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Belief Quote by Thomas Merton

“Do not desire chiefly to be cherished and consoled by God; desire above all to love Him. Do not anxiously desire to have others find consolation in God, but rather help them to love God. Do not seek consolation in talking about God, but speak of Him in order that He may be glorified. If you truly…” quote by Thomas Merton
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““Do not desire chiefly to be cherished and consoled by God; desire above all to love Him. Do not anxiously desire to have others find consolation in God, but rather help them to love God. Do not seek consolation in talking about God, but speak of Him in order that He may be glorified. If you truly love Him, nothing can console you but His glory. And if you seek His glory before everything else, then you will also be humble enough to receive consolation from His hand: accepting it chiefly because, in showing His mercy to us, He is glorified in our souls.””

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

Source Book: “The Sign of the Cross” by Thomas Merton, 1972

True love for God surpasses desire for personal comfort; seeking His glory leads to humility and divine consolation.

In simple terms: Love God above all, seek His glory.

Key Takeaway

Seek God's glory, not personal consolation.

Themes

spirituality humility devotion

Mood

contemplative reverent

Type

theological inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • community worship
  • counseling
  • charitable acts

Key Concepts

theology selflessness divine love

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does seeking God's glory change your daily actions?
  • What does humility look like in your faith practice?
A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on personal consolation can hinder spiritual growth.

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