Constrain Yourself by Force to Stand Before God

All learning is a chilling thing. From this there is no exception, even theological science, although here the subject, while chilled by the way the subject is treated, can sometimes unwittingly fall upon the heart anyway. Learning is of the soul’s nature, but prayer is of the spirit. Therefore they are not in harmony with one another. And as for the concerns of daily life, there’s no need even to speak of it, especially if someone has, unfortunately, an anxious disposition.

Can’t you set aside at least half an hour in the morning and evening for detached meditation on God and prayer? Constrain yourself by force to stand before God without distraction, even without reading prayers, but with one cry alone: “Lord of mercy, have mercy on my soul!” And it’s good to make prostrations. May the Lord grant you wisdom!

(Letter 277. Vol. 2, p. 130)