Bad thing Quote by Timothy Keller
“We think that idols are bad things, but that is almost never the case. The greater the good, the more likely we are to expect that it can satisfy our deepest needs and hopes. Anything can serve as a counterfeit god, especially the very best things in life.”
About This Quote
Idols are not inherently evil; they become problematic when we project ultimate fulfillment onto them, especially when they are truly valuable things.
In simple terms: Misplaced reverence creates false gods.
Key Takeaway
Even the best can become idols.
Themes
misplaced reverence
human desire
spiritual caution
value distortion
expectation vs reality
Mood
reflective
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
spiritual
cautionary
When to use this quote
- seeking purpose in career
- pursuing wealth as fulfillment
- celebrating relationships as ultimate source
- relying on personal achievement for happiness
Key Concepts
idolatry
need for meaning
psychology of hope
ethical evaluation
Practical Applications
- reframe values to avoid idolization
- use as a warning in spiritual counseling
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a good thing become an idol?
- How can we balance appreciation with humility?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that all idols are harmful, but this view overlooks nuanced contexts where reverence can inspire positive action.
![“24 A few pages later, Delbanco writes the following: [Alexis de] Tocqueville’s detection of a “strange melancholy in the midst of abundance” has a special salience today — because while we have gotten very good at deconstructing old stories (the religion that was the subject of my first chapter…” quote by Timothy Keller](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/85a/timothy-keller-240_sad_24-a-few-pages-later-delbanco-writes-the_25320.jpg)
