JAMES
Sayings of the Desert Fathers, Alphabetical Collection — translated by Benedicta Ward, SLG
1. Abba James said, 'It is better to receive hospitality than to offer it.'
2. He warned anyone who receives praise to think of his sins and realize that he does not deserve what has been said of him.
3. He also said, 'Just as a lamp lights up a dark room, so the fear of God, when it penetrates the heart of a man illuminates him, teaching him all the virtues and commandments of God.'
4. He also said, 'We do not need words only, for, at the present time, there are many words among men, but we need works, for this is what is required, not words which do not bear fruit.'
Translated by Benedicta Ward, SLG. Edition opa.patristics.desert-fathers.sayings-alphabetical-collection.en.