Advice Quote by Teresa of Avila
“Keep this in mind, for it is very important advice, so do not neglect it until you find you have such a fixed determination not to offend the Lord that you would rather lose a thousand lives and be persecuted by the whole world, than commit one mortal sin, and until you are most careful not to commit venial sins.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Interior Castle, Teresa of Avila, 1577
True devotion requires unwavering resolve to avoid even minor moral failings, preferring severe suffering over any sin.
In simple terms: Stay vigilant against all sins, even small ones.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize moral integrity over personal safety.
Themes
faith
morality
integrity
perseverance
Mood
reflective
serious
devotional
Type
spiritual
ethical
motivational
When to use this quote
- confessional confession
- daily ethical decisions
- teaching religious doctrine
- personal moral dilemmas
Key Concepts
spiritual discipline
sin
moral absolutism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance strict moral standards with self‑compassion?
- What practical steps help you avoid minor moral lapses?
A Different Perspective
Such extreme rigor can lead to guilt or self‑punitiveness if not balanced with compassion.