Augustine, Ignatius and George Bush

Mary at Shorty PJs is an excellent writer and a wise woman. in her most recent post she writes about when it's right to pray and when it's right to do more. I was reminded of the old saying, 'Pray as if all depends on God; work as though it all depends on you.'

Its etymology, if that's the right word, is doubtful. Some attribute it Augustine, others to Ignatius. And many people have tried to make it their own over the years including George Bush. Whoever said it, it's true.

But sometimes we try to cure too many of the world's ills on our own. If that's your problem then heed these words from Ignatius - who sounds like a very wise man - '... must make up his mind to do what he can, without afflicting himself if he cannot do all that he wishes. You must have patience and not think that God our Lord requires what man cannot accomplish.
'There is no need to wear yourself out, but make a competent and sufficient effort, and leave the rest to him who can do all he pleases.'
(From IgnatianSpirituality.com)