Read with the saints
When prayer is difficult.
Passages from St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa of Ávila, St. Francis de Sales and Brother Lawrence.
What if my mind keeps wandering?
Scripture excerpt
“Conduct me, O Lord, in thy way”
Psalms · 85:11 (86:11 in many modern editions)Read the full passage
Letter excerpt
“YOU tell me nothing new: you are not the only one that is troubled with wandering thoughts.”
The Practice of the Presence of God · Eighth LetterRead the full passage
How does prayer fit around my responsibilities?
Scripture excerpt
“do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ”
Colossians · 3:17Read the full passage
Book excerpt
“such practice must be modified according to the strength, the calling, and the duties of each individual.”
Introduction to the Devout Life · Part I, chapter IIIRead the full passage
What if prayer feels dry?
Scripture excerpt
“Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer: and attend to the voice of my petition.”
Psalms · 85:6 (86:6 in many modern editions)Read the full passage
Book excerpt
“to persevere in patience and to be in no wise afflicted”
Dark Night of the Soul · Book I, chapter X, §3Read the full passage
Source summary · AI-assisted · not a quotation
John’s advice follows his discernment of a particular kind of aridity in Book I, chapter IX. It should be read with that chapter, rather than applied to every experience of dryness.
What if meditation is difficult?
Scripture excerpt
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us”
John · 1:14Read the full passage
Book excerpt
“I am asking you only to look at Him.”
The Way of Perfection · Chapter 26Read the full passage
Why pause between Scripture and the decade?
Scripture excerpt
“Looking on Jesus, the author and finisher of faith”
Hebrews · 12:2Read the full passage
Apostolic letter excerpt
“Listening and meditation are nourished by silence.”
Rosarium Virginis Mariae · §31 · SilenceRead the full passage
What if I lose my place?
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