"Let us live, make no question, as becomes the gospel."
This quote encourages a life lived in accordance with the teachings of the Bible (the Gospel). It suggests that we should strive to conduct ourselves honorably, compassionately, and selflessly, following the example set by Jesus Christ and His teachings, and making no excuses for our actions or choices. Essentially, it's a call to live a virtuous life aligned with Christian principles.
"Teach me, my God and King, in all things Thee to see."
This quote by George Herbert expresses a deep desire for spiritual discernment and understanding. The speaker asks God (referred to as "King") to teach them how to recognize His presence and influence in everything they encounter or experience, thereby cultivating a life deeply rooted in faith and divine guidance. It's about seeing the world through a lens that recognizes God's hand at work in every aspect of life.
"I intend to be simple, sincere, upright; as if the world were to piece of new-made glass upon which I were to write with diamonds."
George Herbert's quote emphasizes his desire for authenticity, integrity, and excellence in every action he takes. He wants his life to be a shining example, as pure and clear as a freshly made sheet of glass, upon which precious gems (his actions) are inscribed. In essence, he aims to live his life with honesty, dignity, and exceptional quality, leaving an indelible mark on the world that reflects the brilliance within him.
"A man that looks on glass: On it may stay his eye, Or if he pleaseth through it pass and see A pleasing site; or if his mind so crazed be, As oft 'tis with bad men, plotted against glass, He'll draw with great exertion all his will To break that delicate brightness, which he hates."
George Herbert's quote suggests that a person who fixates on superficial matters (symbolized by the glass) may be content to remain stuck in their current state or may merely gaze at the world from afar. However, if someone is consumed by anger, hatred, or malice towards what they see through the glass (their distorted view of reality), they will exert immense effort to destroy it. Essentially, the quote underscores the potential for destructive behavior when one's thoughts and emotions become toxic or fixated on something that is perceived as negative or harmful.
"Grace is like a grig (a kind of fish): it hath a head to rule, a tail to govern, two eyes to see God and the soul, two wings to fly up to heaven, a ribbed body, as many ridges as there be virtues, and a swim-bladder under all for buoyancy or spirituality."
George Herbert's quote symbolically describes grace as a living entity with a hierarchical structure, embodying various qualities that guide us spiritually towards God. The head and tail represent authority and leadership, while the two eyes symbolize an ability to see both God and our souls, indicating self-awareness and divine connection. The wings signify the power to ascend towards heaven, representing spiritual flight or advancement. The ribbed body is a metaphor for virtues, with each ridge representing a specific virtue that we should cultivate. Lastly, the swim-bladder symbolizes buoyancy or spirituality, suggesting that grace helps us maintain our connection with the divine and rise above worldly matters.
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