Christianity Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
““But it is a dangerous error, surely very widespread among Christians, to think that the heart can pray by itself. For then we confuse wishes, hopes, sighs, laments, rejoicings–all of which the heart can do by itself–with prayer. And we confuse earth and heaven, man and God. Prayer does not mean simply to pour out one’s heart. It means rather to find the way to God and to speak with him, whether the heart is full or empty. No man can do that by himself. For that he needs Jesus Christ.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Cost of Discipleship, 1937
Prayer is not just emotional expression; it requires seeking God and communicating, beyond personal feelings.
In simple terms: Prayer is about connecting with God, not just venting.
Key Takeaway
Seek God in prayer, not just emotions.
Themes
faith
spiritual discipline
humility
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- daily devotion
- church services
- personal crisis
- spiritual counseling
Key Concepts
theology
prayer practice
Christian doctrine
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to find the way to God?
- How can prayer balance feeling and seeking?
A Different Perspective
May underestimate the value of honest emotional expression.
