Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint, was a woman of immense faith and strong character. Her life was full of trials and challenges, but she faced them all with unwavering determination and a deep belief in the power of God’s love.
Throughout her life, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton shared many inspiring words that continue to resonate with people today. Her quotes are a testament to her profound spiritual wisdom and offer guidance and encouragement for navigating the ups and downs of everyday life.
One of her most famous quotes is, “Be ever anxious for every greater purity in your love for God.” These words remind us of the importance of continually striving to deepen our relationship with God and to purify our hearts and minds of anything that may hinder our spiritual growth.
Another powerful quote from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is, “What is there that will render insupportable something which we have been accustomed to labor and exercise ourselves in?” This quote serves as a reminder that perseverance and dedication are key ingredients for achieving success in any endeavor, whether it be personal, professional, or spiritual.
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s quotes are filled with wisdom and insight, offering comfort and inspiration to those who face challenges in their everyday lives. Her words remind us of the importance of faith, love, and perseverance, and serve as a constant reminder that with God’s grace, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way.
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Quotes
“Live simply, love generously, serve faithfully, speak truthfully, pray daily.”
“We must pray without ceasing in every occurrence and employment of our lives.”
“Do not be afraid of what you suffer. Be afraid of what you miss when you are suffering.”
“The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly, to do it in the manner he wills it; and thirdly to do it because it is his will.”
“What does it matter where we go? Wherever we go, won’t we be serving God there?”
“God sees all that is done without him, as nothingness.”
“The Lord removes in order to renew.”
“Live well, and you will teach well.”
“Be of good heart. We have not lost our time, but have chartered our course.”
“The world is even more a football field than it ever was. We can only play the game and never look back.”
“God has heard every word we have spoken to Him in our anguish.”
“The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly, to do it in the manner he wills it.”
“You must serve, you must earn, you must work.”
“Do not let your shortcomings discourage you. It is He who has chosen you for Himself that will make you perfect.”
“God does not ask much of us, just a little faith and a little love.”
“You cannot be half a saint; you must be a whole saint or no saint at all.”
“The first thing I wish is to have no fear, and to trust wholly to God. I must be willing to accept what he gives or refuse with equal cheerfulness.”
“Love one another; forgive one another; help one another. The storm may pass, but only the blessed friendship and goodwill can remain.”
“In the end, it is not the years in our life that count, but the life in our years.”
“Those who have God for their treasure possess all things in Him.”
Inspiring Words for Everyday Life
Life can often feel overwhelming, but Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton reminds us that even the smallest actions can make a difference. She believed in the power of kindness and compassion, and her words continue to inspire us in our everyday lives.
“Do small things with great love.” This simple phrase reminds us that it’s not the size of our actions that matters, but the intention and love we put into them. Whether it’s a kind word, a helping hand, or a listening ear, our small acts of love can have a big impact on those around us.
“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton teaches us to have faith in ourselves and our abilities. No matter what challenges we face, we have the strength and resilience to overcome them.
“Charity begins at home, but should not end there.” These words remind us to not only show kindness to our loved ones, but to extend that kindness to our communities and the world. By leading a life of compassion and generosity, we can create a ripple effect of positive change.
“We must pray without ceasing, in every occurrence and employment of our lives.” Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton understood the power of prayer and its ability to bring us closer to God. By incorporating prayer into all aspects of our lives, we can find peace, guidance, and strength.
“Live simply so that others may simply live.” These words encourage us to prioritize the needs of others over our own desires. By living a simpler lifestyle, we can free up resources to help those in need and work towards creating a more just and equitable world.
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s inspiring words remind us of the importance of love, faith, kindness, and prayer in our everyday lives. They encourage us to live with purpose and to make a positive impact on those around us. Let us carry these words with us and strive to be the best versions of ourselves.
Faith and Hope
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton understood the importance of faith and hope in everyday life. She believed that having faith and hope gave one the strength to face challenges and overcome obstacles. Seton once said, “Faith lifts the staggering soul on one side, hope supports it on the other.” This quote highlights the interconnectedness of faith and hope, showing how they work together to give us the resilience we need to navigate the ups and downs of life.
For Seton, faith was not just a basic belief in God, but a deep trust and reliance on Him in all circumstances. She viewed faith as a source of comfort and guidance, offering hope and peace amidst chaos. Seton’s unwavering faith allowed her to persevere through personal hardships and serve as an inspiration to others.
Hope, on the other hand, was the fuel that kept Seton going, even in the face of adversity. She saw hope as a beacon of light that illuminated the path ahead, giving her the courage to keep moving forward. Seton once proclaimed, “The first end I propose in my daily work is to do the will of God; the second end is to do it in the manner He wills it; and the third end is to do it because it is His will.” This quote reflects her hopeful mindset, as she constantly sought to align her actions with God’s plan.
