Though all afflictions are evils in themselves, yet they are good for us, because they discover to us our disease and tend to our cure.
John TillotsonRead
Men expect that religion should cost them no pains, that happiness should drop into their laps without any design and endeavor on their part, and that, after they have done what they please while they live, God should snatch them up to heaven when they die. But though the commandments of God be not grievous, yet it is fit to let men know that they are not thus easy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True happiness and spiritual fulfillment require effort and commitment rather than passive expectation.
This quote by John Tillotson emphasizes the misconception that individuals can attain happiness and divine favor effortlessly, without putting in the necessary work or adhering to moral principles. It suggests that while religious commandments may not be overly burdensome, achieving true happiness and spiritual enlightenment demands personal effort and conscious choice, rather than mere wishful thinking.
Themes
HappinessReligionEffortSpiritualityResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech on personal growth.
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The linguistic clumsiness of tourists and students might be the price we pay for the linguistic genius we displayed as babies, just as the decrepitude of age in the price we pay for the vigor of youth.
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