Only when we rid ourselves of ...

Only when we rid ourselves of passions and lust and put the desires of flesh under the control of Spi­rit, only then we accept the cross and follow Christ. And "withdrawal from the world" is nothing but the destruction of passions and manifestation of the innermost life in Christ.
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 Vladimir Aleksandrovich Antonov

Quotes from the same author

A pearl, even if it is cast down into the mud, is not despised. And if one covers it with balsam, it does not become more valuable. But it is always valuable to its owner. It is the same with the Sons of God: wherever They may be, They are still of value to Their Father.
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 Vladimir Aleksandrovich Antonov
Some important ideas from the book of early Christians which is called Philokalia: From Spiritual Directions of Diadochus of Photiki The acme of faith is... immersion of the mind in God. The acme of freedom from wealth is to desire to be possessionless even as others desire to possess. The acme of humbleness is to forget unfalteringly good deeds of oneself. The acme of love is to enhance your friendly attitude to those who insult and revile you.
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 Vladimir Aleksandrovich Antonov
The acme of love is to enhance your friendly attitude to those who insult and revile you.
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 Vladimir Aleksandrovich Antonov