Very often (nearly always, I'm afraid) when I come to…
““Very often (nearly always, I'm afraid) when I come to church my feelings are uppermost in my mind. This is natural. We are human, we are "selves," and it takes no effort at all to feel. But worship is not feeling. Worship is not an experience. Worship is an act, and this takes discipline. We are to worship "in spirit and in truth." Never mind about the feelings. We are to worship in spite of them. Finding myself scattered in all directions and in need of corralling like so many skittish calves, I kneel before the service begins and ask to be delivered from a vague preoccupation with myself and my own concerns and to be turned, during this short hour, to God.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Worship should be disciplined and truth‑based rather than driven by fleeting emotions.
In simple terms: Worship is disciplined, not feeling‑based.
Key Takeaway
Focus worship on truth, not emotions.
Themes
faith
discipline
authenticity
Mood
reflective
serene
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- corporate worship
- spiritual retreats
- daily devotionals
Key Concepts
spiritual practice
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you honor feelings while maintaining discipline?
- What practices help you stay focused on truth?
A Different Perspective
Emotions can still inform sincere worship; ignoring them may hinder connection.