Here are some excellent and practical words to live by as a faithful Christian.
If I had to advise parents, I should tell them to take great care about the people with whom their children associate. . . Much harm may result from bad company, and we are inclined by nature to follow what is worse than what is better. ~Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
If you expect to be loved in return, you are not practicing Christian love. ~Servant of God John A. Hardon, S.J.
Mopping an office for the love of God is greater than running the office for the love of money. ~Servant of God Fulton Sheen
Being good does not consist in not committing any fault; rather in knowing to amend one’s self. ~Saint John Bosco
Living as a faithful Christian is a journey filled with challenges, choices, and opportunities for growth. In this article, we will explore four insightful quotes that offer practical guidance on how to navigate the complexities of life while remaining true to one’s Christian faith. These words of wisdom, attributed to prominent figures such as Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Servant of God John A. Hardon, S.J., Servant of God Fulton Sheen, and Saint John Bosco, provide valuable insights into the Christian way of life.
Choosing Companionship: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Advice
“If I had to advise parents, I should tell them to take great care about the people with whom their children associate. . . Much harm may result from bad company, and we are inclined by nature to follow what is worse than what is better.” – Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s words emphasize the profound impact of our companions on our lives, especially in the formative years. She reminds parents of the crucial role they play in guiding their children’s choice of friends and associates. The company we keep can shape our values, attitudes, and behaviors. As faithful Christians, it is vital to surround ourselves with individuals who share our commitment to living a virtuous and God-centered life. Seton’s advice serves as a timeless reminder that fostering healthy relationships and positive influences is essential for nurturing a strong Christian foundation.
Christian Love: Servant of God John A. Hardon, S.J.’s Perspective
“If you expect to be loved in return, you are not practicing Christian love.” – Servant of God John A. Hardon, S.J.
Servant of God John A. Hardon, S.J., offers a profound insight into the nature of Christian love. True Christian love, rooted in selflessness and compassion, does not seek reciprocation. Instead, it embodies the unconditional love exemplified by Jesus Christ Himself. Hardon’s quote challenges us to examine our motives when we love others. Are we motivated by the expectation of receiving love in return, or do we genuinely practice love for love’s sake? As faithful Christians, we are called to emulate Christ’s selfless love, which transcends the boundaries of expectation and demands nothing in return.
The Value of Service: Servant of God Fulton Sheen’s Wisdom
“Mopping an office for the love of God is greater than running the office for the love of money.” – Servant of God Fulton Sheen
Servant of God Fulton Sheen’s quote reminds us of the profound spiritual significance of humble service. In a world often driven by the pursuit of wealth and success, Sheen’s words offer a refreshing perspective. Whether it’s performing menial tasks or holding positions of authority, the intention behind our actions matters. When we approach our responsibilities with the love of God as our motivation, even the simplest acts of service become spiritually meaningful. Sheen’s wisdom encourages us to prioritize the love of God over material gain and to find fulfillment in selfless service to others.
The Essence of Being Good: Saint John Bosco’s Teaching
“Being good does not consist in not committing any fault; rather in knowing to amend one’s self.” – Saint John Bosco
Saint John Bosco’s quote delves into the essence of goodness and the importance of self-awareness. Often, being good is mistakenly equated with never making mistakes or committing faults. However, Saint Bosco reminds us that true goodness goes beyond mere perfection; it includes the ability to recognize our shortcomings and actively seek self-improvement. As Christians, acknowledging our faults and striving to amend ourselves aligns with the core values of repentance and redemption. Saint Bosco’s words inspire us to cultivate a humble and self-reflective approach to goodness, focusing on continuous growth and moral development.
In conclusion, these quotes from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Servant of God John A. Hardon, S.J., Servant of God Fulton Sheen, and Saint John Bosco provide valuable insights for living as faithful Christians. They offer practical guidance on the importance of choosing our companions wisely, practicing selfless love, prioritizing service to God, and understanding the true essence of goodness. These teachings serve as beacons of wisdom, illuminating the path for those who seek to lead lives aligned with Christian values. By incorporating these principles into our daily existence, we can navigate life’s challenges with faith, love, and purpose, ultimately growing closer to the Christian ideal.