Do they desire to join me in thanksgiving when they hear…
““Do they desire to join me in thanksgiving when they hear how, by your gift, I have come close to you, and do they pray for me when they hear how I am held back by my own weight? ...A brotherly mind will love in me what you teach to be lovable, and will regret in me what you teach to be regrettable. This is a mark of a Christian brother's mind, not an outsider's--not that of 'the sons of aliens whose mouth speaks vanity, and their right hand is a right hand of iniquity' (Ps. 143:7 f.). A brotherly person rejoices on my account when he approves me, but when he disapproves, he is loving me. To such people I will reveal myself. They will take heart from my good traits, and sigh with sadness at my bad ones. My good points are instilled by you and are your gifts. My bad points are my faults and your judgements on them. Let them take heart from the one and regret the other. Let both praise and tears ascend in your sight from brotherly hearts, your censers. ...But you Lord...Make perfect my imperfections””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Augustine reflects on the Christian brother’s role: love and critique both come from a place of genuine concern, revealing personal flaws and virtues as divine gifts and judgments.
In simple terms: A true friend loves you and corrects you, seeing both good and bad as gifts and faults.
Key Takeaway
Seek honest, loving correction.
Themes
faith
humility
brotherhood
self‑examination
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal confession
- spiritual mentorship
- community support
Key Concepts
theology
spiritual growth
self‑knowledge
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when a loved one points out your faults?
- Can criticism be an act of love?
A Different Perspective
True love may be uncomfortable when it exposes flaws.