I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
It is most cheering and encouraging for me to know that in the efforts which I have made and am making for the restoration of a righteous peace to our country, I am upheld and sustained by the good wishes and prayers of God's people. No one is more deeply than myself aware that without His favor our highest wisdom is but as foolishness and that our most strenuous efforts would avail nothing in the shadow of His displeasure.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Abraham Lincoln expresses his reliance on divine support in pursuit of peace for his country.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln reflects on the significance of faith and the support of the people's goodwill and prayers as essential in his endeavor to restore peace. He acknowledges that, despite his own wisdom and efforts, true success is contingent upon divine favor, implying that human endeavors are ultimately futile without a higher spiritual backing.
Themes
PeaceFaithSupportWisdomEfforts
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on national unity, this quote can serve to remind people of the importance of collective goodwill.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
Abraham LincolnRead
For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Abraham LincolnRead
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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