So that if you are emulous of these women, change the ornaments-which you wear, and clothe yourselves instead with almsgiving.
-St. John Chrysostom, Homily 89 on Matthew 27, 4th Century


Unless the grace of God comes to the help of our frailty, to protect and defend it, no man can withstand the insidious onslaughts of the enemy nor can he damp down or hold in check the fevers which burn in our flesh with nature's fire.
-St. John Cassian, Conferences, Conference Two: On Discernment, Paulist Press pg. 74, 5th century