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Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a…

“Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them. To deny it, however, in this case, is to deny that there is a God governing the world. It is a truth which I thought needed to be told; and as whatever of humilation there is in it…” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them. To deny it, however, in this case, is to deny that there is a God governing the world. It is a truth which I thought needed to be told; and as whatever of humilation there is in it, falls most directly on myself, I thought others might afford for me to tell it.”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He asserts that acknowledging a purposeful distinction between divine will and human intent reveals a governing God, despite personal humiliation.

In simple terms: Recognizing a purposeful difference between God's plan and human actions shows a governing God, even if humbling.

Key Takeaway

Accept that divine purpose may differ from personal desires.

Themes

theology humility purpose divine authority

Mood

reflective serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • Personal reflection
  • theological debate
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

Divine sovereignty human agency existential humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does acknowledging divine purpose affect personal responsibility?
  • What are the implications for moral accountability?
A Different Perspective

Some may view this as undermining human agency or free will.

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