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.
More from John Tillotson
All quotes →Similar quotes
The greatest enemy to human souls is the self-righteous spirit which makes men look to themselves for salvation.
Charles SpurgeonRead
You know, we are one nation under a god. Yes, you were right. An angry, crack slinging god who decorates with bullets and spent condoms.
Henry RollinsRead
Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view and demand that they respect yours.
TecumsehRead
I believe in standardizing automobiles, not human beings.
Albert EinsteinRead
Sin, also for those who don't have faith, exists when one goes against one's conscience. To listen to and obey it means, in fact, to decide in face of what is perceived as good or evil. And on this decision pivots the goodness or malice of our action.
Pope FrancisRead
This is essentially a people's contest... whose leading object is to elevate the condition of men - to lift artificial weights from all shoulders - to clear the paths of laudable pursuit for all - to afford all, an unfettered start and a fair chance, in the race of life.
Abraham LincolnRead