Christian joy can only be realized, when Christ reigns there, alone and uninterruptedly. If the world is permitted to occupy a larger share of the affections and the heart – if plain and known duty is neglected – if the means of grace are carelessly used – if in all your efforts, your duties, and your services – whether in the Church or in the world, you do not entreat the Divine blessing and the Divine aid – then the Spirit of God is grieved. He withdraws His cheering influence; and it is utterly impossible to have the peace and joy, which flow from the inward, abiding presence of the Savior – and which is the work – the entire work, of His Divine Spirit, the true and only comforter.
— William Cowper (1731–1800), Dichter
Topics: Joy & Gratitude, Growth & Character
William Cowper
William Cowper war ein englischer Dichter und Liederdichter des 18. Jahrhunderts, der nach schweren seelischen Krisen vor allem im ländlichen Olney wirkte. Er wurde als Wegbereiter der Romantik, durch sein Engagement gegen den Sklavenhandel sowie durch die mit John Newton verfassten „Olney Hymns“ bekannt, stand jedoch zeitlebens im Ringen mit schweren Depressionen und Heilsängsten. Für Bibelleser spiegeln seine Verse bis heute die Spannung zwischen seelischer Not und dem Vertrauen auf die verborgene Vorsehung Gottes wider.
All quotes by William Cowper (9)
When you see a child, you catch God in the act.
Martin Luther
Gertrud von le Fort
Man is unhappy because he doesn't know he's happy. It's only that.
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Paul Gerhardt
Augustine of Hippo
For all that has been - Thanks. For all that will be - Yes.
Dag Hammarskjöld
The world is more than its burden, and life is more than the sum of its gray days.
Alfred Delp
Frederick Buechner