Christianity Quote by David G. Benner
““Some Christians mistrust or de-emphasize the role of the senses in spirituality, considering them to be inferior to reason and cognition. Such a view fails to appreciate the indispensable part of human personhood the senses actually form. It falls into the gnostic error of denying human embodiment. Because Christians affirm the goodness of the physical body and believe in the physicality of the incarnation, we should also affirm the importance of encountering God through our senses. God gave us senses to enrich our lives. They are channels that can be spiritually tuned so as to register the traces of the divine that saturate the world . . . it could be the sight of a child, the sound of birds singing, the smell of flowers or freshly cut grass, or the feeling of warmth. Any of these things-and many more-can serve as a call to pause and, even if just for a moment, turn our heart toward God.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Spiritual Formation, 2015
The senses are vital channels for experiencing the divine; neglecting them limits spiritual depth.
In simple terms: Senses help us sense God.
Key Takeaway
Engage all senses in worship and daily life.
Themes
spirituality
embodiment
perception
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
theological
practical
When to use this quote
- prayer with music
- nature walks
- art appreciation
- rituals
Key Concepts
gnosis
incarnation
sensory theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you integrate sensory awareness into prayer?
- What sensory experiences remind you of the sacred?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on senses may distract from intellectual reflection.
