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What openings of providence do we wait for? We can neither…

“What openings of providence do we wait for? We can neither expect to be transported into the heathen world without ordinary means, nor to be endowed with the gift of tongues, &c. when we arrive there. These would not be providential interpositions, but miraculous ones. Where a command exists…” quote by William Carey
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““What openings of providence do we wait for? We can neither expect to be transported into the heathen world without ordinary means, nor to be endowed with the gift of tongues, &c. when we arrive there. These would not be providential interpositions, but miraculous ones. Where a command exists nothing can be necessary to render it binding but a removal of those obstacles which render obedience impossible, and these are removed already.””

William Carey

About This Quote

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

The passage argues that divine help removes obstacles to obedience rather than performing miracles, emphasizing practical providence over supernatural intervention.

In simple terms: God removes barriers so we can obey, not by miracles.

Key Takeaway

Seek practical solutions, not miracles.

Themes

faith obedience divine providence practicality

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • missionary work
  • personal decision-making
  • conflict resolution
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

theology free will obstacle removal

Questions to Reflect On

  • What obstacles in your life need removal?
  • How do you distinguish divine guidance from personal desire?
A Different Perspective

Assumes obstacles are always removable, which may not hold true.

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