“Good persons have to face trying times often, by God’s will. He allows tests to spring up from every point of the compass. Whether these are from human beings, from demons, or from a person’s own nature, let it provoke thanksgiving. God cannot pour out His favour on a person whose heart longs to dwell with Him, except by sending trials for truth’s sake. Even so, no-one can become worthy of this majesty apart from the grace of Christ. Saint Paul clearly calls it a gift: “For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His name” (Phil. 1:29). Saint Peter says the same: “But even if you suffer for righteousness’ sake, blessed are you” (1 Pet. 3:14). God grants you a share in Christ’s agonies. A daily cross: that is God’s way. No-one has ever gone to heaven through an easy life.”

Isaac of Ninevah

~4th century