The hypocrite, certainly, is a secret atheist; for if he did believe there was a God, he durst not be so bold as to deceive Him to His face.
Thomas AdamsRead
Let us not make the poor our friends by our alms, not our enemies by our scorns. We had better have the ears of God full of their prayers, than heaps of money in our own coffers with their curses.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with respect and dignity rather than merely giving them charity or looking down on them.
In this quote, Thomas Adams advocates for a compassionate approach towards the poor, suggesting that true kindness should not come from a place of superiority or disdain. He posits that we should prioritize genuine connection and understanding over superficial generosity; having their heartfelt prayers is more valuable than hoarding wealth at the expense of their dignity.
Themes
CharityPovertyCompassionDignityService
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a discussion about social justice during a community meeting.
More from Thomas Adams
All quotes →No man more truly loves God than he that is most fearful to offend Him.
Thomas AdamsRead
Plan the town, if you like; but in doing it do not forget that you have got to spread the people. Make wider roads, but do not narrow the tenements behind. Dignify the city by all means, but not at the expense of the health of the home and the family life and the comfort of the average workman and citizen.
Thomas AdamsRead
Both in thy private sessions, and the universal assizes, thou shalt be sure of the same Judge, the same jury, the same witnesses, the same verdict. How certain thou art to die, thou knowest; how soon to die, thou knowest not. Measure not thy life with the longest; that were to piece it out with flattery. Thou canst name no living man, not the sickest, which thou art sure shall die before thee.
Thomas AdamsRead
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Saint AugustineRead
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I am at war with the living, I have come to terms with the dead.
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