless You and the whole family
Thank you, Christine. ♥️