Common experience declares how momentary and how useless…
“Common experience declares how momentary and how useless are those violent fits and gusts of endeavours which proceed from fear and uncertainty, both in things spiritual and things temporal, or civil. Whilst men are under the power of actual impressions from such fears, they will convert to God, yea, they will turn in a moment, and perfect their holiness in an instant; but so soon as that impression wears off as it will do on every occasion, and upon none at all such persons are as dead and cold towards God as the lead or iron, which but now ran in a fiery stream, is now when the heat is departed from it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Fear-driven actions are fleeting and empty; true holiness arises instantly when fear fades, but without lasting conviction one remains spiritually inert.
In simple terms: Fear leads to empty actions; true change is brief but lasting.
Key Takeaway
Seek lasting spiritual commitment beyond fear.
Themes
faith
spirituality
transformation
impermanence
Mood
thoughtful
serene
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- religious practice
- moral decisions
- spiritual growth
Key Concepts
holiness
fear
spiritual inertia
Questions to Reflect On
- What lasting practices sustain faith beyond fear?
- How can one recognize true spiritual transformation?
A Different Perspective
Fear can cause temporary zeal without deep roots.