In conclusion, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton understood the transformative power of faith and hope in everyday life. Through her inspiring words and actions, she reminds us to cultivate these virtues and rely on them to face life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
Love and Compassion
Love and compassion were at the heart of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s teachings. She believed that love was the essence of life and that showing compassion towards others was a crucial way to live out one’s faith.
She once said, “Love is the life and soul of God, and of every soul that sincerely loves God.”
Saint Elizabeth emphasized the importance of treating others with love and compassion, especially those in need. She believed that by doing so, we could reflect the love of God and make a positive impact on people’s lives.
She taught, “Love changes everything. It changes our perspective, transforms our hearts, and inspires us to be better. With love, we can heal, forgive, and find peace.”
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton also emphasized the importance of self-love and self-compassion. She believed that we must first love ourselves before we can truly love others. She taught, “Love yourself, take care of yourself, and believe in yourself. You are worthy of love and kindness.”
In her teachings, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton urged her followers to show compassion to all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. She believed that each person was deserving of kindness and respect. She said, “Compassion is the greatest gift we can give to others. It is the act of understanding, empathizing, and extending a helping hand.”
Through her words and actions, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton continues to inspire people to cultivate love and compassion in their daily lives. Her message serves as a reminder that love has the power to transform lives and make the world a better place.
Strength and Perseverance
Throughout her life, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton demonstrated unwavering strength and perseverance. These qualities helped her overcome numerous challenges and obstacles, and serve as an inspiration for all of us.
Here are some quotes from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton that highlight the importance of strength and perseverance:
- “I can do nothing if God does not support me with His all-powerful hand. But as long as I have Him, I can do all things for Him, & with Him.”
- “Nothing is to be despaired of with God; He will not leave you orphans.”
- “All our crosses are nothing compared with her joy of divine union here below. Who suffers more?”
- “What are all the sufferings of this life compared with the eternal sufferings of those who lose God?”
These quotes remind us that no matter the challenges we face, strength and perseverance are key. We must rely on God’s support and trust in His plan. Even when we are at our lowest points, we can find solace in the knowledge that God will never abandon us.
Furthermore, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton teaches us that our earthly sufferings are temporary. In comparison to the eternal suffering that comes from losing God, the challenges and obstacles we encounter in this life are insignificant. We must embrace the cross we bear and find strength in it.
So let us be inspired by Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s example and strive to cultivate strength and perseverance in our own lives. Let us trust in God’s plan, knowing that He is always there to guide and support us. Through our faith and determination, we can overcome any adversity and achieve great things.
Wisdom and Guidance
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton was known for her wisdom and guidance, and her words continue to inspire and provide insight for everyday life. Here are some of her most memorable quotes:
- “The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly, to do it in the manner he wills it; and thirdly, to do it because it is his will.”
- “We must pray literally without ceasing – without ceasing – in every occurrence and employment of our lives… That prayer is as necessary as the air we breathe, as the blood in our bodies, as anything to keep us alive – to keep us alive to the grace of God.”
- “Live simply and simply live.”
- “The road is narrow. He who wishes to travel it more easily must cast off all things and use the cross as his cane. In other words, he must be truly resolved to suffer willingly for the love of God in all things.”
- “God is everywhere, in everything, and we can be in constant communication with Him.”
These quotes from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton serve as a reminder of the importance of living a purposeful life, seeking God’s will, and finding strength in prayer. Her words offer wisdom and guidance for navigating the challenges and joys of everyday life.
Family and Relationships
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton cherished the importance of family and the significance of strong relationships. She believed that family should be a source of support, love, and guidance. Seton valued the bond between parents and children, emphasizing the role of parents in imparting moral values and leading by example.
She said, “The first end I propose in our daily work is to do the will of God; secondly, to do it in the manner he wills it; and thirdly, to do it because it is his will.” Seton emphasized the importance of God’s presence in our daily lives, stressing that following his will is essential in maintaining strong family bonds and nurturing healthy relationships.
Seton also recognized the importance of forgiveness and compassion in family dynamics. She believed that forgiving one another and showing love, even in difficult times, is essential for the overall well-being of the family. She urged individuals to remember that everyone has their own struggles and to respond with understanding and empathy.
In her words, “Humble souls are confident of gaining the love of their Master, even by their faults.” Seton encouraged families to support one another and remain united, even in the face of mistakes and imperfections. She believed that through humility and unconditional love, families can overcome any challenges and grow stronger.
