Denying self Quote by Gerald G. May
![“I think the greater danger is that those who think they understand the process [of overcoming our attachments] are likely to try to make it happen on their own by engaging in false austerities and love-denying self-deprivations. They will not wait for God's timing; they will rush ahead of grace. I…” quote by Gerald G. May](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/134/gerald-g-may-33169_god-s-timing_i-think-the-greater-danger-is-that-those_946792.jpg)
““I think the greater danger is that those who think they understand the process [of overcoming our attachments] are likely to try to make it happen on their own by engaging in false austerities and love-denying self-deprivations. They will not wait for God's timing; they will rush ahead of grace. I have seen it happen when ascetic practices have become overinstitutionalized, and I have engaged in it myself when I thought I could engineer my own salvation. It does not work.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Spiritual Crisis and Healing, 1995
Attempting self‑salvation through forced austerity ignores divine timing and leads to false spiritual practices.
In simple terms: Rushing spiritual growth without grace fails.
Key Takeaway
Trust divine timing, avoid forced austerities.
Themes
spirituality
self‑discipline
faith
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- spiritual retreats
- counseling
- community worship
Key Concepts
theology
psychology
self‑deception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when you are forcing spiritual progress?
- What role does grace play in your personal growth?
A Different Perspective
True transformation often requires patience and humility.
