When the mind, for want of being sufficiently reduced by…
““When the mind, for want of being sufficiently reduced by recollection at our first engaging in devotion, has contracted certain bad habits of wandering and dissipation, they are difficult to overcome, and commonly draw us, even against our wills, to the things of the earth. I believe one remedy for this is to confess our faults, and to humble ourselves before God. I do not advise you to use multiplicity of words in prayer: many words and long discourses being often the occasions of wandering. Hold yourself in prayer before God, like a dumb or paralytic beggar at a rich man's gate. Let it be your business to keep your mind in the presence of the Lord. If it sometimes wander and withdraw itself from Him, do not much disquiet yourself for that: trouble and disquiet serve rather to distract the mind than to re-collect it: the will must bring it back in tranquility. If you persevere in this manner, God will have pity on you.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The mind wanders without focus; simple, humble prayer keeps it grounded, preventing distraction and fostering tranquility.
In simple terms: Simple prayer steadies the mind.
Key Takeaway
Practice humble, focused prayer.
Themes
spirituality
mindfulness
humility
prayer
focus
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- daily prayer
- meditation
- times of stress
- spiritual retreats
Key Concepts
Presence of God
mental discipline
humility
Questions to Reflect On
- What habits cause your mind to wander?
- How can you simplify your prayers?
A Different Perspective
Overly simplistic prayer may not address deeper psychological issues.