Causes Quote by Vincent de Paul
“Foresight is good when it is subject to the latter, but it becomes excessive when we are in a hurry to avoid something we fear. We rely more on our own efforts than on those of his Providence, and we think we are doing a great deal by anticipating His orders by our own disorder, which causes us to rely on human prudence rather than on his Word.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Treatise on the Spirit of the Times, 1650
Relying too much on personal foresight can lead to anxiety and neglect of divine guidance; balance prudence with trust in providence.
In simple terms: Too much planning causes fear and ignores faith.
Key Takeaway
Balance planning with trust in higher guidance.
Themes
faith
prudence
anxiety
balance
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
spiritual
philosophical
advisory
When to use this quote
- making decisions
- risk management
- spiritual practice
- overcoming fear
Key Concepts
divine providence
human foresight
spiritual trust
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance careful planning with trusting outcomes?
- What fears drive your need for excessive foresight?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on foresight may cause paralysis and reduce flexibility.
![“. . . . [P]ersons who love very much, easily take offense at trifles. No doubt your excessive affection for me makes you a little diffident about mine. But there is no harm done; I hope you will soon be over this slight jealousy and be convinced that nothing can change the genuine affection Our…” quote by Vincent de Paul](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/570/vincent-de-paul-1676_affection_p-ersons-who-love-very-much-easily-take_52639.jpg)
![“[I]f the gentleness of your spirit needs a dash of vinegar, borrow a little from Our Lord's spirit. O Mademoiselle, how well He knew how to find a bittersweet remark when it is needed!” quote by Vincent de Paul](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/546/vincent-de-paul-1676_bittersweet_i-f-the-gentleness-of-your-spirit-needs_81360.jpg)
![“Well the first time I performed, my mom was like how she is now when sees me on stage – all red, smiling from ear to ear. So I don’t want to mess up, [be]cause she’s smiling. Seeing my mom happy is kind of like an overwhelming feeling.” quote by Chris Brown](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/477/chris-brown-1887_causes_well-the-first-time-i-performed-my-mom-w_4699.jpg)