St. Nilus of Sora on the Providence of God

“Nothing that happens to us is contrary to the will of Providence, and everything that is sent us by God is for our good and the salvation of our soul. Even if it does not seem helpful at the moment, we shall understand later on that it was willed so by God, and that it is not what we ourselves wish that is always useful to us. God sends trials out of His Mercy, so that after we have suffered, we may be crowned by Him. Without temptations, it is impossible to receive a crown. This is why we should thank God for these sufferings, as our Benefactor and Saviour.”