Psalm 118:
A Commentary
by Saint Theophan the Recluse
(1815-1894)
by Saint John of Kronstadt Press, 2014
Goodreads

VERSE 155:
Far from sinners is salvation,
for they have not sought after Thy statutes.

The seeking of the statutes =
keeping a sharp eye on our actions, to be sure we follow the commandments in everything.
By developing a warm zeal for what is right, and for doing it.

VERSE 156:
Thy compassions are many, O Lord;
according to Thy judgment quicken me.

Even if our conscience seems clear, the basis of salvation can only be in God’s compassion and help.

No one is saved except those who totally commit themselves into God’s hands.
p. 315

This is what the mystery of true life is about:
for us ourselves to act with maximum effort towards our salvation,
yet recognize only the Lord as the One who affects it.
Not daring to rely on anything, entertaining a real hope of salvation,
being aware of its being effected within us, apart from our efforts,
though not without them, but in their midst,
just as it acts in all accidental inner and outer disorders,
through a certain invisible power that acts mysteriously,
though sometimes tangibly.
p. 315

What a powerful description of synergy!

PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THESE NOTES
Any reflection on these quotes?