Alas, how easily things go wrong! A sigh too much, a kiss too long And there follows a mist and a weeping rain And life is never the same again
George MacdonaldRead
But there are not a few who would be indignant at having their belief in God questioned, who yet seem greatly to fear imagining Him better than He is.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the conflict between faith in God and the fear of imagining a more benevolent deity.
George Macdonald's quote identifies a paradox in belief; while many individuals are defensive about their faith in God, they simultaneously fear the implications of a God that may be more compassionate or loving than they currently perceive. This suggests an inherent discomfort with the idea of a more benevolent deity, which could challenge their understanding of faith and morality.
Themes
BeliefGodFaithImaginationPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about theology, one might cite this quote to illustrate the complexities of faith.
More from George Macdonald
All quotes βIt is not in the nature of politics that the best men should be elected. The best men do not want to govern their fellowmen.
George MacdonaldRead
He may delay because it would not be safe to give us at once what we ask: we are not ready for it. To give ere we could truly receive, would be to destroy the very heart and hope of prayer, to cease to be our Father. The delay itself may work to bring us nearer to our help, to increase the desire, perfect the prayer, and ripen the receptive condition.
George MacdonaldRead
When I can no more stir my soul to move, and life is but the ashes of a fire; when I can but remember that my heart once used to live and love, long and aspire- O, be thou then the first, the one thou art; be thou the calling, before all answering love, and in me wake hope, fear, boundless desire.
George MacdonaldRead
But words are vain; reject them allβ They utter but a feeble part: Hear thou the depths from which they call, The voiceless longing of my heart.
George MacdonaldRead
Few delights can equal the presence of one whom we trust utterly.
George MacdonaldRead
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