Isaac of Nineveh : Remember God, that He too might always remember you; and when He has kept you in His memory and preserved you safe to the end, you will receive every blessing from Him. Do not forget Him, your mind being distracted with futile concerns, lest He forget you in the time of your warfare. When you enjoy abundance, be obedient to Him, so that in the time of your afflictions you may have boldness before Him through the heart's persevering prayer to Him. — ASCETICAL HOMILIES 5 John Cassian : We are taught that we ought not obstinately stick to our determination, but that we should with gentle pity soften down the threats which derived from some necessity. — CONFERENCE 17:25