Peace

"How can you find peace in your own life if you immerse yourself in all those aspects of other people's lives that have nothing to do with you? How can you find peace for yourself if you are constantly meddling in the affairs of others and fail to examine your own heart regularly? 'Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God' (Matthew 5:8) and enjoy much peace.

"It is so easy to become preoccupied with personal whims and passions and to get caught up in things that do not last. If you are not equally passionate about growing in grace and love day by day, you will always remain cold and indifferent to those things that are most important in life.

"If you focus your attention on God rather than yourself — and seek the highest good rather than the easiest path — then godly things will excite you more and more. Otherwise, whenever you encounter difficulties, you will simply seek escape through worldly pleasures.

"Life is sometimes like a battle. It requires great courage and endurance. So ask God to assist you and help will surely come. The One who has given you the opportunity to fight the good fight will provide all you need to obtain victory in the end. But do not entrust your growth in holiness to outward practices or you will quickly burn out trying to do it all on your own."