In 1670, Blaise Pascal published Pensées*, which was a defense of the Christian religion. In that book, he has a quote:
“What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself.”
- Blaise Pascal, Pensées VII (425)
Augustine of Hippo rightly stated in his fourth-century book Confessions, “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.”
The phrase "God-shaped hole," has taken on a life of its own and has been found throughout many Christian circles. Therefore, it is accepted, at least by believers, that true, lasting happiness, peace, & contentment are a direct result of Almighty God being an integral part of our lives. Without God happiness is fleeting. Like a whisper in the wind.
This concept of a God-Shaped Hole in relation to one’s happiness is not biblical per se, although there is biblical support for such a concept.
Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
RL Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
*This book was published after Pascal’s death in 1662.
No comments:
Post a Comment