But since the world, which thou art to strive against, is not without thee, but within thee, it follows, that it is also to be conquered not without, but within thee.
Johann ArndtRead
This truth is a remedy against spiritual pride, namely, that none should account himself better before God than others, though perhaps adorned with greater gifts, and endowments.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humility is essential in spirituality; no one is superior to another despite their talents or gifts.
This quote highlights the importance of humility in one's spiritual journey. It suggests that regardless of an individual's talents, virtues, or gifts, they should not consider themselves superior to others before God. Spiritual pride can lead to a disconnect from true humility and an imbalance in oneβs relationship with others and the divine.
Themes
HumilitySpiritualityPrideGiftsEquality
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon about humility, this quote can be used to remind congregants to remain grounded.
More from Johann Arndt
All quotes βIn short, all things that please the natural man in this world, are, to a true Christian, only so many crosses and temptations, allurements of sin and snares of death, that continually exercise his virtue.
Johann ArndtRead
Whatever man uses without the fear of God, whatever he applies to the mere gratifying of his flesh, cannot fail to operate as a poison to the soul, however pleasant and salutary it may appear to be to the body.
Johann ArndtRead
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