Charlene Hios

“in and through solitude we do not move away from people. On the contrary, we move closer to them through compassionate ministry.”
― Henri J.M. Nouwen, The Spiritual Life: Eight Essential Titles by Henri Nouwen

“Praise Him because He is the God of all comfort! The words comfort or consolation (same root word in the Greek) are repeated ten times in 2 Corinthians 1:1–11. We must not think of comfort in terms of “sympathy,” because sympathy can weaken us instead of strengthen us. God does not pat us on the head and give us a piece of candy or a toy to distract our attention from our troubles. No, He puts strength into our hearts so we can face our trials and triumph over them. Our English word comfort comes from two Latin words meaning “with strength.” The Greek word means “to come alongside and help.” It is the same word used for the Holy Spirit (“the Comforter”) in John 14—16.”
― Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Encouraged (2 Corinthians): God Can Turn Your Trials into Triumphs

“Nothing searches and cleanses the heart like true prayer. It teaches one to ask such questions as these: Do I really desire what I pray for? Am I willing to cast out everything to make room for what God is prepared to give me? Is the prayer of my lips really the prayer of my life?”
― Andrew Murray, Experiencing the Holy Spirit

“saying ‘no’ is not cruel”
― Melody Devonish, How To Stop Enabling Your Adult Children: Practical steps to use boundaries and get your power back as you stop enabling