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Compulsion Quote by C. S. Lewis

“Prayer is request. The essence of request, as distinct from compulsion, is that it may or may not be granted. And if an infinitely wise Being listens to the requests of finite and foolish creatures, of course He will sometimes grant and sometimes refuse them.” quote by C. S. Lewis
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“Prayer is request. The essence of request, as distinct from compulsion, is that it may or may not be granted. And if an infinitely wise Being listens to the requests of finite and foolish creatures, of course He will sometimes grant and sometimes refuse them.”

C. S. Lewis

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Weight of Glory,” 1942

Requests to a higher power are not guaranteed; they reflect humility and the possibility of denial.

In simple terms: Requests may be denied by a wise being.

Key Takeaway

Accept uncertainty in prayer.

Themes

faith humility uncertainty

Mood

contemplative thoughtful

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • prayer practice
  • moral decision making
  • seeking guidance

Key Concepts

theology free will

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you expect answers to every prayer?
  • How do you handle unanswered prayers?
A Different Perspective

Assuming all requests are granted leads to entitlement.

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