Christianity Quote by Francis de Sales
““We all colour devotion according to our own likings and dispositions. One man sets great value on fasting, and believes himself to be leading a very devout life, so long as he fasts rigorously, although the while his heart is full of bitterness;–and while he will not moisten his lips with wine, perhaps not even with water, in his great abstinence, he does not scruple to steep them in his neighbour’s blood, through slander and detraction.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Introduction to the Devout Life, 1609
People judge piety by outward acts while neglecting inner virtue, leading to hypocrisy and harm to others.
In simple terms: Outward rituals hide inner bitterness and cause slander.
Key Takeaway
Focus on inner sincerity, not just external rites.
Themes
hypocrisy
spirituality
integrity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal devotion
- community interactions
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
moral psychology
religious practice
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your actions reflect inner values?
- What hidden motives might drive your religious practices?
A Different Perspective
True devotion requires inner compassion, not just external discipline.
