A collection of scriptural meditations from Saints and Fathers of the Church.

A vigilant monk is a foe to fornication, but a sleepy one is its mate.

Increasing self-criticism is the sign of increasing humility. Indeed, there is no clearer sign.

Meekness is the fellow-worker of obedience, the guide of the brotherhood, a bridle for the enraged, a check to the irritable, a minister of joy, the imitation of Christ, something proper to angels, shackles for demons, a shield against bitterness.

He who has obtained the fear of the Lord has forsaken lying, having within himself an incorruptible judge – his own conscience.

Lying is wiped out by the tortures of superiors; but it is finally destroyed by an abundance of tears.

As with the appearance of light, darkness retreats; so, at the fragrance of humility, all anger and bitterness vanishes.

If you possess the gift of mourning, hold on to it with all your might. For it is easily lost when it is not firmly established. And just as wax melts in the presence of fire, so it is easily dissolved by noise and bodily cares, and by luxury, and especially by talkativeness and levity.

As galloping horses race one another, so a good community excites mutual fervor.

Be concentrated without self-display, withdrawn into your heart. For the demons fear concentration as thieves fear dogs.

As too many sticks often choke a fire and put it out, while making a lot of smoke, so excessive sorrow often makes the soul smoky and dark, and dries the stream of tears.

It is not safe to swim in one's clothes, nor should a slave of passion touch theology.

A vigilant eye makes the mind pure; but much sleep hardens the soul.

Do not be surprised that you fall every day; do not give up, but stand your ground courageously. And assuredly, the angel who guards you will honor your patience.

Do not stir up a memory that will cover your prayer with mud, do not root around in the soil of your old sins.

He who has tasted the things on high easily despises what is below. But he who has not tasted the things above finds joy in possessions.

Some people living carelessly in the world have asked me: 'We have wives and are beset with social cares, and how can we lead the solitary life?' I replied to them: 'Do all the good you can; do not speak evil of anyone; do not steal from anyone; do not hate anyone; do not be absent from Divine services; do not offend anyone; do not wreck another man's domestic happiness, and be content with what your own wives can give you. If you behave in this way, you will not be far from the Kingdom of Heaven.'

Do not hesitate to go late at night to those places where you usually feel afraid. But if you yield only a little to such weakness, then this childish and ridiculous infirmity will grow old with you. As you go on your way, arm yourself with prayer. When you reach the place, stretch out your hands. Flog your enemies with the name of Jesus, for there is no stronger weapon in heaven or earth. When you get rid of the disease of fear, praise Him who has delivered you. If you continue to be thankful, He will protect you for ever.

Love and humility form a holy pair; what the first builds, the second binds, thus preventing the building from falling asunder.

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Archangel Michael Orthodox Church
5025 E. Mill Rd
Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147

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440-526-5192 (Phone)