Certainty is the mark of the commonsense life-gracious uncertainty is the mark of the spiritual life.
Oswald ChambersRead
When we discern that people are not going on spiritually and allow the discernment to turn to criticism, we block our way to God. God never gives us discernment in order that we may criticize, but that we may intercede
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that discernment should lead to intercession rather than criticism, as criticism can hinder spiritual growth.
Oswald Chambers highlights the importance of discernment in our spiritual lives, suggesting that the ability to perceive others' spiritual stagnation should not lead us to criticize them. Instead, discernment is a tool for intercession, enabling us to pray for and support those who may be struggling in their faith. Focusing on constructive action rather than judgment allows individuals to maintain a closer relationship with God and encourages a more compassionate approach to spirituality.
Themes
DiscernmentSpiritualityCriticismIntercessionGod
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about spiritual growth, one might say, 'As Oswald Chambers reminds us, it's important not to criticize but to intercede for those who are struggling.'
More from Oswald Chambers
All quotes βNever make the blunder of trying to forecast the way God is going to answer your prayer.
Oswald ChambersRead
Service is the overflow which pours from a life filled with love and devotion. But strictly speaking, there is no call to that. Service is what I bring to the relationship and is the reflection of my identification with the nature of God.
Oswald ChambersRead
When we preach the love of God there is a danger of forgetting that the Bible reveals not first the love of God but the intense, blazing holiness of God, with His love at the center of that holiness.
Oswald ChambersRead
It is much easier to do something than to trust in God; we mistake panic for inspiration.
Oswald ChambersRead
Service is the overflow which pours from a life filled with love and devotion.
Oswald ChambersRead
Similar quotes
Lent is like a long 'retreat' during which we can turn back into ourselves and listen to the voice of God, in order to defeat the temptations of the Evil One. It is a period of spiritual 'combat' which we must experience alongside Jesus, not with pride and presumption, but using the arms of faith: prayer, listening to the word of God and penance. In this way we will be able to celebrate Easter in truth, ready to renew the promises of our Baptism.
Pope Benedict XviRead
A little lifting of the heart suffices; a little remembrance of God, one act of inward worship are prayers which, however short, are nevertheless acceptable to God.
Brother LawrenceRead
Prayer is not getting man's will done in heaven, but getting God's will done on earth. It is not overcoming God's reluctance but laying hold of God's willingness.
Richard Chenevix TrenchRead
Knowing God is your single greatest privilege as a Christian
Sinclair B. FergusonRead
[Our] first and foremost duty [is] to seek the Lord until we open the path of communication from God to our own soul.
Brigham YoungRead
We can be tired, weary and emotionally distraught, but after spending time alone with God, we find that He injects into our bodies energy, power and strength.
Charles StanleyRead