Ambrose of Optina quotes

Throughout the day, try to remember God more often. If you feel bad, turn to Him: "Lord, I feel bad, help me." If you feel good: "Lord, glory to You, thank You for this joy." If you are worried about someone: "Lord, I am worried about him, help him." Whatever happens, turn it into prayer. (Ambrose of Optina)
If you find that there is no love in you, but you want to have it, then do deeds of love, even though you do them without love in the beginning. The Lord will see your desire and striving and will put love in your heart. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
The future is known only to God, and therefore it is impossible to say with certainty how circumstances will turn out. People make plans, but it is God alone who disposes fate. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
Where there is simplicity, there are a hundred Angels, but where there is cleverness - there are none. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
Why does a person become bad? Because he forgets that God is above him. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
God Himself heals the proud. This means that inner sorrows (by which pride is healed) are sent to us by God, for the proud man will not suffer anything from others. But the humble person will endure everything, and will always say, 'I deserve this.' View quote
Ambrose of Optina
Where there is simplicity, there are a hundred Angels. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
If you find that you have no love but desire to have it, do the works of love and the Lord will see your desire and effort and put love in your heart. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
Everyone is born at the time, that is best suited for his salvation. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
Every irritation comes from our pride. Why do you get irritated with another person, why do you feel malice toward them? Because deep inside, you consider yourself to be something more than the other. View quote
Ambrose of Optina
Hypocrisy is worse than unbelief. (Ambrose of Optina)