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Do not scrutinize so closely whether you are doing much or…

“Do not scrutinize so closely whether you are doing much or little, ill or well, so long as what you do is not sinful and that you are heartily seeking to do everything for God. Try as far as you can to do everything well, but when it is done, do not think about it. Try, rather, to think of what is…” quote by Saint Francis de Sales
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“Do not scrutinize so closely whether you are doing much or little, ill or well, so long as what you do is not sinful and that you are heartily seeking to do everything for God. Try as far as you can to do everything well, but when it is done, do not think about it. Try, rather, to think of what is to be done next. Go on simply in the Lord's way, and do not torment yourself. We ought to hate our faults, but with a quiet, calm hatred; not pettishly and anxiously.”

Saint Francis de Sales

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Focus on sincere, wholehearted effort in serving God without obsessing over perfection; keep moving forward with humility.

In simple terms: Do good earnestly, then let go of pride.

Key Takeaway

Serve fully, then release attachment.

Themes

faith humility service

Mood

reflective calm

Type

spiritual practical

When to use this quote

  • daily prayer
  • volunteer work
  • personal growth
  • overcoming perfectionism

Key Concepts

spiritual discipline intentionality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance diligence with rest?
  • What does “quiet hatred” of faults look like?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting self‑care can lead to burnout.

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