Souls will be unable to reach perfection who do not strive to be content with having nothing, in such fashion that their natural and spiritual desire is satisfied with emptiness; for this is necessary in order to reach the highest tranquility and peace of spirit. Hence the love of God in the pure and simple soul is almost continually in act.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Perfection requires being content with having nothing; emptiness satisfies desire and brings peace, keeping love for God active.
- In plain terms
- Be happy with nothing to find true peace and love.
- What can you take from it?
- Contentment with emptiness brings spiritual peace.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes you feel secure?
- Can you be content with nothing?
Another view
Basic needs must be met for health and safety.
More from John of the Cross
If you wish to attain holy recollection, you will do so not by receiving but by denying.
Permalink to quote #36 Although you perform many works, if you do not deny your will and submit yourself, losing all solicitude about yourself and your affairs, you will not make pro…
Permalink to quote #38 The very pure spirit does not bother about the regard of others or human respect, but communes inwardly with God, alone and in solitude as to all forms, and wi…
Permalink to quote #35
Related quotes
That man has reached immortality who is disturbed by nothing material.
Swami VivekanandaSwami Vivekananda quote #26 Be of the disciples of Aaron, loving peace and pursuing peace, loving your fellow creatures and drawing them near to the Law.
Hillel the ElderHillel the Elder quote #1 O cool glad pasture; living tree, tall corn, Great cliff, or languid sloping sand, cold sea, Waves: river curving; you, eternal flowers, Give me content, while…
Harold MonroHarold Monro quote #1