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The entire life of a good Christian is in fact an exercise of holy desire. You do not yet see what you long for, but the very act of desiring prepares you, so that when he comes you may see and be utterly satisfied.
Saint Augustine
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Desiring something good is a crucial part of spiritual growth, preparing us for fulfillment.

Saint Augustine emphasizes that the essence of a good Christian life is rooted in the longing for a deeper spiritual connection. This desire not only shapes our character but also prepares us for the eventual satisfaction that comes when we realize our spiritual aspirations, suggesting that the journey of yearning is as significant as the destination.

Themes

DesireSpiritualityGrowthSatisfactionFulfillment

In practice

Example use cases

In a sermon to encourage congregants to embrace their spiritual aspirations.

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Bad times, hard times, this is what people keep saying; but let us live well, and times shall be good. We are the times: Such as we are, such are the times.
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Who can map out the various forces at play in one soul? Man is a great depth, O Lord. The hairs of his head are easier by far to count than his feeling, the movements of his heart.
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Whatever skills I have acquired, whatever gifts I have been given, I place them at Your service.
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Everyone who observes himself doubting observes a truth, and about that which he observes he is certain; therefore he is certain about a truth. Everyone therefore who doubts whether truth exists has in himself a truth on which not to doubt.... Hence one who can doubt at all ought not to doubt the existence of truth.
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