Agency Quote by James E. Faust
![“Satan had two conditions [to his plan]: the first was the denial of agency, and the second, that he would have the honor. In other words, something had to be in it for him. And thus he became the father of lies and selfishness. Taking up one's cross and following the Savior means overcoming…” quote by James E. Faust](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/287/james-e-faust-1274_agency_satan-had-two-conditions-to-his-plan-the_97153.jpg)
“Satan had two conditions [to his plan]: the first was the denial of agency, and the second, that he would have the honor. In other words, something had to be in it for him. And thus he became the father of lies and selfishness. Taking up one's cross and following the Savior means overcoming selfishness; it is a commitment to serve others. Selfishness is one of the baser human traits, which must be subdued and overcome. We torture our souls when we focus on getting rather than giving.”
About This Quote
Selfishness stems from denying agency and seeking personal honor; overcoming it requires self‑sacrifice and service to others.
In simple terms: Selfishness is a base trait; service overcomes it.
Key Takeaway
Self‑service replaces selfishness.
Themes
selfishness
service
spirituality
agency
Mood
serious
hopeful
Type
spiritual teaching
moral exhortation
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- counseling
- team leadership
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
religious doctrine
Practical Applications
- practice altruism daily
- focus on giving rather than receiving
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal habits reduce selfish impulses?
- How does serving others reshape your sense of agency?
A Different Perspective
The dichotomy may oversimplify complex motivations behind self‑interest.
![“I never left my roots. You can identify me as someone that didn't become high and mighty. Humility is a defining [trait] all of us can forever learn, and I try to be as humble as anyone can be.” quote by Serena Williams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/517/serena-williams-1589_defining_i-never-left-my-roots-you-can-identify-m_17115.jpg)
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
