Abstinence Quote by William Ralph Inge
“If we feel that any habit or pursuit, harmless in itself, is keeping us from God and sinking us deeper in the things of earth; if we find that things which others can do with impunity are for us the occasion of falling, then abstinence is our only course. Abstinence alone can recover for us the real value of what should have been for our help but which has been an occasion of falling. ... It is necessary that we should steadily resolve to give up anything that comes between ourselves and God.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Moral Philosophy, early 20th century
He argues that any habit diverting us from spiritual focus should be abandoned to maintain moral purity.
In simple terms: Abandon habits that distance you from God.
Key Takeaway
Practice abstinence to stay spiritually aligned.
Themes
spirituality
self-discipline
morality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
religious
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- religious practice
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
temptation
ethical purity
Questions to Reflect On
- Which habits truly hinder spiritual growth?
- Can moderation replace total abstinence?
A Different Perspective
The stance may be overly rigid, ignoring healthy human needs.
