It is the distinguishing glory of Christianity not to rest satisfied with superficial appearances, but to rectify the motives, and purify the heart.
William WilberforceRead
The first years in Parliament I did nothing - nothing to any purpose. My own distinction was my darling object.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wilberforce reflects on his early years in Parliament, admitting that he was more focused on his personal ambitions than on meaningful contributions.
In this quote, William Wilberforce candidly acknowledges that during his initial years in Parliament, he failed to make a significant impact, as his primary concern was his own reputation and success rather than serving the public good. This self-reflection highlights the importance of purpose over personal ambition in positions of leadership and influence.
Themes
ParliamentDistinctionSelf-ReflectionPurposeLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about political integrity, one might reference Wilberforce's quote to emphasize the necessity of serving the public over personal goals.
More from William Wilberforce
All quotes →God Almighty has set before me two great objects: the suppression of the slave trade and the reformation of manners.
William WilberforceRead
In an age in which infidelity abounds, do we observe parents carefully instructing their children in the principles of faith which they profess? Or do they furnish their children with arguments for the defense of that faith? ...it is not surprising to see them abandon a position which they are unable to defend.
William WilberforceRead
No one expects to attain to the height of learning, or arts, or power, or wealth, or military glory, without vigorous resolution, strenuous diligence, and steady perseverance. Yet we expect to be Christians without labour, study, or inquiry.
William WilberforceRead
O what a blessing is Sunday, interposed between the waves of worldly business like the divine path of the Israelites through the sea! There is nothing in which I would advise you to be more strictly conscientious than in keeping the Sabbath day holy. I can truly declare that to me the Sabbath has been invaluable.
William WilberforceRead
I am disturbed when I see the majority of so-called Christians having such little understanding of the real nature of the faith they profess. Faith is a subject of such importance that we should not ignore it because of the distractions or the hectic pace of our lives.
William WilberforceRead
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