Emuna Daily

The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday. 

In Shema, we say “Vehayu Hadivarim Haeileh…Al Levavcha – These words (of Torah)…shall be on your heart.” 

Why should they be on your heart? 

So that the moment your heart opens wide – they can fall right in!

~ The Kotzker Rebbe

The halacha states that at the end of Shemona Esrei, one must take three steps back before he is allowed to say “Shalom,” for shalom – peace, it is worth taking a few steps back.

~ R’ Chaim Brisker zt”l

Bitachon is a common expression on the lips of many but is planted in the hearts of only special individuals. 

~ R’ Avraham ben HaRambam

Worry doesn’t help at all – it only harms. 

To worry about something that has already happened is insanity.

The Chachamim taught us:  All worries are forbidden.

The only worry permitted is to ask yourself, “Why am I worried?”

~ Ralbag

Despite the need for a person to make efforts to provide for his needs, a person must understand that all his hishtadlus does not help him at all in the achievement of his aims, for it is Hashem Who determines his livelihood. 

~ Beis HaLevi on Bitachon (with Artscroll commentary)

Hashem introduced Himself to us by saying “Anochi Hashem Elokecha” – I am your G-d. 

He didn’t say, “Elokeichem,” the G-d of all of you, even though that was true.  He is the G-d of every person, every being, every object, all of Creation.

But what is important is that He’s your G-d. Your personal connection.

He knows what plagues you, what worries you, what you need most.

Anochi Hashem Elokecha. Take Me into your life. I am yours.

~ R’ Yitzchok Fingerer

When you sit down to study Torah, clear your mind and experience a feeling of total newness towards what you are about to do.  This will give you pleasure in the mitzvah of learning Torah.

Just as a young child remembers well because of the freshness of his mind when he studies, so too you will remember what you study when you master the ability to enter a fresh state of mind whenever you begin studying Torah. 

~ R’ Moshe Feinstein zt”l

Our lives are either moments of light, or moments building up the next light.  Shavuot reminds us that even when receiving the most beautiful gift there was an essential build up to get there.

~ Charlie Harary

One’s success in Torah for the entire year is dependent upon one’s hasmadah (diligence in Torah study) during the sheloshes yemei hagbalah (the 3 days before Shavuot). 

~ Rebbe Avraham HaMalach