Frederick William Faber: 'They always win who side with God.'

They always win who side with God.

"They always win who side with God." - Frederick William FaberIn this thought-provoking quote, the Victorian hymn writer and theologian, Frederick William Faber, encapsulates a profound truth about the power of aligning oneself with God. The quote implies that those who choose to stand with God, to embrace His principles and follow His guidance, ultimately emerge victorious. At its core, this quote emphasizes the belief that placing our faith in a higher power and seeking His guidance leads us down a path of righteousness, resilience, and ultimate triumph.The meaning and importance of this quote lie in its recognition of the divine nature of the universe and the significance of aligning ourselves with a force greater than our own. By choosing to side with God, we acknowledge that there is a higher purpose and order in the world, one that surpasses our limited human understanding. This acknowledgment encourages humility, trust, and a deep sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves.When we side with God, we position ourselves in harmony with the fundamental principles of love, goodness, justice, and compassion. We align our thoughts, actions, and intentions with the divine attributes that create and sustain the universe. In doing so, we tap into a wellspring of strength, resilience, and wisdom that empowers us in our journey through life.However, to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that imparts a sense of intrigue and curiosity, let us explore the concept of existentialism and its potential contrast with Faber's quote. Existentialism, a philosophical ideology that gained prominence in the 20th century, emphasizes human freedom, individuality, and the absence of predetermined meaning in the world.Existentialists argue that individuals are solely responsible for constructing their own purpose and meaning in life, as there is no external force or higher power guiding their choices. From an existentialist perspective, the idea of siding with God may be seen as a denial of personal autonomy and freedom. It can be viewed as an external imposition that undermines the existentialist belief in individual agency.While this apparent contrast between Faber's quote and existentialism may arise, upon closer inspection, these two concepts can coexist harmoniously. Siding with God does not necessarily negate personal freedom or the pursuit of individual purpose. Instead, it provides a moral compass, a guiding light that helps individuals navigate the intricacies of existence.Aligning oneself with God does not mean abandoning personal autonomy; instead, it offers a transcendent framework to make meaningful choices and navigate the complexities of life. This alignment becomes the cornerstone of one's journey, framing individual choices, instilling a sense of purpose, and enabling humans to approach life's uncertainties with courage, resilience, and joy.In this way, siding with God can be seen as a philosophical stance that empowers existentialism rather than contradicting it. It acknowledges the inherent freedom of individuals to shape their existence while emphasizing the importance of aligning our choices with higher principles and values.Ultimately, whether one interprets Faber's quote from a theological, existentialist, or synthesized perspective, its underlying message remains potent and significant. It reminds us of the power of faith, of connecting ourselves to something greater than our limited selves. By siding with God, we embark on a journey that fills our hearts with purpose, provides comfort in times of adversity, and ultimately leads us to a state of inner victory.In conclusion, Frederick William Faber's quote, "They always win who side with God," offers profound insight into the interconnectedness between faith, purpose, and triumph. It illuminates the importance of aligning ourselves with a higher power, while challenging our understanding of personal freedom and existentialism. By embracing the idea of siding with God, we open ourselves up to the transformative power of divine guidance and draw closer to a victory that surpasses temporary achievements, allowing us to find meaning, fulfillment, and true triumph in our lives.

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Ambrose Bierce: 'Anoint, v.: To grease a king or other great functionary already sufficiently slippery.'

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Lewis Black: 'It's absolutely stupid that we live without an ozone layer. We have men, we've got rockets, we've got saran wrap - fix it!'