Skip to content

Prayer Quote by W. Somerset Maugham

“He had been taught by his uncle that his prayers were more acceptable to God if he said them in his nightshirt than if he waited till he was dressed. This did not surprise him, for he was beginning to realize that he was the creature of a God who appreciated the discomfort of his worshipers.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
Download Open image
““He had been taught by his uncle that his prayers were more acceptable to God if he said them in his nightshirt than if he waited till he was dressed. This did not surprise him, for he was beginning to realize that he was the creature of a God who appreciated the discomfort of his worshipers.””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

Source Novel: Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham, 1915

Prayer is most sincere when offered in discomfort, reflecting a deity who values earnest struggle over polished ritual.

In simple terms: True devotion often comes in hardship.

Key Takeaway

Embrace sincere effort despite discomfort.

Themes

faith humility authenticity

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • spiritual practice
  • seeking meaning

Key Concepts

theology human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you find comfort in formal worship?
  • How does discomfort shape sincerity?
A Different Perspective

Even in discomfort, prayer may be seen as genuine, but it can also be ritualistic.

4.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by W. Somerset Maugham

Explore all 840 W. Somerset Maugham quotes

More Prayer quotes

Browse all 12,671 Prayer quotes