117. На все доброе и полезное необходимо понуждение. Всегда имей в памяти страх Божий и страх будущих мучений. Ко всем людям будь милостива, а к себе строга

Sister Ustinia in the Lord! I received your letter. You write that you live poorly and carelessly and that laziness often overtakes you - you must force yourself to do everything good and useful, because it is said in the Gospel that the Kingdom of Heaven is in need, and women in need delight it. We must always keep in mind the fear of God, and the fear of death, and the fear of future torment. And don’t be proud, and don’t envy, and don’t grumble, and don’t condemn anyone, and reproach yourself more, and condemn yourself, and consider yourself the worst and last of all, and be merciful and condescending towards people, and strict, attentive and careful towards yourself in everything. For all the sins you described, God will forgive you, and you try to atone for them with good deeds, patience and complacent bearing of sorrows and various troubles, because it is said in the Gospel: “In your patience you will gain your souls,” and “he who endures to the end will be saved.” I congratulate you on the approaching holiday of the Nativity of Christ and wish you health, peace, and prosperity to wait, and to meet, and to spend with spiritual benefit. Calling upon you peace and God's blessing, I remain with sincere goodwill. Go to Matins - don’t be lazy, it’s good for you and your soul, and in order not to get distracted, say the Jesus Prayer with the rosary during the service, perform 15 or 20 rosaries. You might be interested in: