Accordingly, whatever in secular histories runs counter to it [Scripture] we do not hesitate to brand as wholly false, while with respect to nonparallel matters we remain indifferent.
~ in The City of God, trans. Gerald G. Walsh, Demetrius B. Zema, Grace Monahan and Daniel Honan (NY: Image, 1958), page. 408.

For, if He visited every sin here below with manifest penalty, it might be thought that no score remained to be settled at the Last Judgment. On the other hand, if God did not plainly enough punish sin on earth, people might conclude that there is no such thing as Divine Providence. So, too, in regard to the good things of life. If God did not bestow them with patent liberality on some who ask Him, we could possibly argue that such things did not depend on His power. On the other hand, if He lavished them on all who asked, we might have the impression that God is to be served only for the gifts He bestows. In that case, the service of God would not make us religious, but rather covetous and greedy. (Bk 1, Ch 8)

He that is good is free, though he is a slave; he that is evil is a slave, though, he be a king.

So, too, the tide of trouble will test, purify, and improve the good, but beat, crush, and wash away the wicked. So it is that, under the weight of the same affliction, the wicked deny and blaspheme god, and the good pray to Him and praise Him. The difference is not in what people suffer but in the way they suffer. (bk 1, ch 8)

The law detects, grace alone conquers sin.

Total abstinence is easier than perfect moderation.

O Holy Spirit, descend plentifully into my heart. Enlighten the dark corners of this neglected dwelling and scatter there Thy cheerful beams.

Understanding is the reward of faith. Therefore seek not to understand that thou mayest believe, but believe that thou mayest understand.

When facts are reported, they deny the value of evidence; when the evidence is produced, they declare it inconclusive.
~ in The City of God

Thou has made us for Thyself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless till they rest in Thee.
~ in Confessions

God is not what you imagine or what you think you understand. If you understand you have failed.

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