Lessons From the Fathers

Lessons From the Fathers April 5, 2005

When hatred for someone becomes enflamed in your heart, believe with all your heart that it is a matter working in the heart of the devil; come to hate its origin, and it will leave you.

— St. John of Kronstadt

Evil thoughts come from one thinking that he is living well, or praying diligently, while he is judging others.

— Venerable Makary of Optina

Love and mercy cannot exist without humility, and humility cannot exist without mercy and love.

— Venerable Amvrossy of Optina

Stolen from the monthly bulletin of the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Washington, DC.


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