... if we are ashamed to imitate our Lord's sufferings, which He endured for us, and to suffer as He suffered, it is obvious that we shall not become partakers with Him in His glory. If that is true of us we shall be believers in word only, not in deed. When deeds are absent, our faith is dead. Symeon the New Theologian
But your job is to work upon yourself: for this you are chosen; the rest is in the hands of God. He who humbles himself shall be exalted. Theophan the Recluse
Even if we have thousands of acts of great virtue to our credit, our confidence in being heard must be based on God's mercy and His love for men. Even if we stand at the very summit of virtue, it is by mercy that we shall be saved. John Chrysostom
Exert effort, you shall be rewarded. Moroccan Proverb
Dwell not upon thy weariness, thy strength shall be according to the measure of thy desire. Arabic Proverb
In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. Togolese Proverb