Day and night Quote by Martin Luther
“Riches are the pettiest and least worthy gifts which God can give a man. What are they to God's Word, to bodily gifts, such as beauty and health; or to the gifts of the mind, such as understanding, skill, wisdom! Yet men toil for them day and night, and take no rest. Therefore God commonly gives riches to foolish people to whom he gives nothing else.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Sermons on the Christian Life, 1525
Wealth is a trivial, unworthy gift compared to spiritual and intellectual blessings; people labor for it obsessively, while God often bestows it on the foolish who lack other gifts.
In simple terms: Riches are lowly compared to spiritual and mental gifts.
Key Takeaway
Value deeper gifts over material wealth.
Themes
spirituality
materialism
humility
wisdom
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
religious
When to use this quote
- preaching
- personal reflection
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
theology
human nature
value hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly enriches your life?
- How can you prioritize non‑material gifts?
A Different Perspective
Material wealth can distract from spiritual growth.
