“My sons and daughters, there is no greater curse than a spouse who constantly criticizes and complains about their mate. Continuous torture in prison produces less suffering than a spouse such as this.” Elias the Teacher (The Angel of Antioch)
“More and more the love of God and fear of him grew strong within me, and as my faith grew, so the Spirit became more and more active, so that in a single day I would say as many as a hundred prayers, and at night only slightly less. Although I might be staying in a forest or out on a mountainside, it would be the same; even before dawn broke, I would be aroused by prayer. In snow, in frost, in rain, I would hardly notice any discomfort, and I was never slack but always full of energy. It is clear to me now, that this was due to the fervor of the Spirit within me.” Saint Patrick of Ireland (born in Scotland in 387)
Saint Patrick of Ireland (born in Scotland in 387)
In light of the nine Christians killed during Bible Study at Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston, SC, it brings to mind Rev. Martin Luther King’s last speech, given the night before his assassination, at Mason Temple (Church of God in Christ Headquarters).
“Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land!
And so I’m happy, tonight.
I’m not worried about anything.
I’m not fearing any man!
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord!”
Rev. Martin Luther King at Mason Temple, the night before his assassination.
“Words of Freedom are more powerful than any fortress or wall, leaping over the highest rampart, breaking down the thickest prison door. With a single syllable the Lord shatters Satan’s shackles, bringing Liberty to those held tightly in bondage and chains.” Elias the Teacher (The Angel of Antioch)
“My sons, do not reject a woman because of her outward appearance. One gentle wife with a warm smile, a soft heart, and a generous spirit, is worth ten stunningly beautiful women who harbor ugliness and selfishness within.” Elias the Teacher (The Angel of Antioch)
“Enjoy the day without worry for tomorrow. But save enough, so that when the hounds of hardship arrive in the night, they do not hungrily howl at your front door.”
“Genesis says the Cosmos was spoken into existence; and the Apostle John tells us, ‘God is love’. When uttering hateful words, we aid evil in destroying the Almighty’s creation; but by speaking loving words, we join in God’s creative endeavor. Hate opposes love, but love overcomes all.”
“Never utter hateful words to your spouse, children or family. Insults hurt more than whips, leaving wounds that fester, making permanent scars that stubbornly refuse to heal.” – Elias the Teacher (The Angel of Antioch)