For Elizabeth Ann Seton, family and relationships were not just about blood ties, but also about fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness. She believed in extending love and care to all, treating others as part of the larger family of God.
She said, “We must pray without ceasing, in every occurrence and employment of our lives – that prayer which is rather a habit of lifting up the heart to God as in a constant conversation with Him.” Seton stressed the importance of prayer as a means of connecting with God and strengthening relationships with others. She believed that through prayer, families can find solace, guidance, and the strength to overcome any obstacles they may face.
Overall, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s quotes on family and relationships highlight the importance of love, forgiveness, compassion, and prayer in nurturing strong bonds and creating a supportive and harmonious family life.
Service and Charity
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton was known for her dedication to serving others and showing charity to those in need. She believed that true happiness and fulfillment came from selflessly serving others and extending a helping hand to those who were less fortunate. Here are some inspiring quotes from her that emphasize the importance of service and charity in our everyday lives:
1. “Charity is the sweet bread of the soul; whoever eats it, life eternal shall be his.”
Elizabeth Ann Seton reminds us that charity is not just an act of kindness, but a nourishment for our souls. When we show love and compassion to others, we not only bring happiness to them but also experience a deep sense of fulfillment within ourselves.
2. “Charity is to love God for his own sake and one’s neighbor as one’s self for the love of God.”
According to Seton, charity is not just about helping others out of obligation or societal expectations. It is a genuine love for God and for our fellow human beings. When we engage in acts of service and charity, we are expressing our love for God and extending that love to others.
3. “The happiness of the rich is not in the abundance of their possessions, but in the fewness of their wants.”
This quote reminds us that true happiness does not come from material possessions or wealth. Instead, it comes from having a grateful heart and being content with what we have. When we embrace a mindset of simplicity and gratitude, we are more willing to share our resources with those in need.
4. “Charity is never lost; it may meet with ingratitude, but it will never leave us.”
Seton acknowledges that our acts of charity and service may not always be appreciated or reciprocated. However, she reminds us that true charity is not dependent on the response or gratitude of others. It is a reflection of our own character and values, and it will always leave a positive impact, regardless of how it is received.
5. “Charity begins at home, but should not end there.”
While charity often starts within our immediate families and communities, Seton encourages us to extend our acts of service and kindness beyond our comfort zones. True charity goes beyond self-interest and extends to those who may be different from us or in need in other parts of the world. It is a call to make a positive difference in the lives of others, wherever they may be.
Incorporating these teachings of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton into our lives can inspire us to be more compassionate, selfless, and charitable individuals. Through acts of service and love, we can bring about positive change and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Education and Knowledge
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“Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. Be happy now. Don’t wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, whether it’s at work or with your family. Every minute should be enjoyed and savored.” |
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton understood the importance of education and knowledge. She believed that learning should be a lifelong pursuit. Through education, we gain knowledge and wisdom that can enrich our lives.
Seton’s quote reminds us to appreciate every moment and find happiness in the present. It serves as a reminder that time is a valuable resource and should be cherished. Whether we are working or spending time with our loved ones, we should make the most of each minute.
Education is a key aspect of personal growth and development. It opens our minds to new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities. It equips us with the tools and skills needed to navigate through life’s challenges and achieve our goals.
Seton’s words encourage us to seize opportunities for learning and personal growth. They inspire us to make the most of our time and continuously expand our knowledge. By embracing education, we can unlock our full potential and create a fulfilling and meaningful life.
So let us remember the importance of education and knowledge in our lives. Let us cherish every moment and strive to learn and grow each day. As Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton reminds us, happiness and fulfillment can be found in the present when we embrace the power of education.
Joy and Gratitude
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton emphasized the importance of joy and gratitude in everyday life. She believed that cultivating a spirit of joy and gratitude not only enhances our own well-being but also allows us to better appreciate the blessings that surround us.
Seton once wrote, “Cheerfulness prepares a glorious mind for all the noblest acts.” She understood that being cheerful and joyful can help us to approach challenges with a positive mindset, allowing us to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
Furthermore, Seton recognized the importance of expressing gratitude for the blessings we receive. She said, “Thanksgiving is the attitude that must undergird our Christianity.” By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we can find contentment and peace, even in the midst of difficulties.
In her writings, Seton emphasized the idea that joy and gratitude go hand in hand. She believed that by cultivating a spirit of joy, we can develop an attitude of gratitude, and by expressing gratitude, we can experience true joy.
So let us take inspiration from Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton and strive to cultivate joy and gratitude in our own lives. Let us approach each day with a cheerful heart and a grateful spirit, recognizing and appreciating the blessings that surround us.