Quotes & Themes – Presumption
Presumption
Since you have not yet your own wings for flight, do not flutter and do not make eager attempts to fly. (Letters to Persons in the World, VI, 2)
We usually know what we ought to do, but we rarely know what we should do; it is always a sign of presumption to imagine ourselves able to handle hot coals without burning ourselves. (The Spirit of St. François de Sales, XVI, 6)
Our Lord does not wish us to carry His cross except by one end. (Spiritual Conferences, 7)
The providence of God is wiser than we. (Letters to Persons in the World, VI, 25)
Even though you may at the present moment feel strength sufficient to endure mortifications and humiliations, how do you know that you will always have it? (Spiritual Conferences, 21)
Do not desire crosses, save in proportion to the measure wherewith you have borne those that have been already sent you. (Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 37)
I should not have the courage to ask our Saviour by the pains which He had in His head that I should have none in mine — I would rather use the crowning of our Lord to obtain a crown of patience around my aching head! (Letters to Persons in Religion, IV, 26)
We must not summon sufferings into our hearts as our Lord did, for we cannot govern them as He did. (Letters to Persons in Religion, IV, 11)
Huntsmen push into brambles, and often return more injured than the animal they intend to injure. (Letters to Persons in the World, IV, 3)
Just walk on uninterruptedly and very quietly; if God makes you run, He will enlarge your heart. (Letters to Persons in Religion, V, 13)
It is a great folly to wish to be wise with an impossible wisdom. (Treatise on the Love of God, Book 1, Chapter 3)
You can only give God what you have. (Letters to Persons in the World, II, 18)
North American Salesian Network
The North American Salesian Network (NASN) is an organization of both lay and religious groups that live the Salesian teachings of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal. NASN facilitates the sharing of Salesian resources, educational services, vocational efforts, and a variety of resources, bringing this optimistic, joy-filled spirituality to people throughout the world.