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About this quote

What does it mean?
Works alone do not bring progress; you must deny your own will, submit, and stop worrying about your affairs.
In plain terms
Doing things isn't enough; you must give up control and stop worrying.
What can you take from it?
True progress comes from surrender, not just action.

Where it applies

  • spiritual plateau
  • busywork
  • anxiety

Putting it to work

  • surrender
  • prayer
  • humility

Questions to consider

  • Where do you cling to control?
  • Is your work rooted in pride or humility?

Another view

Action is still required alongside surrender in many cases.

More from John of the Cross

  1. 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 satisf…

    Permalink to quote #37
  2. If you desire to discover peace and consolation for your soul and to serve God truly, do not find your satisfaction in what you have left behind, because in th…

    Permalink to quote #39
  3. If you wish to attain holy recollection, you will do so not by receiving but by denying.

    Permalink to quote #36

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