“It is not one’s own efforts which lead to the goal, because without grace, efforts produce little. Nor does grace without effort bring what is sought, because grace acts in us and for us through our efforts.” ~ St. Theophan the Recluse
It is important to note, however, what Saint Theophan meant by one’s own efforts. See the quote below to see what Saint Theophan considered our efforts.
It is a great error to think that you must undertake important and great labors, whether for heaven, or, as the “progressives” think, in order to make one’s contribution to humanity. That is not necessary at all. It is necessary only to do everything in accordance with the Lord’s commandments.
You need a beard like that!