Desire Quote by Thomas Merton
““Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actuallly doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton, 1948
We often mistake our own desires for divine will, yet true service comes from sincere intention rather than self‑deception.
In simple terms: We think we follow God, but may not.
Key Takeaway
Check motives, seek authentic humility.
Themes
spirituality
self‑knowledge
humility
Mood
reflective
humble
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- spiritual direction
- confession
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
theology
psychology
intentionality
Questions to Reflect On
- Do I act out of genuine love or self‑image?
- How can I discern true divine guidance?
A Different Perspective
Self‑deception can mask true intentions, leading to false confidence.
![“Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit. My three [great teachers] did not tell - they catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/84c/john-steinbeck-71_art_teaching-might-even-be-the-greatest-of-t_1738.jpg)
