However great the work that God may achieve by an individual, he must not indulge in self-satisfaction. He ought rather to be all the more humbled, seeing himself merely as a tool which God has made use of.
Interpretation
Humility is essential regardless of one's achievements, as they are ultimately achieved through divine purpose.
This quote emphasizes the importance of humility in the face of personal achievements. St. Vincent suggests that even when one accomplishes something significant, one should not become arrogant or self-satisfied, but instead recognize that they are merely an instrument of a higher power, in this case, God. This perspective encourages a modest view of oneβs contributions, highlighting the role of divine will in individual accomplishments.
In practice
During a speech about community service, one can remind volunteers that their efforts are part of a greater good.
It ought to be considered a great misfortune, not only for individuals, but also for Houses and Congregations, to have everything in conformity with their wishes; to go on quietly, and to suffer nothing for the love of God. Yes, consider it certain that a person or a Congregation that does not suffer and is applauded by all the world is near a fall.
Let us love God my brothers, let us love God. But let it be with the strength of our arms and the sweat of our brow.
It is from your hands that Our Lord, in the person of the sick, seeks relief.
Charity is the cement that unites communities to God and individuals to each other_x000D_ so that he who contributes to the union of hearts in a community_x000D_ binds it indissolubly to God.
We ought to deal kindly with all, and to manifest those qualities which spring naturally from a heart tender and full of Christian charity; such as affability, love and humility. These virtues serve wonderfully to gain the hearts of men, and to encourage them to embrace things that are more repugnant to nature.
Fervor is a fire that makes things boil and grow hot, just as fire causes water to boil. It is, properly speaking, charity on fire, and that is what you should have because a Daughter without Charity is like a body without a soul.
These heavy troubles are heralds of weighty mercies.
She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it).
Take care what words you speak that follow βI am.β In so speaking you create your life.
So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak. Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.
So long as you have faith in your Guru, nothing will be able to obstruct your way.
I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
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