St. Theophan the Recluse Archives - Page 3 of 5 - Archangel Michael Orthodox Church

"'Grace always precedes temptations.' He knew that grace always precedes temptations as a forewarning preparation. As soon as you perceive grace, gird yourself and say: 'Here comes the call to battle! Beware, attend, O Clay, to where the wicked on will strike the battle. Many times it comes quickly, and many times after two or three days. In any event, it will come, and the earthworks must be firm. Confessions every evening, Obedience to the elder, humility and love towards all. By these means lighten the affliction.' Grace is divided into three stages: purifying, enlightening, and perfecting. So also are deeds: natural, supernatural, contranatural. According to these three stages on ascends and descends. The great gifts one receives are also three: contemplation, love, dispassion.'"

- St. Seraphim of Sarov, Contemporary Ascetics of Mt. Athos II

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St. Theophan the Recluse

"Just as the blessings of God are unutterably great, so their acquisition requires much hardship and toil undertaken with hope and faith."

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