The tears of those repenting are the wine of angels.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXThe tears of those repenting are the wine of angels.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXTrue penance consists in regretting without ceasing the faults of the past, and in firmly resolving to never again commit that which is so deplorable.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXThe rivers of Grace cannot flow uphill, up the steep cliff of the proud man’s heart.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXAnd truly, O man, if you concentrate hard on the state you are in it will be surprising if you have time for anything else.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXThe piercing nail has become a key to unlock the door, that I may see the good will of the Lord. And what can I see as I look through the hole?
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXGrace is necessary to salvation, free will equally so – but grace in order to give salvation, free will in order to receive it.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXLearn first to love yourself, and then you can love me.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXThere are three distinct comings of the Lord of which I know: His coming to men, His coming into men, and His coming against men.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXJesus to me is honey in the mouth, music in the ear, a song in the heart.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXIngratitude is the soul’s enemy… Ingratitude is a burning wind that dries up the source of love, the dew of mercy, the streams of grace.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXJesus, what made You so small? LOVE!
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXFrom the best bliss that earth imparts, we turn unfilled to Thee again.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXLearn the lesson that, if you are to do the work of a prophet, what you need is not a sceptre but a hoe.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXPride causes us to use our gifts as though they came from ourselves, not benefits received from God, and to usurp our benefactor’s glory.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXNay, what is worse, turning over corrupt and evil thoughts in mine heart, I thrust a dreadful offensiveness into His presence.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUXUnderstanding is the sure and clear knowledge of some invisible thing.
BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX